Ford Australia President shock resignation
22 Aug, 2008
164 Comments 
Ford Australia President Bill Osborne has announced his shock resignation, less than eight months after taking on the top job.
This news follows the proposed loss of 350 jobs from Ford’s workforce on the back of slowing FG production as a result of declining demand for large cars.
Osborne stated in a telephone press conference this afternoon that he would return to the US to take on a job outside the automotive industry.
Having worked in a variety of roles within Ford for the past 18 years, he has been at the helm of Ford Australia since February 2008, in that time overseeing the crucial launch of the new FG Falcon range.
He leaves in a similar fashion to former Ford Australia President Tom Gorman who relinquished the position he had held since 2004 also to take on a role outside the automotive industry.
Osborne insists the decision to resign was a personal choice, and is in no way related to Ford Australia’s current difficulties.
“I still believe Ford is destined for success,” Osborne said. “I remain a Ford stockholder and I retain the utmost confidence in the company.”
During his short stint, Osborne had been instrumental in developing a new business plan for Ford Australia, including the decision to produce the Focus locally from 2011, leaving the company on “a very sound footing for the next few years”.
His resignation will take effect come September, with Ford Australia to announce his successor in the coming weeks.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 6:45 pm
WTF??? I thought he would stick around for a lot longer than this!! Must have been pretty hard at the top.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 7:03 pm
WTF 31yrs old that must be typo
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August 22nd, 2008 at 7:09 pm
Thank god he left it on “a very sound footing for the next few years”. Falling sales, job cutbacks, no exports, out of touch marketing, …..
Imagine if he’d left it in poor shape……..
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August 22nd, 2008 at 7:16 pm
he must have been missing the basketball and waffles too much……..
how can he be given credit for the upcoming focus production??
that was in place before he landed in OZ.
he hasnt really done anything.
where do i forward my resume??
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August 22nd, 2008 at 7:17 pm
maybe he found it too hard to sleep at night with his overpriced salary
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August 22nd, 2008 at 7:21 pm
Sorry Jon, was looking at a completely different statistic. Thanks!
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August 22nd, 2008 at 7:40 pm
Come on he has made his name and fortune now he wants to kick back in another industry were he will do even less and still for several million a year.
If the credit crisis is any indication these so called captains of industry are all asleep at the wheel especially in our western world.LOL.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 7:41 pm
This is not unexpected. He found a bolthole back in the US, outside of the troubled company in the troubled industry he found himself in. Better to get back to some security rather than serve out his contract, after which….what ????
Smart man.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 7:52 pm
Egad 31 and he looks older than me!!
Proud to say I have more hair though.
I hope he has a shave before he starts his next gig.LOL
Was a day when the Boss would send u home looking like that.LOL.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 7:55 pm
Heres a weird Idea - why don’t put an Australian in charge of Ford Australia [as well as Holden for that matter]
I mean who else has a better Idea of what Australians want [in a car] or how they think than an Australian
I believe the last “Aussie” CEO Ford Australia had was Jac Nasser who eventually made it from Broadmeadows to Detroit where he set about plans to improve both Fords market and financial position as well as their image.. - Jac wanted to import a range of cars from Ford Australia and Europe Including thr Falcon but he was undermined by Mr Ford Jnr Snr Jnr. Now Ford is now being run by Mr Ford Jnr Snr Jnrs buddy Mr Alan Mullaly who didn’t do as good a job at running Ford UK as our Jac did running ford Oz
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August 22nd, 2008 at 8:02 pm
Good call Wheelnut. Who better to call the shots than an Aussie… Actually would any one who is supposedly in charge here actually call the shots???
Too much control taken away by FordUS regarding the big decisions that have to be made here in Aust.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 8:06 pm
Sounds like Ford management are their own worse enemy?
What is right for American tastes not necessarily right for the rest of the empire?
Suppose they could say they were caught with pants down in relation to the price of oil but it is a level playing field in this respect and writing was on the wall for those that could read.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 8:10 pm
An Australian to run an Australian subsidiary are u mad!LOL.
Was a time when the Brits occupied these positions.
WE need to get over our collective inferiority complex!
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August 22nd, 2008 at 8:44 pm
Why Not… Aussie Tom Phillips was a CEO at Toyota Australia for a couple of years in the late 90s where he impoved sales and profits.. He then moved on to Mitsubishi and if they let him have as much free reign at Tonsley park as he did at Altona as well as give his plans for a RWD Magna the go ahead… maybe things would be different.
But Tokyo didn’t like that idea even if it meant survival let alone potentially extra sales
If anyone has an inferiority complex its the Americans - what other reason do they have for not allowing Ford to export the Falcon to the USA other than it will show US Ford Fans how crap their home grown products really are.
At least GM [Bob Lutz] can see the benefits and takes advantage of the expertise etc subsudiaries like Holden has to offer.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 8:59 pm
If American corporate culture is anything to go by, no-one should be surprised.
Their collective thinking is next quarter\’s profits.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 9:03 pm
Was being sarcastic Wheelnut.
Corporate Australia tend to look abroad for talent and that’s what I mean about a national inferiority complex.
The sooner Aussies(in corporate boardrooms) realise that everybody else is making it up as they go along as well then the better off we will be and the more Aussies there will be in CEO positions.
An example is that old half comatose economist Greenspan that had presided over possibly the biggest economic f#$%kup in American economic history the current credit/sub prime crisis. The funny thing is they stIll give the st@##king old f^&^k air time.LOL.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 9:04 pm
Yep Basketball Bro could not help himself…….good by for a flunkish try (as in trying to run Ford here LOL). The situation can be turned around, but Ford needs to let go of its US pigheadedness and let the kinetic look take over the range here. Like the Territory should of been updated 2yrs ago and Ford sit idle! Ford never read the demand for diesel in Mondeo as too basic ran!
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August 22nd, 2008 at 9:22 pm
give it 2 years and they will shut up shop!!!!! its mitsubishi all over again. the way things are going with costs to build cars here and the govt making imports cheaper it will only get worse. we have too much choice of cars in aust thats why local cars are up the crapper, when you look at in aust we have a wider range of cars forsale then countries triple our size. the govt needs to cut half a dozen makers from selling here, that will help.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 9:27 pm
Yeah asleep at the wheel NM.
The stocks well no doubt part of his incentive package.Hardly going to give them back if they were free in the first place.LOL.
These jokers move on to greener pastures and leave the plebs in the lurch!
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August 22nd, 2008 at 9:36 pm
Mark, I think that over the years our locals have made a lot of stupid decisions allowing imports especially the japs to gain dominance.
Small cars have been the future for a long time and both Ford and Holden have unknowingly it would seem promoted Japanese small cars within their own ranges over the years. Add to this the disjointed brand and model association in their 4 cylinder ranges and it was only a matter of time that players like Toyota would use this as a springboard to dominate the market.
