Ford Equator Spotted During Testing, Likely to Inspire New Ford C-SUV

It was reported earlier that Ford is working on an all-new C-SUV for the Indian market. The new C-SUV will be developed in collaboration with Mahindra and Mahindra. Therefore, the upcoming Ford C-SUV will share the same monocoque platform and even the powertrain setting with the new-gen Mahindra XUV500.

While Ford will source help from Mahindra to support the engineering of the upcoming model, the same story will not happen for the design of the XUV500. Instead, it is likely that Ford’s new C-SUV will get inspiration from the new Ford Equator. Lately, the new Equator, a Chinese-spec SUV developed by Jiangling-Ford joint venture, was spotted again during testing.

Ford C-SUV is expected to get design inspiration from the Ford Equator

According to the revealed specifications, the Equator measures 4,905mm long, 1,930mm wide and 1,755mm tall. The wheelbase of Ford Equator stands at 2,865mm. As per the new spy shots, the new Equator features a massive front grille and split headlamps. LED DRLs and turn indicators are positioned on top while LED projector headlights are located on the lower part. On the rear end, it comes with LED taillamps, dual-tone bumper and silver skid plate. The SUV features an imposing and boxy stance with large windshields and black-out pillars. 

However, the Ford C-SUV will be shorter the Equator. While the Ford C-SUV measures around 4.9 meters, the C-SUV is around 4.6 meters long. It is expected to come with two seating configurations, 5-seater and 7-seater versions. The 5-seater version will take on the likes of Tata Harrier and MG Hector. On the other hand, the 7-seater version will compete against MG Hector Plus, Mahindra XUV500 and upcoming Tata Safari.

The interior of the Ford C-SUV is expected to share many elements in common with the Equator

The interior of the Ford Equator was revealed via spy images. On the inside, Ford Equator is equipped with a large infotainment system and a digital instrument console. Specially, these two displays will be joined to form a horizontal panel on the dashboard, which looks futuristic and smart. It is expected that the same design arrangement will be applied to the upcoming XUV500.

Under the hood, the 2021 Ford Equator will be powered by a 2.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine that churns out 221 BHP. There will be both manual and automatic gearbox on offer for the Equator. A 4WD system will also be available. In the meanwhile, the Ford C-SUV will source engines from Mahindra. It will be powered by either a 190 BHP 2.0L turbocharged petrol or a 180 BHP 2.2-litre turbocharged diesel.