FPV Reviews

Sermon on the MountCometh October and verily did the pilgrims converge upon the sacred Mount where on was preached the sermon of the bent eights. Congregate did the disciples of the Blue Oval and Red Lion sects at this holy place; there to cast empty drink vessels at the unbelievers and to light pyres of sacrificial chariots. And at day's end, when one tribe's champion had smote mightily the other, the believers and philistines all did trail away in a long mournful procession across the western plain ...SO MIGHT read some scrap of scroll unearthed by a future archaeologist recounting the annual secular rite that is the Bathurst 1000. This weekend's edition might be one of the last to feature only the the clans of Ford and Holden, as the end of the two-make contest is nigh. The need for new blood is widely recognised - not least by incoming V8 Supercars commissioner Mark Skaife, even in the form of marques from distant lands that your flat-earth Aussie V8 believer can scarcely envisage.That though, like the day of reckoning, is a prospect best not dwelt upon. Today's our day for making a pilgrimage to the Mount in two of the best V8s from the Holden and Ford stables. In sales terms, the fight between the Cruze and the Focus shapes as far more meaningful, but the muscle cars chosen for our excursion show this perpetual heavyweight title fight is far from decided.Ford Performance Vehicles is represented by its GT-P, essentially a life support system for the stunning new supercharged all-alloy Boss 5.0-litre V8. The fruit of an estimated $40 million investment, it obliges by returning 335kW at 5750rpm and a gut-punching 570Nm from 2200-5500rpm.That overwhelming (literally as it turns out) off-the-line performance is underwritten by superb Brembo brakes. Visually - despite its sober, deeply dark blue paint, silver accents and grey stripes - it's as subtle as a copping a half-full can of VB  on the scone, with a vast spoiler rising from the rear deck and a mountainous protruding bulge on the bonnet.The visual cues of Holden Special Vehicle's Clubsport R8 Black Edition emphasise that, although this is a close competitor, the respective cars are about as different as two similar things can be. Ours is luminous white with matt-black accents, even the HSV badges, suggesting nothing so much as a Star Wars stormtrooper helmet. (Lord of the Fully Sith, anyone?) On its V8, FPV has downsized and used forced induction while the Clubbie is all about capacity and natural aspiration in the form of that resonant 6.2-litre V8. For all its size, its output is less than the FPV's - 317kW at 6000rpm and 550Nm at a higher 4600rpm.The ClubSport's brakes are equally impressive for their progression through the pedal and the assertive bite. There's also an HSV-bespoke limited-slip differential to keep it in shape. With this and the wider rubber around the 19-inch alloys at the rear, the electronic safety measures are less frequently aroused.Escaping Sydney's ever-expanding sprawl, our 16-cylinder procession abandons the (not so) Great Western Highway, cutting across country via Hampton, Oberon and O'Connell to Bathurst, soaking up the spring rain, sleet, hail and single-digit temperature with which the NSW central west is apt to bushwhack the unwary.The FPV soon reveals its twitchy, manic manner. This is the one you'd reckon on winning any traffic light derby, or would be if acceleration off the line and out of corners didn't need a sensitive foot. Punch it too hard in any conditions, especially wet ones, and a superb engine - one you'd be happy to find in a top-end Jaguar - is too much for the chassis to handle and the stability program to rein in.Initial discomfort isn't helped by the most awkward driving position since the old Alfa Romeos. As ever in Falcons, you're perched as though on an orange crate and anyone taller than 185cm has the wheel in his or her lap.But ... Suck all this up, breathe out and what a weapon you wield. You might undercook your corner entry speed, yet if you pick your moment you'll power out with supreme authority accompanied by the charger's whine. For all the modernity of what's under the bonnet, the character of this package feels more like an older-school muscle car, one that requires your best to get its best.The Clubsport, by contrast, is more, well clubbable, as in a club to which you have to be elected. More linear than the FPV in almost all respects - acceleration, steering and handling - it fills the grand touring remit with luxuriant ease, barely touching 2000rpm at the legal limit in sixth gear.A manual gear shifter (which initially brings to mind a piece of gym equipment in its action) feels almost buttery after exposure to the tight-gate rigidity of the FPV's stick.The HSV's seats are not nearly so supportive as the Ford's big, ribbed sports pews but they are more comfortable over distance, while enhancing the impression that the