I would argue that Ford and Holden done a better job of establishing Toyota,Mazda and Nissan in this country than they did themselves for quite sometime.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 9:48 pm
i rekon it was becouse hes wanted the falcon over seas and ford usa said no
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August 22nd, 2008 at 9:57 pm
Rats and sinking ships…
Nothing like a bit of commitment, and 6 months is nothing like commitment. If he doesnt want the job, then Ford Oz are better off without him. Gorman was useless, Osborne hasnt shown himself to be much better. Another American is NOT needed.
Get some fresh thinking in, give the public diesels, screw the cars together properly and give us the Focus RS. Maybe I should apply for the job…
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August 23rd, 2008 at 12:18 am
We miss you Geoff Polites.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 1:58 am
Wheelnut, as an Aussie in the US, i can assure you that most here are very well aware how crappy the US products are. Almost everyone i show the FG to says the same thing, “Why the hell aren’t they selling that here?
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August 23rd, 2008 at 7:54 am
Lee……………….cause Ford are stubborn as ever with this useless diatribe of running the world in Ford empire based on Ford values that have happened over the years and too regimental to let go. Henry Ford must be turning in his grave. It would be interesting for some research into relationship between previous Mr Ford and new management as dare say there would of been feathers rufled. Ford can turn it around by getting rid of some tiresome, outdated, too lax, toooooooooooooooo set in ways and dont want change management. Ford have some truly amazing designs and sit on them and sit on them….discuss it at length over and over and sit on them. Meanwhile, Toyota upgrade models or opposition likewise. And where is Ford, sitting on there ideas and discuss it around a big round table. USELESS MANAGEMENT WHO ARE TOO SCARED TO TAKE THE RISK AND MAKE THERE JOBS ACCOUNTABLE……I would sack the lot including Mr Mullaly as they would not even qualify for a job as a public servant as old tiresome unadventurous lot. This is why Iam stunned that they buy into Mazda as Mazda is vibrant and stunning and is everything Ford is not. One would think that passion would be there as would rub off on Ford’s designers based on the Mazda cars they come across. FORD MANAGEMENT…….zzz zzz zzz zzz zzz zzz yawn zzz zzz. There CV over last 3yrs is new Ford, bring Mondeo here after massive delays and Focus upgrade. Rest of CV they have but extremely slow to move and act on! THUS USELESS AND TIRESOME!
This is one factor why Toyota are were they are.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 7:58 am
By stubborn I mean Ford Dearborn are obsessed with constraints on Ford look worldwide. This is the problem. Seriously no word of a lie, I would not get one of there cars that they sell to USA market as major fugly shyte lookers! You would think Ford designers would tweak some of Mazda’s range and morph them into a similar look….zzz zzz zzz zzz zzz is where Ford Dearborn are and management should be sacked and young, vibrant go getters take over! FORD SHOULD BE ASHAMED ON WHERE ITS DESIGN ODDBALL STATUS IS AS WORLDWIDE IT DOES NOT GEL FROM ONE MARKET TO THE NEXT.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 8:06 am
Like they are on right path with Falcon, Focus, Mondeo, Ranger.
Rest of range Ford is zzz zzz zzz zzz.
Awaken the useless state they are in and release new KA, Mondeo wagon (in diesel), Fiesta (also in diesel), Kuga (also in diesel), Verve (also in diesel), Iosis (also in diesel), Capri, Reflex, C max, Galaxy. The C max and Galaxy is what Ford should be fighting for here…… little action from Mr Basketball Hoop dude! Go riddens tiresome dude!
Ford wont do last paragraph as there philosophy is “ROME WAS NOT BUILT IN A DAY AND ITS BETTER TO MULL OVER STUFF AND CONTINUE WITH SAME BORING CARS AND LOSE MARKET SHARE”………….its the ones that dont sit still and move with times and refresh range and update heaps that benefit from Ford’s inactions! ZZZ ZZZ ZZZ ZZZ ZZZ ZZZ = rip Ford Aust!
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August 23rd, 2008 at 8:48 am
FORD MANAGEMENT = zzz zzz zzz zzz zzz
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August 23rd, 2008 at 9:13 am
Lee I can see by the level of interest on sites such as www.autoblog.com that there is alot of American car enthusiasts who would love for the Aussie built Fords to be available in the USA.. My point was that its the old farts in detroit that don’t want them there..
I mean the reason it took both Ford and GM so long to realise that the large Pick-Up market was shrinking is mainly because GMs Ray Waggonner and Fords Alan Mullaly drive big SUV 4×4s and their way of thinking is “If I love driving a Truck; the rest of the world [USA] will too”
The Execs at Ford know how good the Falcon is and they are scared of it because it will show that the US built sedans are shit.. and I doubt that they will allow the Falcon into the US in the future because Ford fans will say “why wasn’t a car this good availale earlier? thereby showing yet again how out of touch Ford Jr Snr Jr and his crew really is.
At least GMs Bob Lutz can see how good Holden are at both designing and building cars; he loves em!
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August 23rd, 2008 at 10:26 am
Whats this… the 4th resignation….2nd in a short period of office? They jumping out of the wreck that is Ford Australia. On top of this mass job losses. Ford means a great deal to American wallets.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 11:39 am
TP Says:
August 23rd, 2008 at 10:26 am
Ford means a great deal to American wallets.
NM response……LMAO, shyte you stun yourself the depths you warble and prattle! You should of wrote…..”Ford Dearborn means a great deal only for America to railroad its approach onto all Ford worldwide with massive constraints with design and manufacture”
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August 23rd, 2008 at 11:47 am
TP, this doesn’t change the fact that the FG spanks the Camaurion in EVERYTHING except sales/marketing. Still bitter huh?
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August 23rd, 2008 at 11:56 am
Bitter as a beer and does “NOT” go down well (unlike a beer) - YEP SIREE! LOL
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August 23rd, 2008 at 12:00 pm
The former chairman of Toyota, John Conomos, says the latest round of car industry job losses will not be the last and will not just be reflected on Ford….it will effect all local car manufacturers.
Obviously TP is immune to reality outside his Toyota bubbleworld!
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August 23rd, 2008 at 12:53 pm
Try not to be racist, guys. F-O, that was particularly low-class.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 1:30 pm
Oh, look everybody, it’s Dingo!
Hey Little Fella, did the nasty Car Advice guys give you the Terms and Conditions you were bleating for? No? Awww, goochy goochy goo…never mind…they’ve probably got much more important things to do than comply with a one-in-twenty-million request like that.
And anyway, word around town, very quietly (Ssshhhhh!!!) is that they are in the process of taking Decisive Action to keep you off the site. I hope for your sake that your insightful comments don’t contravene any current actions. I mean, it would be awful for the Telecommunications Ombudsman (or anybody else…oops, no names!) to see your latest contributions, wouldn’t it?
Tell Uncle Golfschwein not to tell.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 2:06 pm
Better stop the booze as your comments make all snooze and you have always proven your brain, to be in the gutter and low as the drain!
