Automotive

Ford Territory: A techie finds his dream car

Comfortable driving and hi-tech features

Published

October 29, 2021

Luigi Leonardo

Riding a car is a matter-of-fact part of life. It’s either a bumpy trek careened by rideshares and private chauffeurs, or a face-melting drive crawling through viscous traffic and terrifying motorists. For a techie, a drive can turn monotonous from being trapped in a steel cage unable to use their precious devices. FOMO is strong for a techie driver.

As a techie myself, fawning over a car seemed impossible. After all, why would I fall in love with a car when the latest smartphone is right around the corner?

That was, of course, before I met the Ford Territory. A new marvel orchestrated by Ford, the Territory turns a cavernous way to get from point to point into a veritable lounge equipped with the latest in automotive technologies and comforts.

A techie’s paradise

Going through Manila traffic is an undeniable chore. Traveling between cities can take hours under the worst driving conditions. The Ford Territory packs in so many new features that you might even find yourself glad to be stuck in traffic.

My girlfriend and I took the Territory for a romantic date from Quezon City to Bonifacio Global City, and we couldn’t be happier. Obviously, taking the love of your life is a reason for elation by itself. However, Ford’s SUV made the day so much sweeter.

Everything starts with the Territory’s insanely responsive infotainment system. On its own, Ford’s built-in SYNC can control the car’s temperature, entertainment, phone, and safety features from the tap of a screen. The system is a standard of every Ford car now, but it’s even better with an ultra-responsive 10-inch touchscreen. It’s like having a tablet right in your car.

Plus, if SYNC isn’t your flavor, it also comes with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. As a couple with both Android and Apple devices, we were satisfied with how the car catered to both our tastes. We could use Waze, Maps, Spotify, Tidal, or Pocket Casts seamlessly from our seats. Regardless of who has DJ responsibilities, the Territory catered to both my eclectic music tastes and her obsessions for all things Disney.

And speaking of music, the Territory has one of the most satisfying soundstages I’ve heard from a car’s sound system. Both bass and higher frequencies are tuned in to deliver the best quality of music, regardless of what you’re jamming to. Plus, it’s just as good regardless of where I sit in the car.

Safety is a priority

While the Territory is certainly one of the most tech-savvy vehicles I’ve ridden in, it is also one of the safest. The car keeps both driver and passengers safe from any difficult road condition.

The first thing you might notice as a rider in the car is its extensive collision warning system. Gentle but firm beeping sounds and on-screen alerts keep you on top of any obstacles approaching you on the road. And, if you do get too close to an obstacle it detects, the Territory stamps on the brakes with its Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking. For longer drives, it comes with Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Departure Warnings.

Parking is also a breeze. With its Enhanced Active Parking System, the Territory can, to put it bluntly, park itself. It knows how much torque you need for both reverse and parallel parking. While the system still needs your input, the car can do the heavy lifting for you. Or, if you prefer doing the lifting yourself, the car also has an incredibly detailed 360-degree camera. You still have the more traditional rear camera, but the all-around camera gives you a delicious overhead view of the car. You don’t need to bring down your window anymore to see if you parked correctly.

Besides that, the Territory has all the fixings for an ultra-safe vehicle: ABS, EBD, traction control, hill launch assist, and airbags everywhere. Though we (thankfully) didn’t experience every safety feature the car had to offer, having the peace of mind makes for a more-than-worry-free drive.

Lounging under the stars

In terms of size, the Territory is bigger than an EcoSport but smaller than an Everest. And it does feel that way with its expansive space and legroom. The car is roomy but not to an agoraphobic point. It’s just right. Driving in the front seat, chilling in the rear seats, or having a picnic with the hatch open — everything feels comfortable.

Outside of space, the Territory is even more comfortable with the addition of an adaptive temperature control. If you had to park the car under the scalding heat, you’ll probably enjoy the seat coolers (and warmers). Plus, to help fight off the bad things going around in the air today, the car also has built-in CN95 cabin air filters.

And finally, to address the gorilla in the room, the moonroof. The Territory has one that spans from the driver’s seat to the rear passenger’s side. With a simple dial, you can retract the fabric cover and half of the moonroof’s glass panel to let in some fresh air. It’s a perfect feature to use on a romantic date. We parked the car under a relatively open area and admired the stars in comfort.

Lighter than a feather

For its size, the Territory drives like a hot knife through butter: topping off at 143ps and 22Nm of torque. Accelerating through both easygoing and bumper-to-bumper traffic is responsive. It injects as much gas as you’ll need to get through the city. Handling is an even bigger surprise. We went through tight alleyway shortcuts with ease. To top it all off, we also drove the car up and down steep slopes. The car had just the right amount of bite to keep you afloat in the middle of a slope.

