The Ford Territory is one of the brand’s most intriguing local products. While carrying the blue oval, it is actually a model born out of modern necessity and a partnership with China to fill a much-needed spot in the Philippine market.
Already in its second generation, the Territory has enjoyed relative success locally, but in the context of 2025, with the competition having already caught up, what is the Territory banking on?
Ford Territory Media Drive
To answer the question, Ford PH organized a one-day media drive to show the media what a modern Territory owner is likely to do. We were set to head south up the cliffside of the Tagaytay ridgeline for a meal at Asador, a special concept restaurant brought to life by Chef Chele of Gallery by Chele fame.
We left Ayala Manila Bay bright and early for a 2-hour jaunt south, and as I entered the Territory, I was immediately reminded of just how spacious it really is. Ever since this 2nd generation hit the showroom floors, the brand has spoken about how it was class-leading when it came to accommodating passengers and cargo, and up until now, I’d say it still is one of the class leaders in that aspect.
The variant assigned to my group was the Titanium X, which is the top variant, and you get a sense of that with the better-than-average materials used on the interior panels. There’s soft touch all over, and the build quality does feel better than what most expect.
It’s also feature-packed, not lacking anything a modern car owner would need and want, and features extra goodies like ventilated front seats.
Approachable Driving
When it comes to driving, I’d say the Territory is approachable, and while that may sound boring, it’s actually a compliment. In this day and age we’re often bombarded by way too many features and electronic gizmos that make daily driving confusing for the normal car owner.
The Ford Territory balances the need for modernity with ergonomics and ease of operation. Its most confusing feature would be the rotary shifter dial, which, to be honest, isn’t necessary, but at the very least is unique.
Even though the driving is approachable, the Ford Territory feels familiar and easy to operate, and there are no unwanted driving dynamics or habits. The 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine that makes 160 PS is quiet and smooth under normal driving, and has enough kick and energy should you want to push it a little.
In my opinion, though the best thing about the Ford Territory is the ride, it is one of the more comfortable riding vehicles in the market, which is a big deal because of our heavily degrading road quality both inside and outside of the city.
The Lifestyle
We arrived at Asador in Alfonso Cavite at around lunch time after a relaxing drive. Our first task was to head upstairs for a cooking challenge headed by the Chef of the restaurant. We were given 45 minutes to make our own rendition of a Cheviche, or locally known as Kinilaw, a raw fish dish that is marinated in vinegar, a citrus aspect, and many more.
After our challenge, we were all properly hungry at this point, so we settled in the main dining hall for what could be labeled as not just lunch but a feast.
We were fed plate after plate of what I would call homemade dishes that have been given their own twists. I really enjoy eating simple food done really well, and the dishes assembled by Asador hit the mark for me.
Lunch came and went, but before we were set to leave, a short tour of the Asador property was given to us. Asador prides itself on learning how to properly grow and farm some of the ingredients used for the dishes served in the restaurant, which is something most eateries try to incorporate nowadays.
Heading back to Manila, I reflected on just what the Ford Territory stands for, and my answer is that, like the food I ate, it is a familiar and simple recipe with the twist of modern needs mixed into a sizeable package. The Territory excels in being something approachable in all aspects, the design, the features, and the driving.
It’s hard to create and sell a model that appeals to all segments, but the truth is I think the Ford Territory does that, it enables the buyer to do a lot without sacrificing anything apart from time and effort, it is a companion for those who seek the idea of a ‘modern lifestyle’.
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