Greg Potts
FORD TOURNEO COURIER ACTIVE
In some ways, what you’re looking at here could be described as the new Ford Fiesta. OK, that’s a stretch (literally), but the Tourneo Courier uses a platform and plenty of other bits from the Puma, and those bits originated in the now dead Fiesta (RIP). Ford says it has “SUV inspired styling”, but we’re delighted that it looks very much like a return to the proper boxy MPVs of old.
At launch all Tourneo Couriers come with Ford’s familiar 1.0-litre 3cyl EcoBoost petrol engine. That can be combined with a 6spd manual or 7spd dual clutch auto gearbox, and because it has those Fiesta underpinnings it’s actually very enjoyable to drive. The little engine is gutsy for its size and drives the front wheels with 123bhp and 125lb ft of torque, so it’s not rapid, but it’s plenty eager enough for family transport.
And we’re not just saying this as part of some larger ‘save the manuals’ campaign, but it’s the DIY setup that’s the better gearbox. The 7spd auto constantly selects the highest gear possible and at times refuses to change down when you’re in need of acceleration.
The Courier is compliant over bumps too and softer than some design-led crossovers. Plus, considering it’s related to an actual Transit van, it is remarkably refined.
On the inside it’s all about space. Up front there’s bundles of room for your head and shoulders, and the airy feeling is improved by the giant windscreen and side windows. The rear seats are accessed via sliding doors (useful in car parks) and under the parcel shelf there’s 570 litres of
