MBABANE – Ford has introduced a new Dark Edition of its Territory SUV to the Southern African market, offering bold cosmetic upgrades while keeping the same mechanical setup as the Titanium model it replaces at the top of the range.
The special edition, built in partnership with China’s Jiangling Motors Corporation and known in its home market as the Equator Sport, carries a price tag of R733 300 – about R7 300 more than the Titanium. The release comes as Ford seeks to attract style-conscious buyers in a segment where visual appeal is a strong selling point.
Last year, Ford sold 2 123 units of the Territory locally, and with 1 828 already moved this year, the Dark Edition could boost sales further. Industry watchers suggest it may also be the final version of the pre-facelift model, as updated designs have already launched in China and Brazil.
The Dark Edition stands out with its Ruby Red paint, contrasted by a black roof, gloss black 19-inch wheels, black grille, mirror caps, and trim details across the bumpers, wheel arches, roof rails, and bootlid. The interior features black leather upholstery, faux carbon-fibre trim, a black roofliner, and distinctive orange stitching borrowed from the Ranger Wildtrak.
Standard equipment includes dual 12.3-inch displays, a 360-degree camera, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, USB type-C ports, and a powered tailgate. The SUV retains its 1.8-litre EcoBoost petrol engine producing 138kW and 318Nm, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission driving the front wheels.
Despite its visual upgrades, the driving experience remains largely unchanged, with critics noting throttle response lag, firm suspension on uneven roads, and overly sharp braking. However, it maintains a spacious cabin, 448 litres of boot space, and a reputation for comfort on smoother routes.
Fuel consumption during mixed driving conditions was recorded at 9.1L/100km over 405km of testing.
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