The Ford Territory 1.5 EcoBoost CVT, produced from September 2018 to May 2022, represents Ford’s entry into the compact SUV market, primarily targeted towards the Chinese automotive landscape. While not initially sold in North America, it’s a significant model demonstrating Ford’s global design and engineering capabilities. This variant, equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine and a continuously variable transmission (CVT), served as a core offering within the Territory lineup, positioned as a balance between affordability and modern features. It aimed to appeal to families and urban drivers seeking a practical and fuel-efficient vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Territory |
| Generation | Territory I |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 EcoBoost (140 Hp) CVT |
| Start of production | September, 2018 |
| End of production | May, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | China V |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.1 kg/Hp, 89.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm, 144.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 4500-5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 94 Hp/l |
| Torque | 225 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm (165.95 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1490 cm3 (90.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 1560 kg (3439.21 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 420 l (14.83 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1120 l (39.55 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Length | 4580 mm (180.31 in.) |
| Width | 1936 mm (76.22 in.) |
| Height | 1674 mm (65.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2716 mm (106.93 in.) |
| Front track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Territory 1.5 EcoBoost is the GJ5 engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is coupled with a single turbocharger and intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The engine’s architecture is relatively simple, contributing to its reliability. The CVT transmission is a key component, designed to provide smooth and efficient power delivery. Unlike traditional automatic transmissions with fixed gear ratios, the CVT continuously adjusts the gear ratio to keep the engine operating at its most efficient point. This results in improved fuel economy, but can sometimes feel less responsive than a traditional automatic. The engine produces 140 horsepower at 4500-5200 rpm and 225 Nm (165.95 lb-ft) of torque between 1500-4000 rpm.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 EcoBoost CVT Territory offers a comfortable and predictable driving experience. The CVT transmission prioritizes fuel efficiency over outright acceleration. While the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving situations, it doesn’t offer the same level of performance as higher-powered variants. Acceleration is linear, and the CVT minimizes harsh shifts. The CVT’s programming is tuned for smooth operation, but can sometimes exhibit a “rubber band” effect under hard acceleration, where engine RPMs rise quickly without a corresponding increase in speed. Compared to a manual transmission version (not widely available), the CVT offers greater convenience, especially in urban traffic. Compared to potential future higher-output turbocharged engines, this variant is geared towards fuel economy and ease of use.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Territory 1.5 EcoBoost CVT typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and ABS. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, a sunroof, automatic climate control, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Interior materials were generally of good quality for the price point, with a focus on practicality and durability. The dashboard layout was clean and functional, with intuitive controls. Optional extras included upgraded sound systems, navigation, and parking sensors.
Chassis & Braking
The Territory utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively. The braking system consists of disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering is electrically assisted, providing light and precise steering feel. The chassis is designed to balance ride comfort with handling stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Territory 1.5 EcoBoost CVT was generally well-received in the Chinese market, praised for its value for money, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. Critics noted that the CVT transmission could feel somewhat sluggish at times, but appreciated its smooth operation. Compared to other compact SUVs in its class, the Territory offered a competitive level of features and equipment for its price. Fuel economy was a strong point, with the 1.5 EcoBoost engine achieving around 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg) in combined driving conditions. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with few major issues reported.
Legacy
The Ford Territory 1.5 EcoBoost CVT represents a significant step for Ford in adapting to the evolving demands of the global SUV market. While not sold in all regions, it demonstrated Ford’s ability to develop and produce a competitive compact SUV for a price-sensitive market. The 1.5 EcoBoost engine and CVT transmission have proven to be relatively reliable, and the Territory continues to be a popular choice in the used car market. Its success paved the way for future Ford SUV models and helped to strengthen the brand’s presence in key international markets. The combination of a turbocharged engine and CVT transmission offered a good balance of performance and efficiency, making it a practical and appealing option for many buyers.