Clubbie shrinks around the driver as you push through the curves. And it's an interior that at least approximates the spend - hardly lush, it is recognisably that of a luxury car with a standard features list that's as full as its rival's is spartan. And, at 80 big ones, the FPV's innards are too like that of a Falcon of half that price.The current HSV series is the one that most convincingly answer that age-old question, "Is it worth the extra spend over an SS?" with an emphatic "bloody oath". It also speaks to the man of means who wants to celebrate his success, not with the obvious German device, but a bulging bicep of Australiana that he (or, yes, possibly she) can drive comfortably every day.None of this is to write off the GT-P. It's an engine in search of a more deservingly contemporary and capable car, yet it provides a rousing contrast, something perhaps for the driver who retains more fire in his expanding belly. What you prefer not to imagine is some ambitious and ability-shy youth getting hold of a well-worn example a decade from now.And as we end our sermon from freezing, darkening Skyline at Mount Panorama days before the great race, both cars prove that Blue Oval/Red Lion rivalry is as alive on the road as on the track.HSV R8 CLUBSPORT BLACK EDITION4.5/5 starsPrice: $71,990Warranty: 3 years/100,000kmResale: 58 per centSafety: 5 starsEngine: 6.2-litre V8, 317kW/550NmBody: 4-door sedanWeight: 1812kgTransmission: 6-speed manual, rear-wheel driveThirst: 13.5L/100km (98 RON)"A grand tourer par excellence; the everyday muscle car"FPV GT-P4/5 starsPrice: $81,540Warranty: 3 years/100,00kmResale: 76 per centSafety: five starEngine: 5.0-litre supercharged V8, 335kW/575NmBody: 4-door sedanWeight: 1800kg (est)Transmission: 6-speed manual, rear-wheel driveThirst: 13.7L/100km (PULP)"Fast and just a bit infuriating"

Vicious. Not feral, but furious, potent and unrelenting.It might have been called a Coyote when it first arrived, but the supercharged V8 now rumbling beneath the bulging hood of the FPV GT-P is more panther or lion - sorry, Holden and Peugeot.It is, says Ford, the most powerful GT in the history of the company's most famous Australian-made model and it sounds like it.VALUEThe GT-P is second to the GT-E for price by $1000, starting from $81,540 - some say it's a lot of money for a Falcon, others look at the performance and think its a decent features list.It includes dual zone climate control, full iPod integration for the 6CD subwoofer-equipped sound system, Bluetooth phone link, parking sensors, rear camera, power-adjustable driver's seat, carpet floor mats, alloy-covered pedals, power windows, power mirrors and anti-dazzle mirrors - but satellite navigation is on the options list - a bit rich on an $80,000 car.TECHNOLOGYThe already-potent V8 makes the trip from the US but once here gets plenty of extra treatment - it's worth every cent of the $40-million spend on the development program.The Coyote Ford V8 - first seen in the new Mustang - is an all-aluminium double overhead cams 32-valve unit, which meets Euro IV emissions regulations and is 47kg lighter than the outgoing 5.4 litre V8.The Eaton supercharger bumps the outputs up to 335kW and 570Nm - increases of 20kW and 19Nm over the outgoing GT-P powerplant - braying through an active quad-pipe exhaust.The test car had the muscular but clean-shifting six-speed manual, but there's a six-speed automatic on offer as a no-cost option.DESIGNNew stickers boasting the upgraded power output are the main styling change (although I think it would have looked better if they joined up with the bonnet stripes) for the updated FPV - reminiscent of Ford Boss Mustang musclecars of yesteryear.The power bulge - perhaps more required now than ever with the supercharger - and the overt sports bodykit remain unchanged, leaving other road users in no doubt about the GT-P's intentions and potential.The interior is dark and brooding, with sports leather seats with GT-P embroidery and suede-covered bolsters, a sports leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift.SAFETYThe Falcon donor is a five-star ANCAP car and the GT-P gets the full compliment of safety bits - airbags (dual front, side and full-length curtain), stability and traction control and anti-lock brakes - as well as rear parking sensors and a rear camera.DRIVINGFollowing our first spin in the supercharged FPV, a drive on local roads was much anticipated and the GT-P has not disappointed.The big muscly sedan is planted on the road as if the low-profile Dunlops are woven into the road, but the ride is pretty good given the 35-profile of the tyres and the bias towards handling.Burble through an underground carpark and the bass from the V8 is quiet; wind it up towards 6000rpm and the V8 bellow and supercharger whine becomes more obvious but never intrusive.The six-speed manual needs to be shifted with purpose - on more than a couple of occasions