When car manufacturers release press statements, they often exaggerate the driving experience, making it seem far better than reality. However, Ford Territory hit the mark, marketing itself as a way to ease the frustrations of daily commuting.
The Reality of Time Spent in Traffic
Recent research highlighted by Ford reveals that an average driver in Cape Town spends around 42 minutes a day in traffic, accumulating to a staggering 163 hours annually of unproductive time. Ford claims that the Territory can help alleviate this commuting burden, and after extensive testing in Johannesburg, where traffic is slightly better than in Cape Town, multiple drivers agreed with this assertion.
The consensus among testers was that the Ford Territory offers a comfortable driving experience and is easy to adapt to. Interestingly, some even preferred it over its larger sibling, the Ford Everest, especially for city driving. This preference is likely due to the Everest’s substantial size, which can feel cumbersome in urban environments despite becoming more intuitive with regular use.
Smooth and Stress-Free Driving Experience
One of the primary advantages of the Territory is its automatic transmission—a seven-speed dual-clutch system that ensures seamless gear shifts and eliminates the strain of manual shifting in stop-start traffic. Drivers accustomed to manual vehicles, such as the Subaru Forester, can particularly appreciate the reduced fatigue on their left foot during long commutes.
The Territory also features multiple driving modes, including Normal, Eco (for fuel efficiency), Sport (for enhanced throttle response and dynamic steering), and Mountain mode (for better control on uneven terrain). While Mountain mode is unlikely to be useful in city driving, it could come in handy for tackling rougher roads.
Another surprising aspect is the effective air conditioning system. Despite being manufactured in China, the Territory was primarily designed in Australia to cater to hot and humid climates, ensuring optimal comfort even in the sweltering South African summer.
Packed with Technology for Comfort and Safety
Space is another strong suit of the Ford Territory. The SUV offers ample room for both the driver and passengers, reducing discomfort during long hours stuck in traffic. Ford has also equipped the vehicle with an array of advanced safety features to assist in navigating South Africa’s often chaotic urban traffic conditions.
Lane Keeping Assist and Lane Departure Warning work together to keep the driver on course, reducing stress during peak-hour congestion. Additionally, the vehicle’s in-car entertainment (ICE) system supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, allowing drivers to stream music, make hands-free calls, or navigate with ease.
Ford Territory Features at a Glance
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch automatic |
| Driving Modes | Normal, Eco, Sport, Mountain |
| Safety Features | Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Departure Warning |
| Infotainment System | Supports Android Auto & Apple CarPlay |
| Climate Control | Effective air conditioning for hot climates |
| Passenger Space | Ample room for comfort |
Is the Ford Territory the Right Choice for You?
If you’re in the market for a mid-size SUV that blends comfort, safety, and technology, the Ford Territory is a strong contender. Its user-friendly features, smooth driving experience, and spacious cabin make it well-suited for South African commuters. While there are a few minor drawbacks, such as an unconventional user interface on the lower-spec model’s instrument panel, the vehicle remains a solid option for those seeking a comfortable, tech-rich SUV for daily use.
Related article: Top 10 Most Affordable Cars in South Africa in 2025
