FACE OFF: Ford Territory vs. the Competition
We’ve been seeing an influx of both Chinese made and Chinese branded vehicles in the Philippine market. 2020 for the automotive industry, despite the pandemic, still sees the launch of several new models in the market, both from mainstream car makes and the Chinese which are growing in popularity at an increasing rate.
Just recently, we saw the launch of the all-new 2021 Ford Territory which finally fills the gap left by the Escape when its sales discontinued in the country a few years ago. Now the thing is the Territory isn’t your familiar Ford SUV that is built and sold in Thailand or the United States of America. It’s from China and the Philippines is the first market outside there to introduce it. So how does it stack up in a segment that is already crowded with so many models to choose from?
For starters, the Ford Territory is built and designed by Ford together with their Chinese joint venture partner, JMC. It’s based on the JMC Yusheng S330. While many compare it to the smaller Geely Coolray, we’ll be comparing it with its segment competitors. First is the Geely Azkarra which was introduced earlier this year with a mild-hybrid powertrain option. There’s the popular Honda CR-V which has been one of Honda’s top-selling models since its launch in 2018. Not as popular is the Subaru Forester which is probably one of the better looking options in the pack, and last but not the least is the Chery Tiggo 7 which is also Chinese and introduced last year when Chery re-entered the market.
Do take note that all these models are similarly specced and all are competing in the same compact crossover SUV segment. This comparison will also make use of the specifications of each model’s top of the line variants.
For pricing, the Ford Territory in its top-spec Titanium+ form is priced at Php 1,299,000. The Geely Azkarra Luxury 4WD goes for Php 1,598,000. The most expensive one here is the Honda CR-V 1.6 SX at Php 2,138,000, next to that is the Subaru Forester 2.0 i-S EyeSight at a little less Php 2,068,000. The most affordable model in this comparison is the Chery Tiggo 7 at Php 1,195,000
We’ve compiled the different specifications of the four models below. Based on them, which do you think is the best choice?
So which do you think gives the most bang for the buck? Comment below what you think is the best option!
