- The facelifted Ford Equator Sport and Equator Sport are now easier to tell apart thanks to distinct features.
- Visual updates are focused on the front end, although the larger Equator also benefits from a redesigned rear end.
- The Equator Sport will offer the option between ICE and PHEV, while the Equator will likely be available in PHEV-only configuration.
Ford is preparing to unveil the refreshed versions of the Chinese-market Equator and Equator Sport midsize SUVs, three years after their debut. These mechanically-related models, manufactured in China through the JMC-Ford joint venture, adopt updated styling elements alongside a new plug-in hybrid configuration.
The 2025 Ford Equator and Equator Sport have yet to be officially unveiled, but we have early access to their photos and specifications thanks to China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. Both SUVs benefit from redesigned fronts, making it easier to distinguish between them.
More: Ford Explorer Kunlun Peak Edition Is China’s Timberline
The Equator has a smaller grille, sleeker LED headlights and simpler bumper intakes at the front. On the other hand, the Equator Sport adopts a more sculpted nose with a dark-finished area covered by a honeycomb pattern. At the back, the Equator adopts new full-width LED taillights, while the Equator Sport retains the design of the outgoing model with the exception of the revised diffuser.
Their profiles are largely carried over, although Ford designers have introduced new options for the alloy wheels. An easy way to distinguish the Equator Sport is through its muscular rear fenders, seemingly inspired by the Mustang.
In terms of dimensions, the facelifted Equator Sport is 55 mm (2.2 inches) longer, measuring 4,685 mm (184.5 inches) in length. The larger Equator grew by 15 mm (0.6 inches), stretching to 4,920 mm (193.7 inches) in length.
The facelifted Ford Equator and Equator Sport (above) compared to the outgoing models (below).
We don’t have photos of the interior, so it is unclear if the models will retain the dual 12.3-inch screens of their predecessors or upgrade to the flashier 27-inch infotainment found in the Evos crossover, the Mondeo sedan, and the Explorer SUV.
New PHEV Option
Setting aside the visual updates, the big news for Chinese consumers is the introduction of a new plug-in hybrid powertrain available for both the Equator and the Equator Sport. This setup consists of a 1.5-liter engine producing 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS), with an electric motor contributing an additional 81 hp (60 kW / 82 PS), resulting in a combined output of 215 hp (160 kW / 218 PS). Energy is stored in a lithium iron phosphate battery pack manufactured by CATL. However, details regarding the battery capacity and the zero-emission range have yet to be announced.
The Ford Equator Sport will also continue to be available with the ICE-only turbocharged 1.5-liter EcoBoost gasoline engine from the outgoing model, producing 168 hp (125 kW / 170 PS) and 260 Nm (192 lb-ft) of torque. However, there is no mention of the previous 2.0-liter EcoBoost powertrain for the larger Ford Equator on the spec sheets, but it could be added later.
We expect to learn more about the facelifted Ford Equator and Equator Sport at their market launch in China which is expected later in 2024.
