This is not clickbait. The 2023 (non-hybrid) model I tested achieved only 7.1-km/l. While the hybrid model promises better mileage, it’s clear that if this nameplate took a 54% market share three years ago when gas was P60 per liter, there’s even more to love about the Territory Titanium X 1.5L Hybrid today.

Ford added a hybrid powertrain as part of a facelift to the second-generation Territory. The body is unchanged apart from slight fascia updates: glossy grille, new LED headlights, LED daytime running lamps with follow-me-home, and a revised rear with an LED taillamp bar and reshaped bumper. The most obvious feature is its larger size compared to other compact crossovers. Does this mean more space? We’ll find out.

Ford attempts to streamline its look with sporty features such as a fin-type antenna and a rear spoiler, but it can’t exactly be described as sleek with a chunky nose and big doors. Just like its predecessor, it has two-tone alloy wheels. This top-of-the-line model uses 19s. With thinner body cladding and more prominent silver accents, this test unit strikes a more dignified pose compared to the first-generation Territory. If I were to revise one thing, I’d take out the extra ‘HYBRID’ badges on the rocker panels. It feels like overkill. The one on the hands-free power tailgate should suffice.

One feature I immediately liked, which isn’t common in this segment, is its auto-unlock that triggers on approach, before I even reach for the handle. I imagine that will come in really handy when your hands are full.

It is more compact inside than I thought it would be, but still feels roomier than rivals in the segment. The broad two-level center console, flat padded dashboard, slim vents, and two 12-inch monitors sitting side by side help make the cabin feel more spacious than it is. Ford did a great job minimizing cockpit clutter without removing essential controls such as the haptic fan speed touch bar (temperature and seat vents control are still in the touchscreen) and two rotary switches (one for the two-speed hybrid transmission and the other for the infotainment touchscreen). Take note that the cup holders (even on the door panels) won’t fit small water tumblers.

The wireless Apple CarPlay connects automatically and works seamlessly, and so do the numerous features in the extensive menu of the Ford OS. I have no complaints about the entertainment and eight-speaker system, but the instrument cluster interface must be better.

It was difficult to find the trip computer, and the button to switch between Normal, Eco, and Sport is marked by an asterisk, which isn’t a universal symbol for Drive Modes.

Having a wireless charging pad is great, but it does not have a physical ‘On’ switch. I had to dig through the digital menu to find it.

The leather seats are comfortable but need more bolstering for a snug fit. I just wonder why the front row seats are black, but the rear is two-tone. The Type-A and Type-C USB ports are on the bottom level of the center console; the other two Type-Cs are at the rear. Finally, the interior’s width makes the view from the panoramic moonroof more dramatic.

Higher efficiency is what this Territory is selling, and with fuel prices skyrocketing, that’s a good enough reason to put it on your list of options. The Territory Titanium X Hybrid has a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with a 1.83-kWh battery producing a combined 218-PS and 315-Nm of torque. It returned a combined 18.7-km/l in seven days of use. Acceleration is smooth from 0-kph to the mandated 100-kph, but there’s audible strain on the engine only at around 80-kph. It is all quiet at speeds above that.

Compared to other crossovers, it feels like it sits higher on the ground, which will make you more confident over potholes and puddles of water. I don’t know if that’s partly the reason why the suspension feels stiffer, but while road noise and harshness are totally dampened, it could use a softer ride.

As Ford is one of the pioneers of driver-assist tech, this variant gets the full suite, which includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Warning, and Lane Keeping Aid.

There is room for improvement, but the 2026 Ford Territory Titanium X 1.5L Hybrid will (literally) take you further than your previous Territory on a single liter of gasoline. That and all the other features for P1.599 million seem like a very fair market price.