Model Update

There’s a lot that appeals in the spiced up Falcon range. Sleeker styling, greater safety features and plenty of smooth engine power underneath the bonnet create a driving experience that is highly rated. Ford’s latest EcoLPi technology gives more power and efficiency to the Ford Falcon LPG models.

Now iPod Integration and Bluetooth mobile phone integration has become standard on all the Ford Falcon models except for the Ford Falcon XR8. Another nice improvement is the addition of the latest ZF six-speed automatic transmission – becoming a standard item on the XT and G Series models.

These cars are awesome to drive, and the Ford Falcon is great for the driver who needs plenty of space and true long-hauling ability. Exceptional comfort and handling, along with 5-star ANCAP safety… and you have yourself a first rate set of wheels for both the family and business.

I’ve got a soft spot for Ford Falcons. This was the sort of car I got my licence in and in which I first discovered the joys of driving. A decade later, I nearly drove my rather boring Toyota off the road as the newly-launched Ford Falcon XR6 drove the other way. “What was that?” I said aloud, and was surprised and delighted to discover that it wasn’t the latest model of Jaguar, which I thought it was, but instead was a Ford Falcon – my favourite. I’m well and truly hooked.

So what is there to love in the Ford Falcon? Well, first of all, the looks of the XR6 and XR8 Ford Falcons are certainly head-turning – heck, I nearly drove off the road when I first saw one. The overall impression given by the Ford Falcon is sleek, sporty curves, and a combination of grace and power. The XR body kit, that comes as standard on the XR6 and the XR8 versions of the Ford Falcon, is particularly stylish. The headlights give a classy, European look and the swooping lines flowing back over the large car help the car really stand out from the crowd. Complete this with metallic paint in a range of amazing colours (a friend of mine has one in metallic cyan) and the 17″ x 8″ alloy wheels (5 spoke XR) – 235/45 R17 tyres that come as standard on the Ford Falcon XR6 sedan, and you have one very, very good-looking vehicle.

And the Ford Falcon is a practical vehicle. The XT version comes in both sedan and wagon variants, and there’s a ute version of the Ford Falcon knocking around, too. The XR6 and XR8 come as big, roomy sedans with more than enough room for the whole family. Luxury models include the GE Falcons which ensure their occupants are exceedingly well looked after. Boot space is generous, with the sedan versions of the Ford Falcon offering 504 litres and the wagon offering 1254 litres with the seats up. Of course, if you prefer an LPG powered Ford Falcon, this capacity is reduced to 379 litres for the sedan and 1211 litres for the wagon.

On the inside, the Ford Falcon is still impressive. Inside the Ford Falcon XR6 – my particular favourite variant – you’ll be very comfortable. The seats are cloth-trimmed, which, even though it’s not as luxurious as leather, won’t get damaged by seawater-soaked towels or the family dog, both of which I have to carry pretty frequently. Adjust the four-way driver power seat how you like it and feel the lumbar support cushion your back. Make sure it’s set right – you’ll be pushed back into it a lot if you get a chance go take the Ford Falcon out to play. All the safety features are there – pre-tensioned seatbelts, dual stage front airbags and side airbags. Entertainment is guaranteed with the interior command centre with 100 watt audio system and LCD screen that comes as standard in the Ford Falcon XR6 (make that a premium audio system with colour TFT display screen and 6-disc in-dash CD, audio Pep-pack 150 watt amplifier and 150 watt sub-woofer for the Turbo Sedan XR6 and the XR8). Two of the optional extras I wouldn’t mind getting are the child activity organiser (a real must!) and the Day Tripper 15-litre fridge.

Head out onto the open road for some (legal!) fun and this is where the Ford Falcon really comes into its own. Beneath the curvaceous bonnet of the Ford Falcon XT and XR6 is the 4.0-litre, DOHC DI-VCT, I6 engine that has 391 Nm of torque and 195 kW of power. Power delivery is pure joy, and the refinement is sublime. Slide into the driver’s seat of the Ford Falcon XR6 Turbo and an instant 270 kW surge of power can be found under the bonnet. Smiles all-round as you enjoy the colossal 533 Nm of torque at between 2000 rpm – 4750 rpm! The XR8 has the V8 rumble and 290 kW. The Ford Turbo Sedan XR6, and XR8, will press you back into your seat (I told you to make sure it was set right). This is simply “eXhilaR8ing” (no wonder my nine-year-old son thinks his Ford underpants make him run faster). There is even the environment–friendly EcoLpi Falcon engine that runs on LPG. The hardest thing for a prospective buyer to do is to choose between the engine types, as all of the engines have their own special draw cards.

Because it’s worthy of a decent mention, I’ll draw your attention to the Ford Falcon EcoLPi which boasts an in-line six-cylinder that delivers superb power. A peak power of 198 kW at 5000 rpm looks good anywhere but when you include a 409 Nm level of torque at 3250 rpm this becomes brilliant – especially when you link it to LPG fuel. If your daily demands require long distance travel, space and comfort, then you need to consider the Ford Falcon EcoLPi. This is great technology.

Lastly are the G6 models. These are the higher equipped models boasting the same engine power as mentioned above. With the Ford Falcon GE models you have everything you could want at your fingertips. These are beautiful vehicles to travel in and they can match it with the best from Europe and Holden.

And there’s more to rave about on the Ford Falcon. The suspension is absolutely superb and the traction control and DSC help the Ford Falcon hug the road. Pointing it around corners is a pleasure, and if you need to stop, the ABS with EBD keeps you safe.

I’m hooked on the Ford Falcon. Drive one, and you will be hooked, too.

The current model series includes the:

• Falcon XT
• Falcon XR6
• Falcon XR6 Turbo
• Falcon G6
• Falcon G6E
• Falcon G6E Turbo
• Falcon EcoLPi

For any more information on the Ford Falcon, or for that matter any other new car, contact one of our friendly consultants on 1300 303 181. If you’d like some fleet discount pricing (yes even for private buyers!), we can submit vehicle quotes requests out to our national network of Ford dealers and come back with pricing within 24 hours. Private Fleet – car buying made easy!

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