After two years on the road, the Everest beach tourer has not only proven its mettle across Australia’s varied landscapes but has proven that despite the huge popularity of 4X4 dual cab utes these days, trusty wagons can seriously hold their own as do-it-all rigs.
Straight out of the gate, Ford’s Next Gen Everest Sport is a marvel of modern 4X4 technology. Boasting a 3L V6 turbo-diesel engine, it overshadows its competitors with sheer power and a hefty 3.5 tonnes towing capacity. From an Electronic Brake Controller to a forward-facing camera complete with a lens cleaner as standard, Ford has thought of it all. As Ian Foston, Ford’s Chief Platform Engineer, puts it, the Everest is the “unsung hero” that now roars with 184kW of power and 600Nm of torque, meeting the customers’ call for more capability and power. Let’s dive into how this ultimate beach tourer has evolved.
New Gear for a New Season
First up, the Bushwakka Extreme Square 2m, now upgraded with gas struts, makes an appearance. It’s a piece of kit that’s been invaluable for beachside camping and quick stops in the bush. The awning’s design perfectly complements the Everest, ensuring the tailgate can swing open without interference, a critical consideration for beach tourers who rely on easy access to the rear for gear, food, and fridge access.
WeatherTech has made a significant contribution to keeping the Everest clean and protected, no matter what gets thrown at it. The addition of WeatherTech floor mats and door protectors means that sand, mud, and everything in between can be easily managed, preserving the vehicle’s interior from the wear and tear of constant off-road adventures.
Fuel management has seen a substantial upgrade with Ryco’s latest fuel filter, complete with Bluetooth and app compatibility. This smart system alerts Pat via his smartphone if the fuel quality dips, a feature that’s not just convenient but could potentially save the engine from costly damage caused by bad fuel. This tech-forward approach to vehicle maintenance exemplifies the blend of rugged adventure readiness and modern convenience that defines the Everest build.
The fuel capacity has also been given a boost, thanks to a new tank from Long Ranger. This upgrade increases the Everest’s range, allowing for longer stretches between fill-ups – a boon for those long-haul beach drives where fuel stations are few and far between.
Lastly, accessing the roof rack is now easier than ever with a cleverly designed rear step that plugs into the tow hitch, courtesy of WeatherTech and Upfitter. This addition is particularly useful for loading and unloading surfboards, camping gear, or securing extra supplies on the Pioneer Platform. It’s these thoughtful touches that underscore the vehicle’s role as a true beach tourer, designed to handle the practicalities of adventurous travel.
If It Ain’t Broke Don’t Fix It
Eighteen months after its transformation into a beach-touring powerhouse, Pat’s Everest stands as a testament to building a solid foundation for enduring off-road adventures. In collaboration with ARB, the Everest was equipped with robust off-road protection, including a front bar, side steps, and underbody protection, all of which have proven their worth in protecting the vehicle across Australia’s diverse terrains without compromising the manufacturer’s warranty.
The suspension system, enhanced by Outback Armour’s DSV shocks and a modest 40mm lift, has continued to provide exceptional handling and comfort, whether navigating the soft sands of Australia’s beaches or the rough tracks of the bush. This balance between off-road readiness and everyday usability has been crucial in the Everest’s success as a versatile tourer. Tyre choice was equally pivotal, with Cooper AT3 XLT tyres mounted on sleek KMC alloy wheels proving to be a sound investment. Known for their durability and quiet road performance, these tyres have tackled every challenge thrown at them, from tarmac to trail, without falter.
Inside, the custom storage solutions crafted by ORS Offroad Systems, including a low-profile drawer system with a Clearview Fridge Slide and an Engel 60th Anniversary Limited Edition fridge, have organized and streamlined life on the road. The inclusion of a stainless-steel pull-out bench has added a layer of convenience and luxury to meal preparations in the wild. Power requirements have been effortlessly met by the Redarc GoBlock, providing a reliable 100 amp hours of portable power, complemented by a 300W solar blanket to ensure devices and essentials like the fridge remain operational throughout the journey.
Rounding off the build, a suite of additional modifications from the VRS winch and Uniden communication gear to Night Hawk driving lights and Black Duck seat covers have all played their part in enhancing the Everest’s capability and resilience. Each component, carefully chosen at the build’s inception, has contributed to the vehicle’s ongoing adventures, proving the importance of a well-considered foundation in creating a vehicle that is not only equipped for the present but prepared for the future.
Two Years On: Proven and Improved
Reflecting on the past 24 months, the Ford Everest beach tourer has tackled everything from sandy shores to rugged mountain trails, proving itself as a reliable companion for the off-road enthusiast. These new modifications not only address the practical challenges encountered on previous adventures but also enhance the overall experience, ensuring that the vehicle remains at the forefront of off-road capability and comfort.
As Season 16 unfolds, viewers can expect to see the Everest in action, showcasing these upgrades in Australia’s beautiful, yet challenging terrain. Pat Callanan’s commitment to improving and adapting the vehicle highlights an important aspect of 4×4 adventures: it’s not just about the destinations reached but also about evolving the journey itself.
Stay tuned for more adventures and insights as we put the Everest beach tourer to the test, exploring new landscapes and pushing the limits of what’s possible on four wheels. The journey continues, and with the Everest better equipped than ever, it promises to be an exciting season.
