Ford Tourneo Courier Kombi (2015 – 2023) Review

By 2019, with the demise of the C-Max, Ford had finally introduced the Tourneo Courier to the UK with either 1.0 EcoBoost or 1.5 TDCI engines and a 6-speed manual transmission.

Previously in the UK it had been offered as the Transit Courier Kombi with less luxurious seats.

Small in size but it's designed to combine the handling of a hatchback with the practically of a compact van. As a result it's an ideal choice if you want a no nonsense do-it-all runabout or are after a car on the Motability scheme, helped by sliding side doors. The design of the rear chassis frame and placement of the fuel tank centrally make it relatively easy to convert into a WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle).

It is of course based on the Transit Courier van and its practicality is evident in the 708 litres of bootspace. Remove the rear seats and the Courier Kombi will provide an even bigger 1656 litres of carrying capacity, which makes it useful for all manner of jobs, with room for a small sofa, camping equipment or flat pack furniture. Access is easy too, thanks to the low boot floor and wide opening area of the rear doors. The only problem with that is they need to be unbolted otherwise they take up half the load space, even when tumble folded.

The engine line-up is limited three options - one petrol and two diesels - although none of the engines are particularly potent, which can leave the Courier feeling rather breathless when fully loaded. That said, both the petrol and diesels are efficient with a claimed maximum of 76.3mpg for the original 1.6 TDCi (later replaced by a 1.5TDCI).

The Courier Kombi uses the same platform as the Fiesta, which provides good handling with positive corning and excellent road holding. Even with five adults and a loaded boot, the Courier Kombi is rewarding to drive with its wide windscreen and large side windows giving great visibility and making it easy to and park.

The sliding doors makes it easy to get everyone in and out of the Tourneo Courier. While the the interior of the Courier Kombi disappointed, with lots of cheap, dark plastics that cover the doors, lower dash and centre stack, it has been significantly improved in Tourneo Courier trim.

However, despite the occasional shortcomings, the Tourneo Courier remains a fun and compact MPV that provides lots of everyday practically. The interior is spacious, with acres of head and leg room, while the Fiesta-base make the Courier easy to drive on all roads and in all weathers. 

Unlike some other van-based people carriers, the Transit Courier Kombi doesn't feel like a commercial vehicle with seats bolted in the back. It actually shares the same platform as the Fiesta, which means it handles and drives like a good quality hatchback. 

Finding a good driving position is simple, with height and reach adjustable steering. The driver's seat also has plenty of adjustment, although you'll have to upgrade to Trend to get the most comfort, with Base models only get four-way seat adjustment and no lumbar support. 

The suspension is firm but comfortable, absorbing potholes and speed bumps, while resisting body lean in the corners. Admittedly, there is a little travel in the suspension with just the driver on board - resulting in few bounces - but for the most part the Transit Courier Kombi is a pleasant place to while away the miles. 

The Courier Kombi reveals its commercial origins on the motorway, with its boxy shape generating notable road and wind noise, but it’s better than similar van-based MPVs and the noise never intrudes enough to interrupt the radio or conversation between the passengers. 

The engine choices are limited to just one petrol - a 1.0-litre EcoBoost - offering a claimed 54.3mpg and 119g/km of CO2. Producing 100PS, the petrol has enough zip for urban motoring but quickly runs out of steam when carrying a full load. This means acceleration is in short supply, making it a challenge to escape short motorway slip roads or scurry away from busy junctions.

Both of the diesels are better, with more torque and higher economy. The best option is the 1.6 TDCi which dips below 100g/km of CO2 and returns up to 76.3mpg when specified with optional start/stop. A four-cylinder 1.5 TDCi is also available, with 75PS and 190Nm of torque, but emits 103g/km and returns a claimed 72.4mpg.

All engines are linked to a smooth five-speed or six-speed manual gearbox and all Kombi models get hill start assist to prevent the vehicle from rolling backwards when pulling away on a hill. The driver also gets second-row seat belt reminders and tyre pressure monitoring too.

The 1.5TDCI will eventually pull 100mph, but takes time getting there.

It might be just four meters long, but the Transit Courier Kombi has lots of everyday practically and will easily outstrip a BMW 3 Series Touring for luggage space, with a maximum of 1656 litres. Indeed, even with the rear seats in place, the Courier has 708 litres, which is enough to cope with the weekly shop and a set of cupboards to store it in. 

All models get five-seats and there's no shortage of head or legroom as the Kombi's boxy shape provides a tall ceiling and a good gap between the front and rear seats. A set of twin-sliding doors are fitted as standard, which makes it easy to access the rear, without fear of the kids clanging the doors against adjacent cars. 

There's no hiding the Courier Kombi's van origins though, with flip out windows in the rear and lots of dull, scratchy plastics. However, despite its lack of thrills or high quality materials, the interior is comfortable enough with upright seating that provides plenty of lower back and upper leg support.

Lowering the rear seats and folding them forward is easy, with a light operation that will allow elderly drivers to maximise storage, without much fuss or physical exertion. 

Like many vehicles in the Ford range, there are some smart storage solutions. These include a large centre console capable of storing an iPad or magazine, plus there's a full-width overhead stowage shelf and a drawer under the front passenger seat. The latter allows both the driver and passengers to hide valuables away from prying eyes when parked.

MyFord Dock is also available as an option, which will store, mount and charge mobile devices such as phones and navigation systems. A full-size spare wheel is also included at no extra cost.