Ford Territory: a crossover bursting with flavors

In the present era, the crossover is practically the white rice of the automotive industry. They are the staple of each brand, but more often than not, some examples can range from average to bland. 

The Ford Territory, however, has proven itself to be a flavorful ride. The aforementioned was determined by Zigwheels Philippines, together with other car journalists, during a one-day trip to Asador Alfonso - a Spanish fine dining restaurant in Cavite spearheaded by Chef Chele Gonzalez and architect Carlo Calma. 

So, what are the tastiest parts of the Ford Territory? Let’s find out here. 

Performance sweet spot

When it comes to on-road performance, the Ford Territory occupies a sweet spot just like your favorite cheesecake. It is efficient and quiet, while being able to handle highway cruising and the occasional overtaking maneuver in a breeze. 

The aforementioned is primarily due to the model’s 1.5-liter inline-4 EcoBoost gasoline engine, paired with a seven-speed automatic dual-clutch transmission, which sends power to the front wheels. 

At maximum, the compact crossover can generate up to 158 horsepower (hp) and 248 Newton-meters of torque - more than enough oomph to get it going when you need it to. 

For stability and handling on windy back roads such as the ones we drove through in Cavite, the Ford-made crossover utilized its well-balanced front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link suspension systems. Stopping power for the vehicle, meanwhile, is handled by front and rear discs. 

Here is a table summarizing the basic mechanical specifications of the Ford Territory, specifically the Titanium trim that we drove:

Engine	1.5-liter inline-4 EcoBoost gasoline
Drivetrain	Front-wheel-drive
Transmission	Seven-speed automatic dual-clutch
Horsepower	158
Torque	248 Nm
Front suspension	MacPherson strut
Rear suspension	Multi-link
Brakes	Front and rear discs

Spicy exterior design

Another notable element of the Ford Territory is its spicy-looking exterior. Sure, modern crossovers have evolved to have similar body shapes, but the Ford nameplate stands out thanks to its large mesh grille, its sharp-looking LED lighting fixtures, and bold-looking lower front bumper, as well as its satisfyingly proportional silhouette. 

Completing the look of the Territory are a set of 18-19 inch alloy wheels wrapped in P235/55 or P235/50 tires. 

In addition to its handsome appearance, the crossover nameplate also features a range of exterior equipment that enhances driving convenience. It comes with power-folding side mirrors with heating, automatic headlamp functionality, and roof rails. 

Higher-spec trims, such as the Sport and the Titanium X, were likewise kitted out with a panoramic sunroof, a hands-free liftgate, and puddle lamps. 

Specific to the Ford Territory Sport variant are additional styling details, including a two-tone color scheme, complemented by body-color handles.  The top-spec Sport trim also forgoes the shiny bits, and instead, it comes with a black-colored pair of roof rails and body color handles. 

For those curious, the Territory is one of the larger compact crossovers in the market right now. It is 4,630 millimeters (mm) long, 1,935 mm wide, and 1,706 mm in height. Its wheelbase spans 2,726 mm, and it has a generous ground clearance of 190 mm. It is not an off-roader by any means, but it can deal with unpaved roads and the usual bumps on the road with no issues. 

Succulent comfort

Whilst wearing a spicy-looking exterior, the interior of the Ford Territory can be described as succulent. It has plenty of space for up to five adults, and many of its control surfaces are logically arranged. 

A good deal of its dashboard and interior door cards are likewise clad in leather, as are its seats. Plus, the ones on the front get power adjustability. 

For on-board entertainment and navigation, the model comes with a 12-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It can accept voice commands, and it is linked to a six or eight-piece speaker set. 

Other notable features available for the Ford Territory include: 

• Wireless smartphone charging pad
• Leather steering wheel
• Tilt and telescopic steering column
• Push-to-start button
• Electronic parking brake
• USB ports
• Dual-zone automatic air-conditioning
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror
• 12-inch digital gauge cluster (Sport, Titanium X)
• Air Anion Generator
• 60:40 split-folding rear seats with center armrest

Hearty, well-rounded safety kit

Just like a full English breakfast, the Ford Territory comes with a hearty lineup of safety equipment. 

For its basic set of gear, it has six airbags, front and rear parking sensors, anti-lock braking, electronic stability control, traction control, ISOFIX child seat anchors, a security alarm, tire pressure monitoring, and a 360-degree view camera - among others. 

Because the Territory’s safety kit is well-rounded, it also boasts a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assist systems, which include the following: 

• Blind-spot detection with cross-traffic alert
• Enhanced parking assist
• Adaptive cruise control (Sport, Titanium X)
• Forward collision warning
• Automatic high beams
• Autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection
• Lane departure warning
• Lane keep aid
• Collision mitigation system

Pricing

Like the scrumptious meals from the restaurant you love, the Ford Territory is priced just right. To start off, the entry-level Titanium is priced very accessibly at P1.335 million. Going up in the price range is the mid-spec Ford Territory Titanium X, which retails at P1.599 million. The range topper, on the other hand, is the Ford Territory Sport, which is available locally for P1.625 million. 

Final thoughts

Just like the excellent meal that was served to us at Asador Alfonso, the Ford Territory brings much-needed flavor and substance to the highly contested crossover market. 

Sure, other models are as well equipped, but the American carmaker's take on the compact crossover formula isn't a jumbled mess of technologies and features. Instead, it is similar to a well-thought-out meal with balanced sustenance that will enable its users to travel to their destinations with comfort and safety. 

So, if you're the type who likes what they see in the Ford Territory, do take the time to take it out for a test drive. Because who knows, it might just be the car that will make you want seconds from the Blue Oval brand. 

Also read:

Ford PH unveils Everest Sport, Ranger Sport Special Edition trims

Ford PH rolls out Mobile Service Vehicle program

Ford PH sales breach 27-K units in 2024, Ranger nameplate takes lead

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