Ford Endeavour Review With Comparison - Autox

FORD ENDEAVOUR REVIEW WITH COMPARISON - AUTOX The Toyota Fortuner has been leading the sales numbers for the big-size SUVs for quite a while now.

It’s no secret that the Toyota Fortuner is the default choice in this segment. But with the recent launch of the updated Endeavour, the all-new Mahindra Alturas G4 and also the Isuzu MU-X that had undergone a makeover few months back, it’s time to pit these ladder-on-frame SUVs against each other. Read on.

Recently, in our Ford Endeavour review, we were quite impressed with the American machine. What I liked the most, is the butch stance of this SUV that gives it a massive street presence. The updated Ford also gets a new grille design, a new set of alloys and keyless entry with push-button start. That said, the Endeavour remains the most sophisticated vehicle out of the lot too. With the 3.2-litre fivecylinder, the Endeavour continues to be a hoot to drive. And while we wish the six-speed converter came with paddle shifters, the Endeavour isn’t exactly a sports car, but then again it’s a Ford.

The Mahindra Alturas has a lot going for it. The ladder-on-frame SUV looks imposing, it’s wider than all of its rivals and it has a neat Korean design as well. You see, the Alturas G4 is essentially a SsangYong Rexton G4 with minor tweaks for the Indian market. In fact, the Alturas G4 has the most upmarket cabin of the lot with the premium leather upholstery, immaculate build and fit-and-finish.

But there’s a sore point to the Alturas too, and that’s the 2.2-litre mill. In all fairness, the Alturas does have the smallest mill in the lot, but it matches the power and torque output of the Isuzu.

Talking about the Isuzu, we were quite impressed with the 3.0-litre oil-burner at the heart of the MUX. The engine is hooked up to a variable geometry turbocharger that gives it great off-boost throttle response. And once the turbo starts to sing its song, the surge of power is surreal and the car takes off at the slightest flex of the right foot. The MU-X scores good numbers on the off-road test too, the moment you switch to the 4x4 mode, the Isuzu’s powertrain starts its magic and the gives a fantastic amount of confidence while tackling off-road obstacles.

Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room. The Toyota Fortuner is the oldest car in this comparison, and yet, this hasn’t stopped SUV buyers from making it their default choice. In fact, the Fortuner is viewed as a benchmark in the Indian SUV space. The Fortuner also feels the mostengaging out on the gravel, as you have total control over power modulation and can get a greater sense of traction and overall control while off-roading. However, the Fortuner had the slowest automatic gearbox in this test. That said, our pick of the range is got to be the Endeavour. It’s the most powerful and engaging SUV in this test, and it packs a plush cabin and segment-leading equipment too. To read our full comparison or to read our extensive Ford Endeavour review, be sure to visit us at autoX.