R600,000 rivals to the new Ford Territory in South Africa

Ford has finally launched the new Territory in South Africa, adding an important model to its roster that will compete in one of the country’s most popular segments.

The Territory is a mid-size SUV that fills the price gap between the Puma crossover and the seven-seater Everest, and is now available in three specifications with prices ranging from R576,000 to R707,000.

All three versions are powered by a 1.8-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 138kW and 318Nm, which connects to the front wheels via a seven-speed automatic gearbox.

It has access to four driving modes – Normal, Eco, Mountain, and Sport – and achieves an average fuel consumption of 7.0l/100km.

Standard kit across the range includes LED headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry and start, a multifunction steering wheel, cruise control, rear parking sensors, ABS, hill-launch assist, hill-descent control, six airbags, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7.0-inch driver’s display, and six speakers.

Upgrading to the mid-range unit adds light-sensing headlights, rain-sensing wipers, dual-zone climate control, vinyl seats, a leatherette steering wheel, a reverse camera, an electronic tailgate, and a wireless charger.

Those who pick up the top-spec Titanium can expect larger 19-inch alloys, chrome door handles, electric front seats, a panoramic moonroof, power-folding wing mirrors with puddle lamps, front parking sensors, full leather upholstery, ambient lighting, a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster, eight speakers, and an assistance package with adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, lane-change assist, and traffic jam assist.

Each purchase includes a 4-year/120,000km warranty and a 4-year/unlimited-kilometre roadside assistance plan. However, a maintenance or service plan will cost an extra R14,000.