brilliant car the XR6T, definetly the best performance car available in Australia. For mine the F6 doesn’t offer enough “extra” over the normal XR6T and the money you save would be able to be put into aftermarket kit that would give you a much better car then an F6 anyway. Holden definelty have work to do on the SS to catch up, possibly give it the MRC from the HSV range and a more powerful V8 to match the XR6′s turbo punch.. whatever it is holden needs they need to find it soon! And this is coming from a Holden fan as most of the people on this site already know!

Amazing piece of machinery for $45K. Bang for buck – best value performance sedan in the world I rekon.

My favourite car!

I’m with you Frugal, I thought with the adoption of the new front end that a Hi-Po AWD version might have been on the cards.

You can only imagine what special editions will be made available to celebrate the end of the aussie 6 in 2010!!

i have just picked up the G6E Turbo two days ago.

After trading in my GTP,

have to say this car is unreal, its like a LTD inside and goes like buggery its as good or better then the GTP.

Was going to go for the GTE but cant justify extra $$$

Well done Ford,

This is one very happy customer.

It’s such a shame that the current market won’t allow the sales volumes the FG deserves.
Ford is one of the best local sellers who spend little to get such a great, all round package. I hope Ford US lets Ford AUS lead the global RWD platform team.

I will be getting one before the new V6 arrives in 2010.

Enjoy it while you can guy’s as it days are numbered!

It’s not thaaat much more economical then the holden V8 Ute Tray, and the holden V8 isnt thaaaat far behind the XR6T, holden could easily close the gap with the displacement on demand, variable valve timing and direct injection, all rumored to find their way into the Holden V8 before too long. But for now, definetly, the XR6T is king

Martin – even us holden fans can recongnise and respect a truly great car even if it does have a ford badge on it. I just wish the same respect could be returned from time to time… too much to ask sometimes

It’s a fast car no doubt.But I have to say the looks are very ordinary-I can hardly tell the difference between the BF and this current FG.
Ford need to focus on making cars that sell at this point in time.They don’t need to big note themselves with these so-called high performance vehicles,while the toyota hilux and corolla are out-selling (by a big margin) the Ford product.

Congratulations must go to Ford on producing what by all accounts (havn’t driven one yet) is a brilliant car for it’s segment. I havn’t read a single bad report or review on the FG range, and it trumps all the locally built cars every time.

My first impression was the styling is too close to the BF, but I agree with Brogan, the more I see it the more I notice the subtle differences in it’s lines giving it a whole new look.

Oh and Richo, we know your a Holden fan so all credit to you for your posts. It makes a refreshing change from the all too common brand bashing that goes on here by the (always the same) usual few donkeys.

THE BEST AUSTRALIAN BUILT CAR AND FALCON EVER,, ford has stepped up upto the plate, gaining so much positive reaction, but I wish they would fix up the TV ad marketing campaign, this car deserves more praise from its peers who desperately in need of recognition, TV can be the engine room for success and we all know some brands have learnt a lesson or two on how to snap up potential buyer’s.

C’mon Ford, let’s showcase The Best Car Australia has ever built, HINT HINT !!!!!!!!!!!! are you listening Ford……….

Fasthonda…

Explain something to me…

The new accord looks like the old model, ditto for the BMW 3.5 and 7 series, FG has styling traits from the BF11.

What’s the difference??

Mazda and Honda arguably make great cars yet aren’t the tops sellers…
Not sure what point you’re trying to make here.
Ford and Holden have to big note the upper and sports range of trims for more profit per sale, what you want them to show the base XT instead??
Volume is less important than profit per unit, thats commone sense.
Somehow Toyota AUS DIDN’T make any money before they started selling over 200,000 units in one year. Ford, Holden, Honda, Mazda etc DO make profit with far less volume.

The FG is a very, very good vehicle, accept it for once and stop dragging utter crap into a comments section to bring a vehicle down.

AC COBRA…

Agreed

I am like others here who will get one before it is discontinued. What a stunner. Great review thanks for making the drool go all the way down to the floor. Wow. Seems like such an odd thing to release such a great car/engine package and then change it to something inferior in the likes of the V6. Ford XR6T rocks.

Agree, Richo, it delivers in all fronts and at a good price, if this was lets say an $90K or over car then its more so-what. but the fact for under 50k you can get a car that goes like a rocket, and handles great for a car of its size, without sacrifice.

Also im like Adam, im no fan of Ford or any manufacturer that to the matter (Except I do go for Mclaren in the F1, but thats on a team level), but in physical and technical level the FG the best large 6er on the average joe market.

