Ford India Set to Revive Endeavor SUV in Market
Pune, 8 January 2024: Ford India is preparing to reintroduce its popular SUV, the Ford Endeavor, into the Indian market. After Ford’s exit from the Indian market in 2021, recent media reports indicate its imminent return for sale in India. The company has filed a new patent in India, signaling its intent to recommence sales at the Chennai plant. Additionally, Ford India has filed a patent that resembles the Ford Everest SUV available in Thailand, likely to be launched in India under the name Ford Endeavour, a model that once directly competed with the Toyota Fortuner and still holds a significant second-hand market share.
Reports suggest two potential strategies for reintroducing the Ford Endeavor: assembling it at the Chennai factory or direct importation. Initially, it’s anticipated that Ford might import 2,500 units annually for the Indian market before the assembly line begins operations by 2025. However, the imported model’s price is expected to surpass the current Fortuner, while its locally produced version could see a reduction in price once manufacturing commences in India.
Previously, Ford operated two plants in India—one sold to Tata Motors in 2022 (in Sanand), while the other (in Chennai) was initially planned for closure despite interest from companies like Vinfast.
The speculated price of the upcoming Ford Endeavor in 2025 is estimated to start around Rs 60 lakh in India, significantly higher than the Fortuner’s ex-showroom price range of Rs 33.43 lakh to Rs 51.44 lakh.
The design of the new Ford Endeavor is said to mirror the Ranger pickup truck available internationally and will be based on the same platform, featuring an SUV built on a ladder frame architecture with sleek design elements, aggressive aesthetics, and robust engine options. The front is expected to resemble the internationally available Everest, promising a significantly commanding road presence that could rival the Fortuner.
Although official information regarding the features has not been disclosed by the company, expectations include a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster, ADAS technology, and various advanced features not found in the Fortuner.
The engine for the Ford Endeavor could potentially be sourced from the Ford Ranger, offering a 2.2-liter turbo diesel and a 3.0-liter V6 turbo diesel engine. Transmission options might include six-speed manual and 10-speed automatic variants, with 2WD and 4WD options catering to off-road capabilities. The top variant might offer all-wheel drive technology, while the lower ones might feature rear-wheel drive.
Although not confirmed by the company, media reports suggest a potential launch of the new generation Ford Endeavor in India by 2025, with more details expected to surface soon.
