What's the news?
Ford has now released specification and pricing details for its new Tourneo Connect and Grand Tourneo Connect MPVs. The range is made up of three trim levels, with the entry-level Tourneo Connect Style hitting the market at just £14,245.
Exterior
The Tourneo Connect and Grand Tourneo Connect are both based on the latest version of the Transit Connect - albeit with some extra windows added. Base-level Style models get daytime running lights as standard, mid-range Zetec models add front fog lamps, but you'll have to plump for the top-spec Titanium version if you want alloy wheels, roof rails, body coloured bumpers or chrome detailing.
Interior
Thanks to its Transit Connect sibling, both versions of the Tourneo Connect get a high roofline and twin sliding doors - which are said to be the widest in its class. Equipment levels on Style models aren't what you'd call generous, but you do get a DAB radio with USB and aux-in connectivity as well as a multi-functional steering wheel as standard. Further up the range the radio is upgraded to one with Ford's SYNC system; and flagship versions gain goodies such as parking sensors, dual-zone air conditioning, seat-back trays, auto lights and wipers and a panoramic sunroof.
Mechanicals
Under the bonnet Ford is offering a 1.6-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine in both 95- and 115hp guises; alongside a 1.6-litre and the 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol units. The diesels are expected to be the best sellers, with economy figures reaching 61.4mpg and 120g/km of CO2. Both petrol engines are only available on the smaller, five-seat Tourneo Connect, but an array five- and six-speed manual and automatic gearboxes can be had throughout the range.
The Tourneo Connect is the first model in its class to offer an automatic braking system known as Active City Stop. The SYNC system available on higher-end versions of the Tourneo Connect also features Emergency Assistance; while a rear-view camera and Trailer Sway Assist are also on the options list.
Anything else?
While the five-seat Tourneo Connect starts at a low £14,245, you'll have to fork out £16,985 if you want the two extra seats found in the Grand Tourneo Connect. The Tourneo range is also bolstered by the Transit-based nine-seat Tourneo Custom that is already on sale.
James Giddings - 3 Sep 2013