The new Ford Territory has joined the EcoSport to complete the Blue Oval’s SUV family in China. The new budget SUV has made its stage debut in the country.
The Ford Territory is not the second generation model of that was once produced and sold in the Australian market. It was co-developed by Ford and its local joint venture partner, JMC (Jiangling Motors Corporation) primarily for China. Although custom-designed and engineered specifically for Chinese consumers, it is not a China-only model as earlier speculated. It is under consideration for Latin America, where it will have its public debut at the 2018 Sao Paulo Auto Show next month. Below is the Territory's walkaround from the Brazilian media presentation this week.
None of Ford’s five global architectures could have made it possible to position the new Territory in the planned price segment. So, the company had to use JV partner JMC’s low-cost platform, one that underpins the JMC Yusheng S330 and the infamous Landwind X7 (Range Rover Evoque clone). Its relation with the former is quite noticeable in the stance and proportions.
Powering the new Ford Territory is the 1.5-litre EcoBoost145 turbocharged petrol engine that produces 105 kW (142.76 PS) and 225 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with a CVT. 48V mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrain options are also planned.
LED headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, panoramic sunroof, ventilated and heated seats, 360-degree camera, 10.25-inch HD virtual instrument cluster and 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system are some of the main features of the 2019 Ford Territory. The new SUV will go on sale in early 2019. Should an RHD version see a light of the day, expect this model to arrive in India as a Hyundai Creta rival.
