Ford launches the new Tourneo Custom, a new interior and tweaked exterior makes this the best yet.

• Ford reveals new Tourneo Custom people mover with bold exterior styling and completely new premium interior
• Spacious and luxurious cabin features unique-in-segment rear seating with six individual seats that can be arranged in conference format, with six USB ports and 10-speaker audio system
• Largest Tourneo comprehensively re-engineered to provide superior refinement, quality, and technologies including Intelligent Speed Limiter and SYNC 3 connectivity
• Tourneo features Ford EcoBlue 2.0-litre diesel engine, new six-speed SelectShift auto, rear air suspension option; available in exclusive Titanium X and Sport series
• New Tourneo Custom targets executive shuttle, personal use and lifestyle customers; production scheduled to start later in 2017 for deliveries from early 2018

Ford has revealed first details of the new, versatile Tourneo Custom people mover, which delivers first class travel for up to nine occupants in an all-new premium interior. Targeting executive shuttle, personal use and lifestyle customers, new Tourneo Custom is available to order later this year for delivery in early 2018.

Distinguished by its new front-end design with five-bar chrome grille, new Tourneo Custom offers customers a luxurious cabin with unique-in-segment rear seating in the form of six individual seats that can be arranged in conference format, with the second row facing the rear.

The largest Tourneo people mover has been comprehensively re-engineered to provide superior levels of refinement, including high-quality trim materials, improved comfort and noise levels, and the latest Ford passenger car technologies such as Intelligent Speed Limiter and SYNC 3 connectivity.

“With the new Tourneo Custom, every passenger can enjoy the best seat in the house,” said Pete Reyes, vehicle line director, Ford of Europe. “This versatile people mover has been transformed from top to bottom, with a stylish interior that combines the comfort and quality of a luxury car with outstanding space and practicality.”

The new innovations build on the significant product enhancements introduced to Tourneo Custom in 2016, including the Dagenham-built Ford EcoBlue 2.0-litre diesel engine, a new six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission, and optional rear air suspension.

Tourneo Custom was first introduced in 2013 and is the flagship of Ford’s family of Tourneo people movers, which also includes the five-seat Tourneo Courier and the Tourneo Connect available in five- and seven-seat variants.

Sophisticated design – inside and out

New Tourneo Custom has a bold new front-end appearance that shares the same design DNA as Ford’s latest passenger cars, with a high-mounted trapezoidal grille and dynamic, slim headlamps that flow neatly into the vehicle’s muscular shoulder line.

A range of advanced headlamp technologies is available, with all vehicles featuring distinctive new signature LED daytime running lights and high series models offering powerful HID (High-intensity discharge) Xenon illumination.

Inside, the Tourneo Custom has an all-new instrument panel based on Ford’s new interior design philosophy – pioneered on the all-new Fiesta – which offers an attractive, user-centric layout that is influenced by consumer interactions with smart devices and tablets.

Based around strong horizontal design elements that emphasise the width of the cabin, the new instrument panel has a distinctly upscale appearance, reinforced by soft-touch surfaces and attractive detailing with chrome and gloss black finishes.

All-new displays and control panels have been designed for enhanced ergonomics and ease of use, and high-series models feature a floating, tablet-inspired 8-inch colour touchscreen that can be operated with pinch and swipe gestures.

Every-day practicality has been significantly improved, with two lidded compartments on the upper instrument panel, and a generous stowage bin with twin cupholders in the centre console, featuring a smart roller cover.

Unique-in-segment rear seating for ultimate flexibility and comfort

To provide customers the ultimate flexibility in configuring and using the rear cabin, the new Tourneo Custom is the only vehicle in its segment to offer six individual seats, with the ability to arrange the two rear rows in conference format for outstanding access and enhanced interaction between passengers, or in two rows of three seats facing forward.

Standard on high series models, the six individual seats can each be folded flat, tumbled, stowed in a multiple locations or removed completely to maximise the luggage area or meet their own special business or lifestyle requirements.

