What To Know
- To address the burning question, the Ford Explorer is not officially available for purchase in India through authorized Ford dealerships.
- Despite the absence of the Ford Explorer, Indian car buyers have access to a range of capable and feature-rich SUVs that offer a compelling blend of performance, comfort, and practicality.
- While the Ford Explorer is not officially available in India, it is possible to import one through independent importers or specialized dealerships that deal in imported vehicles.
The Ford Explorer, a formidable SUV renowned for its ruggedness, versatility, and exceptional performance, has captivated car enthusiasts worldwide. With its commanding presence, spacious cabin, and advanced technological features, the Explorer has become a symbol of adventure and exploration. However, one question that often arises among Indian car buyers is, “Is Ford Explorer available in India?” This blog post delves into this topic, exploring the availability, specifications, and potential alternatives to the Ford Explorer in the Indian market.
Availability of Ford Explorer in India
To address the burning question, the Ford Explorer is not officially available for purchase in India through authorized Ford dealerships. Ford India discontinued the sale of the Explorer in 2013 due to various factors, including market conditions and strategic decisions. Therefore, finding a brand-new Ford Explorer in India through legitimate channels is currently not possible.
Reasons for Discontinuation
Several reasons contributed to Ford’s decision to discontinue the Explorer in India. These factors include:
- Market Demand: The Indian SUV market witnessed a surge in demand for compact and mid-size SUVs, while the full-size SUV segment remained relatively niche.
- Price Point: The Ford Explorer, being a premium full-size SUV, carried a higher price tag compared to its competitors. This limited its appeal to a broader audience.
- Competition: The Indian SUV market is highly competitive, with established players like Toyota Fortuner, Mahindra Scorpio, and Tata Safari dominating the segment.
Alternatives to Ford Explorer in India
Despite the absence of the Ford Explorer, Indian car buyers have access to a range of capable and feature-rich SUVs that offer a compelling blend of performance, comfort, and practicality. Some notable alternatives to the Ford Explorer in India include:
- Toyota Fortuner: A formidable off-roader with a robust build, powerful engines, and a spacious cabin.
- Mahindra Scorpio: A rugged and versatile SUV known for its durability, capable 4×4 system, and comfortable ride quality.
- Tata Safari: A feature-packed SUV with a commanding presence, spacious interiors, and a refined driving experience.
Importing a Ford Explorer to India
While the Ford Explorer is not officially available in India, it is possible to import one through independent importers or specialized dealerships that deal in imported vehicles. However, this process can be complex, time-consuming, and expensive. Factors to consider include:
- Customs Duties: Importing a vehicle to India attracts significant customs duties and taxes, which can add a substantial amount to the overall cost.
- Homologation: The imported vehicle must meet Indian regulations and standards, which may require modifications and homologation processes.
- Parts and Service: Sourcing spare parts and servicing an imported vehicle can be challenging due to limited availability and compatibility issues.
Pros and Cons of Importing a Ford Explorer
Importing a Ford Explorer to India has both advantages and disadvantages:
Pros:
- Unique Ownership Experience: Owning an imported vehicle like the Ford Explorer can provide a sense of exclusivity and individuality.
- Advanced Features: The Ford Explorer offers a range of advanced features and technologies that may not be available in locally manufactured SUVs.
- Performance and Capability: The Explorer’s powerful engines and capable 4×4 system make it a formidable performer on and off the road.
Cons:
- High Cost: Importing a Ford Explorer involves significant costs, including the purchase price, customs duties, and homologation expenses.
- Limited Availability: Finding a reputable importer and obtaining the necessary approvals can be a challenging and time-consuming process.
- Parts and Service Challenges: Sourcing spare parts and servicing an imported vehicle can be difficult due to limited availability and compatibility issues.
Final Thoughts: Exploring Alternatives
While the Ford Explorer remains unavailable in India through official channels, there are several capable and compelling alternatives available in the market. These SUVs offer a blend of performance, comfort, and features that cater to the needs of discerning Indian car buyers. Thorough research and consideration of individual requirements will help determine the most suitable SUV for Indian roads and driving conditions.
Common Questions and Answers
Q1. Why was the Ford Explorer discontinued in India?
A1. Ford India discontinued the Explorer due to factors such as limited market demand, pricing challenges, and intense competition in the SUV segment.
Q2. Are there any plans to reintroduce the Ford Explorer in India?
A2. As of now, there is no official information regarding the reintroduction of the Ford Explorer in India.
Q3. What are the alternatives to the Ford Explorer available in India?
A3. Capable alternatives to the Ford Explorer in India include the Toyota Fortuner, Mahindra Scorpio, and Tata Safari, among others.
Q4. Can I import a Ford Explorer to India?
A4. Importing a Ford Explorer to India is possible through independent importers or specialized dealerships, but it involves significant costs, customs duties, and homologation requirements.
Q5. What are the challenges associated with importing a Ford Explorer to India?
A5. Importing a Ford Explorer to India involves challenges such as high costs, limited availability of reputable importers, and potential difficulties in obtaining necessary approvals and sourcing spare parts.
