Cars
Ford Territory Launches in South Africa — Your Next Family-Friendly SUV?
Take on new and familiar roads with Ford’s new 5-seater SUV.
Ford South Africa has returned to the five-seater small Sport Utility Vehicle segment with the launch of the all-new Ford Territory. Promising to offer South African consumers a blend of style and substance, the SUV is ideally suited for families who value space, comfort, and safety on their travels, whether on familiar roads in the city, or exploring new destinations.
The Territory sets out to establish a unique identity on the road with contemporary design features that set it apart from the rest. Design details such as a powerful shoulder line; integrated front-end grille; and a signature light effect created by distinctive LED daytime running lights and 3D taillights work to enhance the vehicle’s presence on the road. The Territory boasts an athletic profile that can be further accentuated with the addition of a range of attractive alloy wheels, available in 18-inch and 19-inch sizes.
With its sporty and agile looks, the vehicle will slot right into an active lifestyle, especially because it offers plenty of space to pursue outdoor activities and accommodate frequent family road trips. With 448 litres of luggage space with all seats upright and up to 1,422 litres with the rear seats folded, the Territory is well-equipped for various needs. It also features 20 different storage binnacles throughout the cabin for added convenience.
Passengers will love the generous cabin, designed to emphasise width and spaciousness. The design ensures there is plenty of room for ‘funtivities’ in the backseat as well as for front passengers. An over-packers dream, the children, family dog, and baggage for a weekend away can easily be piled into the new Territory without a second thought. Speaking of space, the flagship Ford Territory Titanium model even boasts a powered twin-panel Panoramic Moonroof, that bathes the cabin in natural light when opened, further helping to enhance the sense of space and freedom in the cabin.
Technology and safety features
If it’s technology you’re after, then this new entry offers it in spades. Technological advancements and conveniences are present in every corner and on every surface of the cabin. The Titanium model is fully kitted out with a panoramic display and digital instrument cluster while take-down models also boast a 12-inch coloured touchscreen infotainment display for ease of use. The infotainment touchscreen integrates vehicle controls, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Connectivity provide convenience.
The Territory also prioritises safety with a range of features including an extensive range of driver assist and collision mitigation features, ensuring peace of mind for the entire family. These include Electronic Stability Control, Emergency Brake Assist, and Ford’s Tyre Pressure Monitoring System. The Titanium model adds additional safety features such as Blind Spot Information System, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Adaptive Cruise Control.
Power meets economy
For this re-entry into the family SUV segment, Ford is keeping things simple. Recognising that engine choices can be intimidating and even overwhelming for many consumers, Ford has opted to simplify the range with a standard engine across the line-up. The Territory features the new 1.8-litre four-cylinder turbocharged EcoBoost petrol engine, that promises to deliver both performance and efficiency for drivers.
Matched with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, the Territory is designed to offer exceptional responsiveness and fuel economy. The vehicle is fitted with a rotary e-Shifter that helps change gears with the simple turn of a rotary dial located on the center console.
The drive can be further enhanced with selectable Drive Modes — activated by a new ‘Easy Swipe’ feature on the touchscreen — to instantly optimise power, torque, and fuel efficiency according to driving conditions. Drives modes include: Eco, Normal, Sport, and Mountain, providing drivers with an enhanced driving experience across a variety of terrains.
Additional fuel-saving features include auto-Start Stop Technology to help the driver reduce the amount of fuel they use when coming to a full stop at traffic lights and intersections.
Price and availability
The new Ford Territory is now available in three derivatives: Ambiente, Trend, and Titanium.
Territory Ambiente 1.8L EcoBoost 7AT: RRP (excl. optional Service Plan): R576,000 | RRP (incl. optional Service Plan): R590,000
Territory Trend 1.8L EcoBoost 7AT: RRP (excl. optional Service Plan): R632,600 | RRP (incl. optional Service Plan): R646,600.
Territory Titanium 1.8L EcoBoost 7AT: RRP (excl. optional Service Plan): R707,000 | RRP (incl. optional Service Plan): R721,000.
Included as standard is Ford Protect comprising a four-year/120 000km warranty, four-year/unlimited distance Roadside Assistance and five-year/unlimited distance corrosion warranty. Customers have the option of purchasing an extended Ford Protect Service or Maintenance plan upgrade. The warranty can be extended up to seven years or 200 000km, while the Roadside Assistance can be extended for an additional one or two years.