Ford Endeavour 2014-2015 3.0L AT 4x2

Ford Endeavour is one of the luxurious SUVs available in the Indian automobile market and it is available with two diesel engine options. This SUV now gets a mid-life facelift with a set of new exterior and interior cosmetics. The manufacturer has retained all the variants in its series, among them, this Ford Endeavour 3.0L AT 4x2 is the mid range trim. This version is equipped with a 3.0-litre TDCI diesel motor, which is paired with a five speed automatic transmission gearbox and helps in producing a peak mileage of 11.4 Kmpl. In terms of exteriors, this trim gets an updated chrome radiator grille along with a wraparound headlight cluster, a pair of newly designed fog lamps and a refurbished bumper. In addition to these, the car maker is also offering a set of newly crafted 16 inch alloy wheels that further enhances its elegance. The cosmetic updates are also given to its interiors in the form of a redesigned front central console and slightly tweaked seating arrangement.

Exteriors:

This latest version is blessed with the same old body structure, but there are a few changes done to it. The frontage comes with an all new hexagonal tough grille that is treated with a lot of chrome. It is surrounded by a distinctly crafted wraparound headlight cluster that is incorporated with powerful halogen headlamps and turn indicator. The manufacturer has also updated the bonnet and embossed it with ‘ENDEAVOUR' lettering. Below this grille, the body colored bumper is equipped with a set of newly structured fog lamps and a pronounced air dam along with an aluminum skid plate. The overall new look of the front is complimented by the company's badge that is fitted on to the chrome grille. The rear profile is also refreshed with a slightly modified bumper that is fitted with aluminum skid plate. The taillight cluster, windscreen and the boot lid have been retained from the outgoing trim. On the side profile, this latest version is blessed with a set of elegantly crafted alloy wheels along with ORVMs that features a blind fold mirror. The door handles have been garnished with chrome, while the external wing mirrors are in body color. The side profile also gets sleek protective cladding and there are a pair of silver roof rails as well. This SUV has a total length of 5062mm and an overall width of 1788mm along with a decent height of about 1826mm. Its comes with a minimum ground clearance of 210mm and with a wheelbase of 2860mm, which is quite large.

Interiors:

This trim also gets a refurbished internal cabin with improved features. The design of the seats have been slightly tweaked and they are covered with plush leather upholstery. The dashboard design remains is similar to the old version, but the central console, especially the gearbox is slightly repositioned. The cabin has a camel and ebony combination color scheme, which his complimented by titanium finish given on the instrument panel. Additionally, the manufacturer is also offering illuminated scuff plates along with sporty pedals, which adds to the distinct appeal to its interiors. Apart from these, all the other aspects including the features remains to be similar to the outgoing trim. The best part about the cabin is its versatile seating arrangement with 50:50 split folding seats in the second row along with removable and foldable seats in the third row. This will help the passengers to increase the storage space and make their journey comfortable.

Engine and Performance:

Ford India has retained the same 3.0-litre TDCI diesel power plant with a variable geometry turbocharger. This engine is integrated with 4-cylinders and 16-valves that displaces 2953cc . This DOHC based motor is also incorporated with a common rail direct fuel injection system that enables it to produce 153.86bhp at 3200rpm, while developing a peak torque of 380Nm at just 2500rpm. The torque output is transmitted to the front wheels through an advanced five speed automatic gearbox. This trim is capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 Kmph mark in about 14 to 15 seconds and it can achieve a top speed of approximately 165 Kmph, which is quite good.

Braking and Handling:

The front wheels of this SUV are fitted with ventilated disc brakes, whereas its rear wheels have been equipped with self adjusting drum brakes. This proficient braking combination is enhanced by anti lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution system . On the other hand, this trim is incorporated with a ball and nut type steering system with variable power assistance and tilt adjustment system, which makes handling simpler. Its front axle is fitted with independent double wishbone that is assisted by a stabilizer bar and torsion bar spring. While the rear axle comes fitted with progressive linear rate leaf springs accompanied by low friction pads. This suspension system is further loaded with tabular double acting type gas filled shock absorbers.

Comfort Features:

This Ford Endeavour 3.0L AT 4x2 trim is equipped with a cruise control system, a manually operated AC unit with personalized AC vents for second and third row, which keeps the ambiance pleasant. Additionally, it also gets the electrically adjustable and foldable outside mirrors that features turn indicators and a puddle lamp as well. The list of other features include a tilt adjustable steering, power adjustable windows with driver side one touch operation, a large glove box with illumination, column stalk audio controls, front center armrest with storage unit , two sunglass holders, cigarette lighter, accessory power sockets, and a rear defogger. Furthermore, the company is also offering an MP3 player along with a DVD player with roof mounted display and six speakers.

Safety Features:

This mid level variant is equipped with crucial safety aspects that provides maximized protection to all the occupants. The list includes a remote key less entry with anti-theft alarm, seat belts with pretensioner and load limiter, front fog lamps and anti lock braking system with electronic brake-force distribution system. It is also incorporated with dual stage front and side airbags for both the front passengers .

Pros:

1. An ideal vehicle for terrains and off-roading.

2. Quality of the interiors is at par with other competitors.

Cons:

1. Lack of SATNAV system and parking assistance is a disadvantage.

2. Lack of automatic air conditioning system.