2018 Toyota Fortuner 2.4 VRZ AT 4x2

Word on the street is the all-new Ford Everest is set to hit Malaysian showrooms in Q1 2024, though that timeline might shift a bit depending on supply chain hiccups or local homologation red tape. Expect this new iteration to keep that tough, rugged SUV vibe we love, but with some key upgrades under the hood – think a refined 2.0-liter bi-turbo diesel engine paired with a 10-speed auto box. And tech? It’s getting a boost too, with more advanced driver assists like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping thrown into the mix. Malaysian buyers have always had a soft spot for the Everest in the mid-size SUV segment, and it’s easy to see why – its off-road chops and do-it-all versatility make it a perfect fit for our country’s wildly varied road conditions. One big highlight we’re hearing about is smarter in-car tech, possibly the SYNC 4 infotainment system. That means wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which should make your daily drive that much smoother. If you’re in the market for an SUV that balances family-friendly space with proper off-road grit, keep your eyes peeled on Ford Malaysia’s official site or swing by your nearest authorized dealer. You’ll want to stay in the loop for test drive slots and pre-order details. Oh, and before you sign on the dotted line? Make sure to cross-shop with rivals like the Toyota Fortuner and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport. Compare specs, check which trim suits your needs best – that’s the way to land the perfect ride.

To pop the hood on a Ford Everest, first make sure the vehicle is turned off and parked on level ground. Then, near the driver's side floor mat, you'll find the hood release lever—usually marked with a hood icon. Give it a firm pull and you'll hear a "click," which means the primary latch is released. Next, head to the front of the truck, stick your fingers into the gap at the center of the hood's leading edge, feel for the secondary release lever, and push it left or right to fully unlock. Finally, prop the hood open with the support rod and you're ready for inspection or maintenance. A quick note: Everest models from different years might have slight variations in the release lever design, but the basic operation is the same. If you feel resistance, don't force it—best to check the owner's manual to confirm the exact location. As a popular midsize SUV in Malaysia, the Everest has a pretty tidy engine bay layout, making it easy to regularly check fluid levels like oil, coolant, and brake fluid. While you're at it, it's a good idea to clear out any leaves or debris each time you open the hood to prevent drain holes from clogging. Keeping the engine bay clean helps with heat dissipation and extends component life. And if you need to top up windshield washer fluid, the reservoir is usually on the left with a blue cap, so it's easy to spot and distinguish from other fluids.

For Malaysian buyers trying to pick between the Ford Everest and Toyota Fortuner, it really comes down to your specific needs. The Everest brings more heat under the hood – its 2.0L bi-turbo diesel cranks out 213hp and 500Nm, making it the go-to for folks who crave driving excitement and off-road capability. Plus, its SYNC 4 infotainment system feels way more tech-forward. The Fortuner, though, is all about that legendary Toyota reliability. Its 2.8L diesel (204hp/500Nm) paired with the tried-and-tested 6AT gearbox keeps maintenance costs low. Toyota’s service network in Malaysia is also way more extensive, and you’ll get better resale value down the line. Space-wise, the Everest’s third row is roomier, but the Fortuner edges it out for cargo flexibility. If tech and power are your priorities, the Everest is a no-brainer. But if you’re focused on long-term ownership costs and brand trust, the Fortuner plays it safer. One thing to note: Malaysia’s rainy climate means wading depth matters. Both clear 225mm easily, but the Everest (with the off-road package) ups the ante with an 800mm max wading depth – perfect for those extreme situations. The Fortuner, though, has a more stable electronic LSD for muddy trails. Pro tip: Test drive both to feel the chassis difference. The Everest leans into highway comfort, while the Fortuner’s suspension is noticeably stiffer for rugged use.

