Automotive

Quality time goes miles with the Ford Territory Titanium X

Brunch, indoor climbing, comfortable rides, and more

Published

February 14, 2024

MJ Jucutan

Car dates are always an opportunity to strengthen the bond between you and another person.

Imagine: Spending that proximity in an enclosed space for a certain amount of time, sharing conversations, and creating new memories. Those moments build-up, adding up to a history you’ll have with someone.

Most of the time, sedans are the perfect car dates especially when going around in the city. The smaller space makes you feel closer together, making it easier to grab your beau’s hands when standing still in traffic.

For a change, I used the Next-Gen Ford Territory Titanium X to take someone out on a date.

Leveling up the date rides

Back in November, I drove the Ford Territory Titanium for a date night with my friend, Miguel, hitting the cafes and spots we wanted to visit before.

Even with just the two of us, the vehicle didn’t feel big enough as we love a spacious cabin and compartment.

So, when the Ford Territory Titanium X arrived, I knew I had to drive it down south for a sequel of our date night. This time around, I had to level up our quality time to match the leveled-up car.

Early in the morning, I picked up my mate in Los Baños, Laguna where he resides, which is roughly 80km away from where I live.

L-R: Inside the Ford Territory Titanium (Nov 2023), Inside the Ford Territory Titanium X (Feb 2024)

All my relationships are long-distance, which is why I place utmost importance on spending quality time with the people I love.

I didn’t mind waking up at four in the morning if it meant seeing a scenic sunrise across the freeway and having a lot of time to spend with my friend.

The LED headlights (that feel blinding) accompanied me while driving in the dark. The auto-high beam helped illuminate the forested roads in Calamba that are pitch black.

At seven in the morning, I got to fetch my friend for a long day of adventure.

When your love language is Quality Time

After getting in, my friend pointed out what I also noticed when I first rode the vehicle. The cabin’s roomier, giving off an airy vibe, thanks to its panoramic moonroof that helped soak in more sunlight inside.

Even the space in the backseat provided a lot of legroom, but we used it to stash our bags and pillows instead. While other people love being in close proximity, I prefer having a lot of room and space so I don’t feel suffocated. Somehow, the Ford Territory Titanium X is an ideal match.

Photos taken using the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Upon entering the freeway, we had a quick breakfast at the nearest McDonald’s. I insisted on having a quick breakfast fix before our day began since I hadn’t eaten anything nor drank any coffee before going on a drive.

It was a miracle that I was able to keep a sane, calm mind when driving without caffeine. I guess it was the excitement of seeing my friend again after three months that fueled me for full-speed driving and making it in time for our desired schedule.

For around thirty minutes, we were inside the car jamming to my playlist while he unwrapped the gifts my friends and I gave him for Christmas. Yes, it took this long because he lives far away.

Playing around with the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

The 8-speaker system sounded better than the 6-speaker system from the Ford Territory Titanium. We had a little concert inside, screaming to OPM tunes that gave too much feels.

He also enjoyed playing around with the 12-inch colored touchscreen and the built-in SYNC that’s compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Even when it was getting hotter outside, the ventilated driver and passenger seats kept us comfortable. It made spending time together inside more fun and cozy.

“How do you like your coffee?” “With you”

After our quick breakfast fix, we drove to Rada Street in Makati to have brunch. On the way back to the Metro, we were bothered with how the smog envelopes the city.

Thankfully, the Ford Territory Titanium X came with an Air Anion Generator with PM2.5 monitoring. It kept checking the quality of the air inside, making sure the air we breathe is safe.

Most people keep their windows (and moonroof, if there’s one) open as they drive through the freeway and skyway, but upon entering the city, we decided to keep ourselves safe from the pollution.

Nevertheless, we made it to Wildflour Café + Bakery. We opted for a heavy brunch set knowing there’s a physically intensive activity waiting for us. I always believe in having food that gives energy throughout the day, without the risk of having a food coma.

I ordered the Wildflour Breakfast, which consisted of eggs, crispy potatoes, and homemade breakfast sausage.

My friend had the Breakfast BLT, my first option, which was served in a croissant loaded with crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomato.

It was topped with mustard, American cheese, and a sunny side-up egg. Yes, it sounds mouthwatering (and it really is).

We also ordered a hot Vanilla Almond Latte for me and a Chantilly iced coffee for him. Brunch isn’t always fresh juices and mimosas, especially for coffee-holics like us.

Learning to be on the same page

The mecca of the day was indoor climbing. I opted to have our activity at Climb Central Manila, where I used to do bouldering before I got addicted to Spartan Race.

For beginners, the staff requires the participants to listen to the safety briefing to ensure we get to enjoy the facility injury-free.