Travelling comfort is further enhanced by new seat designs featuring revised foam padding and geometry for optimised support, plus improved refinement resulting from a significantly upgraded sound reduction package in the rear cabin. Rear seat passengers will also appreciate the more effective air conditioning system offering faster cooling or heating, six USB ports, and the 10-speaker audio system tuned for a rich and balanced sound whatever the rear seating layout.

Throughout the vehicle, the interior trim has been completely revised – from the headliner and seats to the side panels and carpets – with a focus on outstanding craftsmanship and appearance. The selection of more upscale materials, such as thick yarn fabrics and fine grain leathers, and the availability of both light and dark interior environments in stylish, contemporary colours, reinforce the impression of quality and attention to detail within the cabin.

Advanced technology and driver assistance features

Ford’s SYNC 3 communications and entertainment system will enable Tourneo Custom drivers to control audio, navigation and connected smartphones using simple, conversational voice commands. Simply by pushing a button and saying “I need a coffee,” “I need fuel,” and “I need to park,” drivers can locate nearby cafés, fuel stations or car parks, and find train stations, airports, and hotels. The system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™.

The new Tourneo Custom also introduces a number of advanced driver assistance features, and is the first vehicle in its segment to offer Intelligent Speed Limiter, which enables automatic adjustment of maximum vehicle speed to remain within legal limits, using the Traffic Sign Recognition system to detect speed limit signs.

The new model also offers Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Alert, which warns drivers reversing out of a parking space of vehicles that may soon be crossing behind them.

These new features add to the comprehensive suite of technologies already available for Tourneo Custom, including the Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection emergency braking system, Lane Keeping Alert, Side Wind Stabilisation and Adaptive Cruise Control.

Class-leading Ford EcoBlue engines with auto transmission option

New Tourneo Custom features the state-of-the-art Ford EcoBlue diesel engine, designed, engineered and built at the Dagenham Engine Plant, with a choice of 105 PS, 130 PS and 170 PS power ratings, delivering significant cost of ownership and performance benefits, with fuel-efficiency improved by up to 13 per cent; CO2 emissions from 162 g/km;* and low-end torque enhanced by 20 per cent.

The latest specification also includes the smooth and responsive six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission, a unique-to-segment rear air suspension system that delivers a supple, controlled and level ride across a wide range of load conditions, and a 17-inch alloy wheel option for enhanced handling and braking performance.

Upscale Titanium X and Sport series options for the ultimate Tourneo

New Tourneo Custom will be available with an upscale Titanium X package that includes leather trim, SYNC 3 with satellite navigation and rear view camera, and HID Xenon headlamps as standard.

For customers seeking a more dynamic exterior appearance and a stylish sports interior, the new Sport series is also available. This package combines the 170 PS engine option, a full exterior body kit with twin bonnet stripes and unique 17-inch alloy wheels, alongside partial leather interior trim.

The Tourneo Custom line-up continues to also offer both eight- or nine-seat configurations, with a choice of short wheelbase and long wheelbase versions. The longer model provides additional luggage space behind the third seat row.

Ford Motor Company launches the All_New Galaxy MPV - the ultimate in Passenger transport ?

• All-new Ford Galaxy MPV debuts Intelligent All-Wheel Drive for enhanced traction and road-holding
• Intelligent All-Wheel Drive continuously measures traction at all four wheels and instantaneously calculates where to deliver engine torque
• Ford expands the number of vehicles with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive – including Kuga, all-new Mondeo, S-MAX and Edge
• Galaxy available to order in Zetec, Titanium and Titanium X series, priced from £26,445
• Seven-seater people mover provides luxurious and safe travel with practical innovations, class-leading refinement and advanced driver assistance technologies

Ford Motor Company today announced that the all-new Galaxy will be available with all-wheel drive. Ford’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system delivers enhanced traction and road-holding with a seamless transition between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive performance to provide a more secure footing, especially in slippery conditions.

