Goes with Territory

There are, apparently, lots of similarities highlighted by each item's ability to do anything in any situation.

Though the analogy was directed by Ford at the interior of the car – which has heaps of knicknacks – it serves as a plausible definition of the whole package.

Those not wanting to get the paintwork dirty can opt for a 2WD version – incidentally the one you're going to read about here.

This is the Territory Ghia which, at a shade under $50,000, equates to a Fairmont Ghia sedan and comes with similar features, the same mechanical package but better versatility.

Ford says the 2WD Territory was intended for people wanting the ride height and versatility of a 4WD, but who didn't want a 4WD.

In that vein, the Ghia works a treat. It's big – but is shorter than a Falcon – and not overly tall, though the view from the leather seats is commanding.

It seats up to seven, with an optional third row that pops out of the cargo area to give seating for two people.

The ride is very compliant, the noise levels well suppressed, the performance is sparkling and the steering is excellent.

But the fuel economy is rotten. Even babying this baby around town saw the fuel consumption fail to get better than 14.5-litres/100km.

On the open road it slips down to 11 and 12, but it's still thirsty and certainly on par with the expensive drinking habits of its V8-engined Holden Adventra rival.

An all-wheel-drive version will drink about an extra 1l/100km, placing it in the same league as a Landcruiser, Jeep Grand Cherokee or Land Rover Discovery – all having V8 engines and a full low-range transfer case.

But it's not all about thirst.

The Territory does everything asked of it. A Swiss army knife, in fact.

The seats are comfortable, there's an excellent array of storage bins and cupholders, high quality materials on the inside which add to a sense of being well built, and big glass areas to improve the view for the kids.

It is an excellent high-speed tourer with commendable road-holding that is pleasantly low on bodyroll.

The steering is one particular aspect that inspires confidence.

User-friendly stuff includes the Ghia's steering wheel-mounted volume and cruise controls, illuminated vanity mirrors, big centre bin, expansive leg and headroom, and the rear tailgate that opens in two modes – full hatch or glass only.

Above all, it invites the owner to take it somewhere – anywhere – on the weekends. Take the kids to the hills, drive to a country town for a Sunday coffee, go on holidays down south. Just go.