Ford adds adventure-focused Active trim to Tourneo and Transit Connect

Ford’s van-based Tourneo Connect and Transit Connect are now available to order in the rugged Active trim. Priced from £21,285 and £21,685 (excluding VAT) respectively.

The Active trim gets mostly cosmetic updates - including front and rear skidplates along with plastic cladding on the body sides, mirror caps, wheel arches, rear bumper and roof rails. The ride height is raised by 24mm, too.

Active models get a bespoke trim, with 17-inch alloy wheels, a signature mesh grille and new seat patterns with blue detailing. Safety features include intelligent speed limiter, pre-collision assist with active braking, side wind stabilisation, and active park assist.

The vehicles can also be specified with a mechanical limited-slip differential (called mLSD in Ford speak), which transfers engine torque to the wheel with the most traction in low-grip scenarios. Similar differential technology is used to better the traction and handling of models like the Focus RS and Fiesta ST.

All new Tourneo Connect Active and Transit Connect Active models are powered by Ford’s 1.5‑litre EcoBlue diesel engine. Available in 100PS or 120PS power outputs, the engine is offered alongside a choice of eight-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmissions.

The mLSD is available on both Tourneo and Transit Connect models as an option with the 120PS manual powertrain.

The five-seat Tourneo Connect Active features a 60/40 split second row bench that folds flat for easy equipment loading and optimised luggage space. The longer Tourneo Grand Connect Active adds two more seats in a third row that folds into the floor when not in use. Load volume remains at 2.9m or 3.6m depending on the wheelbase specified, with payloads reaching 982kg.

Deliveries are earmarked for the end of 2020.