Top 3 things you need to know about the Ford Tourneo Custom
While Ford Transit models might appeal more to trades-men, Tourneo models offer comfortable commuting and travelling environments and easily fit into shuttle fleets. We take a closer look at Ford's Tourneo range and list the top three things to know about the people carriers.
Early in 2013 ford introduced the Transit and Tourneo models, the latter created as a capable people carrier. The following year Ford introduced a slightly smaller people carrier, this model was called the Tourneo Connect while the larger bus was renamed to the Tourneo Custom. While Ford continues to sell the larger Tourneo Custom, the Connect model is no longer being sold new locally, however, a few clean examples occupy the used vehicle market.
Related: The new Tourneo Connect, first drive impressions
Since the introduction of the Tourneo Custom bus in 2013, Ford has updated the exterior and interior styling and features to align with its comprehensive product range. The most recent updates took place earlier in 2020, where Ford announced the expansion of the Tourneo Custom range to include a new engine and transmission combination.
1. Powertrain
The Ford Tourneo Custom is offered with two engine configurations but with different levels of performance. At the affordable end of the long-wheelbase Trend derivatives, the Tourneo Custom is fitted with a 2.2-litre, turbodiesel motor or 2.2TDCi, producing 74 kW and 310 Nm of torque, however, the same motor produces 92 kW and 350 Nm in the mid-range Trend model. At the top of the list features a 2.0-litre, turbodiesel motor named 2.0SiT which is capable of 96 kW and 360 Nm.
The two 2.2TDCi Trend models come with a 6-speed manual transmission, whereas the 2.0SiT Trend variant is fitted with a 6-speed automatic. This theme continues to the more premium Limited models, however, while the two models come fitted with the same 2.2- and 2.0-litre powertrains, the 2.0SiT Limited develops 136 kW and 415 Nm and the 2.2TDCi, 114 kW and 385 Nm.
2. Infotainment
The latest Tourneo Custom models feature updated interiors which includes a new dashboard and instrument cluster layout. Furthermore, Ford has incorporated the latest SYNC 3 infotainment system to the range-topping model. It can be commanded by voice or from the multifunction steering wheel. The system also supports Android Auto and Apple Carplay and allows drivers to use their favourite navigation app directly from their phone.
Lower specified models retain a 4.0-inch screen with Ford SYNC 1. This system is Bluetooth compatible and allows for voice commands. All Tourneo Custom variants feature a total of eight USB ports to allow occupants to charge their smart devices.
3. Seating
The Tourneo is, of course, a people carrier and can achieve this in a variety of ways. While traditional people carriers only allow the conventional forward-facing bench seats, Tourneo owners can configure the 6 individual rear seats into different layouts depending on their needs. By turning around three of the seats a conferencing layout is easily achieved and even improves accessibility.
Alternatively, both rows can face forward for a more traditional approach. 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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