7:36 pm, February 22, 2012
FORD is previewing the all-new Transit with the Tourneo Concept which will get its public airing at the Geneva Motor Show.
Despite its Tourneo (Transit mini-bus) name, the concept previews the look of an all-new version of a commercial vehicle icon – the Ford Transit.
Ford says the concept previews ‘the introduction of a completely new range of people movers, with commercial vehicles to follow, the Tourneo Custom Concept showcases a dramatic new look that will appeal to customers seeking style, functionality and space.’
‘One look at the Tourneo Custom Concept is enough to tell you that it will inject an exciting new spirit into the personal use segment,’ said Stephen Odell, chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe. ‘Our forthcoming new range gives us the opportunity to appeal to new customers with a fresh new direction, and we have seized that opportunity with both hands.
‘We are excited to present this significant new concept in Geneva. The Tourneo Custom’s car-like qualities will be appreciated by a broad range of business and leisure customers, and this is a fitting venue to present the vehicle for the first time.’
The concept is based on a new Ford global platform ‘which has been engineered to deliver car-like dynamics, including agile, responsive handling, enhanced ride comfort and reduced noise-levels’, says Ford.
Under the bonnet lies a 153bhp 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine, but in time there will be a choice of two lower output versions – a 98bhp and a 133bhp.
And the new Transit will continue a theme it is well-known for: a large range of body-styles will be available to suit its customers’ needs.