From this I hope Holden, Toyota or any manufacturer will develop as good or better car and still satisfy the global-market requirements too, as competition is always good

Ute tray, you have to remember both the VE and Aurion were released way before the FG, also Both Holden and Toyota can easily make a car as comparable to the FG if they wanted to, but it doesnt help when these cars a globally sold, and therefore need to cater for different needs of different countries. If you like to know more its always good to take an international marketing course

Resale will be fine, after ditching the inline for V6 in the future makes this an instant (CLASSIC) collectable, even if it did lose some resale it will gain back over time and as for the fuel consumption this would nearly be the best in class so you should not be worried about fuel consumption especially when BUCKET LOADS of performance is on tap.

Spam word XR8 Yeah baby bring it on !!!!!!!!!

Im lucky enough to have got one of these as a company car about a month ago. Ive chalked up 7000Kms already and i still cant wipe the smile of my face every time i get in it. Anyone considering doing it all i can say is go for it!! You will not be disapointed and go the manual with launch control it rocks!!!!

$47K for 5.3 seconds….Wow very cool. I love the green colour. My brother just told me he is getting one for his next company car. I’m going to try and convince him to get the green.

It is a shame that this engine is on its way out BUT dont make the mistake saying the V6 will be no good. It will be a stunner but different to the I6 ……..its called progress and it will be for the long term. Fuel economy of a 4 with the performance of a V8…….

I’d like to know where your getting your info from Ute Tray… as far as i have heard the duratec V6 ford are getting won’t even have direct injection, atleast initially, at a time when holden will have introduced direct injection accross their V6 range. I say buy up the I6 while its still around, because it is one of the worlds better 6 cylinder motors. The duratec V6 that is replacing it is hardly an all new design, its been around for a little while now and really isn’t that impressive. It’s on about the same standard that the current holden alloytec V6 is on, which isn’t a very high standard!!!

settle down Adam, its NOT new, the duratec “cyclone” engine in both 3.5 and 3.7ltr capacities have been around since 2006, so my comment of being around for “a little while now” is correct buddy! Also 205kw and 374nm of torque from the 3.7ltr are good figures, but hardly earth shattering at the same time and not as good as the current I6 in the falcon! That was my point mate!

Also holden HAVE said when the V6 will get direct injection, late 2009 in the VF update. The only thing that hasn’t been confirmed is if it will be accross the range or just in the SV6 and calais models. So bloody get your facts straight before you try and accuse someone else of not having the facts straight!

fact is ford aus wouldn’t be getting rid of the I6 if ford US hadn’t forced them to. Why would they? It’s the best 6 cylinder motor in the entire ford world!

2006 is newer than the HF V6, it’s new, not old…!!

please prove to ALL where Holden has stated when the V will get DI!?

Richo, the Falcon’s inline 6 can’t be economically engineered to be Euro V emissions compliant by 2010. That’s why it’s going.

And Adam, I read in WHEELS yonks ago that DI is heading Holden’s way. I think it’s common knowledge.

have heard good things about 3.7 motor in cx9 but i think its made by mazda in japan not U.S, hopefully thats where ford oz will source it from as it will likely be better quality

Richo,
how do you sum up that the V6 fords is bringing here isnt much chop?

it did rank quite comfortably in the top 10 engines dont forget.

if holden brings in DI, my bet is that the base models will get the current “high spec” 195kw model, and the calais, SV6 etc will get the new DI motor.

totally agree with the “power ranger” noise though.
a DI I6 would have been one mean motor to see.

it really is a shame they werent allowed to spend the dollars to bring the I6 up to spec

Wicked car, great review. Thanks guys been worth the wait.

Brilliant car.

My only quibble would be I would rate the drive above the looks in the scoring. I still prefer the look of the SS, but if I were buying this sort of car today, it’d have to be this one – at least until Holden respond with their next update.

Geez you can’t even give the ford blokes a compliment without them getting stroppy! All i was saying is that the 3.7ltr duratec, on paper, is not really as impressive as the I6. Yes it has 5kw more, but only when run on 98 octane (incednetly the I6 gets 205kw on 98 octane too!) but it is significantly down on torque. Perhaps Ford aus will improve it significantly before they drop it into the falcon, but fact remains that RIGHT NOW, it’s not looking like an improvement over the I6, at best its a sideways step.

And Adam, mate do you just want an argument or something? When did i say that the duratec motor was old???? All i said was is that it has been around for a little while (the design has been around since 2006 in 3.5ltr form, and was released in 3.7ltr form since the introduction of the CX9). What i was trying to say is that its not a brand spanking new design. You don’t call a 2006 model falcon a “brand new motor” do you? Yes its not an old design, it IS still a modern and up to date design, but its not an all new design and thats all i was saying! Geez as i said, can’t even pay the ford blokes a compliment! So farking touchy…

Hey the Ducks back. Wotcha matey!

