Detailed Review of the 2023 Ford Grand Tourneo Connect: The Family-Oriented Multi-Purpose Vehicle
The Ford Grand Tourneo Connect 2023 is a practical and spacious MPV designed for families and those seeking utility. While it might not be the most glamorous choice, it offers a range of advantages such as a large boot, multiple seating options, and ample storage compartments. Let's dive into the details of the Ford Grand Tourneo Connect based on the provided transcript.
Design and Platform:
The Ford Grand Tourneo Connect is built on a practical platform, geared towards functionality. It's not a completely new design, as it shares a foundation with the Volkswagen Caddy due to a partnership between Ford and Volkswagen. Although the two models share many components, the Ford version features its own grille, bumper, and headlight design, giving it a distinct front-end appearance.
Interior Space and Seating:
The Grand Tourneo Connect is available in both five-seater and seven-seater configurations. The seven-seater variant provides the advantage of ample passenger space and a flexible seating arrangement. The third-row seats, while offering a good amount of room, are quite low to the floor, limiting mid-thigh support. The middle row provides more space, with comfortable seating. All three middle-row seats are full-sized, ensuring adequate comfort for passengers. The boxy shape of the vehicle translates into a spacious interior with impressive cargo capacity, boasting 1720 liters when the second-row seats are folded.
Interior Quality and Features:
The interior design leans towards functionality rather than luxury. The dashboard features utilitarian design elements with hard plastics and a simple layout. While the dashboard may lack premium materials, it provides various storage options, although not as abundant as in some competitors like the Citroen Berlingo.
Infotainment and Technology:
The Ford Grand Tourneo Connect comes equipped with a sizable 10-inch infotainment screen as standard, providing essential features for modern connectivity. However, the infotainment system itself is shared with Volkswagen and can be frustrating to use, with touch-sensitive controls for air conditioning and volume. Physical buttons on the steering wheel offer a more user-friendly experience.
Driving Experience and Performance:
The Grand Tourneo Connect offers a driving experience that's more car-like than van-like, thanks to its shared platform with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf. It comes with a range of engine options, including two diesel engines and a petrol engine. The 2-liter diesel engine provides decent performance, but the vehicle's weight (over 1700 kg) affects acceleration. The diesel engines offer respectable fuel efficiency, with the petrol variant lagging slightly in this regard.
Ride and Handling:
The driving dynamics of the Grand Tourneo Connect are characterized by a reassuringly solid feel, although body lean is noticeable around corners due to the vehicle's size and weight. The ride quality is generally comfortable, especially on smoother roads, but larger potholes can send shudders through the cabin. Wind noise generated by the large windscreen and door mirrors is a minor drawback, but the vehicle's maneuverability aids in parking.
Verdict:
The Ford Grand Tourneo Connect 2023 is a no-nonsense family MPV that excels in providing practicality and space. While the interior might lack luxury touches and the infotainment system can be frustrating, the vehicle offers a comfortable and functional driving experience. The shared platform with the Volkswagen Caddy presents both benefits and drawbacks. The lower price point and additional standard equipment make the Grand Tourneo Connect an attractive option, particularly for those who prioritize utility over prestige.
However, if you're seeking a more innovative interior design, the Citroen Berlingo might be a more appealing choice. Ultimately, the Grand Tourneo Connect is designed to serve families well, with its spaciousness, flexibility, and practicality being its standout features.
