Our Ford Territory long-termer takes the stress out of driving in the rain

Gauteng and surrounds had a dry start to the summer but it feels like every inch that was meant to fall in the season, and perhaps in the last 20 years for that matter, has suddenly bucketed over our region in the past month.

This can of course make everyday journeys like the school run and work commute somewhat more stressful. Not only is this due to the slippery surfaces and reduced visibility but also because of the many clowns who don’t use any common sense under these adverse conditions.

All driving experts agree on a few basic survival tactics for wet weather, such as slowing down and increasing following distances, while also avoiding sudden braking and sharp turns. Switching on headlights and ensuring that tyres are replaced before the tread wears too thin are other complete no-brainers.

Unfortunately, there are too many out there who simply don’t have the common sense and patience needed to drive in the rain, which makes it stressful for the rest of us. But one thing I felt grateful for during the last few downpours was being behind the wheel of our Ford Territory long-term test vehicle.

With its wide stance and grippy 19-inch tyres, which are standard on the Titanium, as well as its impressively-insulated and comfortable cabin, the Territory takes the sting out of driving in heavy rain.

Granted, the fitment of all-wheel drive could have taken its handling confidence to the next level, but most rivals don’t have this either, and pushed through some sharp corners in the vicinity of my office, it never once felt like the Territory was about to lose its grip.

Having lived with our long-term Territory for five months, there are many things we’ve grown to appreciate about this SUV, and a few that we don’t.

On the 'like' list are its quiet and refined road manners, spacious cabin with comfortable seats, large and modern 12.3-inch dual-screen infotainment system and the excellent sound quality from its eight-speaker system.

It’s well-specced too, with a wireless phone charger and dual-zone climate control fitted from the midrange Trend upwards, while the Titanium also comes with a twin-panel panoramic moonroof and LED ambient lighting.

There are a few niggles, such as overly-sensitive throttle and braking, which one does get used to fairly quickly, and the stop-start system can be a little slow on the uptake, which is why I deactivate it via the console-mounted button every time I get behind the wheel.

The 1.8-litre turbopetrol engine, with 132kW on tap, provides adequate performance, given the vehicle’s size and weight, while overall fuel consumption has amounted to 9.6 litres per 100km during our time with the car.

The Ford Territory 1.8T Titanium is currently priced at R725,500, which includes a six-year or 90,000km service plan.

IOL