Great technically advanced car and a well written review from an enthusiast!

Would love to update our family XR6 on this beast.

From other reviews i\’ve read on the FG XR6T, real life fuel economy can be as good as easy 8s on the highway. On balance it uses about 20% less than the XR8 or SS models.

In the metal, out on the street, they look very modern with some lovely lines and attractive proportions.

The only people likely to dismiss it are badge snobs or those that it doesn\’t fulfill their requirements.

Plenty of people driving SUV\’s and pricey Euro\’s would do well to take a look / drive!

Its just a shame ford has NO IDEA AT ALL on how to market a vehicle.

the average joe doesnt even know theres a world class all new ford out. so many people will be buying VE commo’s instead, without even giving the falc a go.

and i guarantee, if u drive both, falc wins hands down.

good work to holden for their marketing!!

Hey Rosquito

re your comments on how its and old engine behind nissan….

when the gtr came out, what was it worth???? certainly NOT 45 grand!! it was over 100 grand AND that was how many years ago??

xr6t FTMFW! ( maybe not? ill take a g6et first! )

Richo,
i know i would much rather the I6 to the new V6, but that ISNT what you were saying.

what you said was that fords new V6 will be a dog like holdens.

i merely pointed out that even though it wont have the effortless motoring ability of the I6, it does still hold some good credentials.

i think if they bring any less than the 3.7L, it may upset some of the old time “forders”

there was even talk of a 3.8L version.

The review outcome is no surprise. Well done FordOZ on a comparatively small budget.

Richo, I agree on the I6. That’s why I’m aiming for XR6T or hopefully F6 before it goes. What I’ve heard of Duratech “so far” isn’t complimetary compared to I6 .ie. much less torque and the mazda CX9 is supposed to be surprisingly very hard on fuel.

Seen a few of your posts on Displacement-On-Demand and Direct-Injection for VF. I’m betting DI will make a sizable improvement on power/economy to the V6. Ford will have dropped the ball again if Duratech doesn’t have DI.

But I wonder how useful DOD will actually be for economy. What makes me wonder is the 4-car comparo CA ran (Falcon/Aurion/Accord/Commodore).

You can’t turn on the TV without seeing a Honda Accord ad spruiking the 6, 4 or 3 cylinder modes. But that comparo put the heavier, quicker Falcon above the Accord for fuel economy.

Any thoughts on DOD? So far I think DI will be the better route.

What was fuel consumption on the test? Would be nice to know….

Hi SumoDog,

The XR6T returned 14.6l/100km all up for the week of mixed driving.

Hope this helps. Matt.

Rosquito,

Ford Aus messed with Turbo 6′s a lot longer than 15 years ago. In about 1983/84, they got together with AIT and did a single Turbo XE Ghia. The XF was made with an handful of Twin Turbos in all forms, utes, sedan, pannys etc. A friend has a Twin Turbo XF Ghia gathering dust in his garage. It has a factory T5 and from memory, it might even have a Ford stamp on the Turbo manifold. Ford did this when they dropped the Clevo 302/351. If only they had put more into production….

On the FG XR6T, i want one. AWD would be too heavy and too thirsty, keep it RWD for fun. Id be keen to see how the ute would get the power down.

Direct Injection is the better route. The new CTS Caddilac’s with the high output 225kw 3.6 are using what? Under 10L/100km?

With that much power.

Please dont be racist Terry. I know people who have had problems. It comes as no suprise, the reliability of the N/A Falcon is something to be desired, do you think slapping a turbo on helps things?

TP, you truely have no idea when it comes to turbocharging. It is far more complicated than just “slapping on a turbo”.
In fact, the last time Toyota tried forced induction what happened TP???? Yes the ever reliable Toyota V6 spat out a conrod out through its block! Very reliable cars indeed. No standard XR6 Turbo has done that to my knowledge.

Your arguements on Caradvice are now a joke. You are lame and pathetic.

TP your claims of Falcons being notoriously unreliable are unfounded. They had a bad run with headgaskets from EA-EL’s but the biggest problem after that is the Handbrake on the BA’s, apart from that the AU-BF2 are very reliable. If XR6 Turbos are sooooo unreliable then how of the 3 of them that me, my brother & his best mate own, 1 is a 2002 BA 5 Spd Man done well over 150,000kms, my brothers a 2004 BA Mk2 6 spd Man done 115,000kms including a recent return trip from brisbane to Darwin with the only problem being a flat tyre, and mine which is an ’06 BF 6 spd auto with 58,000kms the biggest mechanical problem they’ve had is brake rotors that needed machining and hand brakes need adjusting. You can’t kill the bottom end of a Falcon 6, ask any taxi companies. Your just a 1 eyed biased Toyota fan who doesn’t know a thing about cars.