the first-second shifts were crunched as the action wasn't completed with conviction.Day to day dawdling is a short-shifting affair - first gear is largely redundant unless you're pointed up hill, fourth and fifth can be selected quite early and just above idle is all that's required to maintain forward momentum.A blast along a favoured piece of tarmac soon shows a glimpse of what the GT-P is capable of doing - dispatching with straights at a rapid rate, wiping off speed in short order using the solid Brembo stoppers and turning confidently into corners.Sometimes the GT-P chooses to remind you it's a two-tonne machine, pushing the nose a little wide if you've really overdone it, but it's coming out of a bend where some judicious use of the right foot is required.The feel from behind the wheel suggests the claimed 0-100km/h time under five seconds is achievable.The launch would need to be perfect, as the considerable outputs will turn the rear tyres into scrap without delay, but the GT-P leaps forward with menace.Leaving the stability control on is the better option for public roads, as a break in traction that would be considered "hoon" behaviour is very easy to achieve; however, a track day could easily chew out a set of rear tyres.VERDICTThe dollars laid out of supercharging the engine is money well-spent and FPV has the firepower to take HSV on head-to-head, even if the (more-expensive) GTS has more gizmos and gadgets. The appeal of the supercharged V8 offsets some of the cabin quirks and if you're looking for an extroverted V8 muscle car then this absolutely should be on your shopping list ... near the top.SCORE: 84/100WE LIKE Supercharged V8 outputs and soundtrack, ride/handling balance, Brembo brakes.WE DON'T LIKE Low-set wheel & high-set seat, no satnav, fiddly trip computer switches, small fuel tank, supercharger boost gauge.FPV GT-P sedanPrice: from $81,540.Engine: five-litre 32-valve supercharged all-alloy V8.Transmission: six-speed manual, limited slip diff, rear-wheel drive.Power: 335kW @ 5750rpm.Torque: 570Nm between 2200 & 5500rpm.Performance: 0-100km/h 4.9 seconds.Fuel consumption: 13.6litres/100km, on test XX.X, tank 68litres.Emissions: 324g/km.Suspension: double wishbones (front); Control blade (rear).Brakes: four-wheel ventilated and cross-drilled discs, six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers.Dimensions: length 4970mm, width 1868mm, height 1453mm, wheelbase 2838mm, track fr/rr 1583/1598mmCargo Volume: 535litresWeight: 1855kg.Wheels: 19in alloys, 245/35 Dunlop tyresIn its class:HSV GTS, from $84,900.

The company's first supercharged V8 has put the GT range back at the top of the FPV food chain.

The FPV F6 Ute is a vicious mongrel, in more ways than one.It mixes old and new into a dauntingly powerful package that can you make you laugh and shortly thereafter swear and/or cry, depending on the outcome.We're in a six-speed automatic, which might normally cause me dismay, but with 565Nm and 310kW running through the clever ZF six-speed auto (a no-cost option), I'm not really missing the clutch pedal.The reprieve for Ford's engine plant is a blessing for its staff, as well as fans of the turbocharged in-line six — the four-litre turbocharged and intercooled powerplant is monumental.Not only for the block's longevity — it dates back to the 1960s at least, although it is rumoured to have powered Noah's Ark — but the newer bits teamed with it provide such mammoth outputs.When the newest incarnation was unveiled there was a snicker of laughter when the torque ‘mesa’ was shown, as it's no curve — 565Nm from 1950 through until 5200rpm, with a 300rpm gap before 310kW is delivered.The powerplant has work to do, overcoming the inertia of just over 1.8 tonnes of Australian utility, but it does it with eerie and unearthly ease.A gentle prod of the throttle spits the tachometer needle into an abundance of torque, whisking the F6 Ute away from standstill with little apparent effort and a minimum of fuss.It's a subtle, quiet engine given the sort of outputs on offer — there's a real woosh at full throttle and a bit of the turbo whinny when stepping off the right pedal, but extroverts will be sorting out the exhausts PDQ.Anything more than that can see the rear-end skipped, stuttering and fighting to remain faithful to the direction of the front (dictated by sharp and meaty, if heavy steering) if the surface is uneven.Add any moisture and the stability control system gets busier than a pub pokie room on pension day, and that's without the benefit of a dropped clutch.The rear end is light and ye olde leaf-sprung rear end's penchant for wiggling — it's like Beyonce with too many short black coffees on board and in some ways more amusing.The retention of the rear suspension is no doubt due to the desire for one-tonne Falcon ute models, something its immediate opposition doesn't have any more.Despite the heritage-listed back end and 