Ford's terrific Territory

Specs

Ford Territory

Prices: TX RWD $38,990 Ghia RWD $49,290 TX AWD $42,990 Ghia AWD $53,290 Engine In-line 4.0 litre six Gearbox 4-speed auto (no manual offered) 0-100km/h 9.4 sec Economy 15 litres/100km

The interior designers have really done their homework.

WHEN you first glance at the Territory, it looks as though Ford has taken a BA Falcon wagon, fitted larger wheels to give a more commanding view of the road for the SUV set and voila!

But behind that simplistic impression, Ford has committed a huge amount of research and dollars to put together a very enticing package. Apart from its solid, ruggedly handsome lines, the interior designers have really done their homework with a very appealing package. Thank goodness there’s no plastic wood.

Territory buyers have a choice of rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD).

Externally, the two versions appear identical but the RWD version is 80kg lighter and $4000 easier on your wallet. Priced under 40K, the base model TX RWD version is in direct competition with the top-of-the-range Honda CR-V, Nissan X Trail and Toyota’s popular RAV4.

All these come with four-cylinder engines while the Ford has the well-developed 4-litre six.

Considering most 4WD/AWD owners rarely hit the dirt, the RWD Territory, with its extra room and power, is a viable option for large families or those who need the extra space. If the TX RWD Territory is fitted with the seven-seat option for an extra $1500, it is still cheaper than the seven-seat people movers Toyota Avenis and Mitsubishi Nimbus.

The test vehicle supplied by Ford was the top-of-the-range AWD Ghia at $53,290. If you are looking at the more expensive Toyota Kluger Grande or the LX8 Holden Adventra, or considering European 4WD/AWD imports, check out the Territory Ghia. I think you’ll be surprised.

Engine/transmission
The Territory uses the standard BA 4- litre, six drive train and rear suspension. It is mated to a smooth four-speed auto with option manual select. Ford fitted a shorter final drive to cope with the extra weight and this does affect economy.

Economy
Pulling more than 2000kg, it is not surprising that average economy on the test was 15 litres/100km. This was around the same consumption as the V8 Holden Adventra I tested. With fuel prices unlikely to reduce significantly in the future, Ford must be looking closely at a diesel option.

Safety/brakes
Safety is enhanced with dynamic stability control on hand. The 4WD discs were more than adequate for the punishment I gave them. Also, dual-stage front airbags, front belt pre-tensioners and force limiters and side curtain airbags for front and second row passengers (standard in the Ghia – an extra $800 for the TX) provide further security. Side curtain airbags for this type of vehicle is even more important as research indicates they are more inclined to be involved in side impacts.

Comfort/goodies
The Territory is remarkably quiet cruising on sealed roads considering it is fitted with off-road tyres. The seats are very comfortable and the ride is outstanding for this type of vehicle. Wide opening doors provide easy access and a convenient split two-piece tailgate is fitted.

There are 33 storage compartments throughout the vehicle, including easily accessible plastic water bottles adjacent to the driver and passenger. As with the BA Falcon, instrumentation is superb and the excellent audio system makes the drive even more enjoyable. The cruise control on the Territory is a cinch to use.

Negatives
Primarily the fuel consumption. Although the four-speed auto does its job well, the competition is fitting an extra ratio. And for some reason Ford has not fitted a driver012.’s footrest.

Summary
Ford has really done its homework. For buyers looking for a comfortable, roomy and safe people-mover, the Territory offers real value for money. The dynamics are hard to fault and the roomy interior is superbly designed. If you don’t need AWD, check the RWD out first. It is cheaper and, I suspect, a slightly better handler in good road conditions.