New vs used Ford Tourneo Custom: What are the top 3 differences
The Ford Tourneo Custom bus combines practicality and comfort into a stylish package. Ford expanded on the range earlier this year further improving the offering when compared to the outgoing or used models. We investigate and explain what the top three differences are between a new and used model.
The Ford Tourneo was first introduced in 2013 and shares the same basic architecture with the Transit panel-van model. When Ford launched the Tourneo Connect, a slightly smaller people carrier, the larger model saw the word Custom added to its designation for easier distinction. The smaller Tourneo Connect is no longer on sale in South Africa, however, it's larger Tourneo Custom sibling can still be bought new with a variety of used models also available.
Related: How much are car repayments on a new Ford Tourneo Custom?
The Ford Tourneo Custom range was recently bolstered with an additional engine, transmission and technology options by the American automaker. Currently, Ford has three long-wheelbase derivatives and two short-wheelbase variants on offer with each body style made available with either the 2.2TDCi or 2.0SiT engine configuration.
Powertrain
Previously, the Ford Tourneo Custom was only available with the 2.2-litre, 4-cylinder, turbocharged diesel motor. In the entry-level long-wheelbase Ambiente variant, this engine configuration sends 74 kW and 310 Nm to the 6-speed manual transmission while in the long-wheelbase Trend derivative it develops 92 kW and 350 Nm. For the short-wheelbase Limited model, the power once again increases to 114 kW and 385 Nm.
Ford recently introduced a second engine option as well as a 6-speed automatic transmission. The new 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder, turbocharged diesel motor fitted in the long-wheelbase Trend variant sends 96 kW and 360 Nm to the wheels while in the short-wheelbase Limited, the same combination produces 136 kW and 415 Nm of torque.
Infotainment
Earlier Tourneo Custom models and indeed the current lower specified models come fitted with Ford's SYNC 1 infotainment system. The simple system utilizes a 4.0-inch screen and allows drivers to connect wirelessly via Bluetooth. The pilot is also able to control the system via voice commands. What is more, all Tourneo Custom variants feature a total of eight USB ports, one for connecting to the SYNC system and the rest for charging devices.
The top of the range, short-wheelbase Limited variant now offers a SYNC 3 infotainment system. The system is more advanced and can be controlled via voice commands or the multi-function steering wheel. One of the biggest benefits of the new system is that it supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and allows the driver to use their favourite navigation app on their smart device.
Interior layout
Tourneo Custom owners will be happy to note that they can configure the interior space in a variety of ways depending on their needs. Featuring 6 individual seats instead of two benches not only means that the seats can be configured on a conference layout but also individually removed based on the storage needs of the owner.
The seats can also be folded flat, tumbled, stowed in multiple positions or removed completely to free up more luggage space for larger items.
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