When we got the keys to the new Ford Territory Hybrid, there was only one logical destination to see what it’s truly capable of – Baguio. That meant long drives along the expressway, the winding climbs of Kennon (and eventually Asin Road), and the kind of unpredictable mountain weather that can go from bright sunshine to torrential rain in minutes. Add a few landslides along the way, and it was a proper test of any compact crossover’s comfort, efficiency, and control – unlike the controlled test drive we had before its launch.
Going in, we expected the hybrid version of Ford’s popular SUV to deliver smoother acceleration, improved refinement, and better fuel economy. The outgoing turbocharged model already had a strong following among Filipino buyers, but it was time for something more fun to drive and more efficient. After all, Ford has been late to the hybrid party, and this model carries the responsibility of showing that electrification doesn’t have to come with compromise.
Over several hundred kilometers, the Territory Hybrid proved that it’s more than just a marketing update. It feels like a real step forward for the Blue Oval in the region – though not without a few quirks that kept us from calling it perfect. Read our impressions to see what stood out.
What We Love
The Way It Accelerates
Gone are the days when you had to wait for the turbo to spool up. The electric motor fills in that gap beautifully, giving the Territory Hybrid instant pull from a stop and strong midrange response. It feels more confident overtaking on the highway and climbing steep grades, without the hesitation or lag that plagued the old engine.
Highway Efficiency That Impresses
On the long drive from Manila to Baguio, the hybrid setup proved its worth. With measured, realistic driving, the Territory Hybrid averaged 17 km/L – a notable figure for a compact SUV of its size and weight. The combination of regenerative braking and clever hybrid mapping clearly works. Even after tackling Kennon Road with a bit of spirited enthusiasm, fuel consumption only dropped to around 13–14 km/L. That’s efficiency you can feel in your wallet.
Ride and Handling, Finally Sorted
The non-hybrid Territory had comfort, but it also had body roll and a slightly floaty feel. Ford has left the impression that it addressed that here thoroughly. The Territory Hybrid’s suspension feels tighter, more settled, and better balanced through corners. On Kennon’s and Asin’s winding switchbacks, it stayed composed even on uneven patches. You get the impression Ford put real work into making this more than just an engine swap.
Quieter, Calmer, More Refined
Hybrid systems naturally bring silence at low speeds, but Ford has gone further by fitting acoustic glass and improving insulation throughout the cabin. The result is a crossover that feels far more premium than before. Highway wind and tire noise are subdued – among the improvements you don’t notice immediately – until you drive something noisier afterward.
Everyday Tech That Feels Polished
The Territory Hybrid gets the tech mix right. The large 12-inch touchscreen on the Titanium X trim is sharp and fairly responsive, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work seamlessly (except at the start of the drive, but since the issue didn’t recur, we’ll give that a pass).
Ford has also tweaked the interface so you can adjust the air-conditioning without exiting smartphone projection – a small but thoughtful touch. Add the great-sounding Arkamys audio system, and you’ve got a crossover that feels properly modern without being overcomplicated.
Things That Could Be Better
No Paddle Shifters
For a car that drives this well, it’s a shame Ford left out paddle shifters. Engine braking relies on regenerative braking and the manual low gear, but this combination struggles on steep and congested descents, such as the roads leading to Asin. It works, but it doesn’t inspire confidence when you’re descending tight curves with no engine resistance to lean on.
The Steering Still Lacks Feedback
While steering weight can be adjusted through different modes, it still feels somewhat numb on mountain roads, even in Sport mode. The assistance is fine for city driving, but enthusiasts will wish for more feedback through the wheel – especially when the rest of the car feels this capable.
Full Hybrid But Mild EV Feel
The Territory Hybrid isn’t designed for full electric operation – at least not in the way plug-in hybrids do. You can creep silently through traffic or short parking maneuvers, but it won’t sustain pure-electric driving for long. Those expecting near-EV behavior might find the system too conservative.
Styling That Plays It Too Safe
Ford didn’t mess with success, which is both a good and bad thing. The hybrid looks nearly identical to the non-hybrid version, save for minor tweaks to the grille, lights, and wheels. It’s still a handsome crossover, but a bit more visual differentiation could have helped signal the leap forward under the hood.
Base Variant Safety Is a Step Back
The entry-level Trend variant only gets front airbags, which feels outdated for a crossover in this price range. Six airbags and the full suite of driver assists are limited to the Titanium X, meaning you’ll have to spend more for complete peace of mind. It’s an odd decision, especially given how safety-conscious Ford usually is.
Initial Verdict
The Ford Territory Hybrid is exactly what many Filipino buyers have been waiting for – a no-fuss hybrid that leaves a good impression and delivers real-world gains in refinement, comfort, and efficiency without demanding new habits or compromises.
Our Baguio run revealed its strengths and a few blind spots, but overall, this feels like the version the Territory should have been from the start. It’s smoother, quieter, and more composed than its predecessor, with just enough electric assist to make everyday driving genuinely better.
If Ford’s goal was to prove that hybrid technology can make a familiar nameplate smarter rather than stranger, the Territory Hybrid hits that mark – and then some.