Measuring how the car’s wheels are gripping the road surface every 16 milliseconds – 20 times quicker than it takes to blink – the system can send up to 100 per cent of engine torque to the front or rear wheels, and make required adjustments in just 100 milliseconds. 

By only delivering torque where and when it is needed, Intelligent AWD has minimal impact on fuel economy and CO₂ emissions compared with permanent four-wheel drive systems.

“Families across Europe have grown up with the Galaxy. Customers are reassured by its ability to carry seven in first-class comfort and safety, and to constantly surprise with its unmatched versatility,” said Roelant de Waard, vice president, Marketing, Sales & Service, Ford of Europe. 

“The all-new Galaxy now delivers even more assurance with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, actively optimising traction for even smoother and more refined journeys.”

Ford is expanding the number of vehicles available with AWD. First available on Kuga, it is also available on the all-new Mondeo and S-MAX and will be offered on the Edge SUV later this year.

More grip on demand

The all-new Galaxy’s Intelligent AWD is always on. The primary goal of Intelligent AWD at low speeds is to improve traction. If, for example, the front of the vehicle is on ice and the rear is not, the all-wheel-drive system can send all the torque the powertrain can produce to the rear, putting power where the driver needs it.

At speeds above 18mph Intelligent AWD is tuned to improve driving feel, handling and responses using information from body control, braking, gearbox and the Electronic Power Assisted Steering. 

By sending torque to the rear wheels when cornering at speed, the system can help reduce understeer – those situations when a vehicle’s momentum causes it to continue straight instead of following the driver’s intended path.

“Intelligent AWD activates when it is needed, so it can help Galaxy drivers find grip in wintery conditions and enhance the signature car-like driving dynamics with minimal impact on fuel-efficiency and without affecting refinement. 

With Intelligent AWD, Galaxy drivers also can tow up to 2,000kg,” said Ulrich Koesters, vehicle line director, Ford of Europe.

The all-new Galaxy offers Intelligent AWD with the 150PS 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engine and six-speed manual transmission, and with the 180PS 2.0-litre TDCi engine and six-speed PowerShift automatic transmission. 

Galaxy can also be equipped with a 120PS version of the 2.0-litre TDCi engine, and Ford’s new 210PS 2.0-litre TDCi bi-turbo diesel engine that offers enhanced responsiveness and 450Nm of torque from 2,000 rpm.

Petrol engine options include Ford’s new fuel-efficient 160PS 1.5-litre EcoBoost and 240PS 2.0-litre EcoBoost, and the entire Galaxy engine range meets Euro Stage VI emissions standards with CO₂ emissions from 129 g/km* supported by Smart Regenerative Charging, Auto-Start-Stop and Active Grille Shutter technologies.

First-class travel

Ford also today announced prices for the all-new Galaxy. Available to order now in Zetec, Titanium and Titanium X series, it will start from £26,445. 

Featuring the company’s latest global design language with a sophisticated grille and slim-line headlamps, the all-new Galaxy offers seven full-size seats, with practical innovations, class-leading refinement, and advanced driver assistance technologies.

Families can easily switch between seating and load space with a segment-first feature that raises third-row seats at the push of a button. Comfort is enhanced for front seat passengers with massaging Ford Multi-Contour Seats; and for rear seat passengers with integral link rear suspension that offers a smoother, quieter ride and more space. 

Second- and third-row passengers benefit from up to 10mm more headroom than in the outgoing Galaxy and the third-row seats offer up to 40mm more headroom than key competitors.

