By Funizwe Moleme

We last saw a new Ford Territory in 2016, and news that a new one was enroute got us wondering how it will be like – in a world where Ford has a huge focus, in bakkie’s. Enter the 2024 Ford Territory Titanium that confidently carves its own niche with a mix of contemporary style, generous features, and practicality. Sliding into the Territory feels like stepping into a vehicle designed to meet the modern driver’s needs, with just enough flair to stand out from the crowd – even though some angles resemble a Chery Tiggo 7 – but that’s just us.

Powertrain

At its heart, the Ford Territory is powered by a 1.8L EcoBoost turbocharged engine, delivering 110kW and 248Nm of torque. It’s paired with a 7AT gearbox, a choice that prioritizes smoothness over outright sportiness – but that doesn’t mean it is sluggish by any means, which sadly hampers on the fuel consumption as we averaged a higher than claimed 8.8l/100kms.

Driving impressions

The driving experience is balanced and composed. The suspension is well damped and geared for comfort (which is a good thing) as it effortlessly soaks up road imperfections while maintaining relative poise on twisty roads. The steering is light, making the Territory easy to manoeuvre in urban environments. While it may not offer the engaging dynamics of a sporty SUV, it excels as a smooth and comfortable daily driver – exactly what any family needs.

Interior

Step inside, and the Territory’s cabin impresses with its modern design and high-quality materials. Leatherette upholstery, soft-touch surfaces, and tasteful metallic accents combine to create a premium feel. The centrepiece of the interior is a large 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is complemented by a fully digital instrument cluster. Standard features include Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a wireless charging pad, ensuring tech-savvy drivers feel right at home. The panoramic sunroof adds a touch of luxury and floods the cabin with natural light that shows off the not so evident blue interior that our test unit came with.

Safety and assistance systems

Safety features are another strong point for the Territory. Ford has equipped the Titanium model with a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The addition of a 360-degree camera and parking sensors makes urban navigation and tight parking spots stress-free.

Practicality is where the Territory also shines. The spacious interior comfortably seats five, and the boot offers a generous 448 litres of cargo space, expanding further with the rear seats folded. Whether it’s a family road trip or a daily commute, the Territory is ready to adapt.

Pricing and warranty

Starting at R721,500, the Ford Territory Titanium offers a compelling mix of features and great value. It’s backed by a 4-year/120,000km warranty and a 4-year/60,000km service plan, with service intervals set at 15,000km. This makes it a smart choice for those seeking a dependable and affordable compact SUV, that is more spacious than the competition.

Should you consider buying one?

For drivers looking for a stylish, tech-rich, and practical option in the crowded SUV market, the 2024 Ford Territory Titanium is hard to overlook, even with its understated looks. It delivers a modern driving experience that ticks all the boxes for comfort, versatility, and value.