By Otsile Kadiege

Ford South Africa has bolstered its Tourneo Custom range with the introduction of two derivatives – the dynamic Tourneo Custom Sport and the range-topping Tourneo Custom Titanium X. These short wheelbase models blend practicality with upmarket appeal, making them ideal for executive transport or stylish family travel.

Athletic vs sophisticated

Both new models retain the Tourneo Custom’s eight-seater layout but inject unique personality through distinctive exterior finishes.

The Tourneo Custom Sport channels a more aggressive and dynamic vibe with its honeycomb grille, full body-colour bumpers, rear spoiler, and bold black-and-blue dual racing stripes. Standard 17-inch alloys complete the look, with 19-inch options available.

Meanwhile, the Titanium X exudes luxury and status. It sports a classy grille, Matrix LED headlamps and elegant 19-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels. Dual powered sliding doors with Close Assist add a touch of convenience and sophistication.

Comfort and features

Inside, both models embrace passenger comfort with premium materials and clever design.

The Sport features partial leather-trimmed seats with blue accent stripes and piano black trim on the centre console. A 13-inch SYNC 4 infotainment touchscreen comes standard, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support through a 10-speaker system.

The Titanium X ups the ante with heated second-row seats, a powered front passenger seat, and an optional Luxe Pack, which adds ambient lighting, a panoramic roof, and a 14-speaker B&O sound system. Both trims offer the Mobile Office Package as an option, which includes additional USB ports, stowable tray table, laptop storage, and more.

Safety and driver assistance features

Ford has equipped the new Tourneo Custom variants with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems.

Standard on both models are: Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Mitigation, Reverse Brake Assist, Front and Rear Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Dual Heated Mirrors and Leather-Trimmed Steering Wheel. The Titanium X adds a 360-degree camera for enhanced visibility and ease of parking in tight spaces.

Performance and drivetrain

Both models are powered by Ford’s proven 2.0-litre single-turbo diesel engine, producing 125kW and 390Nm of torque. Power is delivered to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Drivers can switch between five drive modes – Normal, Eco, Slippery, Tow/Haul, and Sport – to optimise performance and efficiency.

Thanks to the updated platform and independent rear suspension, ride comfort and fuel economy are much improved over previous models.

Pricing and warranty

Tourneo Custom 2.0L SWB Sport 8AT – R1,218,000 (Incl. VAT)

Tourneo Custom 2.0L SWB Titanium X 8AT – R1,264,000 (Incl. VAT)

The recommended Retail Price includes a six-year/90 000km Ford Optional Service Plan, four-year/120 000km Ford warranty, four-year/unlimited distance Roadside Assistance and five-year/unlimited distance corrosion warranty. In addition, over the counter (OTC) parts and service parts warranty (SPW) are covered for two-year/unlimited distance. The recommended service interval is 15 000km or annually, whichever occurs first.