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August 23rd, 2008 at 2:07 pm
Iam still puzzled….how can a thing like you have friends. Defies logic?
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August 23rd, 2008 at 2:08 pm
Yeah right on Golfie….heard exactly that same rumour and its shebang true!
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August 23rd, 2008 at 2:56 pm
Hey Naughtyius Maximus! :). Guess the Terms and Conditions never materialised. But you wouldn’t do it for a self-confessed psycho either, would you? Amazing, isn’t? There’s how many - twenty or twenty two million people in the country right now? And only one wants Terms and Conditions for this web site. It tells us everything we need to know, or knew already.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 2:59 pm
Ciao Bill.
Thanks for your help. :/
I find the timing strange for the announcement,considering his claims of personal reasons for his departure.
In hindsight he may as well sacked everyone set fire to the building and hung us the “bird” as he jumped into his private jet,as he set off for seppo land.
“Next!”
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August 23rd, 2008 at 3:05 pm
Hahahaha Watto Falcon beats Aurion in everything but….. SALES. Hahaha. I would have thought:
a. Sales is what the manufacturers build a car for in the first place, who cares if the car is “bettter”
b. But in contrast to this, the sales 99% of the time reflect the best overall vehicle in the market. Which is not a Falcon that doesnt come with 6 airbags standard and is not a Falcon that will break down in 5months.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 3:11 pm
Still clinging to your 5 months rubbish TP?
Your “point B” sales reflecting best car, I get it, that is a joke. Thanks, I needed a laugh after the news on this blog.
Oh yeah, I am still waiting for that apology from where you said I attacked that bloke on the ZR6 blog. Where is it TP? Everytime I mentioned it you would disappear for a while. Funny when you kept demanding an unwarranted apology from Andrew.M.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 3:15 pm
So you must be calling Car Advice and countless other publications liars when they all rate FG way above Camaurion?
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August 23rd, 2008 at 3:16 pm
Who cares if the car is better??????????
Poeple who aren’t brainwashed by marketing and actually do some research before they buy a car.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 3:22 pm
Airbags? Didn’t you read the whole Ancap article and comments where the BASE MODEL XT with 4 bags rated a long way in front of Aurion?
If you’re so worried about having 4 vs 6 it’s $300 measly dollars, or standard on the upper models. If you really wanted to, tell the dealer to chuck em in free or you go elsewhere.
Claiming your Aurion is better because it has 6 bags standard vs the much safer Falcons (XT) 4 bags is a completely floored (oops flawed) argument.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 3:31 pm
TP the FG falcon is the best austrailan made car periode on contest gose to a boring camry with a 6 and some new front gards.
and at least the falcon has dinamics to go with it big aussie made 6 the falcon and commodore are the only cars built in australia
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August 23rd, 2008 at 3:37 pm
Its true Dingo you can access other computers or change ISPs
CA are in contact with the Police and your friend the Telecommunications Ombudsman in relation to your offensive behaviour etc and they could decide to impose a “blanket ban” on by all ISPs whereby Telstra Optus and the others are made to block your Dodo like comments. - and if its a court order they can be fined for not obiding by it.
So you could find that none of them will want to take you on as a customer.
Because just as the Chinese government blocked access and shut down a couple of websites in the lead up to the Olympic games. The technology [computer software] exists to block you from accessing this website either from your computer or any other which you log on to.. so it can be done
As for Changing your name - you do that already… It’s me must be your 90th one in less than a year.. and like all the other inane comments will most likely end up being deleted anyway.
Remember What takes you 5-10 minutes to write takes one simple click to delete!
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August 23rd, 2008 at 3:44 pm
Plus the fact that you would even consider going to the Library or an internet Cafe where you have to pay to use the computers.. to write your usual narrow minded offensive comments all of which will most likely be deleted indicates that you must have more money than sense.. spending all that time effort and money [not only at the venue but also getting there] with nothing to show for it.. And you call us Pathetic.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 3:46 pm
Quote [Watto Cobra; Aug 23rd 2008 3:22] Airbags? Didn’t you read the whole Ancap article and comments where the BASE MODEL XT with 4 bags rated a long way in front of Aurion?
That is of course based on the Assumption that TP can actually read.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 3:48 pm
Why do all these blogs tern into a Ford V Holden V Toyota argument.
It pathetic
Every one likes different things, its simple
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August 23rd, 2008 at 3:56 pm
LMAO…..its not how many sales its how good it is. Kinda like its not big it is its how you use it. Judging some pseudo car obsessed nutters who only dig for one car….would say that they are needing to let go and use it!
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August 23rd, 2008 at 3:59 pm
Unlike others I support different cars as not every car in one particular Car maker is number 1…..get over it and support a car enthusiast you freaky one car world geeks!
Golfie…..yes sirree spot on! It wont be long and his bubble will be burst as he will be jolly on the spot “soon”!
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August 23rd, 2008 at 4:28 pm
Papers are advertising g6 with free egas and xr6 39990 driveaway. Focus CL driveaway for 20490 and Mondeo with Alloys etc for 29990.
Ford have got some good deals going!
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August 23rd, 2008 at 4:31 pm
Obviously have a taste for the mediocre Dingo.LOL.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 4:32 pm
Austar (your words) has attacked your inards and affected your backwards bizarro world.
Obviously Mr Conomos stating job losses will occur for local car industry are lost in that rats maze between your ear lobes! The inevitable will happen as market is changing!
Thats why I laugh at when I see statistics on voting on how many want the Camaro here on this website home page…… big, brawn and Dukes of Hazzard brash and it would flop.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 4:35 pm
Yeah Realcars…..they gotta move action in shrinking market and been seeing many getting around - shame their marketting is ran by Mr Bean! For now I like the Falcon…..til out trumped by Holden or Toyota if they update and lift bar? NOT THE BAR DINGO AND TP HANDLE!!! lol
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August 23rd, 2008 at 4:39 pm
Its old….its not ole you yeast guzzler (burp)! Geepers you defy gravity!
The website is cool and top reviews…..unfortunately some undesirables with toxicity lag occurring between the left and right ear wreck it.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 4:40 pm
Seems like the only one in liquid is you…..see you four later! BURP
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August 23rd, 2008 at 4:44 pm
lifeboats will be needed for big T’s F1 profram/desires first
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August 23rd, 2008 at 5:01 pm
If Ford Australia made decent cars, that the Aussie public actually wanted, they wouldn’t be in this mass right now! But they don’t!! It’s only the few die hard falcadore fanatics that spam this site that fail to see it!! No wonder that the Aussie public happily pays the extra premium to get a Toyota, or another brand just get a decent cars!!
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August 23rd, 2008 at 5:03 pm
Some interesting reading at Motortrend Dingo!
They reckon Hyundai Genysis 4.6 v8 is a better car than the LS460 for half the price.
Also another comparo places Sonata 2.4 above the CAMRY!!!
Toyota is going to get an arse whipping.LOL.
