Cushy crossover clash: MG One vs. Ford Territory

As most people who follow the local automotive industry know, crossovers have become a gigantic segment globally. The aforementioned, of course, likewise covers the Philippines, where the said body style of vehicles has become the go-to choice for many car buyers. 

MG Philippines is keenly aware of the said fact, so it launched the well-specced One back in February 2024. However, MG One faces well-established rivals in the local market, one of whom is the Ford Territory. 

So, how does One fare against the Territory in terms of on-paper specifications? Let’s compare the MG One Luxury (Lux) with the Ford Territory Sport to find out. 

Tale of the Tape

Model	MG One Lux	Ford Territory Sport
Dimensions (L x W x H, in mm)	4581 x 1871 x 1617	4,630 x 1,935 x 1,706
Wheelbase (mm)	2670	2,726
Ground clearance (mm)	190	190

 

Based on the size figures above, the Ford model is clearly the larger vehicle overall. It is longer, wider, and taller compared to the MG crossover. Additionally, it also has a longer wheelbase, but both rides have an equal amount of ground clearance. 

For buyers, taking note of a vehicle’s size is crucial. Taking stock of a car’s size will determine if it can even fit in one’s garage or not. Additionally, on-paper size figures can likewise provide hints on how roomy a given car’s interior is. 

Moreover, not all drivers are equal when it comes to confidence, skill, and preference. Some will prefer a more compact option, even when cross-shopping within a market segment. 

Exterior

Appearance-wise, both crossovers reflect the current design language of their respective marques. Both come with the recognizable silhouette of the modern crossover, combined with hefty-looking grilles, sharp-looking LED fixtures, black-plastic claddings on the sides and wheel arches, and the usual high stance. 

The MG model, however, has more curves than the Ford. Specifically, it uses plenty of unique character lines on the lower part of its front fascia. The Territory, on the other hand, leans more towards a boxy design that utilizes more right angles. 

Do note, though, that the MG One Lux uses a fair amount of chrome and silver accents on its exterior. Its liftgate handle is finished in chrome, while its roof rails and the upper portions of its window frames have some silver trimmings. The Territory Sport goes for the opposite effect by going heavy on dark-colored trim pieces. Both vehicles, though, have a two-tone look courtesy of a black roof. 

For exterior equipment, both get power-folding side mirrors, automatic headlamps, a sunroof, a set of 19-inch wheels, rain-sensing wipers, and roof rails. The MG, however, does get faux skid plates, which are absent on the Ford. 

Interior

Inside both crossovers is a spacious cabin with ample room for up to five occupants. Both also get slick, modern-looking dashboards kitted out with digital displays, metallic decorative trimmings, and soft-touch leather surfaces. 

Here are some interior features found on both the MG One Lux and Ford Territory Sport: 

• Power-adjustable driver’s seat
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel
• Tilt and telescopic steering column
• Dual-zone automatic air-conditioning
• Push-to-start button
• Wireless smartphone charging
• USB charging ports
• Front center armrest
• 60:40 split-folding rear bench seat
• 12-volt accessory outlet
• Rear air-conditioning vents
• Electronic parking brake

On the other hand, the Ford Territory was kitted out with several creature comforts that are not present in the MG model. Specifically, its air-conditioning comes with a PM2.5 monitoring system and an Air Anion negative ion generator for extra clean air, ventilated front seats, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. 

For its infotainment systems, the MG One uses a 12.3-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also boasts a six-piece speaker system. 

The Ford Territory, meanwhile, was fitted with a 12-inch display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An eight-piece speaker system outputts sound for the Ford model. 

The MG crossover comes with a marginally larger screen, but the wireless functionality on the Ford might be easier to use for most people. Plus, it has more speakers, which might equate to better in-car sound quality. 

Safety

Concerning safety features, both the MG One Lux and the Ford Territory Sport were equipped with what one would expect from modern crossovers. 

To be exact, both models come with the following safety features: 

• Six airbags
• Anti-lock braking
• Electronic brake distribution
• 360-degree view camera
• ISOFIX child seat anchors
• Stability control
• Hill-descent control
• Rear parking sensors
• Child door locks
• Tire pressure monitoring

The MG, however, does come with a cornering brake function, which is unavailable on the Ford. On the flip side, the Ford comes standard with hill launch assist, rollover mitigation, and traction control, which are not present on the MG crossover. 

Additionally, both crossovers have several advanced driver-assist systems (ADAS). The two have adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and autonomous emergency braking. The Ford, however, has a more comprehensive ADAS kit, which includes a forward collision warning system and active park assist. 

Engine

Under the hood of the MG One and Ford Territory are 1.5-liter inline-4 gasoline engines.

The two have very different outputs and transmissions, so for an easier comparison, here’s a table showing the two model’s mechanical specifications:

Model	MG One Lux	Ford Territory
Engine	1.5-liter inline-4 turbocharged	1.5-liter inline-4 EcoBoost (turbocharged)
Fuel type	Gasoline
Transmission	Continuously variable transmission	Seven-speed dual-clutch transmission
Horsepower	167	158
Torque	275 Nm	248
Brakes	Front and rear discs
Front suspension	MacPherson struts
Rear suspension	Multi-link

 

As mentioned above, the two models utilize similar engines. The MG mode, however, can produce a fair bit more horsepower and torque than the Ford. So, based on the on-paper output figures alone, the MG One can be considered the peppier and faster crossover. 

Additionally, the MG uses a CVT, while the Ford comes with a dual-clutch transmission. The aforementioned, of course, will mean different driving feels for each crossover model. 

For the other mechanical bits, the two crossovers are mostly on par with each other. Both have the same four-wheel disc brake setups and similar front and rear suspension types. The two are also front-wheel-drive vehicles built on a unibody chassis. 

Price

The MG One is offered in the Philippines in two different trims with the following prices:

• MG One Standard - P1.299 million
• MG One Luxury - P1.459 million

The Philippine-spec Ford Territory, meanwhile, has three different trims with the following prices:

• Ford Territory Titanium - P1.335 million
• Ford Territory Titanium X - P1.599 million
• Ford Territory Sport - P1.625 million

Final thoughts

On paper, the MG One Lux promises to be a peppy ride with a decent amount of creature comforts. The Ford Territory Sport, on the other hand, also has a sufficient engine output while packing a bit more in terms of safety and comfort. 

So, to sum it all up, the MG One could be the go-to crossover for folks who want a more engaging drive. The Ford Territory, meanwhile, might be more fitting for those wanting a plusher daily with a more comprehensive safety kit. 

As we always say, however, reading off specs on the internet can only do so much when it comes to deciding which car to get. For a better car buying experience, do take time to give each option a test drive. 

Also read: 

Here are the hits and misses of the Ford Territory

This is how you cut down fuel consumption, the Ford Territory way