Ford Everest : The premium SUV market is gearing up for an exciting showdown as Ford gears up to unveil the all-new Everest, aiming squarely at Toyota’s long-reigning champion, the Fortuner.
Industry experts are buzzing with excitement as Ford has crafted the upcoming Everest as a serious contender, one that is meticulously designed to topple the current segment leader.
Having stepped back from some markets, Ford’s decision to launch the next-gen Everest marks a strategic shift.
The American carmaker has pinpointed the premium ladder-frame SUV sector as a crucial battlefield, especially since consumer interest in sturdy yet luxurious vehicles is on the rise.
“The new Everest reflects Ford’s dedication to offering vehicles that balance outstanding performance with modern elegance,” states Rajiv Sharma, Product Planning Director at Ford’s Asia Pacific division.
“We’ve analyzed the Fortuner’s strengths and weaknesses, building something that surpasses its benchmarks in every significant aspect.”
Ford Everest Powertrain Options That Mean Business
Beneath the hood, the 2025 Everest is set to provide two thrilling powertrain options.
The standout choice features a 2.0-liter bi-turbo diesel engine that generates 213 horsepower and an impressive 500 Nm of torque—numbers that significantly eclipse those of the Fortuner.
This engine is mated to Ford’s latest 10-speed automatic transmission, which ensures smoother shifts and enhanced fuel efficiency compared to rivals.
For regions with varying preferences, a 2.3-liter EcoBoost petrol engine that produces 300 horsepower will be available, catering to those favoring responsive driving over diesel efficiency.
Industry analyst Priya Menon notes, “Ford has impressive benchmarks to assess the Fortuner’s shortcomings.
The bi-turbo diesel provides significantly more torque for off-road adventures while also maintaining efficiency during highway cruising—exactly where the Fortuner has faced critique.”
Ford Everest Capability Beyond the Pavement
According to reports, Ford engineers have dedicated thousands of hours to testing the new Everest under extreme conditions across various continents.
The vehicle is equipped with a sophisticated four-wheel-drive system, featuring an electronic locking rear differential and selectable drive modes optimized for a variety of terrains.
With an impressive ground clearance of 256mm—11mm greater than that of the Fortuner—and a water wading capability of up to 800mm, the Everest stands ready for adventure.
The vehicle has also been designed with improved approach and departure angles, enhancing its off-road capability.
One of Ford’s test drivers, wishing to remain anonymous, shared, “We’ve subjected it to rigorous tests alongside the Fortuner, and the new Everest consistently outperforms it in tough off-road scenarios.
The difference is especially clear on rocky inclines and during water crossings.”
Ford Everest Technology and Comfort Leap Forward
Inside the Everest, Ford aims to elevate expectations with a stunning 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen equipped with Ford’s innovative SYNC 4A system.
The interior showcases high-quality materials, including options for leather seating with 10-way power adjustments and heating/ventilation capabilities.
Safety features receive a major boost thanks to Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite, which comprises adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, lane centering, autonomous emergency braking, and an all-around camera system, offering a dedicated off-road view.
“The technological edge between the Everest and Fortuner will be striking,” comments automotive journalist Vikram Patel.
“Ford has masterfully fused the ruggedness associated with this segment and the tech commonly found in luxury European SUVs.”
Ford Everest Market Positioning
Ford has meticulously positioned the new Everest to challenge the Fortuner’s appeal.
While exact pricing is yet to be revealed, sources hint that the vehicle may be offered at a competitive price, potentially undercutting Toyota by 5-7%, all while providing more standard features.
The Everest will debut with an industry-leading 7-year/200,000 km warranty, directly addressing concerns regarding long-term reliability, an area where Toyota has traditionally excelled.
Ford Everest Launch Timeline
The new Ford Everest is projected to hit showrooms by late Q3 2025, with pre-orders commencing two months prior.
Ford dealerships are already setting up dedicated display areas where prospective customers can directly compare the Everest against the Fortuner.
“We’re ready for comparisons,” asserts Sharma. “In fact, we embrace them.
This Everest was crafted to excel in those comparisons, and we’re sure that customers who test both vehicles will see and feel the difference.”
For Toyota, which has enjoyed relatively unchallenged success with the Fortuner, the arrival of this thoroughly revamped Everest signifies the most serious competition the model has faced in years—and a formidable challenge to its market dominance.
