All posts by Francis Mitterrand

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Refreshed Ford Territory Launches in Brazil with Updated Styling and Tech

In the ever-evolving world of global car branding, Ford’s “Territory” nameplate is once again making headlines—this time in a new guise and refreshed for 2025. Though the name may spark memories of the now-defunct Australian crossover based on the Falcon, today’s Ford Territory is an entirely different creature. Built in China and known domestically as the Equator Sport, the SUV has carved out a niche for itself in export markets like South America, where it continues to grow in popularity.

This month, Brazilian buyers will be the first to experience the facelifted Territory, a mid-cycle refresh that subtly but effectively updates the SUV’s appearance and features. While maintaining the same overall dimensions—measuring 4,685 mm (184.5 inches) in length—the revised model debuts a redesigned front fascia. Gone is the split headlight design, replaced with a sleeker, more upscale grille adorned with a chrome-accented pattern. Both front and rear bumpers have been re-sculpted and now include body-colored inserts, offering a more refined aesthetic.

Along the sides, changes are minimal, but noticeable. The SUV rides on new 19-inch alloy wheels and features chrome-finished door handles. For now, Brazil will receive only the Titanium trim, Ford’s flagship version of the model.

Inside, the updated Territory continues with its digital-first design, retaining the dual 12.3-inch screens that form its digital cockpit. New upholstery color options and trim materials add a touch of freshness to the cabin, although the overall layout remains consistent with the outgoing version. Full equipment details are still under wraps and are expected closer to launch.

Mechanically, the facelift doesn’t reinvent the wheel. The SUV will continue to be powered by a 1.5-liter EcoBoost turbocharged engine, delivering 166 hp and 260 Nm of torque. The powertrain is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and drives only the front wheels. Notably, the plug-in hybrid option available in China will not be offered in Brazil—at least for now.

The updated Territory made its public debut at the Interlagos Festival in São Paulo, where Ford highlighted the model’s growing success. In fact, sales of the Territory in Brazil quadrupled last year, surpassing 5,000 units. The automaker hopes that the facelifted version will keep the momentum going, especially in the competitive midsize SUV segment.

While official pricing has yet to be revealed, the current model starts at R$ 215,000 (approximately $38,900). The new version is expected to remain in a similar range, with potential for modest increases depending on feature upgrades.

Looking ahead, Ford plans to roll out the refreshed Territory to several additional markets beyond Brazil, including Argentina, Mexico, the Philippines, Vietnam, South Africa, and Saudi Arabia—underscoring the model’s role as a key global player in Ford’s crossover strategy.

In a market that values both affordability and premium feel, the Ford Territory’s evolution demonstrates how a familiar name can be reborn across continents—adapting to new expectations, but still recognizable in spirit.

Source: Ford

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Refreshed Ford Territory Launches in Brazil with Updated Styling and Tech
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Toyota Adds Muscle and Matte Finish to Crown Estate Special Edition

In a bold move that leans into one of the car industry’s most niche but eye-catching trends, Toyota has unveiled a special edition of its recently launched Crown Estate in Japan — and it’s all about the matte.

Dubbed the Crown Estate Limited Matte Metal, this new edition wraps Toyota’s latest plug-in hybrid estate in a stealthy matte paint finish that’s sure to divide opinions. While matte finishes have long been associated with high-maintenance and niche appeal, Toyota is clearly betting that their moment has arrived — at least on home turf.

Unfortunately for North American enthusiasts, the special edition won’t be making its way across the Pacific. Although the standard Crown Estate is sold in the U.S. under the Crown Signia badge, this particular trim will remain exclusive to Japan.

Despite its name, the Crown Estate is more of a lifted wagon than a traditional estate, and the new matte treatment only amplifies its unique presence. It joins a growing lineup of matte-finished Crown models already available in Japan, including the Crown Crossover, Crown Sport, and Crown Sedan.

Toyota claims the paint isn’t just for looks — it’s engineered for practicality too. A special TM Coat is applied over the matte finish to resist scratches and protect against road grime. While not explicitly called a ceramic coating, it seems to offer similar benefits, with the caveat that it needs to be reapplied annually to retain its protective qualities.