The main problem with TP is Toyoda manufacture sewing machines and fridges for the ageing masses and girls with no care about what they drive, you have to be a car enthusiast to like a Falcon XR6 Turbo, these proper cars are built for men (blokes), not toyleta whingeing wimps.

TP – what about the [supposed] piston becoming detached from the conrod in the TRD Aurion…. wouldn’t you classify that as a reliability issue?

I can’t recall a [reported] incident where a Ford or Holden threw a Piston like that … If that’s what really happened?

Oil Leaks are one thing but a broken bearing Conrod or Loose Piston?

Tom, we’re pretty sure these Toyota guys are all 1 guy trying to stir us up because “they” always regurgitate the same crap about relability and user surveys, its all they’ve got to go on and even that is flimsy.

Matt, 14.6 l/100km is a bit higher than i expected for fuel consumption but i’m guessing from the review that it was driven pretty hard during the time you had it. Any estimate on what you’d expect normal city/highway combined to return.

Also, have you (or anyone for that matter) had a chance to test an XR on 18′s as there’s been a lot of talk about the 19′s providing crap ride quality.

How about testing an XR8 next.

Commended on its reliability? The industry figures highlighting that 55% have to return back to dealership within 5 month of sales is commended? Who is the liar! Dont take my word for it, head to the Ford forums, you can see countless posts of unhappy XR6T buyers.

Oh yeh .. the VL went thru 2 heads in 3 years

I tend to agree with TP’s comments.There was a delay in the releasing of the Falcon turbo variants-the reason was a major problem with the turbo-I believe it was an overheating issue?.
Although the I6 has satisfactory reliablity I can’t say I have the same confidence/trust for the turbo version.

TP,
Your an absolute MORON!! With A capital M…..
You clearly have no idea of engine design and configuration.. The Inline six that Ford have deisned is a benchmark in the real world of last abilty..

There abilty to constantly surpase thousands and thousands of kilometres, proves they are the strongest and one of the most reliable engines in the world..

That the reason why there Taxi’s.

Look at Europe they use Merc’s and BMW’s as taxi’s due to there engine and transmission combo, clearly the best cars in Europe..

Go back in your hole and don’t ever come back out..

Live in that hole for the rest of your life, you won’t be missed.. LOOOSSSEEEERRRRR.

I love my G6E Turbo,

The new FG Falcon range achieved the top score in the latest round of the Australian New Car Assessment Program.

The five-star rating matches the Falcon with top luxury cars such as the Mercedes C-Class and puts it ahead of local rivals including the Holden VE Commodore and Toyota Camry and Aurion, which all achieved a four-star rating,

Go Ford,

TP you just proved to me your an ignorant little twerp.

TP says “Commended on its reliability? The industry figures highlighting that 55% have to return back to dealership within 5 month of sales is commended?”

Those go on warranty claims for ALL aspects of the car, not just the Engine. Those surveys make no mention of what warranty claims were made or whether or not they were claims during the 3000 km complimentary service or other services. Whether or not they were mechanical failures, electrical or whether or not an electric switch wasn’t connected properly during pre-delivery. It could be anything, also those “leaked user surveys” never mentioned if a claim was dissmissed or not, trust me some people will try and claim anything such as a blown light bulb.

You have no idea what you are talking about TP and I applore to everyone on this website to ignore any of TP’s comments.

TP,

May I say that I am embarassed by and disagree with any racist comments directed at yourself or others. I was not aware that you are Japanese and believe that this should not make a lick of difference about who you are. I think you are a tosser because of what you say on here, not what your nationality is.

In saying that, now knowing that you are Japanese helps me understand your passion towards Toyota and your parochialism.

Gee this has become embarrassing to be an Australian. There is absolutely no excuse for rascism and Toyota Paul if you are from Japanese heritage I sincerely apologise for the majority of Australians who aren`t that way inclined. This country was built and prides itself on being multicultural and democratic, so you are entitled to your say on here even if others don`t agree, to the guys who are rascists go back to the rock you crawled out from under

nice try to support your self “Jon”

TP you idiot! Once again, your inability to read what I wrote is evident!!

I said:
“I challenge you to find proof that the I6 is a unreliable engine!!!”

and what pathetic line did you come up with??
TP says:
“Commended on its reliability? The industry figures highlighting that 55% have to return back to dealership within 5 month of sales is commended? Who is the liar!”

YOU RETARD TP!!!! First we are talking about the engine, then you quote me BS about other parts of the car?? You freaken IDIOT!!!

