Ford Everest : The premium SUV landscape is on the brink of an exciting showdown as Ford gears up to unveil the all-new Everest, aiming its sights squarely on Toyota’s reigning champion, the Fortuner.
According to sources within the industry, Ford has meticulously crafted the upcoming Everest to be a formidable contender, ready to challenge the long-standing segment leader.
With Ford withdrawing from certain markets, the launch of the next-generation Everest indicates a strategic shift for the automaker.
Recognizing the growing consumer appetite for rugged yet luxurious SUVs, Ford has pinpointed the premium ladder-frame SUV category as a significant battlefield worth entering.
“The new Everest signifies Ford’s dedication to producing vehicles that offer remarkable capability along with contemporary luxury,” explains Rajiv Sharma, Product Planning Director for Ford’s Asia Pacific division.
“We’ve analyzed the Fortuner’s success factors and developed something that sets new standards in every measurable aspect.”
Ford Everest Powertrain Options That Mean Business
Under the hood, the 2025 Everest will present two impressive powertrain choices.
At the forefront is a 2.0-liter bi-turbo diesel engine, delivering 213 horsepower and an outstanding 500 Nm of torque—figures that notably exceed those of the Fortuner.
This diesel option is paired with Ford’s advanced 10-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smoother gear changes and enhanced fuel economy compared to competitors.
For those favoring petrol engines, a 2.3-liter EcoBoost option providing 300 horsepower will also be available, appealing to drivers who prioritize performance over diesel efficiency.
Industry analyst Priya Menon notes, “Ford has clearly identified the Fortuner’s shortcomings. The bi-turbo diesel offers significantly more torque for off-road scenarios while achieving better efficiency on highways—areas where the Fortuner has faced critiques.”
Ford Everest Capability Beyond the Pavement
Ford engineers have dedicated countless hours testing the new Everest in extreme conditions across various continents.
The SUV boasts an advanced four-wheel-drive system with an electronic locking rear differential and selectable drive modes tailored for a variety of terrains.
With a ground clearance of an impressive 256mm, the Everest sits 11mm higher than the Fortuner, while also achieving a water wading capability up to 800mm.
The vehicle’s improved approach and departure angles enhance its performance in challenging off-road conditions.
A Ford test driver, preferring to remain unnamed, shared, “We’ve subjected it to rigorous testing alongside the Fortuner, and the new Everest consistently outperforms it in technical off-road situations. The difference is particularly evident on rocky inclines and when crossing water.”
Ford Everest Technology and Comfort Leap Forward
Inside, the Everest seeks to redefine expectations, featuring a cutting-edge 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen that runs Ford’s latest SYNC 4A system.
The cabin is equipped with premium materials, including options for leather-appointed seating with 10-way power adjustment and heating/ventilation features.
Safety tech receives significant enhancements as part of Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite, incorporating adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, lane centering, autonomous emergency braking, and a 360-degree camera system complete with an off-road view.
“The technological advancements in the Everest compared to the Fortuner will be immediately noticeable,” remarks automotive journalist Vikram Patel.
“Ford has successfully merged the ruggedness expected in this category with technology more typically found in luxury European SUVs.”
Ford Everest Market Positioning
Ford has strategically positioned the new Everest to challenge the value proposition offered by the Fortuner.
While official pricing details are still under wraps, reports suggest that the Everest will be priced competitively, potentially undercutting the Toyota by 5-7% while delivering more standard features.
Additionally, the Everest will debut with a market-leading 7-year/200,000 km warranty, addressing long-term reliability concerns—an area where Toyota has traditionally excelled.
Ford Everest Launch Timeline
The all-new Ford Everest is anticipated to hit showrooms by late Q3 2025, with pre-orders set to begin two months prior.
Ford dealerships are gearing up with dedicated display spaces where customers can directly compare the Everest against the Fortuner.
“We’re embracing these comparisons,” Sharma emphasizes. “In fact, we encourage them. This Everest was designed to excel in these comparisons, and we are confident that those who test both vehicles will see the distinction.”
For Toyota, which has experienced considerable success with the Fortuner, the launch of this revamped Everest represents the most significant competition it has faced in years, posing a genuine threat to its dominance in the market.
