- Hands-on Hybrid Experience: Media took the All-New Ford Territory Hybrid on a two-day drive from Manila to Baguio to test its performance and efficiency.
- Power and Comfort in Action: The Territory Hybrid impressed with its smooth power, adaptive drive modes, and confident handling on every road.
- Proven Reliability: Through rain, fog, and winding terrain, it stayed stable and dependable for any kind of drive.
There’s no better way to test a car than to take it on a real adventure, and that’s exactly what Ford Philippines did for the All-New Ford Territory Hybrid. In its first-ever media drive to Baguio City, members of the press experienced firsthand what this new generation of the Territory has to offer: style, comfort, and power now made even smarter and more efficient.
The journey kicked off bright and early at Seda Hotel Manila Bay, where participants were treated to a hearty breakfast and their car assignments for the drive. Spirits were high and cameras were ready—it’s not every day you get to drive through three provinces with a hybrid SUV that promises to “do more with less fuel.”
Smooth Roads and Smart Moves
The convoy rolled out from Manila toward the Rosario Exit on the TPLEX, covering a distance of roughly 230 kilometers. The first leg served as an Eco Run Challenge, testing just how fuel-efficient the Territory Hybrid could be when driven smartly. Along the smooth stretches of expressways, the 1.5L EcoBoost engine worked seamlessly with its hybrid system, delivering power when needed and conserving energy during low-speed cruising.
A few pit stops at Total NLEX and Petron TPLEX gave everyone time to switch drivers, stretch, and compare notes—mostly about how surprisingly quiet and smooth the ride was.
The Real Test: Climbing Kennon Road
After a quick refuel at CleanFuel Rosario, it was time to hit the famous Kennon Road, the ultimate test of power and control. Some teams switched to Normal Mode, while others, feeling adventurous, flipped the switch to Sport Mode. Instantly, the Territory Hybrid’s character changed—tighter suspension, sharper response, and that satisfying pull when tackling those steep ascents and winding corners.
Our team, Car #10, took the challenge head-on. The SUV handled every curve and incline with confidence, its brakes responsive and its handling surefooted. Even as the road narrowed and the mist thickened, the Territory Hybrid held its own, blending agility with a reassuring sense of control.
A Well-Deserved Baguio Break
The convoy’s first stop in the City of Pines was Gypsy Baguio, where the group enjoyed a well-earned lunch of fresh Benguet produce and hearty dishes. Of course, it didn’t take long before phones and cameras were out again, capturing the Territory fleet lined up against the foggy Baguio backdrop.
Later that afternoon, everyone checked into the John Hay Hotels Garden Wing (formerly The Manor), where Ford had set up cozy spaces for content creation, interviews, and a bit of downtime. Despite the evening rain and fog rolling in, the energy stayed high—especially when dinner arrived. A four-course feast, good company, and a few rounds of drinks made for the perfect nightcap to an exciting first day.
Day Two: Downhill Drive and Typhoon Drama
The next morning, the convoy geared up early to beat Typhoon Paolo’s forecasted rains. The drive from Baguio to Rosario via Asin Road was nothing short of thrilling—tight hairpins, steep inclines, narrow tunnels, and sudden twists that put both drivers and the Territory Hybrid to the test. Through it all, the SUV’s balance and traction control proved just how capable it was on unpredictable terrain.
After a quick stop in Rosario, La Union, the teams regrouped for a hearty closing lunch at Moe and Bel’s in Clark. But the road had one last surprise: zero visibility along NLEX due to the typhoon’s strong gusts. Even so, the Territory Hybrid kept steady, showing off its stability and reliability under pressure.
By late afternoon, the convoy rolled back into Seda Hotel Manila Bay, marking the end of a two-day adventure filled with learning, laughter, and unforgettable drives.
Final Thoughts
From smooth expressways to steep mountain roads, from clear skies to stormy stretches, the All-New Ford Territory Hybrid handled it all with grace, confidence, and power. More than just a test drive, the Baguio media run proved what the new Territory stands for: a smarter, more capable companion for every kind of journey.
Ready to take your own adventure? Visit your nearest Ford dealership or check out the All-New Ford Territory Hybrid on www.ford.com.ph and experience the perfect blend of performance, efficiency, and comfort for yourself.