The aesthetics don’t stop at the body. A set of 21-inch matte black wheels paired with red metallic brake calipers adds to the car’s aggressive stance. All the usual chrome accents — window trim, grille elements — have been blacked out for a cohesive, shadowy finish.

Inside, the cabin receives equally dramatic treatment. Black leather upholstery dominates, punctuated by gold metallic accents on the steering wheel, air vents, door handles, and a strip across the dashboard. The pièce de résistance? A subtle script on the dash that reads: “Matte Metal The Limited.”

Performance-wise, the Crown Estate Limited Matte Metal doesn’t just look bold — it drives that way too. Powered by a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, this plug-in hybrid generates a respectable 302 horsepower.

The special edition starts at 8,900,000 yen in Japan, or roughly $61,600 USD at today’s exchange rate — a premium price for a premium look.

With this latest release, Toyota continues to push the envelope on what’s expected from a legacy automaker. Love it or not, the Matte Metal Crown Estate makes one thing clear: Toyota believes matte is more than a fad — it’s a finish with staying power.

Source: Toyota

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Toyota Adds Muscle and Matte Finish to Crown Estate Special Edition
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The 2025 MG 5 Essence: Where Sporty Design Meets Turbocharged Performance

The updated 2025 MG 5 Essence is here, and it’s not just about sleek lines and turbocharged power anymore—it’s about turning the page on past shortcomings and redefining what an affordable sedan can offer.

With its refined design and significantly improved safety profile, the new MG 5 positions itself as a compelling option for drivers who crave sporty aesthetics, smooth performance, and greater peace of mind on the road. Priced at $31,990 before on-road costs—or $32,990 drive-away under a current nationwide offer—the latest iteration comes with meaningful upgrades in both form and function.

From Zero to Three Stars: A Safety Leap Forward

Perhaps the most headline-grabbing change is the ANCAP safety rating, which jumps from a previous zero stars to a respectable three stars. Following sharp criticism of its predecessor, MG has made a number of crucial upgrades:

  • Front and rear seatbelt pre-tensioners
  • Seatbelt reminders
  • Whiplash restraint seats
  • Lane-keep assist
  • Updated autonomous emergency braking

However, safety isn’t perfect just yet—a centre airbag remains absent, meaning the MG 5 still falls short in side-impact occupant protection when compared to some rivals. Nonetheless, this marked improvement signals MG’s serious commitment to addressing previous safety flaws.

Performance That Delivers

Under the hood, the 2025 MG 5 Essence runs on a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine, producing 119kW and 250Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT). It’s a setup that turns mundane commutes into an enjoyable drive, with smooth gear shifts and enhanced fuel efficiency. MG’s engineers have struck a compelling balance between dynamic performance and practical motoring, and now with adaptive cruise control added for 2025, longer trips just got easier.

Premium Style Without the Premium Price Tag

While the Vibe base model has been axed from the lineup, MG has compensated by ensuring the Essence trim is generously equipped. Highlights include:

  • 17-inch alloy wheels
  • Panoramic sunroof
  • 360-degree camera
  • Paddle shifters
  • Powered driver’s seat
  • Expanded speaker system

All this is wrapped in a sporty, attention-grabbing exterior with sharp LED lighting and aerodynamic contours. Inside, the MG 5 continues to impress with a spacious cabin, ample head and legroom, and a choice of stylish materials designed for comfort and visual appeal.

Confidence Built In

To sweeten the deal, MG backs every MG 5 with a 10-year / 250,000-kilometre warranty~, underscoring the brand’s growing emphasis on reliability and long-term value. Combined with rigorous testing and solid engineering, the MG 5 aims to assure buyers that style doesn’t come at the cost of dependability.

Worth the Upgrade?

While the price jump from the outgoing models is notable—up to $8,000 more than recent Vibe deals—MG is betting that the added safety, technology, and premium touches justify the cost. For drivers looking for an affordable yet refined sedan with sporty flair, the 2025 MG 5 Essence might just be the confident step forward they’ve been waiting for.

Source: MG Motor

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The 2025 MG 5 Essence: Where Sporty Design Meets Turbocharged Performance