The Ford Equator is a mid-size pickup truck that was produced by Ford Motor Company from 2009 to 2012. It was designed and manufactured in collaboration with Toyota Motor Corporation.
Design and Features
The Equator was based on the Toyota Tacoma's platform, but had distinct styling that set it apart from its Toyota counterpart. The exterior design featured a bold front grille, swept-back headlights, and a sloping hood line. Inside, the truck boasted an upscale interior with comfortable seating for up to five passengers, as well as premium materials such as leather-trimmed seats and wood accents.
Engine and Performance
Under the hood of the Equator was a 4.0-liter V6 engine that produced 190 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission or a 4-speed automatic with a manual mode, offering drivers varying levels of control over their driving experience.
Safety Features
The Ford Equator came standard with a number of advanced safety features, including anti-lock braking (ABS), electronic stability control, and seven airbags. Additionally, the truck offered available features like rearview cameras, blind-spot monitoring, and traction control.
Trim Levels
Three trim levels were available for the Ford Equator: XLT, FX2, and FX4. The base XLT model came with a range of standard features such as power windows, cruise control, and an AM/FM/CD player. Mid-range FX2 and top-tier FX4 models added luxury amenities like leather-trimmed seats, navigation systems, and premium audio.
Off-Road Capability
While the Equator was designed for on-road use, it also boasted respectable off-road capabilities thanks to its part-time four-wheel drive system and available features like a locking rear axle. A 5-inch lift kit and larger tires were also available as aftermarket upgrades for those seeking even more aggressive ground clearance.
Recall Issues
Unfortunately, the Ford Equator was subject to several high-profile recalls during its production run. In 2010, Ford recalled over 12,000 units due to issues with their tailgate latches. Later that same year, a second recall was issued for approximately 7,500 vehicles with faulty fuel tank components.
Production and Discontinuation
The Ford Equator began production in August 2009 and continued until December 2012, when it was discontinued due to low sales figures. Total production of the truck during its four-year run was around 35,000 units.