Inside Climb Central, beginners can attempt to do a top-rope climb where they climb while they have a partner (belayer) to handle the rope to ensure their safety as they climb and descend.

There’s also an auto-belay for those who feel confident enough to climb up and down on their own. For those who prefer a more challenging activity, bouldering can be found in the facility’s second floor.

The whole affair somehow strengthened the bond when we attempted to do the top-rope lanes. I felt unsure when I was halfway to the top whether my friend would hold the rope firmly and securely if I slipped and accidentally fell.

At times, he felt I was rushing in to get him down whenever he’s done with his climb. The activity fostered trust and communication, to ensure we’re on the same page.

Building trust and matching energies

In a way, indoor climbing is pretty much the same as driving. Your passenger bets their lives on you to keep them safe and secure, and it’s a privilege to hold their life in your hands (which should be at the steering wheel at all times).

While we found it challenging to align in what works for us when climbing up and down, we still managed to find the sweet spot in belaying the ropes to ensure we have a good time.

When we felt we had enough helping each other in top-rope climbs, we proceeded to do auto-belay.

The facility was crowded so we weren’t able to do a competition on who can climb faster. It’s always bets and games for us, and that’s pretty much the reason why out of all the people I’d choose to do indoor climbing, it’s with him.

What we did instead was record ourselves attempting to do auto-belay, which also brought lessons to us on learning when to let go and jump, or when to keep pushing to finish to the top.

After exhausting our muscles, we paused at the second floor to attend another safety briefing for Bouldering.

It’s a free form of climbing without ropes and harnesses, engaging your full body and activating your problem-solving skills to finish a certain lane.

I’d like to think we both enjoyed bouldering the most. It sharpened our competitive spirit, attempting the boulders over and over again until we finished it.

Though we wanted to climb more, our energy was depleted. We decided it was enough to call it a day. We already had a good time, and that was a new experience to remember.

Comfortable silence

After cleaning ourselves up, we headed to Ayala Solenad for our post-climb meal. It’s situated at the heart of Nuvali, a vast, green estate in Santa Rosa, Laguna.

My friend tried his best to accompany me so I wouldn’t feel sleepy as I drove on the freeway. However, the physical activity was really exhausting that I told him he can sleep instead and I’ll be fine.

Though I’d appreciate having someone to talk to and help with navigation as I drive, I also enjoy just listening to music or reveling in comfortable silence. Plus, I know I can trust the vehicle I was driving.

That’s the beauty of driving the Ford Territory Titanium X — or any Ford vehicles for that matter. Even though I’m extremely exhausted from all my activities, I still manage to drive comfortably and safely.

I’ve said this time and time again, but driving a Next-Gen Ford vehicle felt like doing some of the legwork for you. I love how the extensive collision warning system kept me on my toes.

There are gentle beeping sounds and on-screen alerts when a vehicle drives close to you, or you don’t have enough safe distance on the car in front of you. It kept me alert and awake, even when I just want to doze off.

It works perfectly when you don’t want to use Adaptive Cruise Control, but for safety, it’s best to trust on the Ford Territory Titanium X’s driver-assist technology.

Its system is enough to keep you and your passenger safe. And remember, they trust you enough that they get to sleep peacefully while you drive. Don’t lose that privilege.

Capping off the night

To cap off the night, we had dinner at Nono’s to enjoy a big plate of homestyle fried chicken. It’s a crispy boneless chicken fillet that’s dipped in gravy and honey. We had it served with brioche buns, corn on the cob, and rice to fuel up.

We sat at the al fresco area, frolicking with our phones, decompressing, and enjoying some conversations while people-watching.

Afterward, we dropped by Starbucks to pick up our coffee before going on a walk and exploring the area. When the rush hour ended, I drove Miguel back to his home in Los Baños, Laguna.

Our previous date night got a marvelous sequel — spending a full day with laughters, good conversation, quality time, and new memories to cherish.

The Ford Territory Titanium X may be an unusual choice for a date car, but it works for some. It brought my friend and I closer together, while improving trust and communication.

And more importantly, it kept us safe and secure even when we’re worn down from a day full of adventure. It might take a while for us to hang out together again, but it will surely be another quality time to remember.

For more information about the Next-Gen Ford Territory Titanium X, visit the Ford Territory page. Reserve the Next-Gen Ford Territory through www.ford.com.ph or check your nearest Ford dealer.

Automotive

What happens when the car you once loved returns as a Hybrid?

This is what it feels like to meet the Ford Territory… again.

Published

November 3, 2025

MJ Jucutan

When the love of my life turned into the loss of my life, driving felt like a chore I couldn’t bring myself to do. Driving wasn’t simply a way to get from Point A to Point B.

