Ford India is bringing back the Endeavour to India and plans to badge it as the Everest – a nameplate already used by the American brand in Australia and Thailand. Previously unable to use the Everest name due to trademark issues, Ford has now secured the rights to the name and intends to relaunch the SUV under this moniker in the Indian market.
Brand Strategy
Adopting a unified global name not only reinforces the brand image but also simplifies the reintroduction process for Ford India. By using the original Everest name, the company avoids the need to invest in developing new badges, logos, and nameplates, which would have been costly given the anticipated low volumes in India.
Production and Timeline
Production of the Everest in India will be contingent upon Ford’s EV strategy, which is still under development. Manufacturing may be delayed until late 2025 or 2026 as the SUV needs to align with the company’s broader production plans. To bridge this gap, Ford is considering importing a small number of units to re-enter the market swiftly.
Design and Features
Spy photos near Chennai and design patents filed by Ford in India reveal a three-row, ladder frame SUV with a boxy front-end featuring a large grille and new Matrix LED headlights. The interior, as seen in international models, showcases a vertically oriented design with a 12-inch touchscreen running Ford’s latest SYNC infotainment software. Advanced safety features and a variety of display options are expected.
Powertrain Options
While the specific powertrain for the India-spec Everest is yet to be confirmed, overseas models offer two 2.0-litre diesel options (single turbo and twin-turbo) and a 3.0-litre V6 diesel. Transmission choices include a 6-speed manual and a 10-speed automatic, with both two-wheel and four-wheel drive configurations available in select markets.
Market Rivalry
Upon its release, the Ford Everest will compete directly with vehicles like the Toyota Fortuner, MG Gloster, and other seven-seat SUVs such as the Skoda Kodiaq. This positioning underscores Ford’s intention to capture a significant share of India’s competitive SUV market segment.
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