Long-term Test Update: Ford Transit Tourneo Custom 310 LWB Limited

As part of the Ford Transit Custom family, the Tourneo is the passenger carrier version of Ford Europe’s mid-sized, front wheel drive panel van produced in Turkey since 2012. Up to 9 people can be carried with large luggage space behind the third set of seats. It is with the flexible seat arrangement that this Tourneo is Ford’s forte.

Thirty different seating arrangements can be made. For example, when you’re not using the rear sets of seats, you can simply roll them forward. Alternatively, if a passenger needs a table, you can fold down any of the seat backs to make a flat surface. For maximum storage and luggage space, all of the seats can be taken out altogether. On our 8-seat Tourneo Limited version, we did not go that far, as by folding the two sets of seats forward proved quite adequate for our load/delivery needs. Suitably placed load securing hooks have been used on occasion. Feedback from passengers carried is very good as they find the leather clad seats comfortable, particularly with the option such as reclining seat backs and arm rests. There are also ISOfix mounting points for children’s seats too.

We are getting to know and utilise Ford SYNC system better now as it allows us to engage music, make and receive calls on mobile phones, using simple direct commands. Voice commands can also call up songs from a USB or MP3/iPod system or stream music from a Bluetooth compatible phone. The system even reads incoming texts aloud. When it comes to storage areas, Tourneo is tops, with open and concealed compartments for iPods, etc., an extra glove box and of course, a number of drinks holders.

The Tourneo Custom’s smart technology is appreciated in that each journey is made safer and smoother. Fitted to the 130PS 2.0 litre TDCi EcoBlue 6 diesel is Ford’s new six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission with hill start assist. Together with stop/start system, fuel consumption is reduced. The Driver Alert programme constantly monitors driving behaviour and is designed to detect any changes that could be caused by fatigue. If the system identifies that the driver’s concentration is weakening, a warning icon appears in the dash display, suggesting that a break is needed. If ignored, the message is repeated and an audible warning is raised.

16,000 kms on, and another enhancement is the night driving aid     provided by the Auto High Beam, which automatically dips the headlamps on approaching traffic or a vehicle ahead, while the rain-sensing wipers spring into action when needed. 

Over half way into our year long-term test with Ford Transit Tourneo Custom, our admiration is getting stronger and stronger. Having experienced the 170 PS version in South Wales recently, the 130 PS specified on this vehicle is perfectly adequate, with plenty of pace and torque (at 385 Nm) to match our needs. Again, its superb driving position must be mentioned, it’s the best in the business with excellent all-round visibility. We’ve got used to the needs of the thirsty AdBlue tank, a good refill every 10,000 kms or so, will quell the irritating warning alarms for a good while. In these advanced Euro 6 engine emission control days, it’s par for the course for light commercials as it has been in trucks and buses for well over a decade.

A flexible friend with versatility added is a good handle to put on this Ford Tourneo Custom. This version is in no way Limited as the spec provided brings it up and beyond most standard cars. 

Spec Check