SZ Territory

SEVEN years on from the acclaimed original, Ford finally released the facelifted Territory in April 2011.

The extent of the changes went beyond the modish pinched nose and up-to-date media/connectivity interface, with the introduction of six-speed automatic gearboxes across the range, diesel power, electric power steering, and significant structural, safety, and suspension improvements.

Importantly, the latest driver-assist Bosch Gen-9 Dynamic Stability Control system arrived, featuring a Roll-Over Mitigation device designed to curtail a rollover.

The Turbo high-performance model disappeared, as did the Ghia name for Titanium, while the normally aspirated 4.0-litre inline six-cylinder petrol engine is now only reserved for the rear-drive versions. Its power and torque outputs are rated at 195kW (up 5kW) and 391Nm (up 8Nm) respectively, while the average fuel consumption figure slides by 1.0L/100km to 10.6L/100km.

But the big news is the all-new 2.7-litre common-rail direct-injection 60-degree double overhead cam V6 TDCi turbo-diesel. Engineered with the help from Jaguar and Land Rover, it delivers 140kW of power at 4000rpm and 440Nm of torque between 1900-2500rpm, as well as 8.2 litres per 100km in the combined cycle (AWD: 8.8-9.0).

Other SZ modifications include a comprehensive engine sound-deadening package, a laminated acoustic windscreen, improved engine and transmission mounts, an optimised front bulkhead, and a changed isolated crossmember behind the transmission in AWD models.

On the dynamic front, there have been modifications to the front-end geometry, a new suspension tune that includes different spring, damper and anti-roll bar rates, the implementation of altered driveline and suspension bushes, a self-adjusting parking brake and revised brake friction materials.

Towing capacity in TDCi models is rated at 2700kg – 400kg more than in the I6 Territory.