I said it before and I said it again, the I6 engine is next to BULLETPROOF. Want proof you little pansy?? Just as you suggest, head over to the XR6T forums and READ how many cars are running over 400kw AT THE WHEELs (over 450kW @ the engine) ON STOCK UNOPENED ENGINES!!! There a subforum laballed “400 club” – I suggest to go there, read, and weep like the little b*itch you are!!

You really are a poorly educated twit! It’s annoying that one so poorly educated and clueless about other marques of vehicles can come on here, talk utter sh*t, spread such rot and get away with it.

To everyone else, just head over to ford forums or xr6 turbo forums, to find the overwhelming proof that the I6 engine is extremely reliable!

I would post links, but then my post will be moderated and wont show up!

Also on the XR6T forums there is another subforum titled “300+ club” – have a look at how many stock untouched engines are putting out over 50% more than how they were released from the factory and going very hard after 80k or some even over 100k running with that massive power.

THERE ARE HEAPS OF EXAMPLES THERE FOR YOU KNOBHEAD TP.

Yes there will always be someone who tries to bring down the mighty, it’s called tall poppy syndrome(or in TP’s case I think they call it jelousy!)
The falcons do come back for some warranty work every now and again, mostly brake shudder(fixed by a new brake pad compound) and the occassional oil leak(fixed in approximatley 2 hours) but thats what a warranty is for. I have even seen Ford warrant their light bulbs for the full 3 years of the warranty, the only things that are not warranted are things like your battery and brake pads which are only covered for the first year/20,000kms.
I have just traded my beloved xr6 ute for a new mitsubishi lancer for the wife(Major brownie points there guys if you’re after a tip!!) as I now have a bf ute for a work car.
The only warranty problems were – brake shudder, tailgate latch popped out of position and a seized rear brake caliper that was only working on one side, but still working!
Long live Ford!! now I just have to convince the boss that I need a new FG!!!

Hey TP bet you wish you never said anything now.

Oh by the way Toyotas has had more than a million recalls stateside in 3 years of nearly all models and years, so a few (according to the low Ford sales figures you Toyotaphles love to anounce) Falcons going in for minor checks is a drop in the ocean.

So Jon we can never mention anyones nationality because we might offend someone??? This is the world’s biggest problem, becoming stupidly PC. Racism is outright hatred towards another race for no particular reason. You’re just as bad as these so called racists. As I mentioned before I don’t care what nationality anyone is, if they’re a d@ck I call them a d@ck. So Jon, you’re a d@ck.

Great value 4 money. But, having owned the world’s most reliable car – Honda (proven) – I’d be waiting to see how they are for reliability and build quality.

Car needs more differentiation from the rest of the range which don’t look much different to the BF range…

PS – This comment is from an ex motoring journalist.

Rosquito, The XR6 Turbo is a 4.0 litre straight 6 with a turbo, a 6.0 litre V8 with a turbo should pound an XR6 Turbo, its just common place. Its an advatage yes because the turbo offers a massive amount of torque and a flat torque curve but good on Ford for introducing a fantastic performance engine, much better than anything Holden has. Ask any journo it is the best engine in an Aussie performance car ever.

ahh well at least Tander is still chopping Fords in the V8 Supercars…Holden still make the best V8′s

Rosquito:
Holdens imported crate donks are no longer superior either;
In october NZ Autocar they test the F6 and it does 0-100 k.p.h. in 4.82 seconds and 80-120 in a remarkable 2.64 seconds !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A few issues back in a comparo between GTP and R8 (the GTP is $1k cheaper than an R8 in NZ)they also got 80-120 in 2.95s for the GTP. Heres what they had to say:
“It scored a G6ET equalling 5.28 (0-100)…the best figure we’ve achieved from a production Aussie V8 to date…..80-120 in 2.95s…anything that gets into the 2s is wickedly quick” .”Get it to 3500rpm and it explodes into action”
“[The R8 doesn’t have] the emphatic boost of bravado the Boss displays when its on cam” R8 0-100 in 5.30 & 80-120 in 3.17. …R8 felt slower”
“GTP 15.1L/100k v R8 18plusL/100k”
“LS3 is starting to show its age”
“THE VERDICT…If forced to choose, it would be the FPV for its superior powertrain, but you’d be mad not to drive the F6 before deciding”

NZ Autocar do the performance testing properly, by using a Vbox and 98RON fuel.

Guys I own one!!!! A G6ETurbo and although not an XR6, it is still basically the same driveline.

As for comments above about overheating problems/turbo problems when the FG T6 was released, it is utter crap!!!! This would have to be one of the best bang for buck Aus built cars out there.

The turbos were released without any issues!!!!! That’s from a Ford worker who makes the $%$#@ things (inside info if you wish).

