Ford and Volkswagen models are getting closer over the next couple of years, thanks to a deal signed last year. First model from this tie-up is a new MPV - the Tourneo Connect. With its boxy silhouette, this Ford is obviously van-based. Look closer and past the Tourneo Connect's MPV makeover, including our Active range-topper's 17in alloys and wheel arch extensions, and apart from the Ford family nose, you've got a lightly worked-over version of the Volkswagen Caddy Life. 

The same is true of the Tourneo Connect's interior, which we think has had less of a Ford makeover than the exterior. Apart from the trim and graphics, it feels unchanged from the Caddy, with some positives and negatives. The positives are the Ford feels well-made and the interior is attractive and modern. The negatives mostly revolve around the already problematic Volkswagen-supplied infotainment system, which seems even more fiddly to operate than in the Caddy. 

Being van-based we have no complaints about the Tourneo Connect's practicality - especially in 'Grand' test car form. There is plenty of space, headroom and even a practically shaped 332-litre boot. Access is generally excellent, thanks to the twin sliding side doors - although we found access to the third row of rear seats too fiddly. This is a shame, as once the seats are in place, space is good for children and adults. Our Grand Tourneo Connect was in mid-range Active spec, and had plenty of standard kit.  

Tourneo Connect and Grand Connect models are available with a Ford-sourced 1.5-litre petrol, or a 2.0-litre TDI diesel from Volkswagen. These engines are available with a choice of six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic transmissions. Diesel might no longer be in fashion, but we think it makes the most sense in this MPV. With 120hp, the diesel majors on low-down torque, giving smooth acceleration and is well-matched to the slick seven-speed DSG automatic version we drove. 

The Volkswagen Caddy is a tidy drive, so it's no surprise that the Ford is too. The ride on the 17in wheels is comfortable and composed, although perhaps refinement isn't quite at car levels. Elsewhere, there is plenty of grip and the steering is reasonably precise. There's no getting away from the fact that the tall body equals plenty of roll in corners.  

The market for MPVs dwindles as the market for SUVs grows. If your need is for the former, the Ford Tourneo Connect is a good option - especially with the bigger Grand version here. Good to drive, impressively practical and with the latest tech, it has a lot to recommend it. Then again, so does its sister car Caddy Life, on which it's based. But is it just too close to the Volkswagen?

Ford Tourneo Connect