Watch: Is the Ford Everest Platinum a logical family van?

When considering a family-oriented vehicle, commonly referred to as a ‘mommy wagon’ or ‘dad van’, several factors come into play, with pricing often being a primary concern. But if price were less of a determining factor, what options would be available? This question became particularly relevant after spending a few days with the Ford Everest Platinum and realising that I, too, will one day consider a vehicle for my soon-to-expand family, writes Charlen Raymond.

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Because, beyond its powertrain and dimensions, the Everest Platinum presents itself as a spacious and well-appointed SUV, and this led to a fundamental consideration: If one were in the market for a family-oriented vehicle, would the Everest Platinum be a viable option?

Seating for seven

The Ford Everest Platinum offers seating for seven occupants, with the third row deployable at the press of a button located in the boot. While the electronic operation enhances convenience, accessing it requires opening the tailgate. This led me to think that a more user-friendly alternative could include additional controls near the front console or within the C-pillars, just behind the second row of seats, allowing activation from within the cabin.

Entry to the third row is facilitated by sliding the second-row seats forward. However, this process requires some acclimation. Failure to release the lever fully or too quickly can hinder seat movement, potentially obstructing access. That said, the cabin remains spacious, and occupants in the third row should find adequate room. But these two seats are best suited for children or adults with shorter legs.

Related: Living With It – Ford Everest V6 Platinum [update 3]

Cargo capacity is another one of the Everest Platinum’s strong suits. When both the second and third rows are folded flat, the available load volume expands to 1 818L. With the third row stowed away, this figure reduces to 898L, and with all seats deployed, the available capacity stands at 259L.

Power to move Everest

The Everest Platinum is powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 diesel engine, a power unit it shares with select Ford Ranger and Volkswagen Amarok models. It delivers 184kW at 3 250r/min and 600Nm of torque between 1 750 and 2 250r/min. The engine is paired with Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission, which offers manual gear selection via buttons on the gear lever – though steering-mounted paddle shifters are absent.

Equipped with a four-wheel-drive (4WD) system, the Everest Platinum is capable of handling off-road conditions. However, for families who frequently venture outdoors while prioritising on-road comfort, opting for the optional 18-inch wheels with higher-profile tyres may offer a more balanced driving experience compared to the standard 21-inch units.

CAR Magazine had the Everest Platinum on an extended test in late 2023 and early 2024. During this six-month period, the SUV returned an average fuel consumption figure of 10.9L/100 km – a just indication of what to expect in real-world conditions.

So, what’s the verdict?

As a family vehicle, the Ford Everest Platinum hits the mark when you consider space, practicality, and comfort. The seven-seat configuration ensures that big(ger) families are accommodated with ease, while the massive cargo capacity makes it suitable for when the family needs ‘stuff’ to be moved around. And, of course, the punchy engine adds some sweetener to the deal.

However, if the weekly commute comprises mostly city driving, then the fuel consumption will far exceed Ford’s claimed 8.5L/100 km. In this regard, a more frugal alternative might be worth considering. Then again, if budget constraints are not a concern and all-round luxury, capability, and practicality is the goal, then the Everest Platinum presents a pretty solid case.

The Everest Platinum 3.0TD V6 4WD is priced at R1 309 000 and comes standard with a six-year/90 000km service plan and a four-year/120 000km warranty.

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