For the first time, the latest-generation 2.0-litre turbo-powered Tournero Custom Bus models will be offered with six-speed automatic derivatives. The two new Tourneo variants come in Trend and Limited series guise and while remaining unchanged on the exterior since the new update, incorporate new interiors with all-new dashboards and instrument panels. The automatic variants do see the addition of 17-inch alloy wheels and exterior paint finishes include solid colours such as Frozen White, Race Red, Blazer Blue and metallic colours such as Moondust Silver, Diffused Silver, Magnetic Grey, Orange Glow and Blue Metallic.
The interior of the Limited derivative sees the addition of the third generation Ford SYNC infotainment system and is displayed on an 8.0-inch touchscreen. Occupants benefit from Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility and allow for the use of navigation apps. Further bolstering the interior of the Limited variant is more soft-touch surfaces and chrome and gloss black details while the Trend derivative features a 4.0-inch screen which displays a simpler version of SYNC 3 system. Throughout the cabins, a total of eight USB ports come fitted as standard equipment, however, an integrated 230v power socket is optionally available.
In the rear of the Ford vehicles customers can configure the six individual seats in a conference format or can be folded flat, tumbled, stowed in multiple positions or removed completely to create more loading space should the owner require it for their personal or business use.
“The Ford Tourneo Custom is a popular people-mover that provides outstanding flexibility to suit a wide variety of applications, from busy moms and dads transporting children to school and sports matches, businesses relying on it as an upmarket executive shuttle or simply as a spacious and highly adaptable vehicle for large families,” Doreen Mashinini, General Manager of Marketing, Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA).
The driver and vehicle occupants benefit from an array of standard safety equipment including front, curtain and side-impact airbags and electronic safety equipment such as Electronic Stability Programme, Hill Launch Assist, Roll-Over Mitigation, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Emergency Brake Assist. Customers can specify optional safety systems like the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System which monitors tyre deflation, front and rear parking sensors, a rear parking camera, Lane Keeping Aid and Lane Departure Warning, as well as the Blind Spot Detection System with Cross Traffic Alert and trailer coverage. Customers can also select Adaptive Cruise Control instead of the standard cruise control.
Under the bonnet of the two new derivatives are Ford’s latest 2.0-litre Single Turbo diesel motors with the Trend variant managing 96 kW and 385 N.m of torque while in the Limited guise customers’ gains access to 136 kW and 415 N.m. Both derivatives deliver their power to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. Both engine variants see the inclusion of Ford’s AdBlue technology which utilizes a non-toxic urea/water-based solution to convert the nitrogen oxide emissions generated into eco-friendly nitrogen and water. Further reducing solid particulates emitted from the exhaust system by 99 per cent is a particulate filter. The AdBlue solution is stored in a 21-litre tank which features its own filler hole below the 50ppm diesel filler hole.
“We’ve seen growing customer demand for an automatic version of the Tourneo Custom, and we are delighted to expand the current line-up with the two new models that feature the smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission. The new gearbox is paired with a new 2.0 Single Turbo engine that delivers superb performance and fuel economy, matched to low running costs, as well as extremely low emissions through the use of Ford’s AdBlue technology. This new engine delivers 96kW in the Trend model and a punchy 136kW on the range-topping Limited – making it ideal for both spectrums of the buyer,” adds Mashinini.
Warranty and Service
Both new Automatic Tourneo Custom busses come standard with Ford Protect is comprised of a four-year/120 000km Warranty, three-year/unlimited-kilometre roadside assistance and five-year/ unlimited-kilometre corrosion warranty. A six-year/90 000km service plan is included.
Pricing
Tourneo Custom 2.2 TDCi Ambiente 6MT – R621 500
Tourneo Custom 2.2 TDCi Trend 6MT – R646 000
Tourneo Custom 2.2 TDCi Limited 6MT – R695 600
Tourneo Custom 2.0 SiT Trend 6AT – R700 200
Tourneo Custom 2.0 SiT Limited 6AT – R740 900
