The new Ford Tourneo Custom and Tourneo Connect

Ford’s new Tourneo Custom and Tourneo Connect people movers have made their first public appearance at the Brussels Motor Show.

Tourneo Custom

The new Tourneo Custom is available in 8/9 seater configurations and features updated styling plus some new in-cab tech, such as a voice-controlled assistance system. It’s also available with six rear seats, three of which can be swivelled to provide a conference-type seating arrangement.

Powered by the Ford’s EcoBlue diesel engine, the model will be available with a choice of 105 PS, 130 PS and 170 PS power ratings, plus a 17-inch alloy wheel option for “enhanced handling and braking performance”.

Passengers benefit from convenient features such as multiple USB sockets and an optional 10-speaker sound system.

Aimed firmly at the executive transfer and minicab markets, the Tourneo Customer looks likely to be popular with minibus hire firms too, in my view.

Tourneo Connect

This smaller model is more likely to be of interest to large families and minicab drivers. Available in five or seven-seat versions, the Tourneo Connect also gets two new powertrains. Buyers can choose from Ford’s all-new 1.5-litre EcoBlue diesel or the excellent and very popular 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine.

Both are likely to offer good performance and economy and are specified with six-speed manual transmission as standard. The diesel is also available with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

As with its larger sibling, the Tourneo Connect gets updated interior and exterior styling.