A new report out of Australia claims the next-generation Ford Everest range will include an off-road-focused, V6-powered Wildtrak X variant.

According to CarExpert.com.au, the new Everest will be released towards the end of 2022, around the same time as the next-gen Ranger bakkie with which it shares its platform.

The report says the next Everest will again share its engine range with the aforementioned Ranger, which the publication claims will include the existing 157 kW/500 N.m bi-turbo 2,0-litre diesel unit; a 270 kW/680 N.m plug-in hybrid powertrain built around Ford's turbocharged 2,3-litre, four-cylinder petrol unit; and a 3,0-litre V6 turbodiesel generating 186 kW and 600 N.m.

That six-pot (which wears the "Power Stroke" badge and is already in service in the F-150 in North America) will be standard in the new Everest Wildtrak X derivative, according to the report. This 4x4-equipped variant is described as “Raptor-esque” and will reportedly feature Bilstein shock absorbers, BF Goodrich all-terrain rubber and chunky rock sliders. The Wildtrak X badge, of course, has already appeared on the current Ranger, both in Europe and Australia.

Interestingly, CarExpert.com.au lists the plug-in hybrid powertrain as a “cost option” on the Wildtrak X model. While all variants are expected to use the Dearborn-based company’s 10-speed automatic transmission, the 3,2-litre, five-cylinder oil-burner is set to be axed (the 2,2-litre is seemingly also on the chopping block).

Earlier in May 2020, a report out of India suggested the next-generation Everest would feature a far more aggressive front-end design, drawing inspiration from the latest Explorer.

Original article from Car