For the dashing motorist who is seeking a vehicle with, seemingly, the acceleration of a jet fighter Ford Australia has a turbo version of the Territory wagon available. The turbo variant pumps out an incredible amount of power, some 245 kW @ 5,250 rpm. Maximum torque of 480 Nm is produced at just 2,000 rpm.

The Next Car team put the Territory Turbo through its paces over a period of a week, which, as far as this consultant is concerned, is not nearly long enough. Through the northern suburbs of Sydney and through to Newcastle, via the F3 Freeway, this package was a dream to drive. The six speed automatic transmission does its job superbly without any thuds or clunks during downshifts or upshifts. Smooth is the word that comes to mind. All Territory variants, by the way, are automatic.

Territory Turbo is available in two trim levels, Turbo or Ghia Turbo. Both models feature all-wheel drive. Our test package was the base model, with a trim level roughly equivalent to the Territory TX, and has a recommended retail price from $53,990 (without options), plus the usual dealer and statutory state/territory government charges.

Externally, the overall fit and finish was first class with panel gaps very even and well fitted. The team were unable to locate any rattles or vibrations on either smooth or rough dirt roads, which is the same as our experience in other Territory models. Paint finish is also very good with the bumpers and wheel arch flares colour coded to match the vehicle colour. The Territory Turbo is distinguishable by the bonnet scoop and dual exhaust outlets. Running on alloy 18”x 7.5” rims the package was shod with P235/55 R18 highway pattern tyres, which did not cause any concern on gravel roads.

Suspension is control blade independent at the rear, with virtual pivot control link at the front. Stopping the vehicle is by large vented discs with twin piston calipers at the front and vented rotor with a single piston unit at the rear. Standard safety features include ABS with EBD, dynamic stability control (DSC) and a traction control system (TCS). Hill descent control (HDC) is available as an optional extra, although this consultant can not see a need as the Territory is a soft roader and not really at home on rough, hard core, out of the way outback tracks. Hampering off road ability is the ground clearance of 179 mm. Other external dimensions, for those wishing to see if AWD Territory Turbo will fit in the garage, are length 4,856 mm, width 1,898 mm (excluding mirrors) and the height is 1,714 mm.

This package is an excellent towing platform with loads of torque; however it is restricted somewhat by its relatively light weight of 2,072 kilogrammes. Maximum towing for a braked caravan/trailer is 2,300 kg, provided a heavy duty tow pack is fitted.  Tow ball download is 230 kilogrammes. Hopefully, Ford Australia will drop a V6 turbo diesel into the engine bay and then this will become an even better tow vehicle. The Next Car Team are waiting with baited breath for the diesel power plant to eventuate.

Internally, this piece of marvellous machinery has lots to offer. From the front seats it provides very good all round vision with functional, easy to see and reach, instruments and control switches. This consultant was very relaxed in comfortable front bucket seats. The driver’s seat has 4 way adjustable power functions, but no memory settings. Of course, dual stage front airbags for driver and passenger are standard. Central remote locking is standard fitment, whilst reverse sensors are optional. Auto headlamp on/off is a feature that we enjoy, with a casual hope that more manufacturers will install this battery saving idea. In the current market segments for vehicles in this category, premium sound system with a 6 disc in dash CD player is the norm, not so with the base model AWD Turbo, as it only rates a single disc unit. The 6 disc item an optional extra.

Other features include: Electrochromatic (auto dimming) interior rear view mirror, Power windows (front & rear), Trip computer, Air conditioning, Power external mirrors, Steering wheel mounted controls for audio, speed alert switches and cruise control, Leather wrapped steering wheel and parking brake handle. Ford Australia also advises that there are 30, yes 30, storage compartments which include the mandatory cup holders (front and rear).

Using Ford Australia supplied figures, the 'combined' cycle suggests the average fuel consumption, when using 95RON petrol is 14.2 L/100 kms. The Territory Turbo uses all fuel grades from 91RON upwards. The fuel tank capacity is 75 litres.

Overall, the Territory Turbo AWD is an impressive vehicle and excellent performer with a strong power plant. The 6 speed ZF auto transmission is well matched to the turbo engine. Ride quality is very good; however this package is best suited to bitumen and well maintained gravel roads.