Here in Australia the cardigan set are already starting to defect to hyundai.LOL.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 5:07 pm
Yes Thomas69 better we all drive Hilux Prados like u eh?
Love that wheel on the back and the plastic chrome grill by the way.LOL.
Have u got the optional hard cover or the plastic bag cover.LOL.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 5:10 pm
Realcars, truth hurts doesn’t it?!
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August 23rd, 2008 at 5:10 pm
Surprise, surprise. Tomas79 who claims he isn’t Dingo shows up at the exact same time after being AWOL for a coupla weeks. One man army.
heard from more than one source that if T doesn’t win F1 soon (they still haven’t had a single win yet right?) and win regularly within 2 years it’s shut up shop again.
You used all your pink and purple fluffy hankies when you had that monumental hissy fit at CA a coupla weeks ago Dingo.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 5:10 pm
65K for a Hilux Prado.LOL.
U CERTAINLY PAID A PREMIUM THOMAS69!LOL.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 5:27 pm
Realcars, you have obviously turned senile!
As has been pointed out to you on a number of occasions, the Hilux is not based on the j12 Platform, And if it was, The Prado would have been even better!!
Also where did i ever say i paid 65K for a prado?? I haven’t But I’d happily even pay up to 80k!! That’s my last comment on this matter!!
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August 23rd, 2008 at 5:31 pm
Hmmmm all of Dingo’s comments got deleted. That was quick work CA.
Back on topic, who will it be this time? Another yank sent over for his 12 month (8 month?) exile, or finally get an Australian who cares about our local product to run things?
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August 23rd, 2008 at 5:49 pm
Hey Realcars one of the Toyota trio got on the GTR blog yesterday taking your identity and kicking the boots into me,I knew it wasn’t,so look out for an identity crisis………….not you though babe, them.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 5:54 pm
I heard from someone that knows Tomas that he actually is a Ford fan,so why doesn’t he own up to it! Perth is a small place Tomas……..
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August 23rd, 2008 at 5:55 pm
If he wasn’t busy running Australia’s biggest fastest growing and most popular Department Store Harvey Norman; I think that Gerry Harvey would do a much better job at running Ford Holden or Toyota than the imports that are running them at the moment - He is a no nonsense character who has made it on his own and knows what Aussies want….
And if not Gerry what about Lindsay Fox another local boy done good who believes in Australia as well as Australians
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August 23rd, 2008 at 6:08 pm
Perth is country town compared to other cities,I can ring you if you like Tomas………….
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August 23rd, 2008 at 6:11 pm
I know Frank; its weird isn’t it… you hardly ever see Tomas79 TP or Dingo on here on their own.. It reminds me of a joke:
Paddy Sean and Shamus are best mates… but one day Paddy dies in a horrific car accident so Sean and Shamus go to the morgue to identify him.
Sean goes in first looks at the body sees his face then sean says to the attendant “it looks like paddy but could you roll him over” the attendant rolls him over and sean says “nah it ain’t paddy”
Shamus goes in looks at the body sees his face then shamus says to the attendant “it looks like paddy but could you roll him over” the attendant rolls him over and sean says “nah it aint paddy”
The attendant says “the other man said that; how do you know its not Paddy?”
Shamus replied “well everywhere we went; people would say ” aahh look here comes Paddy and those two a–eholes.
That is where there’s one; youre bound to find the other two
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August 23rd, 2008 at 6:16 pm
Note this is not a personal attack on Dingfo TP or Tomas its merely an observation
Its also a way of bringing a bit of comic reief to this site which it so badly needs considering how pathetic it has become with all the low-life arguemnnts and immature behaviour that has taken over
It used to be a really fun place to visit until about January - which is when I believe Dingo made his first appearance… coincidence?….mmmmmmmm
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August 23rd, 2008 at 6:23 pm
Wheelnut, and others. It appears that Dingo, TP and Tomas certainly are three different people. We have ways of finding that out.
Whilst we appreciate people commenting on articles, we do our best to remove propaganda, and if some slips through occasionally, apologies.
Now, back to the article at hand.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 6:26 pm
Tomas79…….you really dont understand AT ALL !! Ford build the best car ever to be made here and deserve credit for it. As I said ……..i guess i have to repeat myself for drongo’s like you ……….if petrol was only 30cents a litre cheaper the situation would be reversed…….dont you understand ? NOBODY ………..and that means NOBODY…….. predicted the oil price surge……so Ford and Holden already had their large car programs locked in …………DO YOU UNDERSTAND THIS BASIC FACT ? Things cant be changed in a year or two……….anyway if Toyotas are so good why does the CAMRY\AURION (same car different name) sell so poorly ? Even the old BF outsold it !!!! Its because its classified as a LARGE car and has 6 cylinders………..the FG gets the same if not better fuel economy as a 4 cylinder Camry and is 10 times a better car !!!!!!!
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August 23rd, 2008 at 6:30 pm
Yeah I noticed that to BM.. Its probably one of the Toyota Trio [or one of their many aliases]
As TP tried to do a similar thing using my name on a Holden related Blog a couple of moths ago.. making denograting comments about the VE.. as If I would say that given that in a couple of months I am getting a VE Ute.
I guess he was trying to make people think that overnight I had 98% of my brain removed and all of a sudden was infatuated with Toyota’s as much as they are.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 6:31 pm
Holden to sack 600 more workers, Mitsubishi closed down Ford 350, and now Boeing are sacking 600 next year………..so is that Fords fault as well?? How many workers in lots of industries have been sacked recently? Its the whole manufacturing industry in australia that is suffering because our governments are too busy keeping overseas companies happy by allowing them to dump their junk in our country……….but we cant sell our stuff their because of the high import tarrifs !!! why do they protect their industries and we dont ???
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August 23rd, 2008 at 6:32 pm
Yep thanks Karl I know Tomas isn’t Dingo! TP {Paul} is from NSW and not as bad as the others. Dingos from QLD……………
quote ““I still believe Ford is destined for success,” Osborne said. “I remain a Ford stockholder and I retain the utmost confidence in the company.”
Yeah right we can see your very supportive mate,resign the day after 350 job cuts,did you resign or were you pushed?
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August 23rd, 2008 at 6:42 pm
They have been impersonating me on this site as well.LOL.
….and I am flattered.LOL.
I agree Wheelnut but not their calling.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 6:55 pm
Yes What the? the “level playing field” that Keating set our course for ain’t that level when everybody else maintains their protectionist regimes.
Perhaps it all comes back to being a big country with a relatively small population that makes it extremely difficult to operate a competitive manufacturing industry.
Or our labour costs although Japan now has higher I believe.
Or the fact that Asian CEOs and Managers work a lot harder than their Western counterparts?