The Ford Everest's length varies slightly across different trims and generations, but here in Malaysia, the current third-gen model (launched in 2022) checks in at a standard 4,914mm – right in that sweet spot for a midsize SUV that's practical for family road trips or light off-roading around our local trails. What really makes a difference for passengers though is its 2,850mm wheelbase, which translates to genuinely usable space in all three rows – that third row isn't just for show, unlike some competitors where it's strictly kid-sized. Now, when it comes to daily life here, parking can be a squeeze, and while Everest's 1,842mm height needs a little extra care (remember most multi-storey carparks have that 1.8m height limit!), the standard 360-degree camera takes a lot of the stress out of tight spots. Underpinning this SUV is the same ladder-frame chassis as the Ranger pickup, which strikes a nice balance between stable highway cruising and decent rough-road capability when you venture beyond paved roads. The 2.0L bi-turbo diesel engine (213hp/500N·m) paired with the 10-speed auto has proven pretty solid in our tropical heat too, with good heat management even on long drives. Plus, since it's locally assembled, Ford has beefed up the underbody rust protection specifically for Malaysia's humid, rainforest-laden environment – a smart touch for our climate.

The 2022 Ford Everest offers a solid range of color options here in Malaysia, giving buyers plenty to pick from. You've got your classic Absolute Black, the sleek Aluminium Metallic, a modern Diffused Silver, the understated Meteor Grey, the head-turning Sedona Orange, and the premium White Platinum – that's six shades in total. Whether you're into a more low-key, sophisticated vibe or something that really stands out and shows off your personality, there's likely a color in there that'll catch your eye. Picking the right color is a bigger deal than you might think when buying a car. It's not just about making the Everest look good (though that's definitely part of it); it can also affect day-to-day ownership and even how well the vehicle holds its value down the line. For example, lighter colors tend to hide dirt better, while darker hues? They'll show every little scratch and swirl mark. And hey, keep in mind that some of the more unique colors might come with a little extra cost or a longer wait time. So, when you're deciding, it's smart to balance what you personally love with how you'll actually use the truck. My advice? Swing by your local Ford dealer and check out the different colors in person – seeing them up close in real light can make a huge difference before you commit.

To start the key ignition version of the Ford Everest, first make sure the vehicle is in Park (P) or Neutral (N), then press and hold the brake pedal. Next, insert the key into the ignition switch on the right side of the steering wheel, turn it clockwise to the "ON" position, and wait for the dashboard to complete its self-check (about 2-3 seconds). After that, continue turning the key to the "START" position, and release it immediately once the engine fires up—it'll automatically spring back to "ON". If you're having trouble starting, it might be due to a weak battery or a faulty key chip. We recommend checking if the battery terminals are loose or giving the spare key a try. For our Malaysian friends, the tropical climate can take a toll on battery life, so regularly checking the battery health (like if the voltage drops below 12.4V) and the key battery (usually a CR2032) can save you from unexpected headaches. Also, if your Everest is equipped with the smart key system, it supports remote start—just hold down the start button on the key fob. Keep in mind, though, this works best within about 30 meters and in areas with minimal signal interference. And if you're not driving for a while, firing up the engine for 10 minutes every two weeks helps keep the battery charged, which is extra important during the rainy, humid season to maintain the electrical system.

Ford Everest offers two turbo diesel engine options in the Malaysian market. The base variant comes with a 2.0L single-turbo diesel unit, cranking out 180 horsepower and 420Nm of torque, while the higher-spec models get the beefier 2.0L bi-turbo diesel that pushes out 213hp and a meaty 500Nm of torque. Both engines are mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and 4WD system, making this SUV equally at home on the highway as it is off the beaten path. Under the hood, the Everest draws on Ford's global powertrain expertise, featuring common-rail direct injection and variable geometry turbo technology. This setup delivers strong low-end torque – perfect for Malaysia's hilly terrain and long-distance drives – while the diesel engines also offer better fuel economy compared to their petrol-powered rivals in the same class. Ford has clearly focused on durability with the Everest's engine tuning. Recognizing Southeast Asia's hot climate, the cooling system and intake design have been specifically optimized for local conditions. Malaysian owners should stick to the 10,000km service intervals outlined in the official maintenance manual to keep things running smoothly. Sure, competitors like the Toyota Fortuner and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport also offer diesel power, but the Everest holds its own with superior torque output and more advanced transmission tech. At the end of the day, it's worth test-driving all options to see which one best fits your needs.

