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The all new Everest has lifted the bar from the previous generation, this was very obvious from our recent test of the Sport model that we recently tested.
Bigger and bolder than the previous version, it's the smoothness on-road that really stands out. While the Sport uses an updated version of the 2l bi-turbo diesel powerplant, the Platinum boasts the all new 3l V6 diesel. With an output of 184kW and 600Nm, this is a game-changer.
As smooth as the Sport version was, the larger engine is absolutely sublime. It feels unstressed in all conditions, simply cruising along at all times. The 10 speed automatic transmission shifts imperceptibly, the ability to make multiple downshifts is also never felt. Strangely, there are no "flappy" paddles, manual shifts are done via a rocker switch on the side of the gear lever.
The 3l diesel is currently only available in top Platinum spec, adding far more luxury to the already well-specced Sport model. A large panoramic roof, quilted leather upholstery, electric operation for the 3rd row seats and a full house of active safety assistants are all standard. 21 inch alloys complete the picture.
The gigantic "tablet" touchscreen features "Sync4" connectivity and allows for multiple applications at the same time.
I took the Everest on a short stretch of dirt-road. Although the default drive mode is 2 wheel drive (rear wheel drive), I engaged 4H, (4 wheel drive) for this. It took a fairly bumpy and corrugated section with ease and extreme comfort, it could handle a road like this all-day.
The only achilles heel in the entire package could be the fuel consumption. We averaged 12l/100km for the test period covering about 450km, largely urban and freeway driving. A short open-road cruise showed just over 10l/100km.
The Platinum is currently priced at R1.13 million. Viewed against the R965 000 for the Sport, I would certainly add the extra for this model.
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