35-profile tyres, the ride quality isn't too bad — nothing a few big bags of sand in the tray would temper nicely.Bolt a couple of big lockable toolboxes in the rear tray and that would work as well.A surprise, given the astronomical performance potential, is the fuel use — Ford claim 13 litres per 100km, whereas we had numbers around 16, but given some of the enthusiastic driving a number in the 20s would have been likely in a V8.The test car was a bit of minstrel in colour scheme — white paint, black highlights and tonneau and dark 19x8in alloy wheels, wrapped in 245/35 Dunlop Sport Maxx tyres.Features on the F6's list includes dual front and side head/thorax airbags, a prestige audio system with 6-CD in-dash CD stacker and full iPod integration.The test car is hauled to a standstill in eye-popping style by big cross-drilled and ventilated front discs, with optional Brembo six-piston calipers — standard fare is four.The rear end gets and slightly smaller cross-drilled and ventilated rear discs with single piston calipers.Complaints are few — rear vision when head-checking over the right shoulder for a lane change is largely pointless and the rear tailgate mechanism can be a little deadly on fingers.The F6 ute is a not really a workhorse — it's too low-slung and without enough payload for real work — but as modern Australian-built muscle cars go its A-grade, with brawn to burn.FPV F6 UtePrice: from $58,990.Engine: four-litre turbocharged DOHC 24-valve in-line six-cylinder.Transmission: six-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive, with limited slip differential.Power: 310kW at 5500rpm.Torque: 565Nm at 1950-5200rpm.Fuel consumption: 13 litres/100km, on test 16 litres per 100km, tank 81 litres.Emissions: 311g/km.Rival:HSV Maloo ute, from $62,550. 

Ford Performance Vehicles (FPV) has taken the already rapid Ford Territory Turbo and turned it into something awesome: the F6X.Although Ford plans a revamp of the Territory Turbo to increase its profile amid the new Falcon sedan range, the F6X already has abilities that set it apart.Its turbocharged, four-litre, six-cylinder engine generates 270kW and 550Nm of torque, meaning the FX6's clever ZF six-speed automatic has ample grunt with which to work.Power has risen by 35kW over the Territory Turbo and there's an additional 70Nm of torque on offer, with the full 550Nm available between 2000rpm and 4250rpm.DRIVINGSuburban pace is easy to maintain without punching the turbo six to the redline, making for smooth, unfussed progress.But the temptation to pound the firewall is difficult to resist; giving in causes the F6X to press forward with gusto, raising its nose and sniffing the air with intent.Kickdown from the gearbox follows, accompanied by considerable thrust which doesn't really need to be moderated for corners.The F6X sits reasonably flat for a tall SUV and, despite compromise rubber (it sits on 18-inch alloy wheels with 235/55 Goodyear Fortera tyres), manages to make short work of corners. Up to a point. Physics still wins eventually, but the FPV F6X can be hustled with remarkable pace.In fact, a Beemer X5 V8, an AMG-tweaked M-Class Benz or a supercharged V8 Range Rover Sport — all costing at least $40,000 more — would be the only SUVs that could keep it in sight.The F6X's nose points into a corner with remarkable accuracy and feel. There are more than a few sedans that could take a leaf from this SUV's book when it comes to handling.Suspension has been upgraded for the extra performance, but the already capable Territory chassis was a good base from which to start.Tweaked dampers have been installed, and revised spring rates — 10 per cent tauter than on the Territory Turbo—have tightened up the handling without sacrificing ride quality.That's where the F6X makes up substantial ground on the Euro hot rods, with a ride quality born from local knowledge and Ford's expertise in getting the ride/handling balance right.The brakes are well up to the task of reining in the F6X's performance. The front end is home to bigger discs with Brembo six-piston calipers.FPV also says the stability control has been reprogrammed in conjunction with manufacturer Bosch to allow for sportier driving before the system interferes.The official ADR fuel-consumption figure is 14.9 litres/100km, but it doesn't take too much lead in the right foot to nudge that number towards 20 litres/100km. More reasonable driving will return that figure to the mid-teens.Based on the Territory Turbo Ghia, the F6X has a comprehensive range of features, although the fat side stripes may not be to everyone's taste.Adjustable pedals are a welcome feature, as is the wide-ranging rear-view camera teamed with rear parking sensors.The sound system, with a six-disc, in-dash CD player, provides good-quality noise.Safety features include ABS brakes and stability control, dual front airbags and side curtain airbags for both rows of seats.The FPV version of Ford's Territory is a versatile package which can cart the family, tow a boat and deal decently with any corners it encounters. FPV F6XPrice: $75,990 (five-seater)Engine: 4L/6-cylinder turbocharged 270kW/550NmTransmission: 6-speed auto, all-wheel driveEconomy: 14.9L/100km claimed, 20.5L/100km tested 

