Sebagai peneraju pasaran trak pikap di Malaysia, Sime Darby Auto Connexion-Ford (SDAC-Ford), pengedar tunggal kenderaan Ford di negara ini, telah memasuki tahun baharu dengan pelbagai pencapaian yang membuktikan prestasi kukuh jenama tersebut pada 2023 dan sekali gus memantapkan kedudukannya dalam industri automotif negara.
SDAC-Ford mencatatkan jualan pecah rekod tertinggi dengan 8,858 unit Ford Ranger dan Ford Everest dijual pada 2023, mencerminkan pilihan dan tahap kepercayaan pengguna Malaysia yang semakin kukuh terhadap prestasi luar biasa, teknologi canggih dan kualiti terulung kenderaan Ford.
Sejak dilancarkan, Ford Ranger Generasi Baharu ternyata popular dan mendapat sambutan memberangsangkan di pasaran Malaysia kerana prestasi dan kualiti luar biasanya. Model Ranger Raptor Generasi Baharu enjin Petrol 3.0L menawarkan enjin berkuasa V6 Twin Turbo dengan tork 397PS dan 583Nm, membawakan pengalaman memandu yang luar biasa. Sementara itu, model Ranger Platinum Generasi Baharu yang baru dilancarkan pada bulan November tahun lepas, dilengkapi dengan ciri-ciri kecanggihan yang menjanjikan keselesaan mewah dan teknologi pintar.
Sime Darby Auto Connexion-Ford (SDAC-Ford), the exclusive distributor of Ford vehicles in Malaysia, continues to assert its dominance in the pickup market, as evidenced by a series of achievements that underscore the brand’s robust performance throughout 2023, solidifying its position in the nation’s automotive industry.
In a remarkable feat, SDAC-Ford achieved record-high sales, with a staggering 8,858 units of the Ford Ranger and Ford Everest sold in 2023. This milestone reflects the growing trust and preference of Malaysian consumers for Ford vehicles, renowned for their exceptional performance, advanced technology, and superior quality.
Particularly, the Next-Gen Ford Ranger has garnered immense popularity within the Malaysian market since its launch, owing to its outstanding performance and unmatched quality. Notably, the Next-Gen Ranger Raptor 3.0L Petrol engine model, equipped with a potent V6 Twin Turbo engine delivering 397PS and 583Nm of torque, offers exhilarating driving experiences. Meanwhile, the recently launched Next-Gen Ranger Platinum model boasts sophisticated features that promise luxurious comfort and cutting-edge technology.
A pivotal factor contributing to SDAC-Ford’s success is its strategic expansion of the dealership network, aimed at elevating the Ford service experience. Last year, the company commenced the construction of the latest RM12 million Ford Signature dealership in Penang, situated strategically on Jalan Baru in Seberang Prai. Spanning an impressive 46,000 square feet, the state-of-the-art facility showcases a cutting-edge Ford 3S centre adhering to the latest Ford Signature Corporate Identity standards, featuring sixteen service bays and four vehicle display areas. Scheduled for full operation by the end of Quarter 2, 2024, this dealership promises to set new benchmarks in customer service and satisfaction.
In a strategic move to tap into the thriving pickup market of East Malaysia, SDAC-Ford significantly expanded its presence across the region. Recognising Sabah as the third-largest pickup market in the country, the company launched two key dealerships in the state, namely Ford Kota Kinabalu (Inanam), Boston Auto Dealership, and Ford Kota Kinabalu (Penampang), Rightpower Corporation.
Furthering its strategic expansion, SDAC-Ford inaugurated Ford Kota Samarahan, Jimisar Aruna dealership in October 2023, located in the UniVista Commercial Centre, Jalan UniVista Off Jalan Express Way in Kuching, Sarawak. Positioned near a major expressway for enhanced accessibility and within a bustling commercial center, this dealership strengthens the brand’s presence in East Malaysia. These developments bring the total number of Ford dealerships in East Malaysia to nine, and nationwide to thirty-eight, solidifying SDAC-Ford’s footprint across the region.
The accolades received further underscore Ford’s unparalleled capabilities and innovation, with the Next-Gen Ranger WildTrak clinching the prestigious Malaysia Car of the Year 2023 award for Best Truck and the Next-Gen Ranger Raptor 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo receiving an Honorable Mention. Additionally, the Ford Ranger secured various accolades including Carlist.my’s People’s Choice Award for the Best Pickup Truck 2023 and the Allianz DSF.my Vehicle of the Year (VOTY) Award 2023 for ‘Pick-up Truck of the Year,’ among others.
Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC), the exclusive distributor for Ford in Malaysia, has introduced two new Ford models, one of which is the Special Edition Ford Everest WildTrak. This rugged SUV is designed for adventurous individuals seeking a capable 7-seater SUV with a balance of comfort and convenience.
The Special Edition Ford Everest WildTrak combines exceptional performance with comfort, advanced capabilities, and cutting-edge technologies in a rugged and fun-to-drive SUV. It features a new Luxe Yellow exterior color with Boulder Grey accents.
