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2018 Ford Tourneo Custom revealed

Latest Transit-based people carrier makes its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show

The Ford Transit Custom is getting an update, and the Tourneo Custom passenger variant has been revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The revised model is available with up to nine seats in a variety of wheelbase lengths, and Ford boasts that the Tourneo is the only van-based people carrier on sale with six separate rear seats that can be arranged individually.

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Upgrades to the Tourneo Custom start on the outside, with a revised grille and daytime running lights, but the big changes are found within. There's an improved air-conditioning system that boosts cabin ventilation, while six USB ports are offered for charging electronic devices. There's an enhanced 10-speaker stereo system, too.

Build quality and improved cabin trim is designed to deliver a more upmarket, executive feel so that the Tourneo Custom can challenge executive versions of the VW T6 Transporter and Mercedes Vito vans. Another addition is fine-grain leather, which will give even greater upmarket feel.

Under the bonnet, the Tourneo Custom gets the latest 2.0 EcoBlue diesel which was introduced to the Transit last year. The unit is rated at 170PS (168bhp), while it's available with six-speed manual and six-speed SelectShift automatic gearboxes. Another unique addition to the Tourneo Custom is self-levelling rear air-suspension, which boosts the van's cabin comfort.

Safety is an important aspect of the new Tourneo Custom, with a new intelligent speed limiter now fitted. Blind spot detection and rear traffic alert have been added, while collision alert and pedestrian detection, lane keeping, adaptive cruse and crosswind stability are carried over from the old Tourneo.

In an effort to compete with other van-based executive shuttles, the Tourneo Custom is available in plush Titanium X trim. This includes leather, SYNC 3 voice control with sat-nav and a rear camera, and xenon lights. In addition, Sport trim adds a bodykit with twin bonnet stripes and unique 17-inch alloy wheels, while part leather trim is part of the package, too.

Follow all the news from the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show here...

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Senior test editor

Dean has been part of the Auto Express team for more than 20 years, and has worked across nearly all departments, starting on magazine production, then moving to road tests and reviews. He's our resident van expert, but covers everything from scooters and motorbikes to supercars and consumer products.

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