Further, the 1.5L EcoBoost engine’s Continuously Variable Transmission comes with a pleasant sport mode. The feature certainly unlocks a lot of the car’s potential. Using it in less hectic situations brought the spotlight firmly onto what the engine can do as a car. And yet, despite turning on a sportier car, the Territory remains faithful to its slew of safety features. You can keep safe while having fun.

The techie dream

As a car, the Ford Territory is more than worthy as a daily driver. Whether you take it going to work every day or on a romantic date on the weekend, the SUV can deliver just as much power as you’ll need for a drive.

As a tech device, the Ford Territory packs in so many creature comforts to keep its riders entertained throughout a drive. Short of a self-driving car, Ford’s latest series is definitely a car I’d love to own as a techie today.

Pricing and availability

The Ford Territory Trend is available at a starting price of PhP 1,277,000. If you want to get all the safety features, the Ford Territory Titanium+ is priced at PhP 1,310,000. It comes in six different colors: Ruby Red, Diffused Silver, Panther Black, Crystal Pearl White, Moonstone Blue and Star White.

Automotive

Porsche Cayenne Electric launches in the Philippines

Porsche’s electric SUV arrives locally.

Published

October 27, 2026

GadgetMatch

Porsche has introduced the all-electric Cayenne in the Philippines, expanding its flagship SUV lineup with a fully electric powertrain. The new model joins the existing gasoline and plug-in hybrid variants, giving buyers more options as the brand expands its electric vehicle lineup.

The launch also coincides with Porsche’s 30th anniversary in the Philippines, marking another milestone for the German automaker in the local market.

Porsche Cayenne Electric delivers up to 642km of range

The Philippine-spec Cayenne Electric features a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive powertrain paired with a 113kWh battery. It produces up to 325kW (442PS) and 835Nm of torque with Launch Control activated.

Porsche claims the electric SUV can accelerate from zero to 100km/h in 4.8 seconds. It also offers a driving range of up to 642 kilometers based on the WLTP testing cycle.

The Cayenne Electric supports DC fast charging at up to 400kW. This allows for faster charging at compatible high-powered charging stations. For home charging, the SUV comes with an 11kW onboard AC charger.

Digital cockpit and adjustable rear seating

The Cayenne Electric features a 3,023mm wheelbase, providing additional room for passengers. Its rear seats offer 150mm of fore-and-aft adjustment and up to 18 degrees of backrest tilt, allowing occupants to prioritize legroom or cargo space.

Inside, the SUV introduces Porsche’s Flow Display, a curved OLED interface that serves as the centerpiece of its digital cockpit. An optional 14.9-inch passenger display is also available for entertainment and navigation-related functions.

The cabin combines these digital features with a configurable seating layout designed to balance passenger comfort and practicality.

Porsche Cayenne Electric features adaptive air suspension

The Cayenne Electric comes with adaptive air suspension and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) as standard. Buyers can also opt for rear-axle steering and an active-hydraulic chassis leveling system.

Its driver-assistance and parking features include Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Change Assist, ParkAssist with a 2D surround-view system, automated parking functions, and driver attention monitoring.

By offering the electric Cayenne alongside its combustion-engine and plug-in hybrid counterparts, Porsche continues to give customers a choice of powertrains while expanding its electric vehicle portfolio in the Philippines.

Porsche in the Philippines

Porsche Center Philippines has served as the official importer and distributor of Porsche sports cars in the country since 1996. Its offerings include the latest Porsche models, Porsche Lifestyle products, genuine parts, and after-sales services.

Automotive

Psst! You can test drive BYD and DENZA EVs for free this week, but not for long

Four days of EV displays, test drives, and a first look at the DENZA Z9 GT.

Published

October 8, 2026

GadgetMatch

BYD Cars Philippines and DENZA Philippines are opening Super Experience Week to the public starting October 8, 2026.

The event runs until October 11 and gives visitors a hands-on look at the brands’ latest EVs and plug-in hybrids, along with test drives and a few previews. Admission is free.

BYD brings its plug-in hybrids and safety program

BYD’s showcase at the BGC Amphitheater will feature the Sealion 6 DM-i and the Tang DM-i. The brand’s full lineup will be on display at the BGC Garden, where visitors can also take the cars out for test drives.

BYD is also running its “Drive Electric, EV Safety Program” at the event. It’s aimed at helping new and prospective owners learn more about EV use as the community in the Philippines continues to grow. BYD says visitors can also get exclusive offers on all of its models, but only during Super Experience Week.

