Test drive Ford Tourneo Connect 1.6 TDCi: the voice of reason
First impressions of the 95 horsepower diesel version
The lighter versions of the models that we used to call the slightly derogatory nickname "banachers" may not make it into the dream car lists in the minds of most car enthusiasts, but instead offer undeniable practical qualities at very reasonable prices. . The VW Caddy, Renault Kangoo, Citroen Berlingo / Peugeot Partner, Fiat Doblo and company may not shine with sophisticated ambience and captivating design, but instead have a huge space for passengers in the cabin, an equally impressive luggage compartment, and practical sliding rear doors. And all this at very affordable prices.
Ford Tourneo Connect with a starting price of BGN 42.
One of the most interesting additions to this class is the all-new Ford Tourneo Connect. The basic five-seat version of the 4,42-meter model has a starting price of BGN 42, while the seven-seat, long-wheelbase model is just under BGN 610. So far, there are three Tourneo diesel modifications, with a capacity of 45, 000 and 75 horsepower, respectively (the first two of which are equipped with a five-speed transmission, and the most powerful one with a six-speed).
The driver's seat is much more accommodating than one would expect from this type of car - the front seats are well contoured and with fairly good lateral support for the hips and body, the pleasantly high position of the gear lever is very comfortable in everyday use and in general. ergonomics deserves a very good rating. The item niches are spacious and plentiful, the door pillars easily accommodate 1,5-litre bottles, and there's an extra niche in the ceiling.
More machine than pastry chef
Overall, the Ford Tourneo Connect feels more like a practical car than a light truck. It is true that the interior is predominantly made of hard plastic, but objectively the assembly is solid, and the abundance of interior space and comfortable equipment make the trip even more comfortable than in some significantly "more elite" models.
The relatively small diesel engine also works surprisingly well with the Ford Tourneo Connect powerplant, which weighs over a ton and a half - the car may not accelerate quite vigorously, but the traction is confident enough for the needs of such a vehicle. Fuel consumption deserves to be described as one of the pleasant surprises of the model: during the test, the Tourneo reported an average consumption of only six liters per hundred kilometers.
How does the Ford Tourneo Connect chassis work? Like other key elements of the car - without unrealistic promises, but quite competent. Most shocks are absorbed without strong shocks, lateral body vibrations are maintained within normal limits. Even with a more aggressive driving style, the torsion bar-suspended rear axle maintains self-control, and if necessary, the ESP system works earlier, but effectively. The Ford Tourneo Connect brilliantly demonstrates both the active and passive safety of the Caddy, and its character is far from the rugged manners of passenger cars.
CONCLUSION
By its very nature, the Ford Tourneo Connect is very close to cars - in terms of comfort, safety and handling, the model demonstrates the same impressive results as in traditional strict disciplines such as interior space and functionality. 95 hp diesel engine copes well enough with the movement of the car and is characterized by extremely low fuel consumption for its class.
Text: Bozhan Boshnakov
