Spied on test earlier, according to a report, the modern and butch looking 2015 Ford Endeavour is all set to reach dealerships in India by August this year. Perhaps the biggest threat to the Toyota Fortuner’s supremacy until now, Ford could employ an aggressive pricing strategy for this SUV, where the entry-level model is expected to retail for anything in the Rs 18-20 lakh range.
The 2015 Endeavour is expected to be offered with two diesel motors – a 2.2-liter engine mated to a 6-speed manual and a 3.2-liter motor with a 6-speed auto only option. The 2.2-liter mill makes its peak power of 157 bhp at 3200 rpm and generates 385 Nm of twist between 1,600 – 2,500 rpm. The bigger 3.2-liter Duratorq motor dishes out 197 bhp at 3000 rpm and 400 Nm of torque between 1,750 – 2,500 rpm. While the lesser powered variants will most probably settle with the power going to the rear wheels, the 3.2-liter variant should get a full time 4-Wheel Drive system with Terrain Management and a lockable rear diff. The independent front suspension is coupled with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while leaf springs on the existing model will be replaced by Watts link rear suspension with curled springs.
Matching the contemporary styling on the outside are bits like LED DRLs, halogen projector headlamps with auto function, 18-inch alloy wheels with 265/60 tires, front and rear foglights, roof rails and a rear spoiler with integrated brake light. Equipment wise, the new Endeavour ticks all boxes and gets rain sensing wipers, auto dimming rear view mirror, cruise control, dual zone HVAC, power windows with one-touch operation, leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel and gear knob, leather upholstery, 8-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat, fold flat 2nd row 60: 40 split seats, 50:50 Split folding 3rd row bench seats, 12V power sockets across three rows, Ford SYNC infotainment system with Radio/ CD / MP3 / AUX / USB (2 slots) / SD Card slot and bluetooth connectivity.
The New Endeavour scores high on safety too and comes packed with ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Program, Hill Launch Assist, Traction Control, RSC rollover protection system, Dual front airbags, Reverse parking sensors, Key Immobilizer amd ISOFIX child seat anchor points.
The top-of-the-line Endeavour available internationally comes with a Panoramic Sunroof, driver and front passenger 8-way power adjustable seats, driver side knee airbag, power operated third row seats, ambient lighting with seven different colors, stainless steel scuff plate with LED illumination. We aren’t sure if all of these features will be made available on the India-spec Endeavour, however, since it will be imported in the CKD format and assembled here, we hope not much will change and hope is a good thing.
Source: Autocar
Ford failed to utilize the situation until the next fortuner launch. Looking at Toyota’s aggressive strategy of Hilux launch in Thailand.It will be difficult for Ford to even compete. Everest launched in Thailand on march but yet to start delivery. Toyota is already dispatching new Hilux to the dealers. Toyota intends to start sales of the new Hilux immediately after its unveiling it appears. Ford is just loosing the business by delaying the launch..
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