The Ford Tourneo Custom, specifically the first generation (facelifted in 2018) L1 variant powered by the 2.0 TDCi 170 horsepower engine with an automatic transmission, represents a significant offering in the European and increasingly North American commercial vehicle market. Produced from 2018 through 2023, this configuration aimed to balance practicality, fuel efficiency, and a more refined driving experience compared to lower-spec models. The Tourneo Custom, built on the 1HX0 platform (shared with the Transit Custom), served as the passenger-carrying counterpart to the Transit Custom van, targeting families, shuttle services, and accessible transport operators. This particular engine and transmission pairing positioned itself as a mid-range option, appealing to buyers who needed more power and convenience than the base engine offered, but didn’t require the outright performance or cost of higher-output versions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Tourneo Custom |
| Generation | Tourneo Custom I (facelift 2018) L1 |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDCi (170 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 8-9 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 183 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6b |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Torque | 405 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (298.71 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | YNFS, YNF6 |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.8 l (10.36 US qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 11.2 l (11.83 US qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2400 kg (5291.09 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3240 kg (7142.98 lbs.) |
| Max load | 840 kg (1851.88 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1150 l (40.61 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 21 l (5.55 US gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1050 kg (2314.85 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4973 mm (195.79 in.) |
| Width | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1979 mm (77.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2933 mm (115.47 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Tire size | 215/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Tourneo Custom variant is the 2.0-liter TDCi diesel engine, specifically the YNFS or YNF6 engine code. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline configuration utilizing a common-rail direct fuel injection system. The common-rail system, operating at very high pressures, ensures precise fuel delivery for optimized combustion and reduced emissions. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and improve torque across a wider RPM range. The engine features four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and contributing to its overall efficiency. The automatic transmission is a six-speed torque converter unit, chosen for its smoothness and ease of use, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. This transmission is designed to work seamlessly with the engine’s torque curve, providing adequate acceleration and comfortable cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 170 horsepower and 405 Nm (298.71 lb-ft) of torque delivered by this powertrain configuration provide a noticeable step up in performance compared to the lower-powered 1.6-liter TDCi options. While not a sports van, the 2.0 TDCi Automatic offers sufficient power for fully loaded passenger transport and highway driving. The automatic transmission, while smooth, isn’t particularly quick to shift, prioritizing comfort over outright performance. Compared to the six-speed manual transmission available with the same engine, the automatic version sacrifices some responsiveness but gains in convenience. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency and drivability, rather than aggressive acceleration. In real-world conditions, this translates to a relaxed driving experience, with ample torque available for overtaking maneuvers and climbing hills.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The L1 (short wheelbase) Tourneo Custom 2.0 TDCi Automatic typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and a driver’s airbag. Higher trim levels, such as Titanium, added features like alloy wheels, upgraded interior trim, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, parking sensors, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. The modular seating arrangement allowed for flexible configurations, accommodating up to nine passengers depending on the layout chosen. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, rear climate control, and various driver-assistance systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Tourneo Custom utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with independent MacPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-independent twist beam suspension at the rear. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The suspension is tuned for a balance between comfort and handling, prioritizing a smooth ride over sporty dynamics. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The relatively modest weight of the L1 variant contributes to its manageable handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Tourneo Custom 2.0 TDCi Automatic was generally well-received by critics and buyers alike. It was praised for its practicality, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. The automatic transmission was seen as a significant benefit for drivers who frequently operate in urban environments. Fuel economy was considered competitive for its class, although not class-leading. Compared to the lower-powered 1.6 TDCi variants, the 2.0 TDCi offered a noticeable improvement in performance, justifying the higher price tag for many buyers. Compared to the higher-output 2.0 TDCi versions (often with bi-turbo configurations), this variant offered a more affordable entry point, albeit with a trade-off in outright power. Reliability reports generally indicated good durability, with the 2.0 TDCi engine proving to be a robust and dependable unit.
Legacy
The Ford Tourneo Custom 2.0 TDCi Automatic has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle in the used car market. The 2.0 TDCi engine, while requiring regular maintenance (including diesel particulate filter regeneration), is generally considered to be a long-lasting unit. The automatic transmission, if properly maintained, is also known for its dependability. Today, these vehicles represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a spacious, practical, and relatively fuel-efficient people carrier. The availability of spare parts and a well-established dealer network contribute to its continued appeal in the used vehicle market. The Tourneo Custom, in this configuration, solidified Ford’s position as a leading provider of commercial and passenger vehicles in Europe and beyond.
