The all-new Ford Equator officially debuted back in March 2021 as a three-row SUV for China – one produced by the joint venture known as JMC Ford. Designed to compete with the Jeep Grand Commander and Toyota Highlander in that market, the Ford Equator mates modern exterior styling with a surprisingly luxurious cabin. However, even though it hasn’t exactly been on sale in China for too long – it just launched there early last year – it seems as of the Ford Equator is now set to receive a refresh, as we can see from a recent filing from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of the People’s Republic of China.
Of course, the refreshed Ford Equator doesn’t look too terribly different from the current model, as one might expect, save for a rear tailgate update that mimics the one present on the Everest and refreshed 2025 Explorer. The front grille is a bit slimmer than before as well, flanked by an updated headlight design, coupled with new wheel designs, as well can see in these official photos.
Perhaps the biggest news pertaining to the refreshed Ford Equator, however, relates to its powertrain options – or, more specifically, the addition of a plug-in hybrid variant. That combination consists of 1.5L gas engine generating 148 horsepower and an electric motor adding 81 hp for a combined output of 215 hp. The Equator PHEV utilizes a lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack, but it’s unclear what sort of capacity or all-electric driving range it offers.
The addition of this electrified powertrain doesn’t come as a huge surprise given the fact that Ford is aiming to add a hybrid operation to its entire Blue lineup by 2030 in the U.S., a move that comes on the back of tremendous consumer interest in those types of vehicles. CEO Jim Farley recently revealed that these additions won’t cost too much either, making them seem like a true no-brainer.
We’ll have more on the Equator soon, so be sure and subscribe to Ford Authority for more Ford Equator news and 24/7 Ford news coverage.
H/T: a Ford Authority reader who wished to remain anonymous!
Comment
So China getting PHEV Fords but not North America. Henry should be rolling in his grave !