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August 23rd, 2008 at 7:07 pm
Its time for FORD DEARBORN USA to offer severe clout around the world to adopt look of Mazda morphed with kinetic look and concentrate on lighter cars, smaller more fuel efficient motors (with no massive downside with power), cylinders that shut off to save fuel in V6’s, diesels with shebang new technology and forget this one way road to doom of huge KW’S AND HUGE TORQUE! The designs can be done in conjunction with FORD USA, but not dictated by FORD USA! Different markets demand different cars with a vigourously strongly Ford Australia, Ford UK, etc.
It is wrong that Mr Basketball Dude try to claim the Focus for coming downunder to be manufactured…..old news and he just took up slack and ran with batten - most certainly not there at start of that race!
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August 23rd, 2008 at 7:14 pm
I believe Cadbury/Schweppes is sacking a heap of people too. What’s happening to Ford is happening to plenty of other business’ here.
You haven’t gotten your new ute yet Wheelnut? When’s delivery?
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August 23rd, 2008 at 7:15 pm
And whilst at it get rid of marketting as Mr Bean cant do it (as currently he “MUST” be doing it)
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August 23rd, 2008 at 7:43 pm
My local dealer tells me should be within a couple of weeks as the factory is busy filling advanced orders for the new Sportwagon
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August 23rd, 2008 at 7:51 pm
Last month at an international trade ministers conference - all the major countries that were working Towards a level platying field finally drealised that it wasn;t going to work and walked away from the idea/concept..
It only took them 7 f-n years in which time numerous people lost jobs and companies moved off shore etc
Therefore; hopefully our PM.. “The Milky Bar Kid” will grow some balls and stop the planned reduction in tarrifs unless he wants more Australian companies to close which will result in more unemployment…whereby we will become not only the worlds biggest importer but the worlds biggest dumping ground.
Maybe as well as having an Australian in charge of Ford Australia we also need someone in charge of the COuntry who will put Australias interests first too..
Not just some dumb-arse celebrity from Channel 7 - like the one we got now
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August 23rd, 2008 at 8:07 pm
they need an outsider to fill the boots.
NM,
i agree with most of what you say,
but i doubt cylinder deactivation will matter at all.
from what ive seen its a big gimmock.
the honda accord has 3 stages of deactivation, yet the bigger falcon still manages to beat it on fuel economy.
the public is easily swayed by those silly gimmocks.
just ask TP to pull his survey stats out of his file (family fued style), and im sure you would find 99% of people believe a honda accord with deactivation would use something like half the fuel of what a Falcon would.
ford need to pull their finger out and tell people about their product.
why dont they say something like, “even if you took 2 airbags out of the falcon, it is still safer than the competition”
or “even with out cylinder deactivation, the falcon still uses less fuel than the smaller engined rivals”
they just need to pull their finger out and inflict a dose of reality on the buying public
toyota just says “game changing” and every one believes that spin
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August 23rd, 2008 at 8:13 pm
Well Put Wheelnut,how about a rise in import tariffs9in all industres and a cut in incometax that would be good to see,and a good DREAM.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 8:28 pm
Phill
the government would have no problem in implementing an income tax drop if thats what would shut the public up.
the problem is that they would just place a higher tax on something else and add a few extra percent for their trouble to move the source of revenue
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August 23rd, 2008 at 8:28 pm
Phill your suggestion of Higher Tarrifs and lower income taxes isn;t as laughable as it appears.
Because if we had higher tarrifs in all our major industries peoples jobs would be protected therefore more people would be in work with more money to spend.
therefore the government would be collecting more taxes
So much so that the Gummint would be able to reduce the income tax rates without having a real negative impact on the economy or their ability to provide the services that they do - such as Centrelink
Because if tarrifs were reduced and more companies gradually left Australia there would be more people out of work - from not only the Automotive industry but other industries including retail tourism/hospitality finance; construction etc
Which would mean a much greater number of people reliant on centrelink Therefore its budget would need to be substantially increased.. So the government would be forced to either cut back in other areas like defence for example or simply increase income taxes on those still fortunate to have a job
Which would you prefer?
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August 23rd, 2008 at 8:59 pm
Bavarian Missile Says:
“I heard from someone that knows Tomas that he actually is a Ford fan,so why doesn’t he own up to it! Perth is a small place Tomas……..”
Bavarian Missile, Since day one I used to share office with someone that knows you , I have even seen the pics you sent him…. :-) …But Since this is a CarAdvice and not a social networking site, unlike you I have never bothered to mention it….. As for me being a Ford Fan, thats no secret, just take off your Toyota hating sunglasses and read some of the other articles!!
What The ? Says:
“Tomas79…….you really dont understand AT ALL !! Ford build the best car ever to be made here and deserve credit for it. As I said ……..i guess i have to repeat myself for drongo’s like you ……….if petrol was only 30cents a litre cheaper the situation would be reversed…….”
HHHmmm…. So if fuel Prices are to blame, why did the TOP 5 selling SUVs have still managed to increase in sales, since last year, well for one exception that is, the Ford territory?!
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August 23rd, 2008 at 9:22 pm
hahaha did he really so you know I look nothing what Dingo portrays!…………Me hate Toyotas thats what you dont get,I dont hate Toyotas,like most people on this site.We just hate having it rammed down our throats how good Toyota is and how bad you all think Ford and Holden are! Camrys are an exception….they are dead boring sorry!
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August 23rd, 2008 at 9:31 pm
Yea I agree Wheelnut higher tariff on imports will place a higher demand for local produced goods.Its ashame our politicians have to play The World Trade Game,and we(taxpayers) get ripped off at the same time.
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August 23rd, 2008 at 9:49 pm
Bavarian Missile Says:
“hahaha did he really so you know I look nothing what Dingo portrays!…………” Yes, that was one thing i quite didn’t agree with him on… ;-)… But Yes, I’m a closet ford man myself and do really want them to do well, but just really hate the one sided anti-Toyota beat ups on this site, especially since dingo has some valid points!! But I still do hate holdens with a passion!!
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August 24th, 2008 at 1:19 am
This guy did nothing for the company anyway - see ya later!
American managers are useless, and the quicker Australian companies realise this, the better.
The point here is that like it or not, Ford Australia is still an American company, so the chiefs in the US can put whoever they want in the job, and I recon it’ll be another yank.
Now take a company like Telstra, which is actually Australian but managed by yanks - the current management are absolutely useless ! I have some mates who work for Telstra, and the stupid decisions these guys make just never ends. What makes it worse, the decisions they make are all guaranteed to suit their back-pocket, and the corrupt stuff these guys pull-off is absolutely amazing, but its impossible to prove…..
If you dont like yanks, then dont buy Ford or Holden for that matter….
Time for Australian Government to do what it did back in the 40’s with Holden (which was Australian back then..) - put up a large incentive for a locally owned manufacturer to develop, build and sell an all-Australian car.
The 1st rule for the new company should be “No American Managers” - its almost guaranteed to succeed !