Under the hood, it is powered by a 2.0L Bi-Turbo engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and 4WD capabilities. It offers six selectable drive modes for optimal performance on different surfaces, including Normal, Eco, Tow/Haul, Slippery, Mud/Ruts, and Sand. The vehicle also comes with advanced driver assist systems (ADAS), including fully automated parking assist, thanks to the short-throw e-Shifter and electric parking brake.
Inside, the cabin features black synthetic-leather seats with orange stitching and the ‘WildTrak’ logo on the front seats. The dashboard features ambient lighting to enhance the cabin’s atmosphere. The SUV is equipped with a bold grille with ‘WILDTRAK’ letters on the hood, adding to its rugged appearance.
The Special Edition Everest WildTrak is packed with a full suite of driver-assist technologies, including the fully automated Active Park Assist 2.0, which makes parking in tight spaces a breeze. The vehicle also offers a 12-inch multi-touch screen multi-function display and a 12.4-inch color information display on the cluster for connectivity and convenience. The raised roof rails and panoramic moonroof enhance cargo space and offer a view of the sky and scenery.
The Special Edition Everest WildTrak is priced from RM338,888 (on-the-road without insurance) in Peninsular Malaysia, with variations for other regions. It is available in three exterior colours: Luxe Yellow, Meteor Grey, and Absolute Black.
The all-new Everest joins the Ford range in Malaysia, adding a SUV to the next-generation Ranger pick-up in Sime Darby Auto ConneXion’s offerings. This is the third generation of the SUV that was developed for ASEAN and other Asia-Pacific markets around the world and it’s no secret that the Everest (also known as the Endeavour in India) shares a lot with the latest Ranger.
Though the Everest is on the same platform as the Ranger, the shared approach was not considered when the Ranger was being developed in the 1990s as Ford’s ‘Asian Car’. However, with the growing popularity of SUVs, Ford knew it had to have a representative in that segment too. It had the Explorer, once the bestselling SUV in the world, but that was essentially a North American product not really suited for the rest of the world.
Following the reveal of the new Ford Ranger last year, Ford has now finally given the new Everest SUV its global debut. While the press materials don’t mention the Ranger, it’s no secret that the two models are essentially shared products, with the Everest being a SUV version of the pick-up. The connection has been important, particularly in Thailand, where it is advantageous to be a truck-based SUV.
Ford design DNA For the new Everest, which starts its third generation, the chassis has wider tracks and a longer wheelbase. The styling is that of a modern SUV with the same ‘C-clamp’ headlamps and strong horizontal upper grille bar at the front, now the signature look of Ford’s trucks and SUVs. For the Everest, the front end also has a mix of horizontal and vertical elements. The wider tracks add a muscular image to the vehicle with a more dramatic swell over the wheels.
The new integrated or stand-off roof rails are more than just a design detail as the Everest roof can now support static loads of up to 350 kgs and dynamic loads of up to 100 kgs. This means owners can carry bikes, canoes, a cargo pod or roof-top tent. A universal mounting system allows for addition of a range of accessories.
“We showed customers the Everest at several points during the design process, and their feedback was consistent: They loved the exterior with the strong and rugged design, but they also thought it was sleek and modern,” said Max Wolff, Design Director for China and Ford’s International Markets Group. “They said that the Everest would give them the confidence to go off-road; it looks like a proper SUV.”
Three engine options Depending on the market, the Everest will be available with turbodiesel and petrol engines. There is a new 3-litre turbodiesel V6 and the proven 2-litre turbodiesel, and from 2023, a 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine. The present generation sold in Malaysia has a 2-litre bi-turbo diesel engine and this is likely to be maintained while the petrol engine would probably also be offered. Ford’s 10-speed SelectShift automatic will continue to be available as well as a 6-speeder.
Besides the 50 mm increase in the track for a more controlled ride on-road, revisions have been made to the damper settings ‘to inject more fun and control’ into the Everest’s ride, on and off-road. There will be two 4×4 drive systems – a 2-speed electronic type (also known as a part-time 4×4) and an advanced, permanent 4-wheel drive system with an electronically controlled on-demand 2-speed electromechanical transfer case with selectable drive modes.
A rear locking differential is fitted and, in some markets, the Everest will also be available with 2-wheel drive. As with the current Ranger and Everest, the vehicle can move through water up to 800 mm deep.
‘Sanctuary’ in the cabin While customers told the Ford people that they wanted toughness and capability on the outside and underneath, for the Inside, they wanted a ‘sanctuary’. So the designers put a lot of thought into the function and feel of the interior, taking inspiration from modern homes and bringing in plush materials, premium finishes and ambient lighting all in areas where customers can appreciate them the best.
The sense of spaciousness is amplified by the full-width dashboard. Access to the third-row seats is much easier, thanks to second-row seats that slide further forward than before. Additionally, all occupants now have places to store their things and depending on the model, charge their devices with power outlets in all three rows (some variants will have wireless charging pads).
Ford’s interior designers prioritised flexible seating in the new Everest so the second-row slides with a 60:40 split seatback and the 50:50 split third row in the 7-seater configuration can be folded at the touch of a button. Importantly, both the second and third-row seats have been designed to fold flat to allow for long loads to be carried safely.
