FOR once the advertising rang true. The original Territory was amazing, providing BMW levels of dynamics in a classy, comfortable, versatile and affordable package.
Seven years on from launch it has stood the test of time remarkably too, for in almost every way that matters, the competition has yet to eclipse this modern Australian classic.
But familiarity means buyers want something newer, different and more exciting, while the Ford’s prodigious thirst could no longer go unaddressed, so here it is – the SZ Territory revamp, complete with the diesel engine that we have waited far too long for.
Ford SY Territory
Released: October 2005
Ended: April 2011
Family Tree: TerritoryONE of the longest-lived models in Australian motoring manufacturing history, the SY update arrived just 17 months after the wildly successful and award-winning SX Territory came on stream.
It was basically an invisible facelift, with the main changes concerning the implementation of a ZF six-speed automatic gearbox in all-wheel drive models, while the 4.0-litre I6 petrol engine’s power and torque outputs rose to 190kW and 383Nm respectively.
Rear-drive versions continued with the old four-speed auto, but gained the AWD’s ESC stability control, while a reversing camera was added as an option. , A sporty SR variant came in as a value-added model in early 2006, while from July ’06 the Turbo AWD was added, bringing a forced-induction version of the I6 delivering 245kW and 480Nm via a six-speed gearbox.
In May 2009 a minor facelift brought a new bonnet, headlights and bumper, while small trim changes were carried out inside.
Super Test
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