The all new turbo Territory models are a Ford Australia engineering innovation – it's no small task mating one of Ford's most popular engines to Australia's most successful Sports Utility Vehicle.

"The turbo Territory project provided us with many challenges, and the end result is a world class vehicle," said Trevor Worthington, Vice President Product Development.

"It was an extensive engineering project that involved a lot more work than simply slotting an engine into a space under the bonnet.

"Our engineers undertook a full development programme to ensure the total vehicle outcome based around the iconic turbo engine was optimised."

The development programme has resulted in unique engine and transmission calibrations, a unique DSC calibration, unique exhaust system and new 18" alloy wheels and tyres.

Extensive thermal testing and subsequent engine modifications involving heating and cooling performance comprised a large proportion of the testing procedure.

"The DSC calibration has been optimised to work in conjunction with the 245 kW turbo engine, and the all-wheel-drive system with the 18" wheels and tyres," added Mr Worthington.

The new Territory Turbo and Territory Ghia Turbo will also incorporate some of the latest hardware developments which featured on the recently launched SY Territory – not least of which is the silky smooth ZF six speed automatic complete with Sequential Sport Shift (SSS).

"Ford's popular 4.0 litre DOHC DIVCT 6 cylinder turbo engine powers this new model, and it was vital we had the very best six speed automatic transmission available to ensure that it maintained a world class pedigree," said Mr Worthington.

"With 245 kW and 480 Nm available, there was only one transmission we seriously considered – the proven ZF 6HP26."

The two turbo Territory models feature a unique version of the ZF 6HP26 transmission, which has been specially designed for the turbo all-wheel-drive application.

The transmission's internals and torque converter are common with the BF XR6 Turbo and FPV F6, while the transmission casing is common with the SY Territory AWD.

A unique transmission calibration makes optimum use of the turbo engine's power and torque in both on and off road driving conditions. The transmission oil cooler has also been upgraded, maintaining a 2,300 kg maximum towing capacity *.

Both the Territory Turbo and Territory Ghia Turbo are shod with new sports-bred 18" five spoke alloys and new P235/55 R18 tyres. The new tyre has been engineered to deliver optimum balance between grip and comfort.

The turbo Territory also features upgraded front brakes, complete with a performance caliper and increased rotor size (compared with SY Territory). This provides reliable and stable brake performance, and increased thermal capacity. The revised caliper package offers improved pedal feel and modulation of pedal pressure under all braking events.

Further details of the turbo Territory engineering programme will be released closer to mid-2006 launch.

*Based on standard 5 seater models with 5 occupants (@ 68kg) and no luggage, using Genuine Ford heavy duty tow pack with load levelling kit.

While a bonnet scoop, turbo engine, dual exhaust outlets and associated exterior enhancements mark differences between the new turbo Territory models and non-turbo variants, it's when you take a look inside that the real distinctions between the models become very apparent.

"One of the key design principals behind the turbo Territory range is understated elegance and performance," said Debbie Pascoe, Colour and Trim Design Manager.

"Territory Turbo variants are sophisticated and refined, appealing to an even more discerning customer. We wanted the interior to reflect this, and therefore chose a warm charcoal trim to create an interior that is alluring and exciting. This particular interior is sportier than a non-turbo Territory, giving a stronger, more assertive overall image."

The use of intriguing three dimensional fabrics and moody metallics helped achieve the look the Colour and Trim team were striving for.

"We have utilised the successful Eucalyptus palette, but in a new darker form," said Ms Pascoe.

The Interior Command Centre (ICC) of the new Territory Ghia Turbo is perhaps one of the most striking enhancements made to the interior of the vehicle. The Ghia Turbo's ICC is finished in black onyx, with satin chrome highlights.

"The appearance of the new ICC helps create a real sense of prestige and wow factor when opening the door to the new Territory Ghia Turbo," said Ms Pascoe.

"The black interior makes for an impact loaded sports and performance statement, and leaves no doubt that this is a special vehicle."

The instrument cluster is unique to the turbo Territory range, with a slight variation in illumination, colours and finishes between the two models.

Further differentiation between the Turbo and Ghia Turbo is evident in interior appointments. Territory Turbo is fitted with a sports steering wheel, while a luxury sports steering wheel and leather wrapped park brake are fitted to the Territory Ghia Turbo. A leather insert gear lever is standard on both models.

The new colour scheme flows through to other aspects of the interior, including the sporty new supportive seats.

Territory Turbo receives black suede style seat trim and four-way power driver seat, whilst Territory Ghia Turbo features black leather seat trim with a six-way power driver seat. Both models have power adjustable pedals as standard.

The command driving position, a favourite feature for Territory owners, remains a key attribute of the new turbo models.

Both vehicles offer flexible seating arrangements and numerous innovative storage solutions – plus the renowned Territory attribute of being able to transport as many as seven people at once (when fitted with optional third row seats).

With this consideration in mind, Territory's Intelligent Safety System is a vital part of both models.

Territory Ghia Turbo's colour TFT screen enables the use of the Reverse Camera, operating in conjunction with a Reverse Sensing System.

In addition to this, Territory Ghia Turbo receives a number of features over and above the standard Territory Turbo model. These include:

• Side curtain airbags
• Premium ICC & audio system
• Dual zone climate control

"It was important to create an interior which is representative of what Territory Turbo and Territory Ghia Turbo are as vehicles," said Ms Pascoe.

"It is high end, it is capable, it is refined and offers performance attributes. The use of dark colours in the interior helps convey this particular styling statement."