Facelifted 2018 Ford Tourneo Custom minivan goes upscale

The people mover now sports bolder looks and up-to-date features

Ford has given the Tourneo Custom minivan its first facelift, with the people carrier gaining a refreshed look on the outside, a more luxurious cabin, and more equipment.

Offering space for up to nine passengers in short- and long-wheelbase versions, the Tourneo Custom targets executive shuttle, personal use, and lifestyle customers alike.

For the 2018 model year, the minivan displays a new front-end design that brings it in line with current Ford passenger cars. The main changes include the addition of a five-bar trapezoidal grille and redesigned headlights with integrated LED DRLs — upper trim levels feature HID Xenon illumination.

But the main changes are inside, with the Tourneo Custom getting an all-new instrument panel inspired by the new Fiesta, a floating 8-inch color touchscreen on high-series models, as well as improved interior stowage, and more flexibility.

Ford says the Tourneo Custom is the only vehicle in its segment to offer six individual seats, with the possibility to arrange the two rear rows in a conference format. Depending on needs, each of the six seats can be folded flat, tumbled, stowed, or removed altogether.

The 2018 Tourneo Custom also gets new seat designs, upgraded sound reduction package in the rear cabin, and improved air conditioning system. Rear seat passengers also benefit from six USB ports and a 10-speaker audio system. The minivan is now available with a rear air suspension system as well.

Quality-wise, upgrades include a completely revised interior trim, more upscale materials (such as thick yarn fabrics and fine grain leathers), as well as more color combinations to choose from.

The Tourneo Custom also gets the SYNC 3 infotainment system that is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as new safety assist features including Intelligent Speed Limiter with Traffic Sign Recognition, and Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Alert.

The Tourneo Custom offers the 2.0-liter Ford EcoBlue diesel engine in three states of tune (105 hp, 130 hp, and 170 hp) and delivering a 13-percent improvement in fuel efficiency compared to its predecessor. The optional six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission has also joined the range.

The facelifted Tourneo Custom will be available to order later this year, with deliveries scheduled to begin in early 2018.