The Range Rover Vogue and the Porsche 911 are always welcoming, and welcomed, vehicles. And a handful of utes, two- and four-wheel-drive, have grinability.These have class and character that extend beyond a simple collection of mechanicals.Now FPV's F6X 270, pictured, must be added to this list of vehicles which feel right from the get-go and encourage driving smiles.It is no secret that Ford's Territory is a favourite around here, a well-designed Australian wagon with ability on both good roads and bad while carrying a family in comfort. There is the option of seven seats and the option of either rear-or all-wheel drive.Some quibble about the Ford's fuel consumption — and a diesel power plant would be most welcome — yet for the breadth of its capabilities the Territory remains in a class of its own among home-grown vehicles.So a superhot Territory built by FPV has to be a bit special.Here it is not only about the extra power and torque of the remapped turbo engine, not only the sharp turn-in and great ride/handling balance of the F6X but also about the leather seats, the comfort, convenience and safety gear plus all those slick finishing touches.These add an ambience which lifts the Ford above the pack and this plushness plus refined driving dynamics put the F6X into exalted company.For the FPV F6X 270 is a worthy — and cheaper — rival for a number of European machines in the premium SUV set.There is more than enough go and stopping power here, more than enough finesse to the all-wheel drive and the Ford's chassis.All that and the attention to detail give the F6X a tonne of credibility; it brings smiles whether leaping off the line into a sprint, cruising around with big-time stereo working overtime or being hurled up a mountain pass with brio.Some may believe the F6X needs a little more cosmetic work to differentiate it from other Ford Territorys, some are happy to travel in a handsome, understated machine.This FPV wagon is based on the turbocharged Ford Territory Ghia, itself no slouch on the open road.Here that original turbocharged wagon's 245kW is taken out to a neat 270kW, thanks to recalibrated engine mapping, fuel delivery, spark timing and boost control. There is also 70Nm extra.This means that the F6X gets away that bit quicker than the donor machine.This is much appreciated just after the wagon leaves the line and lifts away under acceleration for a claimed 0 to 100km/h time of 5.9 seconds. Here there is a seamless rush of boosted power, quite refined and most pleasant with 550Nm of torque from 2000rpm coming into play.There is a determined.push and fine note to the exhaust; and all this brings the first round of smiles.The wagon's forward progress is aided here by a six-speed transmission with smooth and eager shift. While a driver can shift to sports mode and play with sequential gear changes, left alone the gearbox is quick enough for most moves.The exception is where there's the perception that quick downchanges are needed for overtaking or attacking particular corners.This is the next deal where the F6X can bring a big and wide smile.For the wagon likes to attack corners with a panache that, for the most part, belies the F6X's bulk.Indeed it is most easy to have those 18-inch tyres howling through the turn and then grabbing hard as the F6X straightens up and runs hard to the next turn.FPV engineers have left enough excitement in the electronic traction and stability controls for a driver to have a little fun.Now as much as a press-on driver will appreciate all this performance, as much will some appreciate the leather-clad luxury of a quite practical machine, the real clever work is on the suspension.Here the FPV F6X is ahead of some big-name German rivals.Here, while retaining the standard Territory's ride height, engineers spent a deal of testing time on returning the damper rates and the springs.The result is an excellent compromise, one of the best, between hard-core performance needs and ride comfort. Overseas engineers do not always understand the state of Australian roads or how some people may use their premium SUVs; some of these more expensive machines offer great dynamics on racetracks but a little too much lumpiness on local highways.This suspension work by FPV (on what was already a decent chassis package) steels the chassis and steering to the point where it betters any other SUV at this price point.Indeed the FPV F6X, with the backing of Ford dealers spread a little wider than imported products, could be the perfect hot-rodded SUV for this country.It has power, grip, balance and all-wheel drive. And it has a full-sized, matching spare alloy wheel, something not always found in European machines and yet another little pointer to the suitability of the FPV F6X as a great Australian sports tourer.FPV F6X 270PRICE: $75,990BODY: Four-door wagonENGINE: Four-litre, turbocharged, inline sixPOWER: 270kW @ 5000rpmTORQUE: 550Nm from 2000rpmTRANSMISSION: Six-speed sequential automatic, all-wheel-driveWHEELS: 18-inchTOWING: 2300kg 