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August 24th, 2008 at 7:22 am
Thomas says on August 23rd, 2008 at 8:59 pm……”I have even seen the pics you sent him…(then you put a SMILEY CAPTION in your comments)”
NM RESPONSE………….if you have sighted BM’s pic before, mega odd you put a little smile caption there. Seems bizzaro! Live outside your Toyota bubble. Unlike you, I support any car maker and am not a “one eyed car supporter as yourself”. My philosophy is if one supports one car maker then they are boring bland as………..as not every car is top of heap within that car maker.
Unlike you….I would get a Yaris over all overs in class as Mazda 2 is tacky curvy too much, I would get a Hyundai i30 over all overs in class as light years in front (read ‘The Australian’ newspaper a while back who said that its in front of all Jap cars including Lexus for quality and reliability, I would get a Falcon in front of all others in its class, I would get a Landcruiser in front of all others in its class, I would get a Mazda 6 in front of all others in its class, I would get the Hyundai iLoad light commercial in front of all others, I would get the Santa Fe just ahead of Prado in its class. Iam “NOT” supporting one car maker and go on mega about to defend that one car maker as you, TP and Dingo do. CRIKEY!
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August 24th, 2008 at 2:35 pm
Increase tarifs? Who the f**k are you people kidding, I will pass on more expensive yet inferior vehicles. Bring in the competition thanks.
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August 24th, 2008 at 2:54 pm
That’s not quite the same as you passing on a proven 5* safety car for an INFERIOR 4* car because it has two less airbags standard in the base models I guess.
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August 24th, 2008 at 3:22 pm
Touche on that one, Watto. But wouldn’t it be true that our gradually declining tariffs has given us access to Golfs, Accords, Mazda 6s at prices that are more affordable than ever before? And these are the cars that more Australians seem to be choosing, given free will and competitive choice.
Aussie car makers, as much as I love ‘em, have had plenty of time to see it coming.
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August 24th, 2008 at 3:29 pm
I agree to an extent Golfie. There’s plenty of reasons why Car Advice gave FG the gong for best family sedan though.
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August 24th, 2008 at 3:31 pm
How’s the L/100kms been Golfschwein? Last time you were getting low 5’s I think it was?
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August 24th, 2008 at 4:57 pm
Hyundai in front of Toyota in the latest JD POWERS SURVEY…INTERESTING.
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August 24th, 2008 at 5:09 pm
So many people here who have no idea how the motor industry runs. So many stupid and moronic comments it makes me sick. Dont you people know anything about business and life? Everything works in cycles…..ups and downs, good years bad years……….understand ? Ford are down but will bounce back…………why keep knocking them when they have been building cars here for 80 odd years and have given 100’s of thousands people work over this time……..how about giving them some support instead of kicking them……..the FG Falcon is by far the best car I have owned and Ford deserve support from this country as it has given alot to the Australian economy and people over the years. what happened to supporting our local industries? Not enough Aussies here anymore…….
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August 24th, 2008 at 6:17 pm
Most companies that have been around for more than 30 odd years have managed to survive the ups and downs by not losing focus of their core market.. That is the one particular area in which they are the best at as its quite often their bread and butter products that they are most known for and are the most popular.
Sure Toyota is currently Number oneas they have quite an extensive and diverse range of cars However; when you hear the word Toyota what is the first thing you think of [apart from bland and boring].. most likely it will be Corolla.
The corolla is their bread and butter product yet because Toyota are now working on establishing themselves in other sectors of the market - trying to be everything to everyone. [Not to mention wasting millions in F1] the Corolla is starting to come under threat from other similar sized cars with better features and performance etc - because Toyota has sat on its Laurels.
I’ve seen far more Mazda 3s Focus’Lancers etc on the road than I have new Corollas
So given that both Ford and Holden are working towards gradually improving their bread and butter cars [being the Commodore and the Falcon] by making them lighter more fuel efficient etc they shouldn’t have ttoo much trouble..
I mean I wouldn’t be surprised if the new compact sedan which people refer to as the new Toraa actually ends up being called the Commodore
There will always be those who want a RWD Family Sedan
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August 24th, 2008 at 6:24 pm
WHEELNUT…..ummm not true at all about Focus ahead on sales. The Mazda 3 latest figures were double of the Focus and Mazda 3 behind the Toyota! Focus is struggling as not a gelled sweet look like new Focus. New Corolla’s everywhere and they do look good! Competition will hot up…. hopefully Ford can do something to upgrade there 3rd world look (aside from Falcon).
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August 24th, 2008 at 6:25 pm
I do believe you need to remove your Ford hat - just the same as TP, Dingo and Thomas are with Toyota! The facts are clear on what is selling!
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August 24th, 2008 at 7:18 pm
Sales to Date for Year:
1. Corolla nearly 29,000
2. Mazda 3 over 20,000
3. Focus just 10,000
This is Aussie wide sales…..and you cant judge the figure based on cars you sight at your home! LMAO
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August 24th, 2008 at 7:52 pm
NM - I realise that Toyota are still selling more Corollas
than the competition
However; my point was that because they have become more Focus-sed on other markets - the TRDs for example.
The lead Corolla has in the market has gradually gotten smaller.. as its rivals are offering better looking better equipped cars and more attractive deals etc.
They’re trying hard to dominate every sector of the market; spreading themselve too thinly - thats when problems occur; things quality and reliability starts to suffer.. which is what alot of Toyotas reputation is based on a reputatuion they got thanks to the Corolla
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August 24th, 2008 at 8:01 pm
Watto if your head was so far up your ar*e youd realise the ONLY reason the Falcon has 5 stars and the Commodore and Aurion dont is because Ford had their vehicle pole tested while the others didnt for reasons your well aware of.
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August 24th, 2008 at 8:04 pm
Nutter…..your words “I’ve seen far more Mazda 3s Focus’Lancers etc on the road than I have new Corollas”. Thats what I base my comment to you on. What you talk about with deals is only barely happening and gap not even close. Toyota do spread themselves….yes. But they have reason too as no Celica, no MR2, no Supra. Gee I acknowledge that they are huge and having glitches, but they have not really gone massive or even minor backwards! I do agree others need to sharpen the pencil and compete! Its not good enough that you are a Ford supporter and accept the Ford range being fine….I have said ages ago its pedestrian on looks. Go look at US Ford site…..I would have to be paid well to drive when of those heaps!
Toyota is smart as Ford are opposite. One would think having some input with Mazda as 35% shareholder that there designs would rub off with change swept through Ford empire. Instead gooses at US still regimentally clinging to power clutching at a bygone look religiously determined that they are correct….in mean time they go in reverse in sales race whilst Toyota read the times sharper then Ford!
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August 24th, 2008 at 8:08 pm
TP is correct….but in all fairness Toyota could afford to measely wreck one car to get the rating 5star. Profits would atest to that - but I dare say the mechanics gone into the safety cage cell protection around the actually car are oldish and Toyota have “NOT” faith in it!
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August 24th, 2008 at 8:08 pm
Reasons TP? Too gutless to risk failure?
Where’s that apology mate?
