The Ford Tourneo Custom, which branched off from the larger Transit model more than a decade ago, has steadily carved out its place in South Africa’s premium van market. Now, Ford has expanded its offering with two new additions: the Tourneo Custom Sport and the Titanium X, marking a bold step in its quest to challenge rivals like the Mercedes-Benz V-Class, Volkswagen T6.1 Transporter, and Hyundai Staria.
Raising the Game
When the first Tourneo Custom Limited arrived, it lagged behind its rivals in terms of luxury and image, despite upgrades such as the transition from the older 2.2-litre Puma turbodiesel to the more advanced 2.0-litre Panther engine. The arrival of the second-generation Tourneo Custom has changed that narrative.
The new Sport and Titanium X trims, unveiled at the national launch in Durban, aim to boost Ford’s share of the premium MPV segment, where it currently trails far behind the Staria and V-Class/Vito.
Shared Platform, Different Identities
Both new models are short-wheelbase (3 100 mm) versions of the Tourneo, providing seating for eight. Each is powered by the 125 kW / 390 Nm 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine, paired with Ford’s unique eight-speed automatic transmission.
Key Features Ford Tourneo
| Feature | Tourneo Custom Sport | Tourneo Custom Titanium X |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Panther turbodiesel, 125 kW / 390 Nm | 2.0L Panther turbodiesel, 125 kW / 390 Nm |
| Drive | Front-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive |
| Exterior Styling | Black grille, sporty bumpers, racing stripes | Chrome grille, chrome detailing, luxury finish |
| Wheels | 17-inch (standard), 19-inch (optional) | 19-inch machined multi-spoke alloys |
| Headlights | LED | Matrix LED |
| Seats | Heated partial leather with blue detailing | Full leather, heated second row (optional Luxe) |
| Infotainment | 13-inch SYNC 4A, 10 speakers | 13-inch SYNC 4A, optional 14-speaker B&O |
| Climate Control | Tri-zone | Tri-zone + Luxe ambient lighting option |
| Safety Tech | Adaptive Cruise, Blind Spot Monitoring, Reverse Brake Assist | 360-degree camera, Adaptive Cruise, Collision Mitigation |
| Extra Packages | Mobile Office Pack (optional) | Mobile Office Pack (optional), Luxe Package |
| Unique Option | Sport stripes and styling cues | Panoramic glass roof (Luxe Package) |
Tourneo Custom Sport
Positioned as the mid-range option, the Sport is designed for families who want practicality wrapped in a performance-inspired package.
Highlights:
- Darkened or silver alloy wheels (17-inch standard, 19-inch optional)
- Black racing stripes with blue accents across the body
- Heated partial leather seats with blue detailing
- Tri-zone climate control, 10-speaker sound system
- Driver assistance features like Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Mitigation
Tourneo Custom Titanium X
The Titanium X takes a more refined approach, prioritising elegance and comfort.
Highlights:
- Chrome studded grille with chrome detailing
- 19-inch machined multi-spoke alloys
- Full leather upholstery and electric passenger seat
- 360-degree surround-view camera system
- Optional Luxe Package with B&O audio, heated second row, and panoramic roof
On the Road
Test drives in Durban highlighted two distinct personalities. The Sport delivered a composed, comfortable ride with added weight making it more mature than its Transit sibling. Drive modes include Normal, Eco, Slippery, Tow/Haul, and Sport.
Switching to the Titanium X revealed slightly sharper responses and smoother gear shifts, even with larger wheels. Both trims impressed with refinement, comfort, and flexibility, setting them apart from direct rivals.
Colours and Options
Both trims share a palette of seven colours Magnetic, Moondust Silver, Grey Matter, Frozen White, Artisan Red, Chrome Blue, and Agate Black Metallic with the Titanium X also offering Digital Aqua Blue.
Optional extras include the Mobile Office Pack, adding laptop storage, USB-C ports, improved lighting, and accessory docking.
Pricing and Warranty
Ford backs both models with a four-year/120 000 km warranty and optional service/maintenance plan extensions.
- Tourneo Custom 2.0 SiT Active LWB AT – R1 063 000
- Tourneo Custom 2.0 SiT Trend LWB AT – R1 104 500
- Tourneo Custom 2.0 SiT Sport SWB AT – R1 218 000
- Tourneo Custom 2.0 SiT Titanium X SWB AT – R1 264 000
With the Tourneo Custom Sport offering bold looks and a tech-rich cabin, and the Titanium X delivering luxury touches and refined comfort, Ford now has a van to appeal to both sporty families and executive travellers. Together, they bring fresh energy to South Africa’s premium MPV segment and offer an alternative to the traditional German and Korean competition.
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