There’s a new Ford Everest in town and oh boy, it looks handsomely boxy – at least in my eyes. While a lot has been improved in the midsize SUV, which I discussed in my previous story, the improvements on its off-road and rugged capabilities could raise questions for some: Will there be a Ford Everest Raptor?
During the media briefing of the Ford Everest a day before its launch, I asked this question to the automaker, or if it’s even considering making one.
Ian Foston, Ford’s global chief engineer of the T6 platform, took the query. He said that it isn’t in the pipeline at the moment. However, Ford isn’t closing its doors to the possibility – that’s if there is a demand for the nameplate.
Of note, the Ford Ranger Raptor has been selling well in the Philippines. It’s at the pinnacle of the 4×4 pickup truck arena, standing as an unmatched apex predator for those who want a go-anywhere, go-faster Ranger.
With the Bronco getting a Raptor version in the US, having a Raptor version of the venerable Everest SUV isn’t far-fetched. The supposed Everest Raptor should fortify Ford’s foothold in the SUV and truck market, though that won’t be happening soon as it turns out.
If it ever happens, we could be looking at an Everest Raptor that will be powered by a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 – the same one found on the newly revealed second-generation Ranger Raptor. The Bronco Raptor is also powered by a 3.0-liter V6, making over 400hp and 563Nm torque. In the truck, this gasoline mill makes 392hp and 583Nm of pulling power for markets outside Europe. With stringent emission regulations, Europe gets the tuned-down version of the V6.
In the Philippines, however, we’re expecting a different powertrain for the top-spec Everest, which will more likely power the supposed Everest Raptor. Given our taste for oil-burners, we’ll more likely get the V6 turbodiesel. Output numbers for this mill have yet to be revealed, but we’re not expecting anything less given the torquey nature of this power plant.
Let’s all hold our breath for the next few years and see if Ford will eventually introduce a go-fast, go-anywhere Everest Raptor. If it does, then all other SUVs in the market be damned. There will be a new King of SUVs – more likely adorned with a massive four-letter word across the grille.