Compared to Europe, Ford’s current van lineup in North America is relatively limited, consisting only of the full-size Transit and the soon-to-be-discontinued Transit Connect. However, a recent sighting of the new Transit Custom and Tourneo Custom in the U.S. raises questions about the potential expansion of Ford Pro’s offerings in the medium-sized van segment.
The two vans were spotted by our reader, Dave, at Hoosier Pass in Colorado. Both vehicles had Michigan manufacturer plates, but one of them also displayed a UK sticker on the tailgate. The gray model is a Transit Custom LCV, while the blue one is a Tourneo Custom minivan, which is the passenger version of the former.
In the Transit Custom LCV, body-colored panels replace the rear side windows and rear windscreen. It features a pair of side-hinged split doors at the back, setting it apart from the Tourneo Custom, which is equipped with a traditional tailgate. The distinctive grille patterns at the front indicate that the Tourneo is the Titanium trim. However, it’s worth noting that neither van comes with the flashy LED taillight graphics or larger alloy wheels typically found in higher-spec models.
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Photo Credit: Dave
In terms of powertrains, it is evident that both vans are ICE-powered, since the fully electric E-Transit and E-Tourneo Custom feature distinct grilles and a bumper-mounted charging port. The presence of the 4WD badge on the tailgate of the Tourneo Custom indicates that it features the 2.0-liter EcoBlue diesel engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This non-electrified 2.0-liter turbodiesel engine can produce up to 168 hp (125 kW / 170 PS). There’s also a more potent 2.5-liter plug-in hybrid option available, but it’s front-wheel drive only and generates a combined output of 229 hp (171 kW / 232 PS).
The Transit Custom is Ford’s medium van in Europe, occupying a position above the smaller Courier and the compact Connect (which shares a platform with the VW Caddy). Previous reports have suggested that the Transit/Tourneo Custom will share its underpinnings with the next-generation VW Transporter.
Despite the interesting sighting of these vans in Colorado, American consumers shouldn’t get too excited just yet. The presence of these vehicles on U.S. soil doesn’t necessarily mean that they will make their way across the Atlantic. After all, development prototypes of the new Transit/Tourneo Custom have been seen in the U.S. before their official unveiling, similar to other non-U.S. models from Ford. Nonetheless, we will keep a close eye on any news regarding this topic. Perhaps Ford will consider expanding its lineup in the United States, potentially including the all-new Ford Transit Custom Nugget campervan.
Thanks to our reader Dave for providing these photos. If you have any tips or captivating pictures to share with us, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at tips(at)carscoops.com