To stop items falling out of the back opening when the tailgate is up, there is a small lip, affectionately known as the ‘apple catcher valley’, at the rear of the cargo area. The team also created an underfloor compartment for storing small items.
“One of the first things you’ll notice when you get into a new Everest is how quiet it is,” said Wolff. “We’ve all been in vehicles with multiple rows of seats, where you have to twist your head around and almost shout to be heard by passengers in the second or third rows. That’s an issue we wanted to solve for the Everest, so the interior would be a quiet place in which you can easily talk to your family or friends and enjoy the journey together.”
Customer-focused technology In addition to a more refined and comfortable interior, Ford focused on incorporating the latest connectivity and technology features. 8-inch or 12.4-inch digital instrument panels replace the traditional analogue clusters so it’s a ‘glass cockpit’ now. Additionally, in the middle of the dashboard is a high-resolution touchscreen in either 10.1-inch or 12-inch sizes, running Ford’s latest infotainment system known as SYNC 4A.
The portrait-orientated screen also is linked to a 360-degree camera with split-view display to make parking easier in tight urban spaces or to assist when negotiating particularly tricky terrain. In addition, the driver can control the new exterior zone lighting system via the touchscreen which means they don’t have to park, work, camp or do anything in the dark.
Where available, the Everest’s dedicated off-road screen displays vehicle information and a front camera view of the terrain ahead, with predictive overlay guidelines designed to help the driver negotiate obstacles. With a single button press, the driver can view their driveline and diff-lock indicators, steering angle and guides, and vehicle roll and pitch angles. The camera views also help the driver guide the SUV into position to connect a trailer.
Driver-assist technologies Ford has always treated its SUVs and pick-up trucks the same way where safety is concerned, giving just as much safety technology as its passenger cars. For the Everest, there are new and enhanced driver assist technologies and safety features to take the stress out of driving and help drivers to remain focused.
A new far-side airbag positioned between the driver and front passenger provides additional protection in the event of a side impact. Depending on the variant and the market, the addition of the far-side airbag and dual knee airbags brings the number of airbags up to 9, which cover all 3 rows.
With Active Park Assist 2.0, the new Everest can help the driver fit safely in tight spaces at the press of a button. The system takes care of the steering, gearshifts, acceleration and braking to manoeuvre into parallel or perpendicular parking spaces. It will also steer itself out of a parallel parking spot when prompted.
The Everest is primarily made in Thailand, along with the Ranger, and is expected to go on sale later this year. As Sime Darby Auto ConneXion has been selling the Everest, it would likely continue with the new generation, perhaps in 2023. If you’re interested in getting the current model, there should be some stocks available. Visit www.sdacford.com.my to locate a showroom for more information.
Traffic congestion. Pollution. Noise and overcrowding. City life can be tough, with one study finding that people in cities have a 20 percent higher risk of anxiety orders and 40 percent higher risk of mood disorders compared to people living in rural areas. To deal with the stress, people often seek solace in their smartphones and social media (or websites like this…erk! – Ed.), but it’s only making the problem worse by encouraging us to be less connected to each other and the world around us.
More city dwellers are discovering the mental health benefits of spending more time in nature. When you feel the stress of urban life weighing down on you, gather the family, disconnect from your phone and head into the mountains to get away and enjoy the scientifically proven health benefits being in nature provides, including lower blood-pressure, improved vitality and mood, and restored attention capacity and mental fatigue.
Whether you are heading to the expansive subtropical rainforests of Australia, remote mountains in Northern Thailand or the picturesque waterfalls of Laos, you’ll need the right vehicle to get there. Consider the Ford Everest, a genuine SUV that gives you the freedom and capability to leave the stress of the city behind and go anywhere.
As you begin your journey, you can relax and shut out the world around you with Everest’s active noise cancellation technology and sound-absorbing materials. Say goodbye to the pressures of the city in the rearview mirror as you connect with your loved ones in the calm, quiet of the cabin instead of disappearing into your phone screen. With the city hours behind you and the roads getting rougher, you can use the Everest’s Terrain Management System to adjust its off-road settings. The system’s four settings – Normal, Snow/Gravel/Grass, Sand and Rock – give the vehicle the capability to conquer even the most inhospitable of terrain.
Besides the fresh air and stress-relieving benefits the mountains offer, being in nature also offers you the chance to challenge and set new limits for yourself, whether you’re hiking, climbing, canoeing or river rafting. With trunk space that can hold up to 2,010 liters of cargo, the Everest has more than enough space for all of your weekend equipment needs. Doing these activities with your family or friends is even better, as overcoming challenges together will help you bond and strengthen your relationships.
If you’re looking for something at a little slower pace, then take advantage of the Everest’s 800mm water wading capability and 225mm of ground clearance for a waterside fishing session while you sit on the tailgate with your bare feet dangling in the water.
After a weekend away from the city and your digital life, you’ll be refreshed and ready to tackle any challenge the next week may have in store for you. And while you may not be ready to get back to the rush of the city, you can relax and take solace that with your Everest, your next adventure is only a weekend away.
