Ford Territory Titanium X 2024 Review
When Ford Philippines offered me the opportunity to test drive the new Ford Territory Titanium X 2024 for a week-long adventure to Subic and Nueva Ecija, I couldn’t resist. As someone who is always on the lookout for the perfect blend of comfort, performance, and practicality, I was eager to see how this mid-sized SUV would fare on our 600-kilometer journey.
First Impressions and Exterior
The Territory Titanium X 2024 immediately catches the eye with its striking exterior. The satin black grille and premium design enhancements give it a sporty yet sophisticated look that stands out on the road. The 19-inch ebony black alloy wheels further accentuate its athletic stance, making it clear that this SUV means business.
Comfort and Space
Upon entering the Territory, I was impressed by the stylish and modern interior. The dashboard brings a distinct visual upgrade, incorporating contemporary design elements that elevate the overall feel of the cabin. What truly caught my attention was the spaciousness – a crucial factor for any family vehicle. I did not expect new Territory to be this spaciousness. However, coming from the Ford Everest that I previously used, this new experience did not come as a massive surprise.
The passenger cabin space is genuinely impressive. With two kids in tow, we had no issues fitting comfortably, even on longer stretches of our journey. The second-row seats offer ample legroom, ensuring that even taller passengers can stretch out and enjoy the ride. This spaciousness proved invaluable during our week-long trip, keeping everyone happy and comfortable.
Performance and Driving Experience
Under the hood, the Territory Titanium X 2024 packs a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that delivers a respectable 158 horsepower and 248 Nm of torque. While this might not sound earth-shattering on paper, I found it more than adequate for our family’s needs, providing smooth acceleration and confident overtaking when required.
One of the standout features is the flexible driving modes. Switching between Normal and Sport mode is a breeze, and I was particularly impressed by how the user interface on the dashboard changes to reflect the selected mode. This attention to detail adds a touch of sophistication to the driving experience.
The traction control system deserves a mention. While I didn’t have to use it extensively during our trip, it’s reassuring to know that it’s there when needed, offering good control while still allowing the driver to maintain a sense of command over the vehicle.
Fuel Efficiency
Over the course of our 600-kilometer journey, I had to fill up the tank twice, starting and ending with it half empty. The total fuel cost came to around ₱4,500 to ₱5,000. While not the most fuel-efficient vehicle I’ve driven, it’s important to consider the Territory’s size and capabilities.
For a mid-sized SUV carrying a family of five and their luggage, I found the fuel consumption to be reasonable.
Tech and Entertainment
The Territory Titanium X 2024 shines when it comes to its infotainment system. The 12-inch touchscreen is responsive and user-friendly, offering seamless compatibility with both iOS and Android devices. Throughout our trip, I primarily used my iPhone, and the integration was mostly smooth.
However, I did encounter an odd issue where CarPlay would disconnect each time we passed through toll gates. While not a deal-breaker, it was a minor annoyance that Ford could potentially address with a software update in the future.
Cruise Control and Safety Features
One of the Territory’s standout features is its advanced cruise control system. The controls on the left side of the steering wheel are intuitive, allowing for easy adjustment on the go. What really impressed me was the dashboard UI, which provides a clear and concise view of all essential information.
The camera-assisted cruise control takes things a step further by displaying the distance to the vehicle ahead. This feature proved invaluable during long highway stretches, adding an extra layer of safety and peace of mind.
Climate Control and Air Quality
Ford has clearly put thought into ensuring passenger comfort. The air conditioning system is top-notch, quickly cooling the cabin even on the hottest days of our trip. The addition of driver and passenger seat coolers is a luxurious touch that was much appreciated during extended drives.
A pleasant surprise was the built-in PM2.5 air purifier. In an age where air quality is increasingly important, especially for families, this feature ensures that the air inside the cabin remains clean and safe to breathe.
Cargo Space and Practicality
For a mid-sized SUV, the Territory Titanium X 2024 offers surprisingly good cargo space. The built-in tonneau cover is a thoughtful addition, providing privacy for the contents of the rear compartment. What’s more, the cover is sturdy enough to support additional bags or items on top, maximizing the available space.
This versatility came in handy during our trip, allowing us to pack all our essentials without feeling cramped. Whether it was luggage for our week-long adventure or souvenirs picked up along the way, the Territory handled it all with ease.
The Panoramic Moonroof: A Touch of Luxury
A feature that added a touch of luxury to our journey was the panoramic moonroof. Easy to control, it allowed us to let in natural light and fresh air when desired, creating a more open and airy feel inside the cabin. The kids especially loved this feature, using it to stargaze during our nighttime drives.
Handling and Ride Quality
Throughout our 600-kilometer journey, the Territory Titanium X 2024 demonstrated impressive handling characteristics. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in both city traffic and on winding provincial roads. The suspension strikes a good balance between comfort and sportiness, soaking up road imperfections while still providing a connected feel to the road.
The 190mm ground clearance proved more than sufficient for our needs, allowing us to tackle rough patches and small obstacles without worry. While we didn’t venture into serious off-road territory, the Territory (pun intended) felt capable and confident on various road surfaces we encountered.
My Personal Verdict
After a week of extensive driving across various terrains and conditions, the Ford Territory Titanium X 2024 has proven itself to be a compelling option for families in the market for a mid-sized SUV. It successfully blends comfort, technology, and practicality in a package that’s both stylish and functional.
While it may not be perfect – the occasional CarPlay disconnection and fuel efficiency that could be improved come to mind – these minor quibbles are far outweighed by the Territory’s strengths. Its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and overall comfort make it an excellent choice for families of 4 to 5 looking for a reliable and enjoyable vehicle for both daily commutes and longer adventures.
At a price point of ₱1,599,000, the Territory Titanium X 2024 offers good value for money, especially considering its feature set and the 5-year warranty. It’s a testament to Ford’s commitment to providing quality vehicles that cater to the needs of modern families.
If you’re in the market for a mid-sized SUV that can comfortably accommodate your family while providing a touch of luxury and a host of modern features, the Ford Territory Titanium X 2024 deserves a spot on your shortlist. It may not revolutionize the segment, but it certainly holds its own as a well-rounded, family-friendly option that’s ready for whatever adventures you have in store.
Giancarlo Viterbo is a Filipino Technology Journalist, blogger and Editor of gadgetpilipinas.net, He is also a Geek, Dad and a Husband. He knows a lot about washing the dishes, doing some errands and following instructions from his boss on his day job. Follow him on twitter: @gianviterbo and @gadgetpilipinas.