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August 24th, 2008 at 8:11 pm
TP incrasein tariffs does not cause quailty to go down.Mind less people who choose which car to purchase based on corporate advertising alone will.
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August 24th, 2008 at 8:17 pm
Would you still like to retract your statement that…..
“Sales is what the manufacturers build a car for in the first place, who cares if the car is “bettter””.
You’re calling every enthusiast car buyer idiots if they hunt for the best car (ie. family size its the FG in case you’d forgotten) because they want the safest, most fuel efficient, best-towing car rather than the best selling car which brainwashed sheep seem to flock after.
Resorting to insults now too huh?
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August 24th, 2008 at 8:20 pm
TP you have been shown up as blatantly wrong before and any regulars know you ripped of Wheelnut’s name to make out he’d developed a sudden 180-degree dislike for Holden.
Gutless.
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August 24th, 2008 at 8:39 pm
I am not a Ford Supporter I am a car enthusiast as Ihave a range of favourite cars from various manufacturers and can see good and bad points in those cars
The Corolla is a good car but whereas a couple of years ago if/when you were looking for a Hatchback you would probably go for a Corolla without even seriously looking at the others.. now those car companies have lifted their game improved quality; more features etc and are more attractive in terms of value for money.. the competition is alot tougher for the corolla than what it was
Just as Ford and Holden have to make changes to improve the Falcon and Commodore to maintain their lead.. Toyota should do the same with the Corolla as I said its their bread and butter car.. its what their reputation in Australia is built on
I read in wheels magazine when the new “rolla” was released that it has the same engine as the previous model but produces less power how is that an improvement? Yet Lotus get more power out of the same engine
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August 24th, 2008 at 8:49 pm
Because look has been rammed up over second last Corolla to appeal more with major improvement on rear look and front look also same… meanwhile Ford chewing it over and adding extras to its range with same old look. The current Focus does not gell well and is too much at front and does not look like a proper car with top of lights pulled too sharp back on its outside making it look odd. Unlike new car which is significantly better naturally looking!
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August 24th, 2008 at 8:53 pm
Public not obsessed with power and whatnot as you think Nutter. The Corolla motor does not lack that significant as you believe in the kw’s or old technology! If it aint broke, why fix it! Meanwhile Ford tossing up whether to get a diesel in Mondeo and lost sales for how many months as took them ages to react and release? Ford admitted it underestimated the diesel sales effect in the Mondeo! Meanwhile Ford sitting again on updating LPG and diesel in Falcon! Gee whiz talk about S………L………O……..W!
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August 24th, 2008 at 8:55 pm
Agree Wheelnut. For example, I think the Hilux, and also my brother, who for now still owns one, is overated in any guise.
While definitely not garbage, it’s reputation for reliability and especially off-road ability are way overshadowed by it’s unjust reputation.
The Landcruiser, on the other hand, is much more deserving of its fine reputation. So many times have mates had to winch us out of bogs with their cruisers and Patrols. Does that make me biased against Toyota?
The Cruiser and Patrol deserve to stand at the top of the mountain.
In every other way I can’t stand Camry, Aurion, Corolla, Yaris.
Because they are the best sellers despite much MUCH better cars in their respective classes. They don’t deserve the false pedestal based purely on their so-called reliability (I saw an Aurion on the back of an RACV tow truck last week, funny stuff).
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August 24th, 2008 at 9:03 pm
TP
When the Aurion was released it was pole tested.. infact it failed the Pole test.
Yet due to a loop-hole in ANCrAPs guidelines the car companies can supply more than 1 car to do each test
Yes its wrong as it can give a false impression as to the overall results but what do they care; the car companies that pay for the cars and tests not ANCrAp or the Insurance Companies..
So Toyota were able to; and apparently did provide 3 more cars until it passed the Pole Test
Whereas with the VE Commodore which was tested at the same time as the Aurion; Holden supplied 4 cars as they had only just started production and was busy getting demos models out to major dealers as well as creating a stockpile for advanced an immediate orders. All of which passed the first 4 tests
Which is why I say ANCrAP don’t test the safety of a particular model of Car they actually test the safety of a car of that particular model..
So your Falcon Commodore or Aurion may sustain minor damage in an accident; such as hitting a pole.. yet someone elses Falcon Commodore or Aurion may be a complete write off in the exact same situation
Then theres the fact That ANCrAP don’t allow for any variable conditions such as weather road surface or human reactions.
If you place such a high importance on the ANCrAp results when buying a car you are virtually admitting that you are a bad driver; that you don’t have the skill or ability to take any form of evasive action to avoid hitting a pole or going under the back of a truck etc - that you are going to have a serious potentially fatal accident.. if you do think like that you probably will and therefore; shouldn’t really be on the roads
However expect another round of Tests when the VF Commodore and Updated Aurion are released mid-next Year
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August 24th, 2008 at 9:05 pm
Lets just hope Ford get Andrew M as CEO as he would steamroll model change to kinetic look. If it aint got the look…..its crook! AND THATS WHERE FORD AUS ARE NOW! Redefining itself and estimate around 15months to have change with some flow on effect with model changes!
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August 24th, 2008 at 9:14 pm
Watto, TP’s right, I’m afraid.
“…the ONLY reason the Falcon has 5 stars and the Commodore and Aurion dont is because Ford had their vehicle pole tested while the others didnt for reasons your well aware of.”
I watched Hawthorn defeat my favourite team this afternoon, but the Eagles would have won if they kicked more goals.
So there.
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August 24th, 2008 at 9:15 pm
Wheelnut, I would put money on VF doing the pole test and achieving 5*. Only thing I’d worry about is what will they do with that A-pillar. It is a major structural member. Hopefully they can tilt it inboard somewhat like back in the HQ days.
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August 24th, 2008 at 9:16 pm
The public mightn’t be concerned about Power
Yet these days there are a number of smaller engines producing as much if not more power than slightly or much bigger engines for instance a well engineered 4 can make almost the same power as a 6 or even a V8
So I’d like to kjnow where did those extra Kw that they had in the previous model disappear to?
as I said the Corollas rivals have made considerable imrovements in quality and power etc.. yet whilst its still a relatively good car the desicion to buy the current model corolla isnt as obvious as it used to be - the gap is closing.. I personally would go for a Golf
The Corolla is a good car its just that Now with the increased competition it needs to be better to maintain the position as Australias most popular hatchback.
Remember its easier to Chase than it is to lead.
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August 24th, 2008 at 9:16 pm
Yes Golfie….but huge company and can not donate a car to be wrecked. Gee come on…..I aint answering that as too funny. No confidence in its shell by Engineers me thinks!
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August 24th, 2008 at 9:18 pm
REALITY IS….Corolla is second base model with a sporty look. Why have its runabouts 2nd rung up with 150kw’s? Me thinks “NOT”!
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August 24th, 2008 at 9:18 pm
Agree Wheelnuts - 5stars itself is not going to cut it.
