While SUVs used to be all the rage, vans are the new go-to vehicles for adventure-seekers, and one of the most intriguing options around is Ford’s Tourneo Custom Sport, a dynamic and sporty people-carrier with some serious style and tricks up its sleeve.
The Tourneo Custom Sport piggybacks on the Tourneo Custom model, although it adds a bunch of edgy elements to the offering. Firstly, it’s a more dynamic performance-oriented model, with the single-turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine offering 125kW of power and maximum torque of 390Nm, compared to the 100kW/360Nm outputs of the Active and Trend derivatives. Drive is delivered to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission, with five drive modes to optimise performance and efficiency, comprising of Normal, Eco, Slippery, Tow/Haul and Sport modes.
In terms of design, the Sport model includes cues that were introduced on the Transit Custom Sport van. Its dynamic styling includes the distinctive Sport honeycomb-style grille and full body-colour front bumper, Sport body kit with an assertive rear spoiler, as well as bold dual black and blue sport stripes that run from the front bumper over the vehicle and down the rear door and bumper. This is complemented by side decals that add to the more athletic appearance, along with standard LED tail lamps. Fitted as standard are 17-inch sport alloy wheels, with the option of 19-inch versions.
Cruising around in the sport you forget you’re driving an 8-seater van. The drive is smooth, and the car handles like an SUV. Besides being more vigilant about the van’s size and length, there’s no extra elbow grease or driver skill needed to manoeuvre the Sport around town. Independent rear suspension and the powerful engine deliver a smooth, comfortable ride and impressive fuel efficiency.
On the interior, the standard infotainment system includes a large 13‑inch landscape touchscreen, which is equipped with Ford’s Sync4 communication and infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with 10 speakers. So, creature comforts are aplenty, and you’re more than equipped when hitting the road.
If you’d like to customise the experience further, all the second-row of seats are reversible, allowing you to turn the Tourneo Custom Sport into a more luxurious and social riding experience by facing seats towards one another.
Generally speaking, it’s not just a solid van, but a really impressive car across the board. It’s got all the bells and whistles and offers a great riding experience for passengers and an enjoyable driving feel too.
Pricing
Ford Tourneo Custom 2.0L SWB Bus Sport 8AT is priced at R1,218,000 and includes some optional service plans from Ford too.
