Ford Endura 2018 revealed ahead of Q4 launch

Ford has whipped the covers off its Territory-replacing Endura due in the fourth quarter, with the large SUV making its debut this week as the facelifted Edge sold in overseas markets.

Significantly, a hot ST version of the Edge was also revealed, but Ford Australia has already confirmed that the local range will be a diesel-powered, five-seat proposition, likely ruling out a launch for the more potent variant.

Nevertheless, compared to the previous Edge, the new model has expanded its suite of driver-assist and safety technologies to include post-collision braking, evasive-steering assist, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go and lane-centring functions.

These add to the existing forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, high-beam assist, hill-start assist and reversing camera.

Optional equipment includes front and rear parking sensors, 180-degree front and rear cameras, and park assist.

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Images of the Edge in Titanium guise depict subtle front-end changes over its predecessor, with key differences being a wider front grille that is flanked by new-look LED headlights, foglights and daytime running lights, as well as a redesigned bonnet and bumper.

The rear end has received similar treatment, with tweaked tail-lights – including the removal of the their linking LED strip – a flatter tailgate, round exhaust tips and a restyled bumper rounding out the changes.

Inside, the centre console has been redesigned, highlighted by an all-new rotary gearshift dial that creates space for easier access to a pad for smartphone wireless charging.

Additionally, a Wi-Fi hotspot provides Internet access for up to 10 devices, as well as smartphone connectivity via the FordPass app.

Full pricing and specifications details on the Endura will be released closer to the SUV's launch in the fourth quarter this year.

Ford's 'Sync3' multimedia system with 'AppLink' and voice control is front and centre, projected onto a touchscreen measuring up to 8.0 inches. Optional kit extends to digital radio and a 12-speaker 'B&O Play' sound system.

A new eight-speed torque-convertor automatic transmission replaces the old six-speed unit in the Edge line-up, with it likely to be employed by the oil-burning Endura.

The Blue Oval is yet to announce details on the local diesel powertrain, but a 2.0-litre 'EcoBlue' turbocharged four-cylinder unit in two states of tune – either 132kW/400Nm or 160kW/450Nm – was offered in the former UK-market Edge.

Performance-SUV fans will gush over the Edge ST and its 2.7-litre 'EcoBoost' twin-turbo V6 engine that pumps out 250kW of power and 515Nm of torque, and sends drive to all four wheels.

While seemingly not destined for Down Under, the ST ups the ante with a sport suspension, performance braking package, a 'Sport' driving mode, steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, heavily bolstered seating, a mesh front grille, sportier bumpers and side skirts, and 21-inch alloy wheels.

Full pricing and specifications details on the Endura will be released closer to the SUV's launch in the fourth quarter this year, with a four-variant range expected.

Should Ford import the 250kW Endura ST alongside the regular diesel-powered variants? Tell us what you think in the comments below.