Ford Everest : The premium SUV segment is poised for an exciting development as Ford gears up to launch the all-new Everest. This model is designed to take on the Toyota Fortuner, which has long been a dominant player in this space.
Insiders in the automotive industry indicate that Ford has meticulously engineered the upcoming Everest to be a relentless challenger, explicitly aimed at taking the throne from the segment leader.
Ford’s choice to re-enter this segment with a next-generation Everest represents strategic planning following its withdrawal from some markets in the recent past.
The American automaker recognizes the significance of the premium ladder-frame SUV sector, especially where consumer demand for rugged yet sophisticated vehicles is on the rise.
Rajiv Sharma, Product Planning Director at Ford’s Asia Pacific division, states, “The new Everest embodies Ford’s dedication to producing vehicles that meld outstanding capability with contemporary luxury.”
“We’ve analyzed the factors contributing to the Fortuner’s success and have crafted something that surpasses those criteria in every quantifiable aspect.”
Ford Everest Powertrain Options That Mean Business
The 2025 Everest will be equipped with two compelling powertrains under its hood.
The standout option is a 2.0-liter bi-turbo diesel engine that delivers 213 horsepower along with a remarkable 500 Nm of torque—an advantage that significantly exceeds the Fortuner’s specifications.
This engine is paired with Ford’s innovative 10-speed automatic transmission, which promises smoother gear shifts and improved fuel efficiency in comparison to rivals.
For markets with alternative preferences, a 2.3-liter EcoBoost petrol engine that produces 300 horsepower will also be an option, appealing to those who prioritize performance over diesel economy.
Priya Menon, an industry analyst, notes, “Ford has undeniably targeted the Fortuner’s weaknesses.
The bi-turbo diesel engine provides significantly more torque for off-road use while offering improved efficiency during highway travel—an area where the Fortuner has faced criticism.”
Ford Everest Capability Beyond the Pavement
Ford engineers are said to have invested thousands of hours testing the new Everest in extreme environments worldwide.
The vehicle is outfitted with an advanced four-wheel-drive system featuring an electronic locking rear differential and selectable drive modes tailored for various terrains.
With an impressive ground clearance of 256mm—11mm greater than the Fortuner—and water wading capability of up to 800mm, the Everest is built for adventure.
Improvements to the approach and departure angles further enhance the Everest’s performance in tough off-road conditions.
A Ford test driver, who preferred to remain anonymous, shared, “We’ve subjected it to rigorous evaluations against the Fortuner, and the new Everest repeatedly stands out in demanding off-road conditions.
Its advantages are particularly clear on rugged terrains and during water crossings.”
Ford Everest Technology and Comfort Leap Forward
The interior of the Everest is designed to set new standards, featuring a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster along with a 13.2-inch portrait-controlled touchscreen that operates Ford’s latest SYNC 4A system.
The cabin exudes luxury with high-quality materials, including optional leather seats that can be adjusted in 10 ways, along with heating and cooling features.
Safety technologies are significantly enhanced through Ford’s Co-Pilot360 system, which offers features such as adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane centering, automatic emergency braking, and a 360-degree camera, complete with a special off-road view.
Vikram Patel, an automotive journalist, adds, “The discrepancy in technology between the Everest and Fortuner will be instantly noticeable.”
“Ford has successfully fused the robustness expected in this segment with cutting-edge technology more typically found in luxury European SUVs.”
Ford Everest Market Positioning
Ford has strategically positioned the new Everest to challenge the Fortuner’s market appeal.
Although exact pricing details haven’t been disclosed, sources suggest that it will likely be priced competitively, potentially 5-7% lower than the Toyota while providing more standard features.
The Everest will come with an impressive 7-year/200,000 km warranty, targeting concerns over long-term reliability—an area where Toyota generally has a strong hold.
Ford Everest Launch Timeline
The launch of the new Ford Everest is anticipated in showrooms by late Q3 2025, with pre-orders set to begin two months prior.
Ford dealerships are preparing to create dedicated displays for potential buyers to directly compare the Everest with the Fortuner.
“We’re not avoiding comparisons; we actively welcome them,” asserts Sharma. “This Everest was designed to excel in such comparisons, and we are confident that customers who evaluate both vehicles will notice the difference.”
For Toyota, which has enjoyed a relatively uncontested reign with the Fortuner, the arrival of this redesigned Everest poses the most serious competition the model has faced in years, representing a genuine threat to its leadership in the market.