The ute's all-wheel drive system also poses surprises. Dubbed Intelligent 4WD, the system's name may initially confuse. Like the
 |
| The Equator rides on 19-inch high Michelin performance tires. (Photo: Ford Motor Company of Canada) |
Escape, the Equator is powered by the front wheels in normal conditions, but sensors that measure wheel slip at a rate of 200 times per second and quick-acting electrics allow up to 99 percent of torque to be sent to the rear wheels if needed. Rather than call it AWD, like VW and Volvo's Haldex systems, the operator still has control; drivers can select 4WD-lock mode, giving the same capabilities of a truck with a transfer case. This is all in spite of the fact that it rides on 19-inch high Michelin performance tires.
Getting back to the Equator's exterior, it may be a little bit difficult to see beyond
 |
| Changes at the back reveal a symmetrical lower valance featuring slick integrated tailpipes and new bezels on the clear tail lamps. (Photo: Ford Motor Company of Canada) |
these changes when facing the vehicle head on, but beneath the snazzy front end is the Escape. This is most apparent when viewing it from rear three quarters angle where the pillars and door structures carry forward unmodified. Changes at the back also reveal a symmetrical lower valance featuring slick integrated tailpipes and new bezels on the clear tail lamps.
Finished in "First Light Orange" paint and highlighted with "chrome shadow" alloy wheels, make it look as if it's a Land Rover Range Stormer concept run through the wash cycle; which isn't too far fetched considering Land Rover is owned by Ford.
