Ford launched the Everest back in 2016. The range has since undergone a few tweaks, the biggest being in 2018 when it copped the bi-turbo motor and 10-speed ‘box. More recently the Trend model was replaced by the Sport. For an entry level model, it wants for little. Figure on goodies such as a smart key, leather trim (seemingly from an artificial cow), LED headlights, CarPlay and 10-speaker audio system. It gets all the important safety features too, like multiple airbags, AEB, adaptive cruise (which only works down to 30km/h) and lane keeping (which can be extinguished permanently with one button
Hot hatches are the practical performers. We like ’em as they’re relatively affordable and you can explore more of their ultimate potential. Ford’s Focus ST was one of the more exciting arrivals this year. It replaces two cars, its direct predecessor and the mighty Focus RS. Blame Euro emissions standards for the passing of the latter. But it sees the ST as a genuinely stonking competitor now, more powerful and with the means to make it stick. Plus it’s got an auto trans, giving it a better chance of selling.
Not that a manual-only policy has made it hard for Honda to move a few hundred examples of its cracking Civic Type R. It’s a weapons-grade offering and