Ford FG Falcon 2008 Review

The street presence of the new base XT and XR models won't grab people's attention but the G-Series cars sure will with their unabashed styling links to the gorgeous Ford Mondeo and also Aston Martin. The range comprises XT, G6, G6E, G6E Turbo, XR6, XR6 Turbo and XR8. Prices start at $36,490 for the XT five speed auto. A six speed manual is only available on the XR range. While five and six speed autos cover the rest, six speed auto being optional on some.

The engine story is strong with only one underwhelming model XR8, the only FG Falcon V8. Choose either of the 4.0-litre sixes and you will have a smile on your dial as both offer excellent performance, strong torque, smooth running and acceptable fuel economy. The turbo six (not previous Typhoon engine) is unquestionably pick of the litter outpacing the V8 and offering blistering acceleration even in auto form. How does 5.1-seconds for the 0-100kmh sprint sound. The manual could be even quicker. And it even sounds good thanks to some pipe work from the exhaust engineers. Outputs are 195kW/391Nm for the 4.0-litre six, 270kW/533Nm of the turbo six and 290kW/520Nm for the 5.4-litre V8 (essentially the BF GT engine).

Scratch deeper and you'll discover about five different suspension calibrations offering everything from controlled comfort to firm sports. The front suspension is all aluminium and a copy of the Ford Territory system. The rear is a refinement of Ford's impressive Control Blade independent system. Monotube dampers from German manufacturer Sachs are used on all models.

The vastly improved steering provides variable ratio response and a more involving drive thanks to Aussie outfit Bishop Engineering.

Not only does the new steering give a sporty feel, it also offers a mere 2.6 turns lock to lock and a tight(ish) 11.0 metre turning circle.

Though not offering six airbags as standard equipment on all models like the competition, FG Falcon is nevertheless extremely well endowed in safety terms. It has been tested and refined to the highest degree by safety experts around the world.

Stability control is standard across the range and the body structure has been built with extensive reference to computer design and the use of high strength steel.

A crash sensing system optimizes safety equipment in a collision to afford the best occupant protection.

FG is totally new though similar looking to the previous model. Look closer and notice the sash type doors, more upright sides to give increased headroom, wedge shape profile, wider stance, bigger door apertures, larger glass area.

All contribute to a big jump in refinement with lower noise levels and smoother running.

More room is provided inside and the boot is bigger though there's only a space saver spare (proper spare optional).

The interior has shifted up a few notches with a much more sophisticated look and vastly improved layout, materials and ergonomics. Some of the interiors look more like 80 grand plus Euro jobs than humble Falcons.

The interior is comfortable with large well shaped adjustable seats and a swag of goodies including a stunning new blue lit centre console screen on most models.

Equipment levels vary according to the model.

But even the XT “poverty pack” comes with extensive equipment apart from the steel wheels with plastic wheel trims. Puhlease!

Modern entertainment technology has been catered for with all scoring iPod jacks and some offering iPod connection, Bluetooth, multi function computer, climate control and arguably the best sorted and looking steering wheel controls in the business.

Ford allowed the assembled motoring press to test all models on a searching 600km drive last week. It underlined to strength of the 4.0-litre six cylinder that has it roots back in 1960. On the road, the sportier models and the XT impressed the most apart from the XR8 that was a chore to drive. The turbo cars have acceleration on the move that would rival any muscle car. They are gratifying and involving cars to drive as is the base model XR6 without the turbo. The five speed “base” auto is a cracker offering super slick changes at light, medium and heavy throttle application and sequential change mode. The six speeder is even better and gives better fuel economy.

The cars run on purpose made Bridgestone tyres. The luxury models are similarly impressive offering comfort and quietness in a sophisticated looking package.

My pick? The XR6 Turbo and the G6 six (non turbo).If only you can get the G6 front on the XR6 Turbo – best of everything…

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