Ford was expected to launch the new 2012 Endeavour in India by mid-2012. The American automaker has delayed the launch as the company faces parts shortage in the production of the SUV. Ford has faced loss in production of the Ranger in Asia due to the floods in Thailand. The company has resumed production but its suppliers in Thailand are still recovering from the floods. This has pushed back production of the Ranger by atleast two months and many countries are yet to receive the Ranger.
The 2012 Ford Endeavour is based on the Ranger. The Ranger is Ford’s most important model in Asia. It is sold as a pick-up truck in many markets, while the SUV version is sold as the Everest in other markets. For India, the Everest name is not available and thus Ford has used the Endeavour name for the SUV. Ford is looking at taking the fight to Toyota’s doorsteps by unsettling the Fortuner’s free run with the launch of the new Endeavour. The new Endeavour has significant changes, right from a more curvy design to rugged interiors.
Apparently Ford tried to achieve G-shock watch levels of durability of the interiors. The interiors space has been improved as well, addressing one of the crucial issues of the Endeavour. The Endeavour will be offered in two engine options, which are all new. The 2.2-litre diesel will replace the 2.5-litre diesel, while a 3.2-litre diesel will replace the 3.0-litre diesel. These engines produce 150 PS, 375 Nm and 200 PS, 480 Nm respectively. Leaf springs stay but Ford claims they have vastly improved the rear suspension.
Ford India has also confirmed that the EcoSport will be launched in 2013. Thus we can expect Ford to launch the new Endeavour in the last quarter of the year. GM is also toying with the idea of launching the Chevrolet Trailblazer, while Skoda is bringing in a bigger version of the Yeti. The Rs. 20 lakh SUV segment is surely going to be shaken soon.