The all-new Galaxy also supports drivers in town and on the highway with advanced technologies including:

• Intelligent Speed Limiter, which when activated scans traffic signs and adjusts the throttle to help drivers stay within legal speed limits and avoid fines
• Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, which will reduce the severity of some frontal collisions involving vehicles and pedestrians, or help drivers avoid some impacts altogether
• Glare-Free Highbeam technology within the adaptive LED headlamps, which detects vehicles ahead and fades out light that could dazzle oncoming drivers, while retaining maximum illumination for other areas
• Front Split View Camera, which enhances the driver’s field of vision when pulling out of a parking space or junction with a 180 degree camera system installed at the front of the Galaxy, and displays the image on the 8in high-resolution touchscreen in the centre console

Galaxy takes the nameplate’s signature car-like driving dynamics to a new level with Ford Adaptive Steering technology, which adjusts steering ratio according to speed to optimise manoeuvrability and precision.

The technologically advanced Galaxy seven-seat people mover was revealed for the first time in April earlier this year – on the back of a moving trailer – through a stunt performed with the help of illusionist Darcy Oake.

New Mondeo Hybrid takes Next Green Car Award, with the Transit Courier commended.

• Ford Mondeo Hybrid wins Next Green Car Large Family Car Award
• All-new Ford Transit Courier Kombi was also commended in LCV category

Ford’s first hybrid to be built and sold in Europe has been awarded a Next Green Car Award.

Next Green Car praised the all-new Mondeo Hybrid, stating: “Well done to Ford for bringing its hybrid know-how to the UK market. The Mondeo Hybrid delivers emissions under the 100g CO₂/km threshold.”

Joe Bakaj, vice president, Product Development, Ford of Europe said, “With our first hybrid to be built in Europe, we’ve improved fuel efficiency and CO₂ without sacrificing the power and driving experience Mondeo customers have come to expect.”

The Ford Mondeo Hybrid now on sale uses two electric motors in the hybrid system – one to support the petrol engine in driving the wheels and another to enable regenerative charging to the 1.4kWh lithium-ion battery, located behind the rear seats.

It is capable of speeds up to 85mph in electric mode, and the combination of the specially-developed 2.0-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine and electric drivetrain delivers 187PS with 67.3mpg and 99g/km CO_2.*

The all-new Ford Transit Courier was also highly commended by Next Green Car in the LCV category.

The smallest van in the new Transit line-up is a first for Ford in the compact van segment, offering unrivalled fuel economy across its diesel and petrol engine range with class-leading load space of 2.3m³ (SAE) behind the bulkhead.

The 95PS 1.6-litre Duratorq TDCi, Dagenham-built engine achieves 76.3mpg and 97g/km CO₂ emissions*, and the multi-award-winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost offers 54.3mpg and 119g/km CO₂ ** – 15 per cent better than the closest rival.

USA - New Ford Focus to Retain Current Design

We can expect to see the current fastback design on the new Ford Focus for quite some time. The automaker still isn't sure what direction it wants to take the design of its best-selling model, but according to a presentation by global product development boss Raj Nair at the Geneva Motor Show, the "sleek look of a coupe" will be seen on future models.

In the past, Ford has given long-established models a fresh, significantly redesigned look after being on the market for an extended period of time, but because of the success of the new Focus and its new grille, that may change.

The new model expected to hit showroom floors in 2017 and will likely evolve from the current design language without breaking so far away from the mold. "Owners talk about rational reasons for purchase, but a fair percentage buy for emotional reasons like styling," said Nair. Along with new design elements, Ford will offer a refresh between now and when the new model comes out in 2017.

The automaker will also be implementing new engine options, including a diesel version of the popular Focus ST and add the 1-liter EcoBoost engine to the lineup.

REPORT HERE

Fords adds Titanium X Sport to Kuga lineup

• Ford Kuga sales remain strong with over 7,500 sold year to date end of July
• One in four customers choose the segment-first hands-free power tailgate, and over 85 per cent of customers choose optional extras such as the appearance pack
• Stylish new Ford Kuga Titanium X Sport added to the top of range
• On sale from 19th August priced from £28,345 on-the-road, with in market deliveries from October 2013
  

Ford Kuga sales remain strong with over 7,500 already sold year to date.  The appeal of Kuga’s exciting line-up is to be further enhanced with the debut of a new luxury, feature-packed Kuga Titanium X Sport series, priced from £28,345.

