The Jamaican automotive industry was once again in the spotlight as the country was host to the regional launch of the 2025 Ford Territory courtesy local dealers for the Ford brand of vehicles, Kingston Industrial Garage (KIG).

The event took place on Wednesday, October 16, at La Vida Venue by Pollyanna, St Andrew.

“Jamaica is such an important market for us. Since we are launching in the whole region, this new Ford Territory, it was best to do it here,” Rosángela Guerra, managing director for Central America & the Caribbean, Ford Motor Company, told the Jamaica Observer’s weekly Auto magazine.

Her words were mirrored by Jeffery Panton, managing director, KIG.

“We’re very excited to have the regional launch of the Territory here in Jamaica. We’re excited for this product for what it can offer the Jamaican consumer in this particular segment of vehicle.”

The 2025 Territory is Ford’s entry into the competitive compact sport utility vehicle segment.

“The Territory is a small SUV, and competes in that segment, which is one of the biggest in the market. That’s why it was so important for us to bring it to Jamaica,” said Guerra.

The new Ford Territory is available in two trim levels, Trend and the premium Titanium Plus. Regardless of trim, all vehicles are front-wheel drive, and powered by a 1.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine making 187bhp and 235lb/ft of torque. A seven-speed automatic transmission is also standard, as are LED headlamps, convenience features such as push-button start, and powered driver’s seat.

Ford puts interior space on the top of the attribute list for the Territory, with dimensions and cabin ergonomics that enhance occupant comfort. The infotainment is run by a 12-inch touchscreen, with up to an eight speaker sound system available. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a wireless charger, and three USB ports handle the majority of smartphone needs. The Territory is also Dash Cam ready, having an extra USB port in the rearview mirror.

Safety follows next on that list as Ford’s base and advanced driver and electronic safety systems can be had on the Territory. Standard are blind spot monitoring with cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, power assist system, stability and traction, hill start assist, tyre pressure monitoring sensor, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and EBD. The Titanium trim adds Co-Pilot360. That suite brings pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, lane keeping system, rear view camera, as well as front and rear sensors.

“The Territory is a well-need addition to our line-up, which has been very strong with commercial pickups, luxury pickups and SUVs. This is now a smaller segment SUV which fits perfectly into our line-up,” Panton said.

All vehicles come with a five-year or 150,000km manufacturer warranty.