Ford has unveiled the 2021 Equator, a China-specific 3-row SUV developed by the Jiangling-Ford joint venture.
In comparison with the Endeavour sold by the American brand in India, the Equator has an almost identical length (4905 mm), is a lot wider at 1930 mm, shorter (1755 mm) and has 2865 mm between the wheels, 15 mm more than the Endeavour.
Apart from the rather striking paint, the 2021 Ford Equator also has a proportionate radiator grille, slim DRLs, 3-pod main lights, an air dam with skid plate and a muscular bonnet at the front.
Riding on a nice set of alloy wheels, the Equator has a sizeable glasshouse, chrome window garnish, roof rails and a couple of nice character lines that go with the muscular vibe of the SUV along its sides.
The rear profile carries the same theme well, sporting split LED tail lights, a large tailgate with an equally large (width-wise) rear windscreen and a skid plate that is flanked by twin exhaust outlets.
While the exterior of the car is good-looking, Ford has done a better job when it comes to the interior. Although the glasshouse is large and lets enough light in, the SUV has been given beige seat upholstery (with rose accents) and headliner, a dual tone dash, and some wood trim.
Looks like Mercedes’ layout for the digital driver’s display and touchscreen has struck a chord with buyers, for Ford has copied it, much like Mahindra has done for the upcoming next-generation XUV500. Both displays measure 12.3 inches.
Sporting 6 seats with individual armrests for the ones in the second row and adjustable headrests in all of them, the 2021 Ford Equator also has a dual-pane sunroof.
Despite it being a large car, the Equator only comes with a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine good for 221 HP and 360 Nm of torque which is channeled to the front wheels, or all 4 wheels depending upon the variant chosen, through a 6-speed DCT.
To be put on sale in China come 28th March, the SUV will take on the Jeep Grand Commander sold there and is unlikely to show its face elsewhere in the world.
