By Sala Masindane

The world of people movers is getting more and more competitive. It’s well documented that the V-Class is ahead of the pack and everyone is following behind. They are all vying for second place and trying to topple the V-Class. The list includes the VW Transporter, Kia Carnival and Ford Tourneo. We recently spent time with the new range-topping Ford Tourneo Titanium X.

What’s new?

It sports a classy grille, Matrix LED headlamps and elegant 19-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels. It also features dual powered sliding doors with Close Assist. The modern design makes it look good and doesn’t scream that it is a panel van at heart.

Inside, there are 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.

The cabin features soft-feeling upholstery, is well laid out and the infotainment is crisp and clear. It is also well complemented by the B&O sound system. There’s sufficient space for all the passengers and, when you fold the second- or third-row middle seats, they double as a table with cup holders. The powered dual sliding doors are also a welcome addition.

Power and drive

Powering the people mover is a 2.0-litre single-turbo diesel engine with outputs of 125kW and 390Nm. Power is delivered to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The drive is comfortable and impressive for a vehicle of this size. We do feel that the 2.0-litre turbodiesel could do with more power, especially when overtaking on provincial roads during our stint. Other than that, we returned a good fuel consumption figure of 8.6L/100km.

Final word

It is one of the more complete people movers in the segment. Whether you are moving a family of eight or have a need for business shuttling, it delivers. It is priced at R1,264,000.