I had the pleasure of being invited by Ford Thailand to the Ford All-Terrain Drive Event in Queenstown, New Zealand, on the 20-22 of July 2023. This event showcases the capabilities of the Ford Ranger and Ford Everest, with both models offering 2.0 Bi-Turbo diesel, and 3.0 V6 Turbo diesel engines.
The first day of the event consisted of off-road driving featuring some steep inclines and river crossings. Both models had no issues traversing uneven terrain and the trip into New Zealand’s beautiful scenery was undoubtedly the highlight. Both engine variants easily managed the day with no issues. There is a small but noticeable difference between the 2.0 Bi-Turbo, and 3.0 V6 Turbo, with the latter being slightly more torque-y on the bottom end. The V6 offers around 40 more horsepower than its 2-litre counterpart, with around 100nm more torque. For extended road driving, the 2.0 Bi-Turbo offers greater fuel efficiency. Both models have selectable drive modes, and both offer part-time or full-time 4WD, with the ability for RWD as well.
The second day of the event took place at the Southern Hemisphere Proving Grounds (SHCP), located in the mountains about 2 hours away from Queenstown. Our event focused on ice driving and would be a good demonstration of Ford’s 4WD systems. The day consisted of various driving challenges from slaloms, figure 8s, and concluded with a short gymkhana-style event. The drivability of both the Ranger and the Everest was very good throughout the day, with neither model missing a beat. The Everest has a slightly shorter wheelbase, making it slightly more conducive to rotation on the icy surface.
Personally I truly enjoyed the ice driving and being able to fully use the 4WD capabilities of both models. The cars can hold a slide very well, and the rearward bias of the 4WD enables you to continue sliding to your heart’s content. Power stayed steady throughout the slide – if you keep it in M/Manual mode. The electronically lockable rear diff is both practical and functional. One ice, the difference between the engines was more noticeable, with the V6 being easier to initiate and maintain a slide with. The Bi-Turbo had no issues but more throttle input was required to get the car sliding, and to keep it sliding required your foot to be planted to the floor, whereas some modulation was needed in the V6. These are extreme conditions however, and both models managed a full day of driving with no problems whatsoever, a testament to the rugged build quality of Ford. I am honoured that I got to try proper ice driving for the first time with these beautiful machines. Ford’s 4WD drivetrains are so sophisticated that any driver can drive with confidence – even in the most challenging conditions.
A huge thank you to Ford Thailand for allowing me to be a part of this experience, it was my first ever trip to New Zealand and I could not think of a more well-rounded location for an All-Terrain driving event.
