Ford Endeavour Thunder Plus

The Ford Endeavour Thunder Plus is a full-size SUV built on a ladder frame chassis, offering a traditional rear-wheel drive setup with the option to switch to four-wheel drive. It is powered by a 3.0L diesel engine producing 154 bhp and 380 Nm of torque, paired with a smooth five-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle features an electric shift part-time four-wheel drive system, high and low ratios, and a rear locking differential, making it highly capable off-road. Inside, the Endeavour boasts a luxurious and utilitarian interior with leather seats, though the third row is best suited for children. It also includes features like a touchscreen GPS-enabled infotainment system, reverse camera, and power folding mirrors. Despite some limitations in terms of interior space and features, the Endeavours robust build, comfortable ride, and off-road prowess make it a standout in its class.

The Ford Endeavour Thunder Plus is a robust and capable SUV that excels in several key areas, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a vehicle for both on-road comfort and off-road prowess. Its powerful 3.0L diesel engine, coupled with a smooth five-speed automatic transmission, provides ample power and torque, making it a breeze to drive both in the city and on highways. The Endeavours ride quality, although stiff on rough roads due to its leaf spring suspension, is remarkably comfortable on good roads and exceptional off-road. However, it does come with some compromises, such as limited interior features and a third row that is best suited for children or occasional use. Despite these, the Endeavours overall build quality, luxurious interior, and robust suspension make it a solid choice for those who value durability and performance.

Ford has announced its re-entry into the Indian market, but the Ford Endeavour will likely be rebranded as the Ford Everest, although in India, it will retain the Endeavour name. This move is part of Fords global strategy to unify its product names. I think this change will help in brand recognition globally, but it might confuse some Indian customers.

The 2024 Ford Endeavour is expected to launch in India by November 2024, with a predicted price range of Rs 35.00 to Rs 40.00 Lakh. This pricing makes it competitive with other SUVs like the Toyota Fortuner and MG Gloster. I believe this pricing strategy will attract a lot of buyers looking for a premium SUV.

The new Ford Endeavour will feature a redesigned dashboard, a 12-inch touchscreen, and a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster. It will also include C-shaped LED DRLs, a twin-slat front grille, and a gesture-controlled powered tailgate. The SUV will also come with advanced safety features like ADAS and nine airbags. I think these features will make it a strong contender in the premium SUV segment.

The global Ford Endeavour offers multiple engine options, but for the Indian market, it is likely to retain the 2.0-litre diesel engine, possibly in single or twin-turbo variants. This engine will be paired with a 10-speed automatic gearbox, enhancing both power and efficiency. Im excited to see how this engine performs in real-world conditions.

The new Ford Endeavour will come equipped with a range of safety features including terrain management, hill descent control, emergency assistance, and a 360-degree camera system. It will also feature a spacious interior with leather seats, a sunroof, and a high-quality infotainment system. I think these features will significantly enhance the driving experience.

The Ford Endeavour Thunder Plus, although no longer in production and not available for new purchases, would have fallen in the premium SUV segment when it was available. Historically, the ex-showroom price for the top variants of the Ford Endeavour in India was around 30-35 lakhs. On-road prices, including taxes and other costs, would have been closer to 35-40 lakhs. Given its robust build, powerful engine, and off-road capabilities, the Endeavour offered good value for money in its segment, especially for those who needed a vehicle that could handle both urban and rugged terrains.

The Ford Endeavour Thunder Plus is not known for its fuel efficiency, with an average mileage of around 8-10 kilometers per liter in city driving and slightly better on highways. This is due to its large and powerful engine, as well as its substantial weight. However, for those who prioritize performance and capability over fuel economy, the Endeavours mileage is a manageable trade-off.