Exploring South Africa’s West Coast in the New Ford Tourneo: The Ultimate Multi-Activity Vehicle
The new Ford Tourneo isn’t just another van; it’s a multi-activity vehicle designed for those who want to blend adventure, family outings, and even business travel into one seamless ride. Recently, we had the pleasure of taking this versatile powerhouse on a road trip along South Africa’s stunning western coast, and it effortlessly matched our every need. From its spacious cabin to its thoughtful features, the Tourneo demonstrated why it’s the perfect companion for both city commutes and scenic drives.
Our journey began in Cape Town, where we set off towards the vibrant West Coast National Park. The Tourneo’s powerful 2.0L Single Turbo diesel engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, made the drive smooth and efficient. With 100kW of power and 360Nm of torque, the van handled everything from city traffic to open roads without breaking a sweat. And thanks to Ford’s advanced independent rear suspension, even the backseat passengers enjoyed a comfortable, bump-free ride.
Inside, the Tourneo feels less like a van and more like a well-designed living room on wheels. This model comfortably seats up to eight people, making it ideal for large families or groups. The track-mounted seating system in the second and third rows allowed us to effortlessly reconfigure the interior to fit luggage, cameras, and all the essentials needed for a road trip. Whether you’re hauling groceries or gearing up for a weekend escape, the flexible seating makes it easy to switch from daily duties to adventure mode.
Reaching the West Coast National Park in time for the annual flower bloom was a highlight of our trip. This seasonal spectacle transforms the park into a carpet of colour, with daisies and various other flowers stretching as far as the eye can see. The Tourneo’s large sliding side doors and lower floor height made getting in and out a breeze, especially for those eager to jump out and snap photos of the stunning scenery.
On our way, we stopped in Langebaan and stayed at the scenic Shark Bay Boutique Hotel & Spa. The hotel, located at the entrance of the park, offered panoramic views of the lagoon and surrounding natural beauty. Even after a full day of travel, the Tourneo’s plush seating and dual-zone electronic climate control ensured we arrived relaxed and refreshed.
Next, we ventured to the charming town of Darling, where we were treated to a live show by Evita Bezuidenhout, the iconic character brought to life by Pieter Dirk Uys. This cultural stop was as memorable as the vehicle itself, combining humor, history, and heritage. The spacious interior of the Tourneo was a godsend for comfortably transporting our entire crew, ensuring we could enjoy every part of Darling without any cramping or discomfort.
Finally, no trip to the West Coast is complete without a stop at Darling Brew. This award-winning brewery has put South African craft beer on the map, recently named Best Local Craft Beer at the 2023 Kfm Best of the Cape awards. With its commitment to sustainability as Africa’s first carbon-neutral brewery, Darling Brew aligns perfectly with the Tourneo’s modern ethos—innovative, responsible, and built for those with a sense of adventure.
On the return leg of our journey, we fully appreciated the Ford Tourneo’s impressive suite of advanced safety features, from Adaptive Cruise Control to Lane Keeping Aid. These systems took the edge off long stretches of road, while the ample tech, like wireless charging and a central 13-inch touchscreen, kept everyone entertained and connected.
The new Ford Tourneo is more than a vehicle; it’s a lifestyle companion, suited for road trips, family outings, and everything in between. It brings together comfort, versatility, and a touch of luxury, making it a standout choice in the multi-activity vehicle segment.
The new Ford Tourneo is available at Eagle Corner on Corlett Drive in Sandton and the Trend LWB Bus 2.0L 8AT sells for R1 070 000.
