
It has been confirmed. A few weeks ago we revealed that Ford’s Transit would be coming to South Africa next year and now Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa has issued a press release stating that it will start contesting the local people-moving and goods-hauling segments when the Transit Custom and Tourneo Custom arrive here in the first quarter of 2013.
Built in Kocaeli, Turkey, the Transit and Tourneo Custom have been styled with Ford’s latest kinetic design language, keeping the two in line with the Blue Oval’s passenger vehicle line. Both models will also be made available in long and short wheelbase configurations. The modern design continues inside with modern touches like multiple storage options and driver-focused layouts.
The 2,2-litre Duratorq TDCi turbodiesel powerplant that also does service in the Ranger pick-up will power both models, but it may be in a different state of tune than the 110 kW/375 N.m unit in the Ranger.
Obviously, the Transit Custom will appeal to small enterprises and artisans, whilst the eight-seater Tourneo Custom offers exceptional versatility with a high opening tailgate and flexible seating configurations (for up to 30 different folding and stowing options).
Pricing will be made available closer to the local launch date.