Ford is keeping its cards close to its chest. While all our automakers are busy letting the world know what their game plan for the India Auto Expo 2014 is, Ford has been relatively quiet on that front. Till now all we were expecting was that the company would showcase the Ford Ka concept, but now if reports are to be believed, the Ford Endeavour may be joining the Ka on stage.
According to a report in Autoportal, Ford might have a global launch for the next generation of its SUV, the Ford Endeavour (also known as the Ford Everest in foreign markets) on February 3, 2014. The company has also sent out a press invitation for a 'global announcement' in New Delhi on the same day. Could it be the launch of this car? It’s too early to tell.
The competition in the SUV segment in India is a known one. The Ford Endeavour was one of the rulers in its segment but vehicles with better design and technology got the better of it and soon the Endeavour began to be pushed back by the Toyota Fortuner, the Mitsubishi Pajero, and the Chevrolet Captiva.
Well, the next-generation Endeavour is back to stake its claim to the number one SUV position. The new Endeavour will get a complete makeover of technology as well as aesthetic upgrades over the current generation model. The 2014 Endeavour concept looks mighty and absolutely modern, making the right moves in terms of design. The body shell will be completely revised and the iconic hexagonal grille makes its way here too.
Under the hood, there have been changes as well. The new Ford Endeavour is expected to get a new range of TDCI engines. A 2.2-litre common rail diesel engine, which produces nearly 170bhp and 400Nm of torque, may be its lifeline. Along with more power, the new Endeavour will certainly boast a new suspension setup at the rear, replacing the age-old leaf spring suspension. Apart from this, features like voice command, Sync, hill assist, ABS and several other class-leading additions may also figure in the car.
For more elaborate details, February 3 should give us an answer. While the chances of a launch so early in the year may be too much to expect, we may expect its presence at the Auto Expo 2014.