Ford debuts refreshed Tourneo Custom Bus

Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA) has given its eight-seater Tourneo Custom a comprehensive mid-life upgrade.

The  people mover debuts a bold grille front-end with slim headlamps in line with the company’s current design language. Daytime running lights with automatic headlight activation, manual headlamp leveling and front fog lamps are standard across the range.

Aside from an audio system incorporating Bluetooth, USB, Aux connectivity and steering wheel-mounted controls, Ford says potential customers should expect high-quality trimmings made from upscale materials for improved comfort and lessened noise levels.

According to Ford the interior trim has been completely revised - from the headliner and seats to the side panels and carpets. Travelling comfort is bolstered further by new seat designs with revised foam padding and geometry, a significantly upgraded sound reduction package and a more effective air conditioning system offering faster cooling or heating.

The rear six seats can be folded flat, tumbled, and stowed in multiple positions or removed completely, offering multiple configurations to suit any loading requirements.

Powering the two-model bus range is Ford's 2.2l four-cylinder turbodiesel engine in two power configurations and exclusively combined to a six-speed manual transmission. No automatics are envisaged as yet despite segment rivals offering this key option. The two long-wheelbase model range kicks off with the entry-level Ambiente model which utilizes a 74kW and 310Nm version of the engine. In higher spec Trend guise, power is uprated to 92kW and 350Nm.

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

A number of standard driver assistance features have been integrated. These are Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with Hill Launch Assist (HLA), Load Adaptive Control (LAC), Roll-Over Mitigation (ROM) and optionally, Trailer Sway Control (TSC) which is activated with the fitment of an approved tow bar at a Ford dealer. Occupant protection is provided for by standard fitment front, side and curtain airbags, as well as ISOFIX child seat mounting points on the second row seats.

"With the new Tourneo Custom, every passenger can enjoy the best seat in the house," said Doreen Mashinini, General Manager, Marketing at FMCSA. "This versatile people mover has been refreshed with attractive new exterior styling and an interior that combines the comfort and quality of a luxury car with outstanding space and practicality."

Retail Prices:

2.2 TDCi LWB Ambiente 74kW 6MT                          R546 000

2.2 TDCi LWB Trend 92kW 6MT                               R567 300

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