Ford has expanded its Active range with the new Tourneo Connect Active people mover and Transit Connect Active van variants, priced from £21,285 and £21,675, respectively.

Active variants of Tourneo and Transit Connect feature more rugged, SUV-inspired exterior styling, an optional mechanical limited-slip differential (mLSD) for improved traction and raised ride height.

They join the larger eight-seat Tourneo Custom Active people mover and Transit Custom Active van launched last month.

The optional mLSD automatically transfers engine torque in low-grip conditions to the wheel with the most traction, allowing drivers to more comfortably tackle wet, slippery and challenging surfaces including unpaved roads, gravel tracks, grassy campsites or snow and ice.

Ford engineers also developed a bespoke Traction Control configuration to harmonise the system more effectively with the characteristics of the mLSD, using technology from its ST and RS car models.

Tourneo Connect Active and Transit Connect Active both also benefit from a ride height increase of 24mm at the front and 9mm at the rear, giving better clearance over bumps, ruts and unsealed road surfaces.

Roof rails  are fitted as standard to facilitate carrying oversized equipment - from bike racks and canoes to work tools.

Front and rear skid plates contribute to the vehicles’ tougher appearance and enhanced practicality, alongside additional cladding on the body sides, mirror caps, wheel arches and rear bumper, helping prevent paintwork scuffs when negotiating brush trails or when loading tools or equipment.

Tourneo Connect Active’s interior is designed to be easily reconfigurable to accommodate passengers and equipment. The five-seat Tourneo Connect Active features a 60/40 split second row bench that folds flat for easy equipment loading and optimised luggage space. The longer Tourneo Grand Connect Active adds two more seats in a third row that folds into the floor when not in use.

The Active series enhancements have no negative effect on Transit Connect’s load space. Load volume remains at 2.9 cubic metres or 3.6 cubic metres depending on the wheelbase specified, with payloads reaching 982kg.

All new Tourneo Connect Active and Transit Connect Active models are powered by Ford’s 1.5‑litre EcoBlue diesel engine. It’s available with 100PS or 120PS power outputs alongside a choice of eight-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmissions.

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