Ford Tourneo Connect: a hard-working addition to the family

This winter sees a new addition to the Ford line-up with the introduction of the Tourneo Connect, a passenger derivative of the award-winning Transit Connect van. The Tourneo Connect presents a new dual-use option to the motorist seeking a van during the week, and a recreational vehicle for the family at weekends.

Over the weekend, the Tourneo Connect offers a full 5-seater with the comfort and features of a mini-people carrier. Come Monday morning, fold down the rear seats and all the space and durability of a commercial vehicle is at hand. The smart styling and silky 1.8 TDCi common rail engine help belie the fact that under the skin, the Tourneo Connect is a tough, van–derived workhorse.
Among the models available will be an 8-seater long-wheel base version, which should prove popular with the taxi and courtesy sectors, not least as it is capable of allowing disabled access.

“Any vehicle based on Transit needs little promoting in terms of reliability,” comments Eddie Murphy, Chairman and Managing Director, Ford Ireland. “ Add to this the smoothness of the TDCi common rail engine and the interior practicality, and Tourneo Connect presents a really convincing crossover package to the family driver.
“This is a fresh new product in a marketplace of some potential. It reflects the relentless move towards more choice in our business.”

The ISV (Integrated Style Van) segment has blossomed in recent years, in tandem with new market entrants. Sales last year were double those of 2004, which itself was a multiple of volumes in the previous 12 months.
Seating flexibility in the Tourneo Connect is class-leading, as is its load carrying capability. The design of the split rear set bench, which tips and folds to reveal a load cube ideal for business use, is a novel feature of the vehicle.
Specifications and prices will be announced closer to launch.