Ford Tourneo People-mover Concept Previews New Transit Family

Ford's European arm has revealed a new people-mover concept ahead of next month's Geneva Motor Show, dubbed the Tourneo Custom. 

While the current European-market Tourneo is based on the Transit van, Ford says this new concept previews a new range of front-wheel-drive people-moving and one-tonne commercial Transits for global markets - excluding North America.

Ford has also been quick to point out that a new larger Transit will debut later in 2012 - replacing the large Transit that debuted in 2006 - offering higher payload capacity, long- and short-wheelbase variants, and a rear-wheel-drive layout.

"2012 is a tremendously significant year for Ford as we begin the roll-out of a completely new range of commercial vehicles," Stephen Odell, chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe said.

"Our market-leading commercials have established a tremendous reputation for value and durability, and our new range is destined to raise this to a new level."

As for the Tourneo (and the small Transit that will follow), Ford has blessed its new minibus with the brand's Kinetic styling language, featuring the same bean-like headlights, wide-open grille and futuristic dash of the new Focus small car.

Ford promises car-like handling and a driver-focused cockpit with "the ambience and high-quality materials of a modern multi-seat saloon car". 

The new range will be powered by Ford's new 2.2 litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine in three states of tune: 75, 90 and 115kW.

Other features, at least in concept form, include lane departure warning, a rear-view camera integrated in the mirror, and Ford's overseas SYNC infotainment system.

Watch for more images and details on the new Tourneo/Transit to come at next month's Geneva Motor Show.

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