Earlier this year, we reported that Ford Philippines was already in the final stages of introducing the Territory compact crossover SUV in our market. Our source from the automaker’s network even informed us that the target date would be third quarter of this year. It seems that the pandemic hasn’t dampened the company’s product plans as its newest sport-ute will indeed be launched in August, according to a press statement sent today.

Inheriting its name from a larger SUV sold primarily in Australia, the Territory shares its underpinnings and place of manufacture with the Yusheng S330 built by Jiangling Motors, Ford’s partner in China. This should give the vehicle competitive pricing and a fighting chance against the likes of the MG RX5, which the Territory matches in size (4,580mm x 1,936mm x 1,674mm).

The Territory shares its underpinnings and place of manufacture with the Yusheng S330 built by Jiangling Motors, Ford’s partner in China

The press statement is really just a teaser, with no technical details provided. In the People’s Republic, the Territory’s sole engine choice is a turbocharged 1.5-liter gasoline engine producing 138hp and 225Nm. Buyers can expect the Territory to come loaded with a slew of electronic gadgets such as a touchscreen display for the infotainment system, antilock brakes, stability control, hill-start assist, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and parking sensors.

Ford says that out of almost 100 countries in its International Market Group, the Philippines is getting first dibs on the Territory (outside China, of course). This is likely a result of strong SUV sales in our market. Along with the smaller EcoSport, the Blue Oval brand is betting on the Territory to strengthen its foothold in the highly competitive crossover segment.