I would buy another one tomorrow (an F6) if I had the money!!!!!! 310kw and quicker than anything GMH can put a badge on from the factory!

This car is a beauty! I love the FG, Ford have done a great job! And paying the extra attention and research to the turbo made the XR6 turbo the pick of the litter. Which is good, because of climate change, so for big performance you don’t have to opt for the V8 anymore. Love the styling, love the performance, love the interior (well, most of it), love the car!

Steve

this is an awsome car. In my opinion fords are the best cars and this car proves it.

WHO DOESN’T WANT THIS CAR!!!!!!

NOOOOOO some1 stole my name!!! FG XR6T great car! just can’t believe they closing down the engine factory – surely they should reconsider after the best muscle cars made by Ford Australia are running those I6 made right here in Aus…

Hi everyone. Firstly let me tell you all the TRUTH between the ford FG and holden VE.
Before I begin, I have to tell you what car I drive at the moment.
I have a VZ HSV R8 with a full difilippo exhaust system OTR intake, and a custom tune. I pulled 285rwkw which is about 370kw at the engine and mines auto. Go to G&D peformance. they are the best in australia for tuning. I have done a lot of suspension work, such as suspension bushes, castor bushes, bilstein shocks/struts, eibach springs and front and rear uprated anti-roll bars and to top it off I have the huge 6 piston brakes. (one notch up from the HSV 6 piston) they require 19″ wheels mininum to fit.they are the hardest biting brakes you will ever experience. and i changed my LSD to the latest eaton tru-track.
My car is an exceptional handler and because it has low weight up at the front as the engine weighs only 186kg (LS2) it is very nimble and because of the sway bars stiffness it made about a 50% improvement overall in the handling department. I know you want to know what it pulled down the 1/4 mile. THe auto has a shift kit from factory and was also re-callibrated at the tuners for maximum performance. On slicks, I pulled a 12.2 sec 1/4 mile which is absolutely insane for stock internals!
so it would annihiliate both a standard VE and FG for that matter! it actually scares you when driven hard. it has over 600Nm torque and weighs 1695kg plus it has a 3:46 gear ratio standard from factory.
Now that you have read that, you will understand where I am coming from.
Last week i decided to test the new ford falcon FG turbo and VE SSV both in automatic to compare them to my car.
THe VE was dissapointing in the handling department as my car handles better and feels a lot more nimble. You really feel the VE’s weight and the steering is not as sharp as my car. Mine has the VZ R8 variable ratio but still, mines a VZ!! The VE is a bit quieter inside and bump absorbption is a bit better than mine but thats because my tyres a 35 profile. my ride is so smooth it rivals the VE thanks to the fantasitc monotube bilstein shocks. brakes dont compare (obviously). brake pedal feel is actually better in the VT-VY models as the VE feel is spongy.
The VZ R8 seats are still the comfiest seats holden has ever produced and the VE’s are not that good.
THe VE is a great car and with the same mods as mine i believe it will be only a bit better because of its high weight. the rear IRS though is a big improvement over mine.
THe transmission is definately better than mine but the manual is still crap. there is too much roll on this car and the sway bars are not stiff enough.
Overall, I would not buy one yet as holden have a lot of work to do to perfect it.
Now for the ford FG.
driving to the ford dealer I was expecting better results and i wasnt dissapointed. The ford looks better engineered and more sophisticated.
I test drove the one with the ZF six speed auto.
What a car!! you immediately notice the steering and refinement of the cabin superior to the holden in every way. the transmission is so good and smooth, i cannot fault. It actually handles very similar to my car and points in with a lot more stability than the VE. The ford has much less roll and more control than the VE.
THe turbo six does not sound as tough but is quite quick. I was so stunned at how much better the ford FG is over the VE and Im more a holden fan!!
the SSV though does have a nicer interior and is more comfortable but then again the fords is still okay too.
For looks, i believe the ford screams quality where as the holden is more style.
I am going to keep my R8 as it is one of a kind and is still a fantastic car but toward the end of the year I will have to purchase one of those beasts. If holden greatly improve the VE in every way, then i might consider getting one but if not I will definately go the ford.
I have also driven the new BMW m6 a couple of months ago and its in a league of its own. Its so perfect in its dynamics. brake feel is fantastic but interior comfort is not as good as I was expecting. so smooth and so finely engineered you can only fault the inside. nothing else. just perfect.
Anyway, the answer is, the FORD is a better car and to all you holden fans, test drive and you will see for yourself.
If anyone wants to know any more info you can email me at bortous@bigpond.net.au

Peter,

IT seems you are quite bia’s about your car.
G&D do have a name for playing with dyno numbers.
Wake up!!!!!!!!

