The Ford Territory 1.5 EcoBoost, 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 the 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine producing 140 horsepower, served as a key volume seller within the Territory lineup, offering a balance of fuel efficiency and acceptable performance for urban driving. It occupied the lower-mid range of the Territory’s trim levels, positioned below the more powerful engine options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Territory |
| Generation | Territory I |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 EcoBoost (140 Hp) |
| 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 | 10.9 kg/Hp, 92.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm, 148 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 | 1520 kg (3351.03 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 | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| 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 this Territory variant is the 1.5-liter EcoBoost inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, part of Ford’s EcoBoost family, utilizes direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance power and efficiency. The engine code is specific to the Chinese market production. The direct injection system allows for precise fuel delivery, optimizing combustion and reducing emissions. The turbocharger provides a boost in power, compensating for the relatively small displacement. The engine’s valvetrain features four valves per cylinder, contributing to improved breathing and overall performance. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing drivers with full control over gear selection. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy, prioritizing usability in urban environments.
Driving Characteristics
The 140 horsepower and 225 Nm (165.95 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 1.5 EcoBoost engine provide adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration is best described as moderate, with a 0-60 mph time estimated around 10-11 seconds. The engine feels responsive at lower RPMs thanks to the turbocharger, offering sufficient power for everyday driving situations like merging onto highways or overtaking slower vehicles. Compared to higher-output versions of the Territory, this variant lacks the punch for more spirited driving. The manual transmission allows for precise control, but the gear ratios are geared towards fuel efficiency rather than outright performance. The overall driving experience is comfortable and predictable, making it well-suited for city commuting and family transportation.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 EcoBoost Territory typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and steel wheels with wheel covers. Safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels offered upgrades such as alloy wheels, a larger touchscreen infotainment system, a rearview camera, and leather upholstery. Optional extras included a sunroof, automatic climate control, and advanced driver-assistance systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Territory 1.5 EcoBoost 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 for the vehicle’s weight class. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering is rack and pinion with electric power steering, offering a light and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Territory 1.5 EcoBoost was generally well-received in the Chinese market as a practical and affordable compact SUV. Critics praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and decent fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the power of its competitors and that the interior materials were not as premium as some other SUVs in its class. Compared to other trims in the Territory lineup, the 1.5 EcoBoost offered the best value for money, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Its fuel economy of 6.7 l/100 km was competitive with other similarly sized SUVs.
Legacy
The Ford Territory 1.5 EcoBoost has established itself as a reliable and relatively trouble-free vehicle in the used car market. The 1.5 EcoBoost engine, while not known for exceptional performance, has proven to be durable and dependable with proper maintenance. Common issues are generally minor, relating to wear and tear on components like the turbocharger and fuel injectors. The availability of spare parts is good in China, and the vehicle’s relatively simple mechanical design makes it relatively easy to repair. As a used car, the Territory 1.5 EcoBoost represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking an affordable and practical compact SUV.