Every press on the accelerator once meant I was on my way to see someone I thought I’d build forever with. I could still picture us in traffic jams, singing songs off-key. Those memories made every drive feel alive.

But life doesn’t move according to your route. After that last drive with the Ford Territory Titanium X eight months ago, no other car or trip felt the same.

Everything since felt like errands. Just me, going somewhere, sometimes with people, but never with someone. For months, I stayed busy rebuilding, but healing sometimes feels like a road trip without a destination.

You start over, take turns you didn’t expect, and in the process, you realize others are evolving too. Case in point: the Ford Territory Titanium X, now reborn as a Hybrid.

I first saw it at its launch in Bonifacio Global City, and I didn’t feel any butterflies. But when I finally stepped inside for a drive to Baguio City, it felt… familiar.

It’s like meeting someone you used to know, only this time, they’ve grown softer and wiser. Maybe, I thought, this was my mirror moment. Maybe, I was meeting the better version of myself, too.

Upgraded, inside and out

At first glance, the Territory Hybrid Titanium X looks much like the one I used to know until you look closely.

Aside from the subtle Hybrid badge, it’s longer and wider, and maybe, even grander in presence. There’s a new grille, hood, and fenders, and a coast-to-coast LED light bar that glows (but only for the Titanium X trim).

It reminded me of the small shifts that happen when you heal. You buy new clothes, cut your hair, and even put up boundaries by saying “no” and then one day, someone will say “you look different.”

Inside, it felt like coming home. The cabin welcomed me with its familiar blend of leather. The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and the 12-inch infotainment display reminded me of the screen we used to play, but now I’ve used it to stream new songs that I enjoy.

It’s got the same creature comforts I’ve always loved, like the hands-free power tailgate that makes it convenient when you’re carrying loads of bags. Except maybe this time, I learned how to pack light and leave the weight I didn’t need to carry.

The difference now lies within. The hybrid powertrain, combined with the electric motor, kept it quiet that I almost consumed my own thoughts. It was calm that you wouldn’t notice the changes unless you listen closely.

But maybe that’s what growth is: changes that aren’t most visible, but what’s quietly working beneath the surface.

New company on the open road

I shared this drive with Kyle and Gab, fellow creators and journalists I met for the first time. We ditched the driver rotation plan, so we could take on the parts of the route we were best suited for.

Kyle handled the never-ending curves of Kennon and Asin roads. With slippery roads, we relied on the Territory’s electronic stability and traction control, especially during sharp turns. Kyle wasn’t too happy with it, but at least we had his steady hands to bring us back safely.

Gab and I swapped seats for the more monotonous stretches: the long, endless freeways. When Gab took over, the Automatic Emergency Braking kicked in twice. It startled us, especially me, as I sat in the backseat without a seatbelt on.

It was an unexpected jolt, but a much-needed one. Even though it annoyed us, it was comforting to know the car was still looking out for us even when we thought we didn’t need it.

Refilling my own tank

When it was my turn, I found myself recharging the hybrid’s battery along a long stretch of road. It was oddly satisfying, especially since I’d done it before.

As Kyle and Gab fell asleep — which I was proud of, or maybe they were just really tired — I thought of all the times I’d felt drained and how I’d learned to fill my own tank again.

Maybe that’s why I love hybrid cars. They remind me of how great I am at pouring love, keeping myself or others moving forward.

In this case, it was when Kyle took the wheel again, using the energy I restored to catch up with the convoy and speed up.

I’m glad we got our hands on the Titanium X trim. Beyond the shared safety suite such as stability control, traction control, hill assist, and 360-degree cameras, this top variant adds layers of luxury that matter.

For someone like me, who trains and races, the adaptive cruise control and lane-centering features are a blessing when exhaustion hits.

Meanwhile, the Blind Spot Information System and Rear Cross Traffic Alert feel like having an extra pair of eyes.

When your body’s too tired to think, all you need is a reminder that even when you can’t see what’s behind or beside you, the car’s got your back.

Where the road ends (and begins again)

It rained the moment we left Baguio City. The convoy blurred into mist ahead, and all I could see were red taillights. The wipers worked tirelessly while I tightened my grip on the wheel.

Thankfully, the Territory Hybrid Titanium X responded.

I trusted it the way you trust yourself after heartbreak. Not because I’m fearless, but because I’ve been through enough to know I’ll make it out.

At 100 km/h on TPLEX, I kept pace with the storm. Taylor Swift may have said “keep it 100” in her latest single “The Fate of Ophelia,” but I meant it differently.

The drive home didn’t feel like the end of this journey. It felt like closure.

The Ford Territory Hybrid Titanium X wasn’t the same car I fell in love with, and I wasn’t the same person who drove it then.

