Ford Everest - Top alternatives

Ford Everest debuted in 2003 as a rugged vehicle with the underpinnings of the Ranger pickup. It had a boxy, wagon-type exterior that was in fashion at the time. Thankfully, Ford has updated its design for the modern era.

The latest model is a refresh of the third generation Everest and boasts sleek curves and a more upmarket style overall. Buyers can choose from two variants of Ford Everest – Titanium 4x2 and Titanium 4x4. There are also two engine options available: a 2.0L turbo engine that produces 180 hp and 420 Nm of torque, and a 2.0L bi-turbo engine which, like the one inside Ford Ranger Raptor, delivers 210 hp and 500 Nm of torque.

In spite of its more refined appearance, the new Everest remains practically the same. It has an elevated ride height of 225 mm so you’re less likely to encounter snags. Driving across floods is made effortless by the 800 mm wading depth. Inside, there’s a huge cargo space plus seven seats.

One of the key highlights of Ford Everest is its off-roading capability. Because it runs on diesel, it provides better fuel savings than gas. Ford Everest price starts at Php 1,995,000 which is fairly competitive given its well-rounded features.

What are the best alternatives to Ford Everest?

Ford Everest is a top-shelf choice with great specs on paper. While it has some standout features like SYNC3 entertainment, the Everest has its pros and cons.

Besides, much of what we have mentioned here aren’t unique to Ford Everest. Things such as high ground clearance, large cargo space, seven-seat capacity, and off-road ability are standard to mid-size SUVs. Since these features are common to the segment, you may want to consider alternatives before you decide.

1. Nissan Terra

Better late than never – the Nissan Terra is a newcomer that has proven itself to be a formidable contender. Of all the mid-size SUVs, this is perhaps the most handsome-looking. It shares its platform with Nissan Navara but it bears a closer resemblance to the brawny yet elegant Nissan Patrol.

The segment is infamously known for bouncy rides but Nissan Terra is a surprising exception. It has multi-link suspensions on the rear which make for a comfortable ride even when you drive across treacherous roads. There’s a model for every budget as Nissan is offering three trim levels – the entry-level Terra EL, the mid-range Terra VE, and the range-topping Terra VL.

While not as powerful as Ford Everest, Nissan Terra variants pack a 2.5-liter diesel mill that cranks out 190 hp and 450 Nm of torque. This will be mated to a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed automatic transmission with manual mode. Other than the Nissan Terra VL which has four-wheel drive, the rest will be available in two-wheel drive.

What is the price of Nissan Terra?

Nissan Terra price starts at Php 1,524,000.

2. Mitsubishi Montero Sport

The Montero Sport is one of the oldest mid-sized SUVs. It has more than 20 years to its nameplate, although it didn’t arrive in the Philippines until 2005. Like the Everest, it had a box-like exterior when it first got here. Mitsubishi Motors has long traded off this dated style.

The latest model features the Dynamic Shield Concept and a bolder, more aggressive design. It will be offered in three trims – GLX, GLS, and GT. Currently, only two-wheel drive variants are sold locally. But 4WD variants of Mitsubishi Montero Sport are expected to be available later this year.

All variants will have a 2.4-liter diesel engine, 8-speed automatic transmission, and Sports Mode for optimum handling. It cranks out a maximum of 181 hp and 430 Nm torque. Mitsubishi Montero Sport price starts at Php 1,565,000.

How many seater is Mitsubishi Montero?

The new Montero Sport has a seven-seat capacity and third-row seats starting with its third generation. Older models have second-row seats and space for up to five passengers.

3. Chevrolet Trailblazer

The Trailblazer is the underdog of the mid-size SUV segment. Its exterior reminds us of the pre-2015 Toyota Fortuner. However, it has Chevy's iconic dual-port front grill and the option to add sporty hood decals.

There are four variants to choose from – LT, LTX, Z71, and the recently added Trailblazer Phoenix which has a two-toned body. Under the hood is a Duramax engine in either 2.5L or 2.8L format. The smaller engine is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission and churns out 163 hp and 380 Nm. The larger engine is mated to a 6-speed automatic and has a close performance to the Ford Everest with 200 hp and 500 Nm of torque.

Most variants of Chevrolet Trailblazer are two-wheel drive. Only Z71 gets to have the coveted four-wheel drive. Some of its most remarkable features include ultra-comfortable theater-style seating and a 253 mm ground clearance.

How much is a 2019 Chevrolet Trailblazer?

Chevrolet Trailblazer price starts at Php 1,618,000.

4. Isuzu mu-X

Like the Nissan Terra, Isuzu arrived late for the party. The Japanese automaker didn't release the mu-X until 2014. We're not really sure what it’s trying to convey aesthetically other than that it has a unique fascia. But what it lacks in design it makes up for in practicality. For instance, higher-end variants of Isuzu mu-X get additional underbody protection.

Speaking of variants there are four available – the RZ4E LS, RZ4E LS-A, LS-A, and the limited edition Isuzu mu-X LS-A Luxe. The D-Max based SUV will be offered with a 1.9-liter turbodiesel engine that delivers 148 hp and 350 Nm, or a 3.0-liter Blue Power engine with 175 hp and 380 Nm of torque. These engines are mated to a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission, and will run on either two-wheel or four-wheel drive.

4WD variants get Terrain Command Dial as an additional perk, which allows you to quickly switch between 2H and 4H mode and reach up to 100 kmph in speed.

What is the price of Isuzu mu-X?

Isuzu mu-X price starts at Php 1,570,000. This makes it one of the most affordable mid-size SUVs in the Philippines next to Nissan Terra and Mitsubishi Montero Sport.

5. Toyota Fortuner 

Last but not least is Toyota Fortuner, the vehicle to which we owe this whole craze for mid-size SUVs. Its success really isn't a surprise considering that it's based on Toyota Hilux which became successful in the pickup segment.

One of the things we love about the Fortuner is that it leans more towards a sophisticated yet sporty look, rather than the butch and rugged styling of most its rivals. Toyota Philippines has three trims in their line-up – G, V, and TRD. There are also three different engines – a 2.4-liter D-4D powerplant with 147 hp and 400 Nm of torque; a 2.7-liter VVTi mill with 163 hp and 245 Nm; and a larger 2.8-liter D-4D engine that churns out 174 hp and 450 Nm. D-4D engines run on diesel which is a standard for mid-sized SUVs designed for off-road driving. The VVTi engine, however, runs on gas.

Depending on your selected variant, you either get a manual or automatic transmission and the choice between two-wheel and four-wheel drive.

What is the price of Toyota Fortuner?

Toyota Fortuner price starts at Php 1,607,000 which places it on the same league as Chevy's Trailblazer.

Ford Everest is a great seven-seater SUV but it has some tough competition to beat if you consider your budget and preferences in design and features.

The Everest is a powerful mid-size SUV. But this only holds true if you opt for the higher-end variant. If you want power for a lower price point, Nissan Terra and Chevrolet Trailblazer are decent alternatives.

The Everest is no doubt a head-turner but so is Chevy's Trailblazer, Toyota Fortuner, and the latest Nissan Terra. In terms of pricing, Isuzu Mu-X, Nissan Terra, and Mitsubishi Montero Sport are the most affordable at about Php 1.5M while Everest is merely a few thousands shy of the Php 2M mark.

Also read: 2020 Ford Everest: Turbo vs Bi-Turbo