DENZA shows its premium lineup and a first look at the Z9 GT

DENZA is the centerpiece of the event. The brand is displaying its D9, B5, and B8, positioned as premium smart mobility with an emphasis on design, in-car tech, electrified performance, and comfort.

The main draw is an exclusive preview of the DENZA Z9 GT. The Philippine launch is targeted for the first quarter of 2027, and reservations are already open for customers who want to register their interest before it arrives.

The weekend moves to 5th Avenue

On October 10 and 11, the event expands to 5th Avenue, which will host a dedicated performance and advanced mobility showcase. A special exhibition will feature YANGWANG models, BYD’s ultra-luxury new energy vehicles.

The DENZA B5, DENZA B8, and BYD Shark 6 DMO will also be on show in a street exhibition throughout the weekend.

Test drives across both the BYD and DENZA lineups will be available for the duration of the event, so visitors can check out the tech, performance, and comfort of each model firsthand.

Automotive

Electric luxury reimagined: XPENG launches next-gen EV lineup

XPENG’s PH lineup spans the X9 MPV and the L03, with prices starting at PhP 1,548,000

Published

September 28, 2026

MJ Jucutan

XPENG has officially entered the Philippine EV market. Over 3,000 guests attended the brand’s grand local debut. During the launch event, the automaker introduced a six-variant lineup.

The lineup features the flagship X9 MPV and the sleek L03 SUV Coupé. Prices start at an accessible PhP 1,548,000.

Brand ambassador Anne Curtis joined the celebration on stage, while XPENG showcased its X2 Flying Car and IRON Humanoid Robot. These futuristic displays highlighted the company’s “Physical AI” vision.

XPENG X9: First-class travel for seven

The XPENG X9 serves as the brand’s flagship seven-seater MPV.

It turns luxury mobility into a private lounge experience. Buyers can choose between two Long Range variants. The base X9 Long Range costs PhP 3,858,000. It features zero-gravity second-row seats with a central aisle. This layout ensures quick access to the third row. The Premium Seat Package costs PhP 4,058,000.

It upgrades the middle row to individual captain’s chairs. These chairs feature four-way powered headrests and 16-point massage.

Both variants share identical mechanical hardware. A front-wheel-drive motor produces 235 kW and 450 Nm of torque. A massive 110 kWh battery provides up to 615 km of range.

A compatible DC fast charger boosts power from 10 to 80 percent in 12 minutes. Active rear-wheel steering delivers a tight 5.4-meter turning radius. Dual-chamber air suspension ensures maximum ride comfort.

A powered third row folds completely flat beneath the floor. Color options include Midnight Black, Arctic White, Matte Gray, and Silver Frost. Inside, buyers can select Meteorite Black or Coffee.

XPENG L03: Sleek versatility meets electric freedom

The L03 SUV Coupé blends striking aesthetics with daily utility. XPENG offers four distinct variants. Three models use pure battery-electric powertrains. One model features a range-extended electric setup (REEV).

The L03 EV Standard Range costs PhP 1,548,000. Its 58.3 kWh battery delivers up to 445 km of range. The L03 EV Long Range costs PhP 1,698,000 and offers up to 520 km.

The top-tier Long Range Ultra costs PhP 2,058,000 with 480 km of range. This Ultra trim adds front-seat massage, upgraded audio, and intelligent driving tech.

The L03 REEV costs PhP 1,598,000. It uses an onboard gas engine as an electric generator. Its 37.2 kWh battery delivers 215 km of pure electric driving. Total WLTP combined range reaches up to 1,017 km.

All L03 models feature rear-wheel drive. Fast charging takes roughly 20 minutes to reach 80 percent. Every model includes a 15.6-inch touchscreen and 539 liters of cargo space.

Available colors include Arctic White, Midnight Black, Rock Gray, Silver Frost, and Phantom Purple.

Ownership packages, reservation details

XPENG pairs each model with generous ownership perks. X9 buyers receive five years of free preventive maintenance. The package includes five years of roadside assistance.

XPENG adds a five-year bumper-to-bumper warranty. An eight-year warranty covers the battery and motor. X9 buyers also receive a complimentary 7kW wall charger.

L03 buyers receive two years of free preventive maintenance. The L03 includes identical roadside, bumper-to-bumper, and battery warranties. L03 EV buyers get a 7kW wall charger. The REEV variant comes with a 3.5 kW portable charger.

Reservations cost PhP 25,000 for the X9 and PhP 10,000 for the L03. Buyers can reserve through @xpengphilippines on social media.

XPENG showrooms in Greenhills, Makati, North EDSA, and Cebu are accepting reservations now. Local customer deliveries will begin in the fourth quarter.