Meet the new Ford Territory.

Officially, for now at least, it’s called the Ford Edge. But this new family-sized SUV looks certain to replace the Australian-made Territory in the blue oval’s local line-up.

Ford Australia has yet to confirm its plans beyond the end of the Territory but it is understood that the new Edge will become Ford’s global family-sized SUV, sitting between the Kuga and Explorer.

The press release announcing the new Edge confirms that the car will go on sale in more than 100 markets around the world, including the Asia-Pacific region, as part of its strategy for global vehicles.

“At Ford, our job is to understand how global consumers are changing, anticipate their needs, and ultimately deliver the great products they want,” said in-coming Ford CEO Mark Fields. “This new Edge is an excellent example of Ford at its best.”

Ford revealed a concept version of the Edge at the 2013 Los Angeles motor show and the production model revealed today sticks closely to its external design but offers a more traditional interior than the radical concept.

Specifications for the overseas models have been confirmed with the engine line-up consisting of three engine choices. However, the company hasn’t announced power or economy figures for the 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo, 3.5-litre V6 petrol and 2.7-litre V6 turbo.

All three engines will be paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and be available with either front- or all-wheel drive.

There is no word on a diesel engine option yet but it remains a possibility for the European market, and therefore Australia.

The company has confirmed that the Edge will be available with start-stop technology to save fuel.

The American division has also confirmed there will be both a Sport and Titanium model offered as part of the line-up.

The Sport model will be powered by the EcoBoost V6 and ride on 21-inch alloy wheels.

Ford has also added more technology to the new model including a front camera for better visibility as well as a self parking system will also be offered on some models.

The new Edge is based on the same underpinnings as the Ford Fusion but it larger than the model it replaces. It will only be available with five-seats, unlike the Territory which is available as an optional seven-seater.

Ford Australia is expected to offer the new Edge - which will likely to wear the Territory badge - alongside the Kuga and Ranger-based Everest, which is expected to offer a seven-seat option to fill the gap left by the current Territory.

However, with the updated Territory due to arrive later this year Ford Australia won't confirm if and when the Edge will arrive in local showrooms. A Ford Australia spokesman confirmed to Drive that its focus is on the final Territory for now.

source: smh.com.au