FPV F6 2012 Review

We turn the spotlight on the car world's newest and brightest stars as we ask the questions to which you want the answers. But there's only one question that really needs answering -- would you buy one?

What is it?

This is Ford Performance Vehicle's real hotrod six-pot -- arguably a quicker device than the lauded FPV GT V8. Popular as a Highway Patrol pursuit vehicle, the F6 gets going quicker than most cars on the road, (auto or manual) looks pretty wild and has dynamics to match. Holden has nothing remotely similar in the HSV range.

How much?

The price is $64,890 but there are options available such as satnav (which should be standard).

What are competitors?

Anything from FPV and HSV are in the F6's sights. It will waste most if not all of them especially from relatively low to mid-range speeds.

What's under the bonnet?

Power comes from a turbo-charged, 4.0-litre six cylinder, basically the Falcon taxi engine with (considerable) enhancements. Maximum output is 310kW with 565Nm becoming available from 1950rpm.

How does it go?

Like a rocket. Off the line, mid-range and top end — doesn't matter, the F6 has what it takes to push you back hard into your sports seat. We reckon it would be into the low 5.0 second bracket for a 0-100kmh sprint, possibly quicker — the 4.0s seem achievable.

Is it economical?

Surprisingly yes if you drive steadily. On the freeway we saw under 10.0 litres/100km but the overall figure for the 600km mixed test drive was about 12.8 litres/100km — of 98 octane petrol.

Is it green?

Not really, generates a lot of carbon dioxide — understandable given the power output and performance.

Is it safe?

All Falcons and Falcon-based cars score five stars for crash safety. This one gets a reverse camera for 2012.

Is it comfortable?

Very. We expected it to be rock hard — an unyielding sports sedan but no, the F6 has a firm but comfy ride, makes little noise and offers quite a luxury drive experience with premium audio, leather, multi function controller and wheel among a host of goodies. Hate the button start — after you turn the key — dumb.

What's it like to drive?

Exciting is the best way to describe the F6 drive experience. The engine is incredible and the dynamics are pretty good even if the steering feels a little nervous. Multi drive modes like European performance cars would be an improvement. Needs wider tyres for more traction, corner grip. The four piston Brembo brakes struggle on a winding road. Optional six pot Brembos should be standard for the dosh.

Is it value for money?

Against expensive European cars yes. Compared to the FPV GT and HSV GTS — yes. In purely pragmatic terms, we don't understand why you'd buy the V8 except for the sound.

Would we buy one?

Maybe. But it's dead set cop bait. Trying to keep the F6 on the speed limit is a challenge that distracts you from the safe driving job at hand.

FPV F6 FG MkII

Price: $64,890
Warranty: Three years/100,000km
Crash rating:  5-star ANCAP
Engine: 4.0-litre 6-cyl, 310kW/565Nm
Transmission: 6-speed manual, RWD
Dimensions: 4956mm (L), 1868mm (W), 1466mm (H)
Weight: 1771kg
Thirst: 12.3L/100km 290g/km CO2