When it comes to the Blue Oval badge, there are certain products that can get your heart racing, like the mighty Mustang or the rugged Ranger and, if you’re feeling brave, the Raptor, which guzzles fuel like nobody’s business. But there’s one Ford that left this motoring journo feeling somewhat indifferent: the Ford Territory.
Not to step on any toes, the Territory looked smart in the metal and came packed with a few bells and whistles, but ultimately, the driving experience was a letdown. Ford joined forces with JMC on the Territory. For the most part, it feels very much like many of the Chinese vehicles that have recently passed through the driveway.
The new Territory has received a mild refresh, including new colour options and updated wheel designs. The cabin is a pleasant place to spend time. The leather seats are comfortable, the redesigned dual 12.3-inch screens are easy to operate, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included as standard.
Another welcome feature is the FordPass app, which allows owners to control various vehicle functions remotely, including locking and unlocking the vehicle and starting it from a distance. Our higher-spec test unit also featured a host of ADAS functions, adaptive cruise control, premium upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats and more.
However, a few bits felt a little iffy. Take the digital rear-view camera, for example. It often feels as though vehicles behind you are much closer than they actually are, which can be a little nerve-racking. Frankly, it’s a feature I could live without. Then there’s the rotary gear selector. Please, Ford, let’s keep things simple.
Everything about the Territory is perfectly bearable. It’s a smart family SUV, but the driving experience still needs some refinement. The 1.8-litre turbocharged petrol engine is decent enough, producing 138kW and 318Nm of torque. It delivers its power smoothly and builds momentum steadily once you’re on the move.
From a fuel-efficiency standpoint, however, it can be fairly thirsty, especially around town yielding 10l/100km during my stint. There’s also some noticeable jerkiness and a slight amount of body movement when pulling away, which isn’t quite what I’d expect when the range-topping Titanium comes in at R643,900.
In reality, consumers shopping at this price point have plenty of options to choose from. The Volkswagen Tiguan, Haval H6, Mazda CX-5 and Kia Sportage immediately spring to mind, and those are just a few options I’d recommend exploring. Some are pricier; furthermore, the used car market also has bargain buys.
The Ford Territory remains an interesting proposition, but it’s an odd one. It’s neither good nor bad. It simply sits somewhere in the middle.
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