The appeal goes across both genders and a broad range of ages - from those who were old enough to vaguely remember the paint scheme on Falcon coupes at Bathurst to those who only know Mount Panorama from PS2 or 3.Unfortunately for those who look, like and lay down hard-earned dollars, there aren't any left to buy direct from the manufacturer. Just 400 sedans and 100 ute versions of the Cobra were made so head for eBay or carsguide classifieds.To use its full title, I'm piloting an FPV GT Cobra R-Spec - the six-speed auto sedan with an upgraded brake package, and it causes public mischief even before the start button is pushed.Once it fires, the 5.4-litre quad-cam, 32-valve “Boss 302” power plant settles into a burbly idle that still has the odd lump in it, although nothing like the chassis-shaking attitude of some previous Ford muscle-cars.The clever, smooth and driver-friendly six-speed auto works well with the eight, allowing unruffled progress through traffic on a useful amount of torque, although its down a little on pulling power when compared to its HSV competition. The ride quality is better than expected for 35-profile tyres on 19in alloys, although big road ruts do hit home.Firing away from the lights at full throttle is not recommended unless you want to challenge new hoon laws, as the rears can offer a noisy and smoky departure.Save that sort of throttle application for windy backroads, where the chassis shows off poise and grip that belies its size.That's not to say there's no shortage of action, as the Cobra fires out of corners with enthusiasm, thanks in part to its limited slip differential and (switchable) traction control, although there's no stability control on offer.Bumps and lumps mid-corner don't bother the Cobra too much, with decent compliance helping to maintain the chosen line.The R Spec handling package is standard on the Cobra, with sticky Dunlop SP Sport Maxx 245/35ZR tyres on 19in five-spoke alloys.The rims even get white-painted sections to the spokes, which are an interesting highlight and probably also a magnet for brake-pad dust.This is going to be built up on a regular basis, as the Cobra is a fun drive.The soundtrack provided by the big V8 in its upper rev reaches borders on indecent and there is ample ability from the chassis to keep the pace going.Of course, you're going to have to pay the piper sometime for all that amusement.The 68-litre tank supplies PULP to the engine at a claimed rate of around 15 litres/100km in the standard GT, but the extra performance isn't likely to have reduced that thirst.The trip computer quickly shot up to an average of well over 20 litres/100km, but as the driving became more sedate, the number tumbled back to 18 litres/100km.That's the price you pay for a great soundtrack.The chunky, grippy leather-wrapped steering wheel is a nice unit and the big Falcon responds to corners with vigour, with well-controlled body roll and plenty of grip.The Cobra features list includes dual-zone climate control, which was tested to its limits by the recent 40C heat, but it managed to keep the interior cool.The seating is comfortable and has half-decent lateral support, but the bug-bear that has haunted the Falcon for more than a few years is the high-seating position, something that seems to have been fixed in the FG.It is a shame the current Ford Falcon could well be remembered mainly for its falling sales volume.It is a well-mannered, capable and decent family sedan, which when tweaked to near its limits can become a desirable, rapid and entertaining machine.The Cobra looks will see them quickly snapped up on the used market and given it has more go faster bits than some of the previous Cobra “specials” there's good reason to grab one. Snapshot FPV GT COBRA R-SpecPrice: $65,110Engine: 5.4-litre 32-valve V8.Transmission: Six-speed manual or automatic.Power: 302kW at 6000rpm.Torque: 540Nm at 4750rpm.Fuel consumption: 15 litres/100km (claimed), on test 20 litres/100km, tank capacity 68 litres.Emissions: 357g/km.Suspension: Independent double wishbone, coil spring/damper units, jointed mount anti-roll bar (front). Performance Control Blade, independent coil springs, jointed mount anti-roll bar (rear).Brakes: 355x32mm cross-drilled and slotted discs, Brembo six-piston calipers (front). 330x28mm cross-drilled discs with Brembo four-piston calipers (rear).Dimensions: Length 4944mm, width 1864mm, height 1435mm, wheelbase 2829mm, track fr/rr 1553/1586mm, cargo volume 504 litres, weight 1855kg.Wheels: 19in alloys. 

