Ford’s leisure and business buddy – the Tourneo

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Sometimes you just need car that’s big and practical. Either you have a big family, or you have a business that requires a vehicle that can transport up to 8 passengers. You essentially need a compact bus.

So, for those looking for such a vehicle, I have reviewed the V-Class from Mercedes-Benz; let’s call this the luxury and pricey option. I’ve also reviewed the Caravelle from Volkswagen, which I like to think of as the funky option. And now I look at the Tourneo Custom, from Ford. Better priced than its rivals, this is the practical choice similarly to Hyundai’s H1. But it also offers more than just practicality.

The new Tourneo Custom has a bold front-end appearance that shares the same design DNA as Ford’s latest passenger cars, with a high-mounted trapezoidal grille and dynamic, slim headlamps that flow neatly into the vehicle’s muscular shoulder line. All models feature distinctive new signature daytime running lights along with automatic headlight activation, manual headlamp levelling and front fog lamps.

Of the Tourneo Custom’s many highlights is an ability to seamlessly combine passenger car manoeuvrability with multiple seating arrangement for up to 8 people. The two rear rows can be configured in conference format for outstanding access and enhanced interaction between passengers, or in two rows of three forward-facing seats. Furthermore, the six seats can each be folded up, tumbled or stowed in multiple positions or removed completely, enabling customers to create limousine-like space, maximise the luggage area or meet their own special business or lifestyle requirements.

Travelling comfort is further enhanced by new seat designs featuring revised foam padding and geometry for optimised support, plus improved refinement resulting from a significantly upgraded sound reduction package in the rear cabin. Rear seat passengers will also appreciate the more effective air-conditioning system offering faster cooling or heating.

Recently enhanced with a model range that has been expanded to include a 6-speed automatic gearbox as well as a new-generation Single Turbo diesel engine, delivering more power and torque. Ford’s new Single Turbo engine mated to the automatic gearbox is among the biggest changes to the Tourneo line-up. The Single Turbo engine is available in a choice of two outputs matched to trim specification; the Trend derivative comes with 96kW and 385Nm while the range-topping Limited has a power output of 136kW and 415Nm. Both engines are engineered to return exceptional fuel economy as well as low emission levels. The latter is made possible with Ford’s AdBlue® technology, which uses a non-toxic urea/water-based solution to convert nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions in the exhaust gas into eco-friendly nitrogen and water. A particulate filter then reduces more than 99% of emitted solid particulates from the vehicle’s exhaust, thereby contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment.

Available in both mid-level Trend and range-topping Limited series, the two new models also feature a completely new interior. On the Limited model, this incorporates Ford’s SYNC®3 with an integrated eight-inch touchscreen, which provides significantly improved features and ease of use. SYNC®3 provides full smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, including the option of using the phone’s navigation apps.

Safety systems have been developed using the latest technology, including front and rear parking sensors, Lane Keeping Aid and Lane Departure Warning as well as the Blind Spot Detection System (BLIS) with Cross Traffic Alert. To reduce those demanding levels of concentration, Ford’s advanced Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), uses a radar system to automatically maintain a set distance to the vehicle ahead. A high level of occupant protection is provided by means of the standard front, side and curtain airbags, as well as ISOFIX child seat mounting points on the second-row seats.

All models are equipped with a 6-speaker audio system incorporating Bluetooth, USB and AUX connectivity as well as steering wheel-mounted controls.

The Tourneo Custom is rated to carry a gross payload of 915kg. It can tow a 750kg unbraked trailer, or up to 1 400kg in the case of a braked trailer.

A standout feature of the vehicle is its comfort and supple ride amongst its peers.

 

The Competition

Hyundai H1, Kia Grand Sedona, Mercedes-Benz V-Class/Vito, Toyota Hiace/Quantum and Volkswagen Komi/Caravelle

 

Pricing

2.2 TDCi LWB Ambiente 74kW 6MT R654 100

2.2 TDCi LWB Trend 92kW 6MT R679 800

2.2 TDCi SWB Limited 92kW 6MT R731 900

2.0 SiT LWB Trend 92kW 6 Auto R736 800

2.0 SiT SWB Limited 136kW 6 Auto R779 500

 

Service and Warranty

All models come standard with Ford Protect, comprising a four-year/120 000km comprehensive warranty, three-year/unlimited distance roadside assistance and five-year/unlimited km corrosion warranty. A six-year/90 000km service plan is included, with 15 000km service intervals.

www.ford.co.za

 

 

 

 

 

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