What's the news?
Ford has released further images and details of its upcoming Tourneo Connect, which is set to arrive in Ireland early next year. The five-seat Tourneo Connect and seven-seat Grand Tourneo Connect will join the B-, C-and S-MAX in Ford's people mover range; as well as the larger eight/nine-seat Tourneo Custom.
Exterior
The Tourneo Connect is based on the latest version of the Transit Connect, though the rear doors have been replaced with a large hatch-opening; however the twin sliding doors still remain on the sides. We expect that the version pictured will become the top-spec Titanium edition, featuring alloy wheels, roof rails, daytime running lights and fog lamps as standard.
Interior
The new Tourneo Connect appears, on first glance, to be very versatile inside. The teaser shot suggests that individual seats can be folded to provide a completely flat load-bay; although we would expect boot space to be minimal when the Grand Tourneo Connect is fully-loaded with seven passengers. Up front the Tourneo Connect sports all the switchgear present in the new Transit Connect; albeit with a more comfortable, family-car feel. Full equipment lists have yet to be revealed; however, we do know that Ford has integrated its SYNC system into the Tourneo Connect and top-spec Titanium versions will have dual-zone climate control and a panoramic roof as standard.
Mechanicals
The five-seat Tourneo Connect can be specified with Ford's 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine and a 1.6-litre EcoBoost engine can be had for those who want a bit more punch. The diesel offering is a 1.6-litre Duratorq TDCi unit; available in 75-, 95- and 115hp forms. Ford claims that the Tourneo Connect offers "outstanding fuel economy", although official figures have yet to be announced.
Underneath, Ford has installed a unique torsion beam rear suspension unit in place of the outgoing leaf-spring system and a lighter, more efficient electric power steering system replaces the previous hydraulic set up.
Anything else?
Full pricing and specification details will be announced when the Tourneo Connect and Grand Tourneo Connect reach Ireland in 2014.