Ford Everest : The premium SUV market is gearing up for an exciting showdown as Ford prepares to unveil the all-new Everest, which aims to challenge the long-standing dominance of Toyota’s Fortuner.
Sources within the industry disclose that Ford has meticulously crafted the upcoming Everest to be a formidable competitor, one that’s intent on dethroning the current segment leader.
Following their retreat from certain markets, Ford’s decision to launch the next-generation Everest marks a significant strategic shift.
The automaker recognizes the premium ladder-frame SUV segment as a vital battlefield, particularly as consumers increasingly favor vehicles that blend ruggedness with luxury.
“The new Everest showcases Ford’s dedication to producing vehicles that fuse remarkable capability with contemporary luxury,” explains Rajiv Sharma, Product Planning Director for Ford’s Asia Pacific division.
“We’ve examined what contributes to the Fortuner’s success and have designed something that surpasses those standards in every conceivable way.”
Ford Everest Powertrain Options That Mean Business
Under the hood, the 2025 Everest will feature two exciting powertrain options.
Leading the charge is a 2.0-liter bi-turbo diesel engine that churns out 213 horsepower and an impressive 500 Nm of torque—significantly eclipsing the Fortuner’s output.
Paired with Ford’s newest 10-speed automatic transmission, this engine promises smoother shifts and superior fuel economy compared to its rivals.
For different market preferences, a 2.3-liter EcoBoost petrol engine generating 300 horsepower will also be available, catering to those who prioritize responsiveness over diesel efficiency.
Industry analyst Priya Menon observes, “Ford has clearly identified the Fortuner’s shortcomings. The bi-turbo diesel delivers substantially more torque for off-roading while maintaining better efficiency on highways—exactly where the Fortuner has drawn criticism.”
Ford Everest Capability Beyond the Pavement
Ford’s engineering team has invested thousands of hours testing the new Everest in extreme conditions across diverse terrains.
The vehicle boasts an advanced four-wheel-drive system, complete with an electronic locking rear differential and selectable drive modes tailored for varying terrains.
With a ground clearance of a remarkable 256mm—11mm more than the Fortuner—and a water wading capability of up to 800mm, this SUV is poised for adventure.
Enhanced approach and departure angles further boost the Everest’s performance in challenging off-road scenarios.
A Ford test driver, who chose to remain anonymous, reported, “We’ve put the Everest through rigorous tests alongside the Fortuner, and it consistently outshines in technical off-road situations.
The difference is particularly evident on rocky inclines and during water crossings.”
Ford Everest Technology and Comfort Leap Forward
Inside, the Everest is set to redefine expectations with a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch portrait touchscreen featuring Ford’s latest SYNC 4A system.
The cabin utilizes premium materials throughout, offering options like leather-appointed seating with 10-way power adjustments and heating/ventilation capabilities.
Safety technology receives a notable upgrade through Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite, which includes adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, lane centering, autonomous emergency braking, and a 360-degree camera system with a specific off-road view.
“The technology disparity between the Everest and Fortuner will be strikingly apparent,” asserts automotive journalist Vikram Patel.
“Ford has brilliantly merged the ruggedness expected in this category with technology typically found in premium European SUVs.”
Ford Everest Market Positioning
Ford has strategically positioned the new Everest to directly challenge the Fortuner’s market advantages.
While official pricing has yet to be revealed, insider sources suggest the vehicle may be priced competitively, potentially undercutting Toyota’s model by 5-7% while offering more features as standard.
Additionally, the Everest will launch with an industry-leading 7-year/200,000 km warranty, aiming to alleviate concerns regarding long-term reliability—an area where Toyota has historically excelled.
Ford Everest Launch Timeline
The new Ford Everest is anticipated to hit showrooms by late Q3 2025, with pre-orders likely starting two months earlier.
Ford dealerships are gearing up with dedicated display areas where potential customers can compare the Everest side by side with the Fortuner.
“We’re not avoiding comparisons,” declares Sharma. “On the contrary, we embrace them.
This Everest was engineered to excel in those comparisons, and we’re confident that anyone who tests both vehicles will notice the difference.”
For Toyota, which has enjoyed a prolonged reign of success with the Fortuner, the introduction of this reimagined Everest marks its most potent competition in years—and a serious threat to its market supremacy.
