ఫోర్డ్ ఎండీవర్ 2014-2015 3.0L 4X4 AT

Ford India, the fully owned subsidiary of the American auto giant has officially rolled out the facelifted version of its luxury SUV, Ford Endeavour in the automobile bazaar. This latest version is available with two diesel engine options and in three trim levels. The Ford Endeavour 3.0L 4x4 AT is the is the high end variant and it comes equipped with a 3.0-litre diesel engine and it is coupled with a five speed automatic gearbox. On the other hand, it is also blessed with electric shift-on-fly system, which will switch the torque distribution from 2WD to 4WD for enhanced driving experience. This 2014 version gets major cosmetic updates in terms of both interiors and exteriors. To start with interiors, the electric shift-on-fly system and the gearbox console has been repositioned, while the seating arrangement is slightly modified for enhanced comfort. The outsides of this SUV gets a major cosmetic update in the form of a wraparound headlight cluster and a new hexagonal tough grille. It is also blessed with a modified bumper that hosts a pair of redesigned fog lamps, which will amplify the front profile. The company has retained all the comfort and safety features of this trim, but it has improved the SATNAV and parking assistance system with new reverse parking camera.

Exteriors:

The appearance of this trim looks refreshing, thanks to the new set of cosmetics that gives it an urbane appeal. Its rear profile remains mostly identical to its outgoing trim, but the body colored bumper gets a minor tweak and it is fitted with protective cladding. The side profile gets a minor cosmetic update as its wheel arches have been fitted with distinctly crafted alloy wheels . Furthermore, the body colored external mirrors are equipped with a blind spot mirror along with puddle lamps and turn indicators. In a bid to enhance the view of side facet, the company has embossed the body with trendy graphics and garnished the door handles with chrome. It also has styling and convenience aspects like silver roof rails and aluminum side stepper. Its front profile gets a major cosmetic update with an all new wraparound headlight cluster that is equipped with powerful halogen lights. It surrounds a hexagonal tough grille that is treated with a lot of chrome and embossed with the company's badge. Its front bumper is also updated with restructured air dam along with modified fog lamps that dazzles the front facade. In addition to these, the company has also fitted the skid plate, which gives a rugged appeal while protecting the vehicle on uneven roads.

Interiors:

The interior cabin is blessed with an all new ebony and camel color scheme and it is complimented by silver and titanium inserts. The dual tone dashboard gets a slightly modified central console with titanium finish. The gearbox console is slightly modified, whereas the electric shift-on-fly function gets an all new avatar. This SUV also gets revamped seats that are covered with plush leather upholstery. The third row is equipped with foldable and removable seats, while the second row is fitted with 50:50 split folding seats, which will be helpful in increasing the luggage space when required. The four spoke steering wheel and the gear knob has also been wrapped with leather upholstery. The manufacturer has installed several utility based features, which include a storage compartment, cigarette lighter, accessory power socket , sporty pedals and numerous other aspects.

Engine and Performance:

This newly introduced Ford Endeavour 3.0L 4x4 AT trim is equipped with a same 3.0-litre TDCI diesel engine that displaces 2953cc . This power plant is integrated with four cylinders, sixteen valves and a variable geometry turbo charger for enhanced power output. It can churn out a commanding power of 153.86bhp at 3200rpm in combination with a peak torque output of 380Nm at just 2500rpm. This torque output is distributed to the front wheels via a five speed automatic transmission gearbox. Furthermore, the torque output can be transmitted to all the four wheels with the help of electric shift-on-fly function. On the other hand, this engine is integrated with common rail direct fuel injection system that helps the motor to produce a peak mileage of 11.4 kmpl.

Braking and Handling:

This SUV is blessed with a robust suspension system, which keeps it stable and well balanced. Its front axle is fitted with independent double wishbone suspension system along with stabilizer bar and torsion beam spring. At the same time, the rear axle comes equipped with progressive linear rate leaf springs suspension that is further incorporated with low friction pads. This suspension mechanism is further assisted by Tabular double acting type gas filled shock absorbers. Coming to the braking aspects, its front wheels have been fitted with ventilated disc brakes and the rear ones have been equipped with self adjusting drum brakes. This efficient braking mechanism is incorporated with an advanced anti lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution system . On the other hand, the manufacturer has integrated and advanced ball and nut type variable power assisted steering system, which reduces the efforts of driver while maneuvering.

Comfort Features:

This top end variant is equipped with a few innovative comfort features, which provides enhanced luxury to the occupants. It comes incorporated with a four spoke multi-functional steering wheel that is also mounted with cruise control. Its cabin is integrated with a manual air conditioning system with personalized AC vents for the second and third row. It is blessed with a list of features including power steering with tilt adjuster, rear wipe/washer and defogger, height adjustable front passengers seat belts, column stalk audio controls and so on. In addition to these, it has a large glove box with illumination, front center armrest with storage unit, three accessory power sockets, cigarette lighter and sunglass holders. Furthermore, the company is also offering an advanced satellite navigation system with improved mapping function along with a rear view camera that displays on the SATNAV.

Safety Features:

The Ford Endeavour 3.0L 4x4 AT is the top end variant and it is equipped with sophisticated safety aspects including limited slip differential, which enhances its stability. The list of features include ABS with EBD, dual stage front and side airbags for front passengers, seat belt pretensioner with load limiter, remote key less entry with anti theft alarm and front fog lamps.

Pros:

1. Electric shift-on-fly and limited slip differential function is an advantage.

2. Exterior appearance is very attractive.

Cons:

1. Safety standards are below par with other competitors.

2. Expensive ownership cost and maintenance.