2023 Ford Territory makes ASEAN premiere   

The new second-generation Ford Territory has just been unveiled in Vietnam, which could pave the way for the model’s release in other ASEAN markets, including the Philippines. 

The next-generation Ford Territory is also sold in China as the Equator Sport 

This is no longer a rebadged Chinese compact crossover, as Ford saw it fit to bestow its far more visually superior global DNA design on the new version. The result is an overall look that resembles a smaller version of the current Everest midsize SUV, which should bode well for sales.   

The fascia features the most dramatic improvements, with signature LED daytime running lights at the top corners of the enlarged grille. This is flanked by the headlamps which have been relocated downward both for aesthetic and functional reasons, hovering over a redesigned front bumper and air dam. 

Headlamps have been relocated farther down the fascia 

Changes on the sides are also more evident, with more creases providing definition for the profile. The rocker panels at the base of the doors have been enlarged, and the greenhouse looks vastly better with the redesigned rear quarter window between the C- and D-pillars. 

Equipped with Everest-like LED taillights

At the rear, a hands-free power tailgate is now offered for increased convenience when loading cargo, sitting between Everest-style LED tail lamps. The new Territory rides on a selection of 18- and 19-inch alloy wheels.  

Inside, up to five occupants can still be accommodated, this time in a larger and improved interior that features leather upholstery. A panoramic sunroof lets fresh air and ambient light in, while the center console has been streamlined with the use of a rotary gear selector. Dual-zone automatic climate control with advanced air filtration provides a breath of fresh air. 

A new dashboard integrates the instrument cluster and central touchscreen into one unit 

The flat-bottomed steering wheel is complemented by a one-piece landscape screen; this includes both the 12-inch digital instrument cluster and 12-inch touchscreen display offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Safety features on offer include lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control with stop & go, intelligent automatic emergency brake, and a 360-degree camera array. 

A 1.5-liter EcoBoost gasoline engine continues to power the new Territory, now rated at 170 horsepower and 260 Nm of torque while featuring auto stop-start technology for increases efficiency. In place of the outgoing model’s continuously variable transmission, a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox routes power to the front wheels. 

The new Territory runs on a more powerful version of its 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine

The 2023 Ford Territory costs between VND 830 million (Php 2.05 million) and VND 965 million (around Php 2.4 million) in Vietnam. Even as it is manufactured in China as the Equator Sport, the model will come to Vietnamese customers as a locally assembled vehicle from Ford’s plant in Hai Duong City. 

Here’s hoping that Ford Philippines will consider releasing the new Territory in our market sooner than later.        

Get wind of more new model releases in our region at Philkotse.com.