The much-awaited arrival of the next-generation Ford Territory finally happened at the recently held Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) 2023, giving Filipinos a bigger, bolder, and better version of the well-loved crossover.

Will this new model sustain the popularity of the outgoing model? Let’s see based on the changes made on the next-gen Ford Territory.

Size

The next-generation Ford Territory is slightly bigger as it measures 4,630mm long, 1,935mm wide, and 1,706mm tall, whereas the outgoing Territory has a length of 4,580mm, a width of 1,936mm, and a height of 1,674mm.

The next-generation Ford Territory has a longer wheelbase of 2,726mm and a higher ground clearance of 190mm, while the outgoing model has a 2,716mm wheelbase and 180mm of ground clearance.

Both models can accommodate up to five passengers, however, the next-generation Ford Territory has a bigger cargo capacity of 448 liters, a 28-liter increase over the previous model.

Looks

The next-generation Ford Territory is designed to be more robust and striking, featuring redesigned honeycomb grille and LED daytime running lamps.

There were also changes on the tail light design, as well as on the placement of the “Territory” inscription and the third brake lamp.

The panoramic moonroof, one of the best features of the outgoing model according to a poll from the Ford Territory Club Philippines Facebook page, is now only available on the top-of-the-line variant of the next-generation Ford Territory.

Another exclusive feature of the next-gen Ford Territory’s top-grade variant is the hands-free tailgate, which makes cargo loading and unloading easier.

On the inside, the next-generation Ford Territory is equipped with a wide seamless display that combines the 12-inch digital instrument cluster and 12-inch touchscreen infotainment panel. It also comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto compatibility, as well as wireless charging function.

These are major upgrades from the outgoing model’s 10-inch digital instrument cluster and 10-inch touchscreen infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto.

Power

Both iterations of Ford Territory are powered by a 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine, however the new model produces more power at 157hp and more torque at 248Nm, versus the outgoing model’s 141hp and 225Nm of torque.

The outgoing Territory’s engine is mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with Sport Mode, while the next-gen Territory gets a seven-speed automatic transmission with Rotary e-Shifter.

Safety

The outgoing model’s top-of-the-line variant is already packed with advanced driver assist systems such as autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with forward collision warning, lane departure warning, blind spot information system with parallel and perpendicular parking assist, and front and rear parking sensors.

However, the next-generation Ford Territory offers a safer and more convenient driving experience because on top of all these features, it also comes standard with a high-definition 360-degree camera, rear cross-traffic alert, door opening collision warning system, auto high beam, lane keeping aid, and collision mitigation system.

Price

When the outgoing Territory was launched, its pricing ranged from just P1.199 million to P1.299 million. It eventually increased to P1.277 million for the base variant and P1.310 million for the top-of-the-line variant.

On the other hand, the pricing for the next-generation Ford Territory ranges from P1.335 million to P1.599 million. This is a reasonable increase, considering all the upgrades that come standard with the new model.

Verdict

With all these upgrades offered at an affordable price, the next-generation Ford Territory will surely be another hit among Filipinos. Aside from its updated look, the improved performance and tech features will definitely put the Territory once again at the top of the Filipino car buyers’ options.

Photos from Ford, Hazel Nicole Carreon, and Roy Robles