There's no doubting it's quick, but we can't help wonder whether FPV has gone far enough with its cosmetic changes to please the revheads?The turbocharged F6X 270 (the number denotes the engine's power output) looks decidedly under tyred, riding on the same 18-inch Goodyears as the donor Territory Ghia Turbo.FPV boss Rod Barrett admitted he had reservations about the car's styling, but only until he saw the finished product.After seeing and driving the finished car, we still have our doubts.Of course, it's nothing a little optioning and accessorising won't cure and we're sure plenty of that will go on.The F6X is priced from $75,990 for the five-seat version, with a third row of seats bringing the figure to $78,445.That's $10,500 more than a Territory Ghia Turbo, with the only options the third row of seats, satellite navigation and the stripe kit (the latter will set you back $385).The GT-style side stripes in most promotional photographs are not standard.As with the Territory, there will be no V8 because there is no room for one under the bonnet.To put this in context, 67 per cent of FPV buyers opt for a V8.In terms of price and performance, Barrett believes the car has no real competitors, either imported or locally built.“It's got Porsche Cayenne performance, but it hasn't got a Porsche Cayenne price on it,” he said.The F6X arrives on the eve of the launch of an all-new Falcon, codenamed Orion, due to make its debut at the Melbourne Motor Show later this month.The Falcon will herald new Typhoon and GT sedans to come from FPV at the beginning of June, undoubtedly with larger, more powerful versions of the turbocharged six and V8.FPV's version of the turbo puts out 270kW of power and 550Nm of torque and that, as far as the F6X is concerned, is the way it's going to stay.The Turbo Territory dishes out 245kW but a lot less torque.The turbocharged six is teamed with the familiar ZF six-speed auto from Territory that allows the driver to change manually.There is no manual.Apart from the more powerful engine, $75,000 buys you bigger, beefier Brembo brakes and suspension that has been retuned to reduce body roll.Inside, there's two-tone leather upholstery, but no gauges as in the sedan.Four airbags and a reversing camera are standard.A full-size matching alloy spare is under the back.Surprisingly, the wagon has not been lowered, still riding at 179mm the same height as the standard Turbo.Together with the smallish 18-inch tyres, you get the impression that FPV had Mum and the children in mind when it put this one together.Having said that, at 2125kg, the F6X can still sprint from 0-100km/h in 5.95 seconds.FPV's engineers worked with those from Bosch to recalibrate the electronic stability control system which is described as less intrusive.The size and weight of the wagon demand that it exhibits more body roll than a sedan in corners.Regardless of this, it still exudes confidence and it takes a lot to get the wagon out of shape.Fuel economy using premium unleaded fuel is rated at 14.9 litres/100km, but this can vary greatly in either direction depending on how you drive.All in all, it's an appealing package, but one that perhaps doesn't go far enough in terms of styling.The F6X 270 goes on sale on 29, February 2008.

The Force models are upmarket equivalents of the turbocharged Typhoon and V8 powered GT, minus the overt styling Instead of a big rear spoiler and loud paint job, you get a restrained, more conservative look – a Fairmont Ghia with the works.Our test car was the FPV Force 6 priced from $71,590, almost $10,000 more than the Typhoon. Finished in a chromatic dark green called Deja-vu, it looks almost black in some lighting conditions.We clocked up almost 2000km behind the wheel in a week-long Riverina odyssey. The fast Ford is a great choice for long distance slogs, with plenty of power, comfort and a big boot for luggage. But with sports suspension and low profile tyres, the ride can be harsh depending on the road surface.The Force 6 gets the same turbocharged 4.0-litre straight six as Typhoon, with an impressive 270kW of power and 550Nm of torque. It’s only available with the ZF 6-speed sequential auto (nothing wrong with that), which also gets you the adjustable driver’s pedals that go with it.Suffice to say the car goes like stink and is actually quite frugal if driven carefully. It takes premium unleaded as a minimum and with fuel economy, officially rated at 13.0 litres/ 100km, dropped to a low of 9.6 litres/100km after about 600km of steady driving.Interestingly, we decided to refill the car with E10 ethanol enhanced fuel after finding it’s cited as OK with its higher 95 RON octane rating. Subsequent economy, however, was 11.2 litres/100km, dropping briefly to 11.1. It goes to show that you use more of the stuff and doesn’t really justify the 10c a litre that we saved at the bowser.For a car that’s going to cost $75,000 by the time it’s on the road we expected a little more in the equipment department. You get leather, dual zone air as well as front and side airbags for the driver and front passenger.Traction control is fitted but it’s not as sophisticated as the dynamic stability control fitted to ordinary Falcons. Performance is supremely confident, with the ability to overtake at will – when and where you like.Lights, including fog lights, provide plenty of illumination for night driving in the country. Ultra low profile 35 series tyres make a din like rain on a tin roof on coarse bitumen.

