The invitation arrived like a lifeline. Ford Philippines offered us a test drive of the next-generation Territory Titanium, capped off with a relaxing staycation at Sofitel. As someone drowning in the daily Manila grind, this promised a much-needed escape.
The Titanium variant we tested was a definite head-turner. The Ruby Red paint looks fantastic, accentuated by the chrome honeycomb grille and daytime running lamps. The slim full LED headlights in the bumper-level foglight pod not only enhance the vehicle’s overall appearance but also improve lighting coverage.
With a 2,726mm wheelbase and 190mm ground clearance, the Territory stands out on the road, while its 18-inch alloy wheels add a rugged appeal.
The rear looks just as impressive, featuring 3D LED taillights that contribute to its tough look, especially noticeable when you see the Territory at night.
Inside, the seats covered in partially perforated leather feel comfortable even on long drives. There are hard plastics here and there, but they’re offset by the soft-touch materials on the door tops and dashboard, abd the soft lining on the open shelves.
The Territory features a long, fully digital dashboard that houses a 12-inch touchscreen and a crisp 7-inch digital instrument cluster.
There’s a lot you can do on that massive display: adjust vehicle functions and settings, connect to Ford SYNC and use Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, and even check the 360-degree camera to see your surroundings.
We ran into a bit of a problem connecting via CarPlay; we had to try several times before successfully hooking up our phone. Connection via Android Auto was fuss-free, though.
The flat-bottomed steering wheel has adaptive cruise control controls on the left and music playback and volume controls on the right. It’s quite confusing at first, especially if you’re used to having the controls placed the other way around, but you’ll probably get used to it eventually.
The center console offers a range of controls, including a rotary dial shifter, electronic parking brake, physical A/C controls, a wireless charging pad, USB-A and USB-C ports, volume controls, and buttons for music and connectivity. It also includes a cup holder and a large compartment for easy access to essential items while driving.
In the back, there’s a 60:40 split-folding bench with a center armrest and cupholders, comfortably accommodating three adults with ample leg, head, and shoulder room. Second-row air vents provide relief in the unpredictable yet typically humid weather.
The spacious 448-liter cargo area has a wide opening and an easily accessible loading lip. We managed to load a wheelchair, two small duffel bags, and a backpack filled with snacks (snacks at hotel minibars are pricey, you know), and still had plenty of space left. Alas, the lift gate on the Titanium variant is manual only; the Titanium X and Sport variants have a handsfree lift gate that comes especially useful when your hands are full.
The Territory Titanium feels light and maneuverable, making navigating Manila’s busy streets easy. The 360-degree camera system provides a bird’s-eye view of one’s surroundings, making tight parking spots a breeze.
Meanwhile, advanced safety features such as Blind Spot Information System with Rear Cross Traffic Alert are also very useful, providing peace of mind as you weave through traffic.
Under the hood, the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine offers a respectable 158hp and 248Nm of torque, resulting in a drive that’s both eager and smooth. This power is complemented by a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
In terms of fuel economy, the Territory achieves 8 to 10kpL in mixed city driving. Not exceptional, but for a vehicle of this size, we think that’s pretty fair.
The two-hour drive from home to Sofitel was enjoyable, with the Territory showcasing its agility and comfort in equal measure. The good suspension soaks up bumps and potholes like a champ.
After the drive through Saturday traffic, Sofitel offered a luxurious sanctuary. The city’s buzz faded away as we sank into the plush bed, surrounded by modern amenities. We enjoyed a dip in the pool, savored after-dinner drinks at the Club Lounge, and feasted on a hearty breakfast at Spiral. The staycation was bittersweet, though, as it was around the time of our staycation when the hotel announced that it will close its doors starting July 1.
Speed says
With a P1,335,000 price tag, the Territory Titanium offers a compelling package. It handles city commutes effortlessly, offers a comfortable escape from the daily grind, keeps you and your passengers connected and entertained with its tech features, and ensures peace of mind with its safety features. The spacious interior with comfortable seating make it a great ride for weekend getaways or adventures with loved ones.
Overall, the Ford Territory is a stylish, reliable, and enjoyable car to drive, making it a strong contender in the midsize SUV segment.
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