Bus lovers shopping around in the large people mover category don’t like shifting their own gears, so Hyundai has had a field day with its H1 bus which is the most popular automatic bus in the local market.
That’s how things were in the bus segment, until a week ago, when Ford has launched two new Torneo Customs and both are automatic.
Same look, new features
Ford SA introduced the current shape Tourneo Custom less than two years ago, so seeing that the bus look is still up to date, they didn’t make any exterior changes when putting the two new people movers together.
The new six-speed automatic transmissions, in both cases, are bolted onto the new Ranger engine, the 2.0-litre turbodiesel found in some XLT models, but Ford techies played around with outputs. In the first of the two new Tourneo Custom autos, the 2.0 SiT Trend 6AT, power output is 96kW and torque is 385Nm, while in the 2.0 SiT Limited 6AT it delivers 136kW and 415Nm. In both models, power is sent to the front wheels.
‘Trend’, of course, is what Ford calls some of its mid-spec vehicles, while ‘Limited’ means they have given the vehicle all the bells and whistles.
Ford says in the Trend a four-inch screen is supplied, running SYNC1 (Ford’s patented communication and infotainment software) with Bluetooth and voice commands.
Eight USB ports are located throughout the cabin for charging mobile devices and an integrated 230v power socket is available as an optional item to power items such as laptop computers while on the move.
In the Tourneo Custom Limited Ford has installed the upgraded SYNC3, which allows the driver to control audio functions and connected smartphones using voice command.
SYNC3 allows for complete smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay as well as Android Auto, including the option of using the phone’s navigation Apps.
Alongside the smart software, both automatic Tourneo Custom buses come with the luxury features associated with modern vehicles such as steering wheel audio and telephony controls and cruise control, while an array of options are available such as front and rear parking sensors, reverse camera and various driver aid systems.
Space and practicality
Ford says everyday practicality has been given close attention in the two new automatic buses. Improved interior stowage include two lidded compartments on the upper instrument panel, and a generous stowage bin with twin cup holders in the centre console featuring a smart roller cover.
To give occupants the ultimate flexibility in configuring and using the rear portion of the cabin, the Tourneo Custom offers six individual seats. 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 flat, tumbled, 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.
The brand also says rear seat passengers will also appreciate the more effective air conditioning system offering faster cooling or heating.
Passenger safety
The Tourneo Custom boasts an extensive array of standard and optional safety features.
In the event of a collision, occupants are protected with a full array of front, curtain and side impact airbags as standard fitment.
This is complemented by active driving safety features, including the Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with Hill Launch Assist (HLA), Roll-Over Mitigation (ROM), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA).
Ford’s Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is fitted on both derivatives, which alerts the driver as soon as any tyre deflation is detected.
In place of the standard cruise control, customers can also opt for Ford’s advanced Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), which uses a radar system to automatically maintain a set distance to the vehicle ahead.
Worth buying?
That very few car makers still have buses in their line-ups doesn’t mean buyers have to be content with something average or fork out a fortune, because the new Ford Tourneo Custom autos are modern and smart-looking.
Autodealer drove the Tourneo Custom 2.0 SiT Limited 6AT and was impressed with its urge in town as well as on the open road.
The tight turning circle makes it fairly easy to operate in tight spots despite the vehicle’s size.
So, at last there’s more variety out there for those wanting to buy a reasonably priced bus.