Over 80 per cent of Ford Kuga customers opt for the highly specified models Titanium or Titanium X.  85 per cent of these customers add the optional appearance pack and over 40 per cent choose the convenience pack which includes power fold door mirrors and Active Park Assist.  The segment-first hands-free power tailgate has also proved popular with 25 per cent of customers benefiting from the kick activated tailgate opening.

Mark Ovenden, Ford Britain managing director said: “With such strong customer demand for the Ford Kuga and the majority of buyers choosing the luxury and refinement of the Titanium X with optional extras, it made perfect sense to introduce the stylish range topping Titanium X Sport.  The Ford Kuga is fuel-efficient, high-tech and capable and the Titanium X Sport combines all this and more to provide the ultimate package.”

Compared to the Ford Kuga Titanium X, the Titanium X Sport will add sports styling – body coloured front rear and side skirts, body coloured wheel arches, large rear spoiler, high gloss rear diffuser, front silver skid plate, high gloss black bumper detailing, unique 19-in alloy wheels, chrome roof rails and dark rear windows with privacy glass.  Popular technology options such as Sony DAB Navigation system, Rear View Camera, Active Park Assist and power folding door mirrors have also been standardised.

Early orders for the Kuga get Ford off to a great start with this new model

• Over 1,850 all-new Ford Kuga models sold before dealer deliveries started - 1,600 of those to private buyers  
• Over 85 per cent of UK sales are top Titanium and Titanium X models
• 98 per cent of orders are specified with optional extras such as driver assist technologies
• Ford’s acclaimed UK-engineered 1.6-litre turbo-powered EcoBoost engine debuts on Kuga
• Priced from £20,895 on-the-road

As the all-new Ford Kuga arrives in UK dealerships, more than 1,850 are already being handed over to eager customers, many of whom placed early orders without even a test-drive.

Since prices were announced in November, 1,850 orders have been received ahead of volume deliveries commencing this month.  Of the 1,850, 1,600 were retail orders placed by private buyers, the balance being to fleets.

At 87 per cent, the proportion of high-series Titanium and Titanium X orders is running 12 per cent ahead of the prior model.  In addition, 98 per cent of all new Ford Kugas are being specified with optional extras worth an average of £1,000.

The new Ford Kuga introduces the 1.6-litre EcoBoost direct-injection 150PS turbo engine to the range.  All Ford’s European car and commercial vehicle powertrains are developed and tested at the company’s UK engineering base, Dunton Technical Centre, in Essex.

The Dunton Technical Centre’s team of 3,000 engineers carry out 80 per cent of powertrain development on site, in the centre’s Powertrain Laboratory and Emissions and Environmental Test Labs.

Dunton laboratories enable powertrain testing from individual component level to a full engine to ensure reliability, efficiency and design quality. The balance of testing takes place out on the roads of mainland Europe and the extremes of Scandinavia and Arizona.

The all-new Kuga builds on the success of its predecessor with a sophisticated design, elevated driving dynamics with an inventory of sophisticated driver-assistance systems including Torque Vectoring Control; spacious rear package with greater flexibility, a wider choice of low CO2 powertrains, a wealth of smart technologies and the five-star Euro NCAP safety rating.  

Andy Barratt, Ford of Britain sales director, said: “Since launching in 2008, Kuga has been praised for its great looks and fun-to-drive character.  The all-new Kuga offers even more, addressing customer feedback with increased luggage and passenger space and a smart, stylish package.  Sales are off to a strong start with the high series mix already exceeding that of the outgoing model which is fantastic news”.

Overwhelming demand for Ford Kuga’s top Titanium and Titanium X models has already prompted Ford to consider extending the range further upwards with a new flagship model later this year.