New Ford Territory Hybrid Surpasses Expectations in Design and Fuel Efficiency | Arabelle Jimenez

New Ford Territory Hybrid Titanium X

Ford Philippines once again rolled out an exciting two-day media drive to showcase the all-new Ford Territory Hybrid Titanium X, a vehicle that proves fuel efficiency, comfort, and technology can truly coexist. With ten shiny new units lined up, Monch Henares of Monchster Chronicles and I, took the wheel of Car #4 for what turned out to be a hybrid adventure worth remembering.

Kick-off at Seda Manila Bay

The day began bright and early with a hearty breakfast at Seda Manila Bay in Aseana, Parañaque. Members of the media were welcomed warmly by the Ford Philippines leadership team, led by Pedro Simões, Managing Director of Ford Group Philippines, together with EJ Francisco, Director for Communications - Asia Pacific Distributor Markets and The Philippines; and JL Daez, Communications Manager.

Ford Philippines team and media partners at Seda Manila Bay.

The group was then briefed on the drive route and objectives by George Ramirez and daughter, Jacquelyn of Ramirez & Cutter Events, who outlined the day’s mix of highway, mountain, and city driving—each designed to put the new Territory Hybrid’s powertrain, handling, and advanced driver-assist technologies to the test.

Driving shotgum with Monch Henares on Car No. 4, we were ready to enjoy, and experience what the new Ford Territory Hybrid has in store for us.

Day 1: From the Bay to the Pines

Fuel Efficiency Run — Seda Manila Bay to Cleanfuel Rosario

Our journey began with a smooth cruise on the expressway, heading toward Cleanfuel Rosario for the first fuel stop. Here, the focus was on fuel economy and adaptive cruise control—a chance to experience the hybrid’s seamless synergy between its 1.5-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine (150 PS, 230 Nm) and its powerful electric motor that pushes 218 PS (160 kW) and 315 Nm of instant torque.

Safety features unlock during the rainy drive on the highway.

On the long stretches of highway, the 2-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) impressed us with its smooth gear transitions. The engine decoupling clutch allowed the vehicle to run purely on electric power, perfect for cruising through early-morning traffic without burning unnecessary fuel.

Rosario to Baguio via Kennon Road

After logging our fuel efficiency data, we took the scenic and winding Kennon Road—a route that truly brought out the new Territory Hybrid’s torque and handling capabilities. The hybrid powertrain’s instant response helped us climb effortlessly through steep gradients and sharp turns. Steering felt confident and intuitive thanks to the Selectable Steering Modes, which allowed us to tailor the feedback between comfort and sportier precision.

Easy ascent on Kennon Road.

The Around View Monitor came in handy when maneuvering through tight bends and narrow mountain roads, giving us a full 360-degree visual of our surroundings—an invaluable tool in Baguio’s twisty approach roads.

By sunset, we arrived at the Garden Wing of The Manor at Camp John Hay, where Ford hosted a cozy dinner and fellowship among media peers.

Spacious trunk compartment.

Day 2: Regeneration and Real-World Cruising

Baguio to Rosario via Asin Road

I took the wheel on our descent through Asin Road and tested the hybrid’s regenerative braking system, which captured kinetic energy from deceleration and converted it back into stored battery power. The Comfort Braking System made a noticeable difference, minimizing body pitch during sudden stops and ensuring a smooth, composed ride even through steep downhill curves.

Arabelle Jimenez of Motourismo takes the wheel on Asin Road.

This leg also showcased the hybrid’s stability and braking balance—especially useful when overtaking or encountering sharp hairpins. Every slowdown felt like a small recharge, both for the battery and for us drivers enjoying the cool mountain air.

Rosario to Clark — Highway Cruising

After a brief stop and driver change at Cleanfuel Rosario, we hit the expressway toward Moe & Bel’s in Clark, this time focusing on steady cruising between 90–100 km/h. The four computer-controlled powertrain modes intelligently shifted between electric, hybrid, and combustion operation to maintain optimum efficiency. It was here that we appreciated the quiet cabin and the hybrid’s smooth response—a combination that made long-distance driving genuinely relaxing.

Clark to Manila — The Final Stretch

Our final leg from Clark back to Seda Manila Bay was more personal. We each took turns behind the wheel, savoring the hybrid’s refined ride quality and driver-centric features. The New ADAS package (Advanced Driver Assistance System) helped maintain lane discipline and adaptive distance, while the comfort-oriented suspension soaked up every bump along the expressway.

Record-Breaking  

A solid 20.4 km/L.
JL Daez, Ford Philippines Communication Manager (center), awarding the winners of the fuel efficiency challenge; Arabelle Jimenez of Motourismo and Monch Henares of Monchster Chronicles.  

The economy run during the media drive was the ultimate test for this hybrid's fuel efficiency. By the time we reached Clean Fuel Station in Rosario, Pangasinan from Seda Manila Bay, our display showed a solid 20.4 km/L. We actually did better than the officially-declared 19.8 km/L combined fuel economy of Ford Philippines. 

The New Ford Territory Hybrid Titanium X is more than just an upgrade—it’s a statement of Ford’s forward-thinking approach to everyday driving. With a combination of dynamic power, energy regeneration, and smart safety technology, it bridges the gap between efficiency and excitement.

From the efficiency runs to the mountain climbs and expressway cruises, the Territory Hybrid proved itself not just capable, but genuinely enjoyable to drive. Whether in electric silence or full-hybrid power mode, it delivered a confident and comfortable experience worthy of the Ford badge.

Winning first place at the eco-run tops the whole fun experience. Driving green has never felt this good.