The Ford Tourneo Courier is a unique vehicle in Ford’s lineup, as the company has recently shifted its focus away from affordable cars due to the challenges posed by stricter safety and emissions standards. However, Ford is now making an effort to offer a more affordable option with the Tourneo Courier. While it may not be the cheapest model, it aims to provide value, practicality, and versatility for busy families.
Design & Styling:
The Tourneo Courier stands out from its commercial-based competitors with its passenger car-like design. It features a bold grille, large glasshouse, flared front wheel arches, and a rising waistline. The upper-level models, such as the Active version, offer skid plates, wheel-arch cladding, and a contrast-colored roof. Despite its compact size, the Tourneo Courier offers ample cabin and cargo space, making it suitable for carrying both families and their gear.
Engines & Performance:
The Tourneo Courier is powered by Ford’s three-cylinder 998cc Ecoboost turbo petrol engine, which delivers 123bhp and 148lb ft of torque. It offers decent performance, with a 0-60mph time of 10.8 seconds. However, it may feel underpowered when heavily loaded. Ford plans to introduce an electric version of the Tourneo Courier with a 230-mile range later in 2024.
Ride & Handling:
The Tourneo Courier offers good lateral body control, providing secure grip levels and stability. It rides slightly firmer than typical van-related monocab cars, allowing for higher speeds through bends and over bumps. The steering has medium-heavy control weight and medium-fast pacing, offering a familiar feel. The car’s electronic stability controls can be intrusive at the limit of grip, and the steering may kick back over mid-corner bumps.
Comfort & Isolation:
The Tourneo Courier offers comparable cabin isolation to most compact family cars, with acceptable levels of wind, road, and engine noise. The front seats are a bit hard and flat, but they provide sufficient comfort for most passengers.
MPG & Running Costs:
While the Tourneo Courier is not Ford’s cheapest model, it still offers good value for its price range. The entry-level Titanium models come well-equipped with features such as alloy wheels, roof rails, heated seats, electronic climate control, and an ADAS suite. The Active trim adds exterior styling changes, factory navigation, and larger wheels for an additional cost. The Tourneo Courier’s petrol-powered rivals are becoming less common, but the Dacia Jogger and Citroën Berlingo Puretech offer alternatives at different price points.
Overall, the Tourneo Courier has some standout qualities, such as its eye-catching design and ample cabin and cargo space. However, it falls short in terms of cabin quality, innovative practicality features, and engine performance. While it may not be the most affordable option in its class, it offers a well-rounded package for those looking for a versatile and practical family car.