Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa has officially introduced the New 2026 Ford Territory, marking the next evolution of one of its most recognisable and well-loved SUVs in the local market. Building on its established success, the refreshed model arrives with a stronger sense of maturity, elevated design confidence and a significantly enhanced value proposition tailored for modern South African families.
At first glance, the New Territory makes its intentions clear. It adopts Ford’s latest SUV design language, presenting a more assertive and refined visual identity that feels both rugged and contemporary. The sculpted bodywork, chiselled bonnet and muscular stance work together to create a silhouette that looks planted and purposeful without losing everyday elegance. A redesigned front fascia sharpens its personality further, with a wider grille and geometric detailing that visually amplifies its presence on the road. The signature L-shaped LED headlights introduce a distinctive light signature, while compact LED technology brings a crisp, modern illumination experience that reinforces its premium positioning. Exterior colour choices such as Cactus Grey and Oasis Green add a further layer of sophistication, ensuring the SUV stands out without shouting for attention.
Inside, the New Territory continues its focus on calm, space and usability, shaping a cabin that feels more like a sanctuary than a traditional SUV interior. Designed with real families in mind, it offers generous proportions, including class-leading shoulder room for front passengers, excellent rear knee space and a flat rear floor that enhances comfort across all seating positions. Attention to detail is evident in the updated seats, which now feature wider and more supportive headrests for long-distance ease. Practical touches such as fast-charging USB and USB-C ports, rear air vents and an available panoramic sunroof ensure the cabin remains both functional and inviting. Luggage space is equally impressive, offering 448 litres in standard form and expanding to 1,422 litres when the rear seats are folded.
Performance remains grounded in Ford’s proven engineering approach. The 1.8-litre EcoBoost turbocharged petrol engine delivers a balanced 138 kW of power and 318 Nm of torque, offering enough performance for everyday driving while maintaining efficiency through Auto Start-Stop technology. Paired with a refined seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, the drivetrain provides smooth and responsive gear changes suited to both urban traffic and long-distance travel. A rotary e-Shifter and electronic parking brake contribute to a modern, uncluttered driving experience, while selectable drive modes allow drivers to adapt the vehicle to changing conditions, from efficient highway cruising to more demanding gravel or uneven terrain.
Technology plays a central role in shaping the New Territory’s identity. A redesigned dual 12.3-inch display setup anchors the dashboard, offering a clean and intuitive interface with seamless smartphone integration through wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A permanently accessible climate control bar enhances usability, ensuring key functions remain within easy reach. Audio quality is elevated through Arkamys 3D sound processing, delivering a more immersive cabin experience. The introduction of Ford App connectivity adds a new level of convenience, allowing owners to remotely manage key vehicle functions such as locking, starting and monitoring vehicle health directly from their smartphone.
Safety has also been strengthened with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies designed to support awareness and confidence behind the wheel. Features such as Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist and Lane Centreing Control work together to help maintain stability and lane discipline during everyday driving, reinforcing Ford’s commitment to occupant protection.
Beyond the product itself, Ford continues to emphasise its customer-first philosophy through the Ford Family Promise. This ensures that owners benefit from a nationwide dealer network, flexible financing through Ford Credit and a comprehensive ownership package that includes service plans, warranty coverage and roadside assistance. The New Territory is backed by a six-year/90 000 km service plan, a four-year/120 000 km warranty and additional protection options that extend coverage even further, providing long-term peace of mind. Convenience is also a priority, with services such as online bookings, express servicing, mobile maintenance options and vehicle pick-up and delivery available in selected areas.
Arriving in three variants, the Territory Ambiente is priced at R534 900, the Trend at R584 900 and the range-topping Titanium at R643 900, positioning the SUV as a compelling offering in the competitive family SUV segment.
With its blend of modern design, intelligent technology and everyday practicality, the New Ford Territory strengthens Ford’s SUV line-up in South Africa, delivering a vehicle that feels thoughtfully engineered for the rhythms of real family life.