IN MY COMMENT IN THE THIRD PARAGRAPH IT WAS MEANT TO READ:

WHEN YOU LOOK AT VE’SS THEY ARE PUTTING OUT AROUND 255-265 RWKWS WITH THE SAME MODS (MANUAL).

NOT 155-165 RWKWS

OOPS…

I would rather GET A VE HSV AND DO SAME MODS AND IT WILL BE EVEN BETTER THEN AN OUTDATED VZ PLATFORM

The new FPV turbo is more fun to drive and handles better then peter’s VZ clubsport.

To Peter
First up there is no truth about the the VE and FG ford. There are no lies abouth these cars. There are facts. SO unless you think the public has been told lies with car reviews etc.,then you are a whacko.

The VE is a far more superior model than a VZ. The VZ has an out of date garden-variety platform and IRS which goes from VT-VZ. It is fair to say that the VZ was the best model before the VE. To say the manual is crap sounds to me that you dont know how to drive a manual because the clutch is a lot lighter to pump in and out than the VZ, and particularly for something that has to manage a truly colossal 550Nm flow of torque it is much better. The only aspect of the VE is the gear shift. I found that it wasnt quite so suited to commuting with everyday travel duties beacuse it is quite stiff and sometimes needs to be forcibly mashed into gear. Still, its an improvement over the VZ.

You go on to say that your car has 285 rwkw with a di fillipo exhaust OTR intake and tune. I do not believe this power figure (and your car being automatic) is accurate and would suggest that it is of a lesser nature. When you look at VE SS’s they re putting out around 255-265 rwks with same mods (manual). Yours may be a little higher.

G&D Performace have a name for upping the power figures. A lot of performance shops cut and paste other peoples tune and sell them to you. (Anything that is going to sell). You would be surprised how many people go from such “peformance shops” to actual engine management specialists to correct their tune and power output.

You are comparing a modified VZ to a standard VE. Just imagaine a VE R8 with the same mods you have got. Yet you go on to say that you have less weight weight front end when the VE has got much better weight distribution. Weight distribution of the VE Commodore is almost 50:50 thanks to strategies such as mounting the engine low and rearward in the engine bay, a saddle-type fuel tank and a boot-mounted battery.

As for your quarter mile time 12.2 sec, I would’nt believe this result unless i saw the slip in front of me. (no offence). The VE doesn’t feel wildly faster than the old VZ model that’s not to say it’s sluggish – far from it. The VZ’s traction control system bogs down and cuts engine power at the hint of wheelspin whereas the VE HSV one is designed to maximise acceleration, allowing only a bit of spin.

The steering in the VE is more urgent and responsive than whats in your car. The new steering system provides a more linear, logical feel. Sure, you can still feel the bumps and lumps, but the E-Series is not nearly as jiggly as the VZ range it replaces (you shouldve known this). Why would holden go backwards in their steering systems?

At civil speeds, the VE HSV Clubsport R8 is a very easy car to pilot. It inherits the VE Commodore’s placid attitude – upon which the car is based. The steering is very light and makes manoeuvering the car’s long 4.94 metre body through traffic effortless unlike with the VZ.

The brake pedal has more feel than the VZ and that’s because the brakes pack more serious hardware in the form of large (and sexier) cross-drilled discs and APS brake callipers even though you say you have changed your brakes. Brake feel in the VE HSV, is more consistent and stronger than the HSV VZ through application (having driven one myself).

Dont forget that your car is not a pure-bred sports car. HSV have modifed it so it performs like one. Its based on a VZ berlina. If it wasnt for this car, your car wouldnt exist. Yes you have put a top diff in your car as well as the 6 pot brakes but to say that the VZ R8 seats are the most comfortable is purely YOUR personal opinion and preference.

I do believe that you are more happy with the FG and BMW u test drove than your own car. You also seem insecure about your car and are taking out these insecurties on the VE. I dont think holden spent a BILLION dollars on research and development to make a car that “holden has a lot of work to do to perfect it” as you say.

Remember that your car is an all rounder. With looks, comfort, power and most of all is a LARGE FAMILY CAR.

Peter

The SRT’s were so good, as you say, you were back in 3 days pleading with us to remove them.

I guess thats enough to cover your whole posts in doubt now…..

Now stop Thinking your Jeremy Clarkson, and get back to work!

