Ford Falcon G6E Turbo 2013 review

We turn the spotlight on the Ford Falcon G6E Turbo and answer the questions, including the biggest one -- would you buy one?

What is it?

This is the top Falcon sedan crammed with a hefty amount of luxury kit and a boosted six pot engine. It's basically a luxo version of the XR6 Turbo with a more stately appearance a modern day Ford Fairmont.

How much?

Goes for an uncompetitive $56,235  -- more than three grand over the price of a Holden Commodore Calais V with a 6.0-litre V8 engine. It's a no-brainer really.

What's under the bonnet?

G6E Turbo has a 4.0-litre straight six cylinder engine with variable valve timing and a low boost, intercooled turbocharger. It achieves a strong 270kW/533Nm output driving the rear wheels through a six speed ZF conventional auto transmission with sports shift.

How does it go?

Whooshdah, really, really quick off the mark and right the way through certainly not stately but extra sporty. Handling is good too on the sporty side of the ledger with a good measure of comfort thrown in.

Is it economical?

Not really. If you try really hard but how can you resist that mountain of torque so low in the rev range, the throttle response, the urge of that potent six-pot.

Is it green?

Not really.

Is it safe?

Five stars.

Is it comfortable?

Scores plenty of kit and would want to for the price. Cruise, dual zone climate control, auto head lights, wheel audio controls, sports wheel, leather, eight way electric adjust driver's seat, 8-inch touch screen, multi-function display, premium audio including a sub-woofer, SUNA satnav, Bluetooth phone and audio, reverse camera, remote keyless entry and more. Some driver-assist features too but not as many as Calais.

What's it like to drive?

Excellent but front seats are too high. Superb engine performance is a clincher if you like sporty driving. Sounds crappy but you can forgive that. The Luxury Performance Sport tuned suspension is great for a wide range of driving.

Is it value for money?

Not against the primary competitor.