Ford India launches 'Endeavour 4x2 automatic'

At the launch, Michael Boneham, president and managing director, Ford India, said, "We are excited and delighted to introduce our latest Endeavour variant to India.

"Building on the strong Endeavour sales so far this year, and the overwhelming response to the automatic transmission launched last year, we are confident that the Ford Endeavour 4x2 AT will be a popular and well received addition to our product line-up.''

Competitively priced at Rs. 17,88,760 lakh (ex-showroom, Bengaluru) the Endeavour 4x2 AT is powered by a 3.0-litre, 156 PS DuraTorq TDCi (common-rail) powertrain with the Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT) and 5-speed automatic gearbox - with the overdrive switch on the shift lever ' to deliver a highly responsive drive that complements its best-in-class torque performance at 380 NM at 2500 rpm.

Compared to other diesel automatic offerings in the 15-20 Lakh premium SUV segment, the DuraTorq engine of the new SUV delivers class-leading fuel efficiency of 10.7 kpl (ARAI).

''Like other variants in the portfolio, the 4X2 variant is robust, good looking, great to drive and versatile. We describe it as a "smooth operator' SUV with the state-of-art 5-speed auto transmission technology that provides a superb and effortless driving experience whether negotiating congested city streets, cruising on the highway or exploring country hills and back roads, " said Boneham.

While rugged on the outside, the interior of the new Endeavour includes many creature comfort features. For example, the interior design sports a classy two tone finish complemented by a spacious passenger cabin.

Inside, it also boasts ergonomically designed leather upholstered seats, a 6-CD changer music system and DVD player and an environmentally-friendly dual air conditioner with personalized air conditioning vents for the second and third rows.

Other unique touches which enhance the 4x2 AT's aesthetic and driving appeal include illuminated scuff plates, a titanium-finished instrument panel, sports pedals and a stylish side body cladding.

The new variant also offers an array of active and passive safety features such as dual-stage front air bags for the driver and passenger. The air bags work in conjunction with three-point safety belts and pre-tensioners and load limiter features unique to Ford vehicles.

In addition, the Anti-lock Braking system (ABS) coupled with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) provides extra security peace of mind for drivers.

The Ford Endeavour 3.0- litre 4x2 Automatic (AT) is available in five colour options - Diamond White, Moondust Silver, Sea Grey, Panther Black and Morello.

Since it was launched in India in 2003, the Ford Endeavour has been a perennial favourite among Indian premium SUV buyers and is consistently ranked as the number one or two top-selling vehicle in the segment."

Boneham said demand for the Endeavour remains strong in India.

"Our January to August 2010 Endeavour sales numbers are up 68 percent compared to January - August 2009. In addition, the market segment for SUVs priced between Rs. 15 - 20 lakh has nearly quadrupled, year-on-year, for the same period, and offers tremendous growth opportunities."

Since 2007, Ford Endeavour has also topped the J.D. Power Dependability Survey three times in a row.