The latest move by Ford Performance Vehicles is a pair of "stealth" performers — Force 6 and Force 8.With far more subtle styling, badging and body kits, the incognito V8 Force 8 and turbo six Force 6 are, as one pundit described it, a GT and Typhoon with their zips done up."I have no doubt that the Force models will find particular favour with corporate executives who want an Australian-built alternative to European luxury marques," FPV boss Sak Ryopponen says. "Many executives want the performance of these cars but feel a little uncomfortable putting the more overt performance models in the staff carpark."Ryoppenen says he is confident that recent fuel-price fluctuations and contractions in the large-car market will have no long-term effect on luxury performance vehicles provided current fuel-price improvements can be stabilised through Christmas and New Year.The Force cars headline a range of minor changes to the full model line-up in keeping with the Ford BF MkII mid-life freshen. Joining the GT-P as the flagship of the FPV range, the Force 6 will retail for $71,590 and the Force 8 $71,990.The full FPV range starts with the F6 Tornado at $54,170 and the F6 Typhoon at $61,810. The V8 GT is $62,210, while the GT-P sits at $70,410.In the ute line, the Pursuit is $54,170 while the Super Pursuit is priced at $59,200. Under the bonnet of the Force 8 is the quad cam 5.4-litre Boss 290 V8 with 290kW@5500rpm and a rumbling 520Nm of torque peaking at 4500rpm.Force 6 is driven by the intercooled F6 270 Turbo in-line six, which punches out 270kW of power at 5250rpm and a flat-bed 550Nm of torque from 2000-4250rpm.Both come with four-piston front and single-piston rear Brembo brakes — an upgrade to the six-piston front and four-piston rear is optional. The 19-inch alloys are shod with Dunlop SP Sport Maxx rubber, standard on the FPV range.A limited-slip differential, sports-tuned suspension, a subtle body kit, including a lip spoiler on the boot, specific embossed leather interior. performance steering wheel, a prestige audio system, adjustable pedal box and dark wood trim. On the road the Force cars behave exactly as you'd expect.FPV's widely-praised poise and steering feel is still at the top of the list of ticks.The weighting of the steering is just right with neither vagueness nor undue heaviness. The ride on the new 19-inch rims and Dunlop rubber over some seriously unsettling surfaces was — if not plush — certainly comfortable enough to be worthy of comment. The damping was outstanding.And of the two cars, while the Boss offers the rumbling power promise of a traditional bent eight, it is still the brilliant straight six turbo that lights up the range.Enlarge the garageThe boys at FPV are being more coy than a blushing bride on wedding night, but mention a high-performance Territory and you can see the sparkle."There is no program approval for a Territory," FPV boss Sak Ryopponen says with a straight face — a demeanour that dissolves into a wide grin when the question of whether program approval is in the process of being sought. "Every project is on the table and new ideas being canvassed all the time."We would certainly like to do something with the Territory but whether it would be commercially viable is the question."What I would say is that we have satisfied ourselves that we can do it."Having launched the performance badge in 2002 — stepping into the shoes of Tickford Engineering — with just three models, the GT, GT-P and Pursuit Ute, FPV has been on a rapid growth program.In October 2004 the F6 Typhoon launched amid clutch reliability issues, followed in April 2005 by the F6 Tornado. In July of the same year the ute family grew to include the Super Pursuit and with the launch of the Force 6 and Force 8, the model range has trebled in four years."If I had to nominate a number that would be a good model garage I suppose 10 comes to mind," Ryopponen says.Just enough room for a Territory.