Hey gearheads and future SUV owners! Buying a new or pre-owned car in India is a big decision, isn"t it? You're probably juggling questions about your budget, the car"s safety, how much it'll cost to maintain monthly, what cutting-edge features it packs, and of course, the company"s service network. Well, today, we"re diving deep into an SUV that, despite its company"s recent changes in India, still holds a special place in many hearts: the Ford Endeavour 2020-2022 model years.

Known for its imposing presence, robust build, and off-road prowess, the Ford Endeavour has been a formidable player in the premium SUV segment. Let"s break down what makes this machine tick and if it"s the right choice for you, especially if you"re eyeing the pre-owned market.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

For the 2020 update and onwards, Ford streamlined the Endeavour"s powertrain. This means the older 2.2L and 3.2L diesel engines were replaced by a single, more efficient unit:

• Engine: 2.0-litre EcoBlue Turbo Diesel
• Maximum Power: 170 PS (at 3500 rpm)
• Peak Torque: 420 Nm (at 2000-2500 rpm)
• Transmission: Segment-first 10-speed Automatic (Torque Converter)

This new engine, paired with the advanced 10-speed automatic gearbox, offered a smooth, refined, and surprisingly peppy driving experience, whether you were cruising on the highway or tackling city traffic.

Design Overview

The Endeavour"s design is all about making a statement.

• Exterior: It"s unmistakably a butch SUV. You get a bold, chrome-laden front grille, sleek LED DRLs with HID headlamps (in higher variants), muscular wheel arches housing large alloy wheels, functional roof rails, and a robust stance. The design exudes confidence and road presence that few rivals can match.
• Interior: Step inside, and you"re greeted by a spacious and premium cabin. The dual-tone brown and beige upholstery (on higher trims) gives it an upmarket feel. The dashboard is well-laid out, and the quality of materials used is commendable, with soft-touch surfaces where it matters. Comfort is paramount, especially on long journeys, thanks to well-cushioned seats.

Key Features

The Ford Endeavour was well-equipped, offering a host of features designed for comfort, convenience, and connectivity.

• Infotainment System: An 8-inch SYNC 3 touchscreen system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
• Connected Car Tech: FordPass connectivity suite, allowing remote operations and vehicle information access via your smartphone.
• Sunroof: A large panoramic electric sunroof (available on Titanium+ variant).
• Climate Control: Dual-zone automatic climate control for personalised comfort.
• Assistance: Semi-Auto Parallel Park Assist, Active Noise Cancellation (contributes to a quiet cabin).
• Convenience: Hands-free powered tailgate, powered driver"s seat, ambient lighting.
• Please Note: While feature-rich, the 2020-2022 Endeavour in India did not come with a 360-degree camera system or wireless charging as standard fitment. It offered front and rear parking sensors with a reverse camera.

Ground Clearance

• Ground Clearance: Approximately 225 mm. This generous ground clearance ensures the Endeavour can tackle rough Indian roads and mild off-roading with ease, without scraping its underbelly.

Boot Space

• Boot Space (All Seats Up): Around 450 litres.
• Boot Space (Third Row Folded):

Dimensions

• Length: Approximately 4903 mm
• Width: Approximately 1869 mm
• Height: Approximately 1837 mm
• Wheelbase: Approximately 2850 mm

Powertrain Options

As detailed under Engine Specifications, for the 2020-2022 models, the sole powertrain available was the 2.0-litre EcoBlue Turbo Diesel engine paired exclusively with the 10-speed automatic transmission. Both 4x2 and 4x4 drivetrain options were offered, with the 4x4 variant featuring Ford"s excellent Terrain Management System.

Safety Features

Ford never compromised on safety, and the Endeavour was a prime example.

• Up to 7 Airbags
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
• Traction Control System
• Hill Descent Control
• Hill Launch Assist
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
• Front and Rear Parking Sensors with Rearview Camera

NCAP Rating Table

Safety is a huge concern, and Ford"s commitment is reflected in international ratings.

Rivals of Ford Endeavour 2020-2022

In the highly competitive full-size SUV segment, the Endeavour locked horns with some serious contenders:

• Toyota Fortuner: The undisputed segment leader.
• MG Gloster: A feature-packed newcomer.
• Isuzu mu-X: A robust and reliable alternative.

Mahindra Alturas G4: (Though now discontinued, it was a direct rival during this period)

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Let"s get to the nitty-gritty of what it"s like to own and drive the Ford Endeavour.

Pros:

• Strong Road Presence: Its imposing size and design command respect wherever it goes.
• Refined & Powerful Engine: The 2.0L EcoBlue diesel with the 10-speed AT offers excellent drivability, smooth shifts, and decent power for its size.
• Superb Ride Comfort: The Endeavour handles bad roads with aplomb, offering a plush and composed ride, far superior to some of its ladder-frame rivals.
• Spacious & Premium Cabin: The interior is comfortable for five adults, with good quality materials and a host of convenience features.
• Capable Off-Roader: With its 4x4 system, high ground clearance, and Terrain Management System, it"s genuinely capable when the tarmac ends.
• Feature-Rich: Comes loaded with safety and convenience features that enhance the ownership experience.

Cons:

• Ford"s Exit from India: This is the biggest hurdle for pre-owned buyers. While Ford assures parts availability and service for a decade, concerns about long-term resale value and ease of service can linger.
• Third-Row Space: While present, the third row is best suited for children or short journeys for adults.
• Fuel Economy: Being a large, heavy SUV, don"t expect stellar fuel efficiency, though the 2.0L is more efficient than its predecessors.
• No Petrol Option: For those preferring petrol engines, the Endeavour was only available with a diesel powertrain during these model years.

Perceived Maintenance Costs: While service packages were competitive, the general perception of high maintenance costs for premium Ford vehicles could deter some buyers.

Conclusion

The Ford Endeavour 2020-2022, even after Ford"s manufacturing exit from India, remains a highly appealing full-size SUV. It offers a fantastic blend of imposing looks, a refined and capable powertrain, excellent ride comfort, and a feature-packed, premium cabin.

If you"re in the market for a robust, comfortable, and genuinely capable SUV, and are eyeing the pre-owned segment, the Endeavour is undoubtedly a strong contender. The key considerations for you would be the long-term service and parts availability, which Ford has committed to, and the potential impact on resale value due to the brand"s operational changes.

However, for its sheer driving pleasure, safety, and road presence, a well-maintained pre-owned Ford Endeavour could offer incredible value for money, especially when compared to its brand-new rivals. It"s a car that still brings a smile to your face every time you get behind the wheel. Drive one, and you"ll understand why it earned such a loyal following!