To open the fuel door on your Ford Everest, first make sure the vehicle is unlocked. Then head to the left side of the vehicle where the fuel door is located—though for our friends in Malaysia with right-hand drive models, you'll find it on the right side instead. Just press the outer edge of the fuel door and it should pop open. A heads-up: some models might require you to first press the fuel door release button inside the cabin, usually near the driver's seat or below the steering wheel. The Everest comes with Ford's Capless Fuel System, so you can skip wrestling with a traditional twist-off cap. Just stick the fuel nozzle straight in and you're good to go—it's super convenient and helps cut down on fuel vapor emissions too. For Malaysian owners, it's smart to periodically check the seal around the fuel door to keep out debris, especially during those heavy tropical rainstorms when moisture can sneak in. Also, keep an eye on the pump attendant to make sure they fully insert the nozzle to prevent any fuel splashing out. If you ever run into a stuck fuel door, try locking and unlocking the vehicle a few times—that often does the trick. Some models also have an emergency pull cord in the trunk, so that's worth checking too. Getting the hang of these little details will make refueling safer and more efficient, and help keep your Everest's fuel system in top shape for longer.

The Ford Everest has cemented itself as a favorite 7-seater SUV in Malaysia, and it's easy to see why. Its flexible 2+3+2 seating layout is a big plus for families or anyone needing to haul a crowd. The second row splits 60:40 and folds down, while the third row tucks away completely, opening up cargo space that ranges from 233 liters all the way to a massive 2010 liters – perfect for whatever loading scenario you throw at it. Under the hood, Malaysian buyers get a choice of powertrains, with the 2.0L turbo diesel paired to a 10-speed auto being a standout. It strikes a nice balance between punchy performance and decent fuel efficiency. Tech-wise, it's well-equipped too, featuring things like the SYNC®4 infotainment system and a 360-degree camera – all the good stuff local consumers look for when prioritizing versatility and comfort. A quick heads-up though: if you're eyeing a 7-seater SUV in Malaysia, remember JPJ (Road Transport Department) regulations. The third row isn't really ideal for passengers over 1.4 meters tall on long journeys, and *everyone* needs to buckle up – both for compliance and, more importantly, safety. If you regularly need to carry more than seven people, some competitors do offer 8-seater alternatives in this segment. Just keep in mind those might hit your wallet a bit harder when it comes to road tax and fuel consumption.

The all-new Ford Everest comes with a range of prices in Malaysia depending on the trim and specs. The entry-level Ford Everest Trend starts at around RM196,888, while the top-of-the-line Ford Everest Platinum is priced at approximately RM258,888. Keep in mind, these figures might vary slightly based on dealer promotions or optional extras you might add on. Under the hood, this SUV packs a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine, delivering solid power and decent fuel efficiency. It also comes with an advanced 4x4 system and multiple driving modes, making it a great fit for Malaysia's diverse road conditions – from city streets to those weekend getaways off the beaten path. What really stands out with the Everest is its spacious seven-seat layout, loaded with tech like the SYNC 4 infotainment system, and smart driver-assist features such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. No wonder it's a hit with both families and off-road enthusiasts alike. And let's not forget, when buying a car in Malaysia, you'll need to factor in extra costs like insurance, road tax, and registration fees. These can vary based on the vehicle's price and your personal situation. If you're seriously considering one, I'd recommend checking out Ford Malaysia's official website or stopping by an authorized dealer. They'll have the latest info on promotions and financing deals, which can help you make a smarter call when it's time to sign on the dotted line.