Everyone, I am a friend of Peter’s and I recently came back from an overseas trip and he told me about this debate.
I have driven his car with all those modifications mentioned in the previous posts he has written.
I also went myself to my local HSV dealer and I test drove the new R8 and what he says is so true.
His car does handle quite a bit better and is sharper turning in the corners. You can throw it into corners with a lot more control except the IRS is not as good as it is in the VE. I found the ride quite good but the VE is definately better over the bumps but thats because the standard suspension in the VE is soft and the car sits high front and rear. Just as in any holden, its always best to buy the last series of the platform as it will always be the best in all areas and any problems in the previous models are usually ironed out.
VZ r8 seats are definately more supportive than VE and the standard bridgestone tyres in VE are noisy as hell. The VE ute that I have been in that has modified suspension is much better than a standard VE R8 for sure.
the 4 piston brakes are not strong enough to pull up such a heavy car but the 6 pistons on the VZ r8 are so much better that you can’t compare them and pedal feel is not much better than the VZ R8. Its firmer but still lacks feel. the best holden I have been in that has excellent pedal feel is my brother’s VX commodore. He has the standard callipers with DBA4000 rotors and the police spec bendix ultimate pads. His pedal feel is fantastic.
the yokohama advan tyres on his VZ R8 are so much quiter.
Holden still need to do a lot of work to the VE and the 6 speed auto transmission needs to be more responsive and it needs more brains. Holden never get it right in that area where as the ford has.
Overall, the VE is an alright car but it needs a lot of improvements in all areas. If you want a properly engineered car always go german, they usually get it right first time engineering wise.

Flux capacitator is written by Peter, Contradicting himself again.

DO same mods to a VE and that will handle better

END OF STORY

Connor, check out this link. Do that to your car and i guarantee your car will have more power and better handling. We know yours has much better IRS!!!

http://images.google.com.au/imgres?imgurl=http://memimage.cardomain.com/ride_images/3/2228/1681/30568340256_large.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.cardomain.com/ride/3056834&usg=___qsyYeeZc4kXzk08l1kD8hH9Gas=&h=377&w=600&sz=61&hl=en&start=2&um=1&tbnid=LhJsKmHbEFQytM:&tbnh=85&tbnw=135&prev=/images%3Fq%3Daps%2Btwin%2Bturbo%2Bhsv%26ndsp%3D21%26hl%3Den%26um%3D1

connor, you don’t know what you are talking about.
With the same parts it will be better. not 10 times better.
Holden still need to do a lot of improvements to the VE.
The VZ was the best they could get it and did a great job.
When the VE platform is about to finish, it will be a big difference between the first VE. Just like the difference between the VT and VZ. same platform, huge difference.
When VE is improved to the max, then I will contemplate in purchasing one.
There is always something holden do the car to improve it where we will never know what the factory has done.

I agree about the VZ r8 but the VE is definately a better car and is a lot more balanced due to its better weight distribution.
However I would not buy one as holden have a lot of work to do to them.
I have a VZ R8 myself with modified suspension as mentioned in one of the previous posts by peter (he doesn’t quite know what he is saying)
I have the tein coilover at the front. Now, I have driven the new VE r8 and my vz R8 will destroy it on the corners with ease but I know for a fact, do the same mods to the VE, it will be much better again. Steering is sharper in VZ R8 esepecially on turn in.
The VE will be a much better car toward the end of its life before the all new model gets released.
Ve is definately easier to control at the limits thats for sure.
Reason i find my modified VZ is better is because holden worked it for so many years and got it at its best.

james, i think you need to go to back to school and learn to spell and end sentences properly.
And i can afford a VE but I am going to wait until one of the very last models are made as they will be a big improvement over the current VE.
I still like my VZ. Everyone underestimates it but are always pleasantly suprised how good it really is with those modifications.
I bet james, you drive an outdated torana with only one light working.
haha

These are the cars for life.

Wait till 2011, I6 will receive DIRECT-INJECTION ” i heard! ” and GAS models might make just over 200kW and 400Nm, and petrol version will be able to run on ethanol and petrol making close to 260kW and over 440Nm from N/A stock I6 4.0Liter!!!!

so , keep ya ear out, you might hear this too, i did , as early as December 2008.

Dan

I have had one of these (FG XR6 Turbo, 6-spd auto) for almost a year now, its awesome. Fuel economy is amazing, around Canberra the all-time average on the car hovers around 9.9L/100km. Its sitting on 9.3 atm but thats coz Ive been doing quite a few highway trips of late. Highest its been is 10.2

Its quiet, comfortable and inspires security. Love the color (Breeze) and the useability of the interior is great. HOWEVER the ICC button layout is inferior to the BA, its full of small, flat buttons which u cant just feel for, you need to look for them. And to adjust the fans its slower coz u have to press rather than turn a knob.

If you want effortless power AND respectable economy this is the car for you.

I have had my 09 xr6t for a year now and have to say its been fantastic over that period with no issues…except that you have to curb your enthusiasm.