Both of us transformed, not because we wanted to be, but because life demanded it.

And maybe that’s what love, in all its forms, is supposed to be. Maybe you don’t need to hold on to what was, but you learn to drive forward in the company of new people and what remains.

By the time I parked, I wasn’t thinking about what I’d lost anymore. I was thinking about where I’d go next.

The Ford Territory Hybrid Titanium X starts at PhP 1,599,000 while the Trend variant starts at PhP 1,399,000. Both variants come in Oasis Green, Crystal Pearl White, Star White, Blue Panther, and Panther Black. Get it at dealerships nationwide.

Automotive

Kia unveils the EV5

A more formal launch is scheduled early next year.

Published

October 24, 2025

Luigi Leonardo

Earlier this year, we named the Kia EV9 as one of the most luxurious vehicles we’ve tried so far. Besides the raw power inside, the car’s interior was a spectacle for the tech-savvy. Today, Kia Philippines is expanding its now-iconic lineup with a smaller version of its behemoth. Presenting: the Kia EV5.

At the 13^th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit, Kia Philippines unleashed the EV5. Compared to the gigantic capabilities of the EV9, the EV5 is a five-seater SUV that leverages all the technological capabilities of its all-electric motor.

Under the hood, the car can put out a capable 217 horsepower and 310 Nm of torque. Impressively, the 88.1kWh battery can reportedly last up to 550 kilometers on a single charge.

As expected, the Kia EV5 will feature the brand’s impressive array of tech-filled capabilities. This includes Kia’s ADAS features called DriveWise. It also has, we can assume, a lot of convenience features that straddle the edge of luxury.

Now, we say “assume” because the car hasn’t technically launched yet. Kia Philippines has confirmed that a more formal launch will happen in the first quarter of 2026. This launch will reveal the final price and available features coming to the Philippines.

In the meantime, interested buyers can get a first look at the Kia EV5 during the Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit happening until October 25.

Automotive

BYD eMAX 9 DM-i leads the future of luxury family travel

Sophistication and smart performance in a seven-seater MPV

Published

October 23, 2025

MJ Jucutan

The BYD eMAX 9 DM-i is a mid-size MPV built to move modern families toward an electrified future.

Unveiled at the 13th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit, the new flagship MPV from BYD seats seven and runs on the brand’s Super DM-i hybrid system.

The BYD eMax 9 DM-i brings together power and efficiency in one refined form.

Luxury that travels with you

From the outside, the eMAX 9 DM-i stands tall and confident.

It wears BYD’s Dragon Face design with bold lines, signature LED lights, and 18-inch alloy wheels that give every drive a commanding presence.

Inside, the cabin feels like a private retreat. Hands-free side doors and a powered tailgate make entry effortless, while a built-in refrigerator keeps drinks cool for long drives.

Both the Premium and Advanced variants feature a Tri-Zone Cooling System that allows each passenger to set their preferred temperature.

The Premium model adds massage and ventilation to the captain’s chairs. Plus, plush leather seats and a 15.6-inch infotainment display complete the experience.

Power and efficiency

At its core, the eMAX 9 DM-i runs on BYD’s Super DM-i technology, which combines a high-power electric motor with a 1.5-liter turbocharged generator.

Together, they produce 271 PS and 315 Nm of torque, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 8.5 seconds.

The Premium variant comes with a 36.6 kWh battery that delivers up to 170 kilometers of pure-electric driving. Meanwhile, the Advanced model provides 95 kilometers.

With both electric and fuel power combined, the eMAX 9 can travel up to 1,000 kilometers on a single charge and a full tank.

Charging is simple and flexible. AC charging takes around 3 to 5 hours depending on the variant. Meanwhile, DC fast charging brings the battery from 30% to 80% in under 20 minutes.

The eMAX 9 can also share its power through Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology, which allows users to plug in small appliances or camping equipment directly into the vehicle.

Safety that gives confidence

The eMAX 9 DM-i is designed to protect every passenger.

The Premium variant features BYD’s DiSus-C suspension system, which automatically adjusts to different road conditions for a smoother and more stable ride.

Its DiPilot driver assistance suite includes adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist.

Eight airbags, a 360-degree camera, and rear cross-traffic alerts provide added peace of mind for every trip.

Price, availability

With prices starting at PhP 2,678,000 for the Advanced variant and PhP 2,998,000 for the Premium, the BYD eMAX 9 DM-i is a refined statement of sustainable luxury. It is available in Cosmos Black, Deep Sea Blue, and Aurora White.

Every purchase is backed by BYD’s comprehensive warranty: eight years or 160,000 kilometers for the Blade Battery and drive unit, and six years or 150,000 kilometers for the vehicle itself.