Back on the topic, Suprise suprise, thats what happens when you release your bread and butter car on a volatile and downward economic time. Bill cannot be blamed for being put into this position as poor decision makings by the big guys in Fomoco US have been brewing for some time now and couple that with the recent market downturn.
Don’t be suprised if its only affecting Ford or car manufacturers, just look at the other recent resignations, John Stewart NAB/NAG, Trevor O’hoy FOSTERS… all in the span of the recent few months.
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August 24th, 2008 at 9:22 pm
The Corolla is not that behind as you truly hope and wish when some 40% ahead of its nearest rival currently - with its rivals offering deals willy nilly just to try to get more sales it still cant close gap! The new Focus is lands at right price and right model mix with inclusions galore will eat into Corolla’s numbers! BUT THATS A LONG WAY OFF! zzz zzz zzz zzz zzz
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August 24th, 2008 at 9:22 pm
I recently went for a drive in the curreent model Camry [Aurion] and noticed that it’s A pillar is just as thick as the VEs looking at it from the inside - it’s just that the angle is slightly different
The fit and finish of the Hard Plastic interior panels was about the same as in the VE too - whether or not you interpret that as a good thing for Holden or a bad thing for Toyota is up to you
One solution however; would be to make the front windscreen more of a “wraparound” similar to that on the old FB-EK Holdens or the Valiant Chargers.. not a ad idea as the increased arc/curve could improve aerodynamics
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August 24th, 2008 at 9:22 pm
Still with Watto, the Golf’s settled in with a real life 5.8 l/100 kms over 2-1/2 years. The official figure’s 5.5.
And yes, I well recognise that Falcon has claimed all the critical gongs. I had a look at the range recently with my Dad and I’m more in favour of the cars’ interiors now than those on the examples shown at the Perth motor show.
So, if I was doing large Australian, it’d be an FG XR6 or XR6 Turbo.
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August 24th, 2008 at 9:25 pm
Possibly Golfschwein. And as Wheelnut stated Aurion failed the pole test 4 out of 5 times I believe. The pole test only accounts for 2 points.
Falcon - 34.6
Commodore - 27.5
Aurion - 30.0
Even if they passed the pole test, FG (base XT with 4 bags) is still 2.6 points clear of Aurion (6 bags) with 2 less air bags. Buy a more up-spec model, or option the $300 curtains, and they are higher again.
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August 24th, 2008 at 9:25 pm
If you wannabe Ford luvers want to face why Ford having issues…..its Dearborn! They still have major input into other corners of the globe - so much so they plump to throw into Aussie mix Beth Donovan to Ford Aus new vice president of sales and marketting…..suprise suprise she is US origin and hand picked for here! DEARBORN AT WHEEL STILL…..zzz zzz zzz yawn zzzzz zzzzzzz zzz zzzz
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August 24th, 2008 at 9:27 pm
But she has extensive small car experience in a cut throat US market serving up shtye crap old hack Ford FUGLY cars! Just maybe one day they will buckle with tradition!
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August 24th, 2008 at 9:30 pm
Ford Aus would not of even had gaul to advertise vice president of sales and marketting as jobs for the boys (US based). LOL…. in this case a girl (as in jobs for the girls)! Of course Ford Aus CEO wont attack that stance…. he is (was) a YANK too!
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August 24th, 2008 at 9:32 pm
Watto Wake Up!!!
I was joking with you. My football annnalogy (deliberately mis-spelled to fool the auto moderator) was definitely not at your expense.
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August 24th, 2008 at 9:38 pm
FORD - Floating On Rubbish Decisions.
HAHA a US market expert making AUS market decisions. Aussies love V8’s like us Yanks do, so they are the same as us in every aspect… lol.
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August 24th, 2008 at 9:43 pm
Camry\Aurion (same car different name) is based on an old outdated platform and the body is also weak. This is why it failed the pole test, just because it has 50 airbags doesnt mean it is safer………get over it TP……..your Japanese Toyotas are made out of recycled Coke cans and thats why they have no substance or character and are boring and un-exciting to drive and look at…….may as well drive a fridge. TRD CAMRY\Aurion……..what a bloody overpriced under developed try hard performance car joke that car is !!! I will give you one thing TP…….at least you Japanese people are sticking up for your white goods Toyotas.
AURION…….the NAME has changed !!! lol
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August 24th, 2008 at 9:43 pm
Hmmm, it’s been too long since I sat in a VE and Camry/Aurion back to back. I’ve heard (Carpoint?) that the engineers may have tweaked the A-pillar on VF. There was a top article by Joe Kenwright on how to fix the Commodore A-pillar that I’ve been trying to find for 10mins. I’m crap at searching for something I’ve seen before.
Great economy Golfie, that’s mostly city in Perth is it not? Very impressive.
I have filled my AU 6 times this year (weekend car - daily is on gas).
I’ve gotten:-
764.4kms 104892odo 60.52L 7.9L/100kms - Economy driving
558.9kms 105451odo 51.73L 9.3L/100kms - Heavy right foot
710.6kms 106162odo 58.50L 8.2L/100kms - Average to light
636.7kms 106798odo 63.90L 8.6L/100kms - Average to light
583.3kms 107384odo 57.48L 9.9L/100kms - Very heavy foot
663.2kms 108047odo 57.40L 8.7L/100kms - Heavy to Average
I know my new F6 won’t get anywhere near these numbers, but I’ll be happy with 12-14 with the absolute fun factor it will have. I’m still gonna have the old EB on gas, old faithful halving my daily fuel costs ;-)
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August 24th, 2008 at 9:47 pm
Sorry Golfie, must have been too slow on the uptake ;-) I don’t follow footy at all is my excuse LOL.
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August 24th, 2008 at 9:51 pm
hehe…my view on competitive matters is that the result is the result. The winner is the winner. Behind the winner is whatever or whoever came second. There’s no yeahs, buts or if onlys.
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August 24th, 2008 at 9:56 pm
Been there done that with US input Downunder! Nothing changed and not revitalised = change the game plan with appointments and look!
Seriously why would any one bother to buy the Fusion in USA when so FUGLY shtye! Take the Opel Insignia over there and let you lot discover class and style! Thats what a car should look like as if designed correct and utterly jawdropping. If you USA people got over your drink holders, angular look, have to have 11 seats, brash and brawny Dukes of Hazzard look from a bygone day, then you would discover the G8 which has whetted your dry thirsty appetite for a real classic looker!
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August 24th, 2008 at 10:07 pm
Haha Golfy the fence-sitter, nah just kidding. Seriously good economy though.
Not wrong NM, I got a good look on a website of the USA Focus compared to the Euro/Aus Focus. Thank god ours comes from Euro.
The sheer number of accidents caused by people holding their hands over there eyes would have put us into depression.
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August 25th, 2008 at 1:00 pm
Another flawed arguement from TP…
Having a pole test does not mean the Aurion would have had a 5star rating. It would still have finished behind Falcon in the overall result.
I think TP would like a pole test himself…