Who enjoys a bit of Trans-Tasman rivalry? Ford proudly sponsors the mighty All Black team in New Zealand, and is also proudly advertising it’s associations with the Wallaby rugby union team. Hey, don’t forget that the All Blacks won the 2011 Rugby World Cup, though! What better way to transport five beefy front row forwards to rugby practice than in a spacious and grunty Ford Territory.

Numerous times, the outgoing Ford Territory has been reviewed and named as Australia’s Best Recreational Four Wheel Drive, and for a good reason. The New Ford Territory continues the leading attributes of the outgoing model and combines fresh sophisticated styling, all wrapped up in an adaptable package which is very well balanced, powerful and responsive. Under the skin, improved dynamic systems for greater control and the addition of diesel power, makes this one of the most desirable SUV vehicles on the Australian market.

The Ford Territory comes in TX, TS and Titanium trim, where the models vary according to their equipment levels. All models have one very common factor, and that is they are powerful and quiet. Two options of engine power are offered by Ford: the familiar 4.0-litre I6 petrol engine – up rated to 195 kW, and the creamy new 2.7-litre V6 Diesel – boasting 140 kW. Both engines are linked to the same silky, smooth, six-speed gearbox that the Ford Territory is well known for.

All Ford Territories have 5 seats with 7 as an option. And the Ford Territory Titanium is the top of the range model, boasting the highest levels of automotive luxury. Such things as premium leather seats, a premium audio system with a colour screen that boasts a high output and a multi-tasking CD changer, electronic driver’s seat – with memory option, dual zone climate control and an electrochromatic rear vision mirror are on offer. Also, the all-new MyFord Touch system features touch screen connectivity, wifi internet browsing (both through wifi hot spots and via a connected telephone), USB inputs, SD card inputs, AV inputs, satellite and HD radio compatibility, Bluetooth audio streaming and satellite navigation. Ford’s Voice command control works wonders and impresses your frinds.

However, even when you review the base model Territory TX, you’ll find it has all the standard luxury items one would expect in a big quality SUV. Things like powered windows, an impressive sound system and air conditioning are all standard on the less expensive Territory models.

Now, who reckons that an around-nine second sprint from 0-100 km/h ain’t too bad? Yep… it’s not too bad. And when you think that the over two-ton petrol Ford Territory SUV model does this with such ease and refinement, you can see why Ford is on to something good. The inline six-cylinder motor has been up rated to 195 kW and 391 Nm of torque at 3250 rpm. All this impressive power kicks beautifully in at the mid-range. You simply get to sit back and enjoy.

Brand new, and available to the latest Territory, is the modern 2.7-litre V6, Common Rail Turbo Diesel engine. An outstanding 440 Nm of torque throbs from as low as 1900 rpm. In terms of pulling power, the AWD diesel models can pull up to a massive 2700 kg, while the diesel and petrol RWD models deliver up to an impressive 2300 kg. Pulling your boat and or caravan doesn’t get much easier.

Lots of chrome detailing on the exterior make the Ford Territory feel very special, indeed. High-tech projector lamps, LED lights, wing mirror indicators and five spoke Y-design alloys give the new Territory a dominant styling cue. Inside the interior, the brand new Territory continues Ford’s excellent execution in quality materials and appearance. It’s a nice place to be, and it’s roomy! Comfort levels are high, and the cabin is so very quiet at high speeds.

On the road, the big Ford Territory is nimble and secure. You feel safe inside this big Ford – and the ANCAP five-star crash testing result back this feeling up nicely. Active safety features include systems like: DSC, Roll Over Mitigation, TC, ABS, EBD, EBA and even a belt reminder system. Five airbags are standard, and the reversing system (with camera) is an excellent feature – especially in town.

Ford invests millions in the designing and production of the Ford Territory. And it is safe to say that the money is well spent. The Ford Territory is a refined vehicle that suits the Australian environment and its roads – providing the same kind of ease in driving whether it’s around the cities or suburbs, while still offering a worthiness that all customers will be pleased with.

Very safe, spacious and comfortable: the New Ford Territory for 2012 is a real winner!

The current model series includes the:

• Ford Territory TS (AWD and RWD)
• Ford Territory TX (AWD and RWD)
• Ford Territory Titanium AWD

We hope you enjoyed this Ford Territory review! For any more information on the various models, or for that matter any other new car, contact one of our friendly consultants on 1300 303 181. If you’d like some fleet discount pricing (yes even for private buyers!), we can submit vehicle quotes requests out to our national network of Ford dealers and come back with pricing within 24 hours. Private Fleet – car buying made easy!

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