Have you ever found yourself sitting behind the wheel of a Ford Territory and wishing there was just a bit more power on tap? Apparently, a considerable number of Ford customers have had that exact thought coursing through their minds – a number considerable enough for Ford to give the Territory the ST treatment.
From the outside, you’ll be able to differentiate the Territory ST from its standard siblings by the addition of a prominent bonnet scoop, unique five spoke 18-inch alloys and dual exhaust tips. Thankfully, Ford has chosen to omit the twin racing stripes that adorn some of its other ST products giving the Territory ST a modicum of subtlety.
Ford’s 4,0-litre turbocharged engine delivers an impressive 245 kW at 5 250 r/min and generates 480 N.m of torque at 2 000 r/min. These figures translate into a claimed 0-100km/h dash of 7,5 seconds, top speed of 210 km/h and average fuel consumption of 14,2 litres/100 km. The six-speed automatic transmission, which has become a standard feature on the rest of the Territory range, has also found its way to the ST.
Ford has also made some revisions to the existing Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system in an attempt to strike a balance between electronic intervention and the sporting bias of the ST. Power-assisted rack and pinion steering, Hill Descent Control and ABS with EBD complement the ST’s AWD system. A combination of virtual pivot control link front suspension and control blade independent rear suspension aims to strike a balance between handling and refinement in the performance-orientated newcomer.
Inside, the ST adds a number of sporting touches to the Territory’s interior. The seats are clad in charcoal leather with silver stitching and eucalyptus-coloured trim inserts contrast with the predominantly charcoal cabin. Dual-zone automatic air conditioning and a dash-mounted 6-disc CD shuttle are fitted as standard.
Furthermore, the ST model continues to exhibit the practicality of the rest of the Territory range with such features as 30 storage compartments, second row seating with a 60/40 split, lockable compartment under the driver’s seat, and a third row of seats that enables the ST to transport up to seven people.
By giving a sizeable vehicle such as the Territory ST the means to rocket along at a considerable pace, safety is a major consideration. The SUV’s safety systems include front and passenger- and side curtain airbags, and a collapsible brake pedal. A five year/90 000 km service plan, three year 100 000 km warranty and three year unlimited roadside assistance plan give some added peace of mind to potential owners.
The Territory ST will be available locally from the beginning of November and will cost R419 500, a FMCSA spokesman said.