Ford enters new Territory

Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa has confirmed the new 2026 Territory is rolling onto local roads, bringing a refreshed take on the family SUV that has already found a firm footing with South African buyers. The latest version aims to sharpen what was already a popular package without messing with the formula that worked.

Under the bonnet lives Ford’s familiar 1,8-litre four-cylinder turbo-charged EcoBoost petrol engine, good for 138 kW and 318 Nm of torque. The engine uses Auto Start-Stop tech to keep fuel use in check during stop-start traffic, while a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission oversees the shifting duties.

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Gear changes are managed through a rotary e-Shifter on the centre console, paired with an electronic parking brake. Customers can choose between four drive modes: Normal for everyday cruising, Eco for longer hauls on the highway, Sport for sharper throttle response, and Mountain mode for gravel, sand or muddy stretches. Adaptive cruise control also comes standard to take the edge off long trips.

“Territory has always been about helping families get more out of each day,” says Sunil Sewmohan, Director of Product Marketing at Ford South Africa. “With the new model, comfort and smart tech move to the front of the line. It’s what our customers asked for, and then some.”

The exterior gets a more confident look that lines up with Ford’s latest SUV family face. There’s a bulkier bonnet, sharper lines along the sides, and a wider front grille that pushes the car’s stance outwards. The L-shaped ‘Laser’ headlights now pack a 15 mm ultra-compact LED lens module that blends high and low beams into one unit. Two new paint options land on the colour chart: Cactus Grey and Oasis Green, available across all trim levels.

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“We wanted to give the new Territory a more expressive front end,” Sewmohan added. “The new LED lighting gives the car real personality on the road.”

Inside, the focus stays on space. Front passengers get comfortable shoulder room, rear knee room is generous and a flat rear floor means the person in the middle isn’t punished. Seats have been updated with wider headrests for longer trips, and practical touches include fast-charging USB and USB-C ports, rear air vents, and an optional panoramic sunroof. The boot swallows 448 litres, or 1 422 litres with the rear seats folded flat.

“Customer comfort matters a lot to Ford,” Sewmohan says. “So, we looked at everything from the seats to cabin refinement, tweaking the small things so families feel relaxed and confident wherever the road takes them.”

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Technology gets a proper look-in too. A dual 12,3-inch infotainment screen anchors the dashboard, running a more straightforward interface. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, and the climate control bar stays pinned to the screen for quick jabs. Arkamys 3D Audio software tries to make the sound feel bigger inside the cabin. For the first time, the Territory gets Ford App connectivity, letting owners lock or unlock remotely, schedule start times, check vehicle status, and get health alerts straight to their phone.

Safety kit includes Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, and Lane Centring Control to help keep the car pointed straight in certain conditions.

The Ford Family Promise stays in place, meaning buyers get access to Ford’s national dealer network, flexible finance through Ford Credit, and comprehensive insurance.

Every new Territory comes with a 6-year/90 000 km Ford Optional Service Plan, a 4-year/120 000 km warranty, four-year/unlimited distance Roadside Assistance, and a 5-year/unlimited distance corrosion warranty.

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