After launching the family-oriented Territory last year, the Blue Oval has decided to add more flair to the range by introducing the Dark Edition treatment to the Ford Territory. The Dark Edition is based on the range-topping Titanium model, gaining aesthetic changes and styling that are poised to rattle the competition in its fast-growing SUV segment.
What exactly are the changes? Sporty styling features include blacked-out mirror caps, skid plates, fog light covers, black 19-inch alloy wheels, a satin black grille, blacked-out “Territory” badging, lower guard trim strips, window trim, and additional colors exclusive to the Dark Edition: Crystal Pearl White, Lustrous Grey, Panther Black, and Ruby Red.
In the cabin, the Dark Edition nameplate becomes literal as you are met with a black headliner, black perforated leather upholstery, and perforated seats, while the door and instrument panels feature contrasting Cyber Orange piping, similar to the Wildtrak X.
The 12.3-inch high-definition digital instrument cluster, in combination with the 12.3-inch landscape infotainment touchscreen, has a high-gloss black stripe housing and includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity for playing your favorite jams through the eight-speaker system. You can charge your phone wirelessly or choose from three USB ports up front and a USB charging port at the rear.
The powerplant is the turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost engine that produces 138 kW of power and is matched to 318 Nm of torque, paired with an advanced seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). You have four selectable drive modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, and Mountain.
In true Ford fashion, they’ve pulled out the stops to ensure that all drivers are safe by loading the Territory with a host of safety features such as the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Lane Departure Warning, and Lane Change Assist.
Electronic Stability Control with Traction Control, Emergency Brake Assist and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Hill Launch Assist, Hill Descent Control and Ford’s Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
A total of six airbags are provided (dual front side, and curtain airbags), vehicle security is taken care of with the smart key Passive Entry and Passive Start (PEPS) with a Thatcham-grade alarm system and immobiliser.
An exclusive addition to the Dark edition is a 360 degree view camera for all round visibility.
Ford looks to ensure that customers are treated like family, benefitting from Ford’s national dealer network across South Africa, along with flexible finance through Ford Credit and comprehensive insurance. As with all new Ford vehicles, the Territory comes with a six-year/90 000km Ford Optional Service Plan, four-year/120 000km Ford warranty, four-year/unlimited distance Roadside Assistance and five-year/unlimited distance corrosion warranty.
Customers have the option of purchasing Ford Protect Service or Maintenance Plan upgrades up to eight years or 165 000km. The warranty can be extended up to seven years or 200 000km, while the Roadside Assistance can be extended for an additional one or two years.
To optimize customer convenience when it comes to scheduled maintenance, Ford owners have access to online service bookings, 60-minute Express Service, free vehicle pick-up and delivery as well as mobile servicing in selected areas as some of the innovative value-added features that are available.
PRICING
Territory Dark Edition 1.8L EcoBoost 7AT R733 000
The recommended Retail Price includes a six-year/90 000km Ford Optional Service Plan, four-year/120 000km Ford warranty, four-year/unlimited distance Roadside Assistance and five-year/unlimited distance corrosion warranty. In addition, over the counter (OTC) parts and service parts warranty (SPW) are covered for two-year/unlimited distance. The recommended service interval is 15 000km or annually, whichever occurs first.
Customers have the option of purchasing Ford Protect Service or Maintenance Plan upgrades up to eight years or 165 000km. The warranty can be extended up to seven years or 200 000km, while the Roadside Assistance can be extended for an additional one or two years.