⁠New Ford Equator with Plug-in Hybrid Powertrain Revealed Globally, to Sit Above Everest SUV

Ford is working toward bringing the updated version of the Equator SUV to the Chinese market. Made in China through a joint venture between JMC (Jiangling Motors) and Ford, the refreshed Equator is positioned above the Everest SUV (called Endeavour here) in the company's global lineup. As part of a refresh, the Equator has received visual enhancements and a plug-in hybrid powertrain. 

The yet-to-be-unveiled Equator's plug-in hybrid setup comprises a 148bhp 1.5-litre petrol engine, an 81bhp electric motor, and a CATL-sourced lithium iron phosphate battery pack and has a combined output of 215bhp. The battery and range specifications, however, are yet to be revealed. It will also have an option of a 1.5-litre turbocharged EcoBoost gasoline powertrain, with 168bhp and 260Nm of torque. 

Also Read: Ford Territory Name Trademarked in India, to Rival Mahindra XUV700, Tata Harrier

⁠New Ford Equator: Design, Dimensions

According to the images revealed by China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the new Ford Equator has a redesigned front fascia, characterised by a smaller grille, sleeker LED headlights, and new bumper intakes. The side profile is almost identical to the outgoing model, save for the new alloy wheels. At the rear, the SUV features a new bumper and LED taillights. In terms of dimensions, the 2024 Equator measures 4,920mm in length, which is 15mm longer than before. 

⁠New Ford Equator: Interior

Interior details of the new model are currently under wraps. Therefore, it remains to be seen if the model gets the same twin 12.3-inch screens as before or a big 27-inch infotainment system available in the Explorer SUV, Evos crossover, and Mondeo sedan.

Also Read: Ford Mustang Celebrates 60th Anniversary with This Special Edition Package

While there is no word on Ford bringing the Equator SUV to the Indian market, the company recently filed a trademark application for the 'Territory' name in the country. Likely to be launched next year in India, the Ford Territory is a mid-size SUV, which is also known as the Equator in some markets. It is already on sale in China, where it is offered with a 1.8-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine. This engine is tuned to produce 189bhp and 320Nm of peak torque and is mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission.