2008 Ford Falcon Orion Interior and GT Exposed
15 Jun, 2007
1120 Comments 
Click to see the latest on the 2008 Ford Falcon.
Sporting a set of woolen mitts and beanie, our elusive spy photographer braved the frosty conditions to bring you the latest pictures that the blue oval don’t want anyone to see.
First up, Ford has been extensively testing the use of ’space-saver’ tyres. The following photo shows a space-saver tyre fitted to a vehicle. Our spy photographer tells us that the vehicle seen in the picture - along with crash-helmet clad driver - were performing continuous evasive and high-speed swerving maneuvers, most probably testing the strength and capacity of the space-saver tyre. This suggests that Ford is likely to follow in Holden’s footsteps and also offer this tyre on the new Falcon.
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Second on the agenda is the FPV range of vehicles. Spotted below is either the GT or GT-P. One thing’s for certain, the bulge is here to stay. The cover on the right hand side of the lights is labeled with “remove for night driving,” possibly indicating a Xenon headlight treatment to the upper models in the range. Also written on the front and rear wheel arches is “160mm,” possibly indicating a protrusion of 16cm for the wheel arches.
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Our spy photographer said that the vehicle photographed had an extremely meaty and mean note. It was also running a quick-shifting automatic gearbox, indicating that the ZF will remain on the cards.
Also noted was that the GT featured cross-drilled and slotted Brembo brakes, possibly opening the doors to a higher-capacity braking system.
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Next on the agenda is Ford’s XR8. Sources confirm that the XR8 nameplate will stay and the following photos also confirm that the bonnet bulge will stay.
According to sources, the Fairmont, XR6, XR8, Futura names will remain in the Orion lineup.
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The spy photographer then managed to spot a Futura model doing the rounds near one of Ford’s facilities in Victoria. The images show that Ford’s new Orion will probably carry over the same rear suspension setup as the BF Falcon.
Although a large portion of the interior was covered up, the photos indicate the Futura model spotted will receive woodgrain highlights on the doors. Also evident is a new handle for the door release, along with revised switchgear for the window operation.
A remodeled steering wheel is also on the cards as per the images, along with a new gear selector. A triangular shaped repeated on the side will replace the oval shaped repeater used on the BF. It’s still unclear if Ford will use repeaters on the wing mirrors. Every model spotted so far has had its wing mirrors covered up and the GT or GT-P photographer earlier in this post also has a small portion taped up.
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Padding is visible in the bottom right of the next photo, indicating that the bumper bar is a somewhat fake layout.
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Indicator repeater
The development of the new Falcon seems well in advance. It won’t be long before more and more vehicles are seen on the streets.
Remember, if you have any spy photos of Ford’s new Falcon - or any other vehicle for that matter - contact CarAdvice, if the photos are decent, we’re willing to pay cash (more than the major magazines). High-resolution copies of the images attached are available. Please contact CarAdvice to request copies.
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June 15th, 2007 at 4:59 pm
Guys, these are great spy shots, congrats to the phptographer, I hope they’re planning more!!!
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June 15th, 2007 at 5:22 pm
look closely at the front, the headlight thru the disguse.
BF headlights with the ugly kick down bit, are obviously very similar to this…
yuck!
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June 15th, 2007 at 5:22 pm
Yep, congrats to our photographer. He is a genius! These are the best shots yet!
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June 15th, 2007 at 5:33 pm
Finally some edge-of-seat photos! They are the best yet! The GT is definitely a GT, look at the grille! The front of the car is extremely visible in the GT pics! Bring on the 320kw V8!
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June 15th, 2007 at 5:57 pm
Well done!!! Being a female first thing I noticed was the bulge still in the bonnet! Not sure about the interior ,too early for us to know. Remember when the BA GT came out at the motor shows,windows were blacked out as there was no GT interiors fitted still at that stage! The GT version must be on it around the corner as look how low its sitting over the tyres! Also it has a tow bar !! Yippy lets hope they have put a cut out in the bumper for it this time.
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June 15th, 2007 at 5:59 pm
WHACK!!………… There goes the ugly stick again!
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June 15th, 2007 at 6:55 pm
Great shots as usual. Strange that the GT/GTP mule doesn’t have a spoiler. I wonder if this is just to keep the spoiler design under wraps or that they just aren’t coming with one.
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June 15th, 2007 at 7:09 pm
I would imagine if they put the pram handle on the back it would be a give away,BUT one would think its part of the handling package so how are they testing it with out it?
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June 15th, 2007 at 7:11 pm
it could be the force 8
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June 15th, 2007 at 7:22 pm
Will they keep the Force 8 ? I thought it was a way of ditching BF GT parts?
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June 15th, 2007 at 7:50 pm
The spoiler would be used in the wind tunnel. They should be keeping Force 8. Wait and see. Oh Holden watch out.
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June 15th, 2007 at 8:04 pm
just hope that they make the gt’s and the other fpv cars lighter
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June 15th, 2007 at 8:39 pm
Great. Looks better everytime I look at it. I still don’t know about the back though.
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June 15th, 2007 at 9:28 pm
i gotta say im a fan of the bootlip over the full spoiler, give it a little more subtlety.
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June 15th, 2007 at 9:51 pm
I think the wing will still be there ,but later!
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June 16th, 2007 at 12:02 am
im sure it will, still prefer the lip though
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June 16th, 2007 at 12:58 am
So much for all the dribble of the orion being a ‘fresh ‘ design compared with VE, looks like a reconstituted AU once again…ugly stickX2
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June 16th, 2007 at 2:51 am
What do ya mean “so much for all the dribble of the orion bring a ‘fresh’ design compared to the VE”, it is a fresh design. If you mean its not totally different as in with Gull wing doors and hatchback styling, then what do you expect from a 4 door sedan.
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June 16th, 2007 at 3:01 am
That space saver tyre, maybe thats for the LPG falcons. I’m not sure correct me if i’m wrong some, lpg falcons have space savers as standard and some dealers put full sizers in their place? Funny they use a BFmkII which hints that they are afraid the tyre might pop and send the car crashing, meaning ford dont trust that tyre to be driving a expensive test car. Hmmm. Thats promising. Or the BF Falcon wagon weighs more so they test the heavier car on that tyre, which might suggest the new falcon is lighter?
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June 16th, 2007 at 6:01 am
Why oh why the LOOONNG front overhang that makes the car look like a front driver? What is up with that? Short front overhangs are in, but someone forgot to tell Ford.
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June 16th, 2007 at 8:27 am
In no particular order can I suggest,
a. it’s not a particular long front overhang when you have to package an INLINE 6 cylinder which a definite strength, rather than a V6. Besides the detail visible in the GT (?) photos show some nice design in the front headlights which are reminiscent of the Mondeo lights … I like it.
b. Everyone gets emotional on space saver tyres and I would prefer a full size spare myself, but making them available as an option for customers who dont worry about such stuff gives plenty of advantages in packaging and luggage space. I’d bet that Ford wont make it standard … just as an option. Currently, the only standard space saver in BF Falcon is on LPG Sedans, but a full size spare is available as a factory build option.
c. the reason I’d suggest that the GT doesn’t have a spoiler is that they would likely put camouflage over it and it would be impossible to see rearward.
c. Looking at the pictures I’m really liking what I’m seeing on the front styling of the car on the GT car. When you compare the firewall forward on the Orion to the BF Wagon … the front box looks far more muscular and dare I say it, has a bit of VT Commodore curve in it without the flared guards. The headlights are a strong feature and very contemporary. I think they will give the car a very powerful presence looking front on.
e. with the camo over the roofline its hard to know for sure whether they have fixed the problems getting into the vehicle (bumping heads) but the roofline looks a lot squarer which gives hope.
f. One thing I do hope that Ford addresses is the passive and active safety package. Stability control standard to complement ABS, EBD and traction control already there. Dual front and side curtain airbags as a minimum standard on ALL models with side (seat fitted) airbags also preferred. No more of this nonsense from Ford (and GM) about the lower models having to pay extra for side, curtain airbags or DSC … it’s ridiculous and ignoring the competitors (including medium size cars) who are making them all standard.
g. If they can get an obvious uplift in build and fitment quality (particularly the interior) then they will be on a good thing!
Its all very exciting though … can’t wait for the car to arrive. The Commode had to spend a billion bucks to catch up in so many areas to Falcon (IRS, driving dynamics, steering). 10% to 20% improvement in certain areas and it will continue to exceed the Commode for driving experience (other than high power V8) … I dont reckon will waste money chasing something they cant beat … better to stick with their comparitive advantage in the 6 cylinder engines and blow the SS models away by turbo power …
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June 16th, 2007 at 9:39 am
well is that some kind of air induction at the front of the bonnet bulge on the gt model?? i hope so. maybe even an intercooler?? we all know what that means
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June 16th, 2007 at 5:23 pm
LOL at you people and the ugly stick. Get over yourselves and remove your colective penises from your Holdens exhaust pipe…
The car hasn’t even been released and you are out in force. Lets just wait and see whether the VE will still be as good once Orion is out.
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June 16th, 2007 at 11:16 pm
I have to agree with you Axe.
90% of the front and rear is a good decoy, the car is still 10 months away from release.
Look at the defined vertical crease under the cover on the rear end of the 6th photo for instance.
The Ford Falcon is unfairly criticised more than any other manufacturer in the market, and why, it is an Aussie icon and deserves it’s place without the predictable scepticism.
I for one will be trading my BA in on an Orion, the smooth ride and that beautiful Aussie six alone should sell it, not the superficial rapping.
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June 16th, 2007 at 11:25 pm
GO the xr8 i wonder what mags they designed this time as these mags i see look like the xr5 maybe have biger ones for xr in that same concept.
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June 17th, 2007 at 10:53 am
Blue Blood…
Well said! exactly what i was thinking…the reality is the BA falocn was a better car than the VY. having said that, the VE is not a major leap above the BF11, so Ford is in a very good position to become class leader with orion. i also think the car is looking quite attractive..i bet orion will look more unique than the VE which is very plain in many styling aspects…even the short front overhang looks weird on some angles in the omega and berlina spec models.
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June 17th, 2007 at 5:33 pm
Barney Rubble said
June 16 2007 @ 12:58 am
So much for all the dribble of the orion being a ‘fresh ‘ design compared with VE, looks like a reconstituted AU once again…ugly stickX2
[/quote]
haha, the VE front looks a pug nosed BA falcon! and
the ugly stick is waiting above the VE…
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June 17th, 2007 at 6:55 pm
New ford will be good i seen the u.s. pic its been confirmed. ha lick my stick now holden.
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June 17th, 2007 at 6:56 pm
Talk about drible…
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June 17th, 2007 at 7:14 pm
rumors are they want it released by the end of the year.
I hope they have it right by then!!
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June 17th, 2007 at 7:32 pm
i really like the gt modle but im thinking its the force 8 because it doesnt make sence why they would leave the spoiler out. plus these are the best pics ive seen so far
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June 17th, 2007 at 8:12 pm
its a gt u can see it in the forth picture on the grill.
Plus the bonnet buldge looks bigger
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June 17th, 2007 at 8:31 pm
then wers the spoiler BOB
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June 17th, 2007 at 8:48 pm
in the boot, it fell off
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June 17th, 2007 at 10:12 pm
yea thats what i thought but i wasn’t shore lol
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June 18th, 2007 at 9:21 am
Holden fans are wankers……….It has taken Holden 60 years to finally design a car !!!!!! and let me say the VE is a nice car but NOT worth a billion bucks, it really shows that all previous Commodores where a piece of crap to spend that much money and get a car that is maybe a bit better than a five year old Falcon is a laugh !!! I hope the new falcon is a success……….
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June 18th, 2007 at 10:06 am
Holden is already losing big bucks on there billion dollar baby
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June 18th, 2007 at 10:35 am
How about both Ford and Holden are shyte. TOYOTA Aurion most powerful family 6, most fuel efficient, best looking, best value for money, best safety rating, sold internationally.
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June 18th, 2007 at 12:46 pm
paul i think that would change when the new falcon comes out again…. it always have the best 6 on the market, most power, most torque!!!
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June 18th, 2007 at 1:11 pm
Hey Paul,
your right!! I don’t know why I haven’t see it before. A Toyota Aurion that’s it!!
But hold on…
Where’s the performance version?
even the TRD whatever has been watered down because anything FWD with over 200kw suffers torque steer.
Most powerful family six?
not in torque figues or in suspension and brakes - ever see an Aurion towing anything bigger than a box trailer.
Most fuel efficient?
Well it is a smaller car. And don’t let anyone tell you differently.
Best Looking?
Looks are subjective but side on it looks awfully like a Camry. I wonder why.
But if you like driving something with as much street cred of a fridge so be it.
Best value for money?
up to $50 grand for a rebadged Camry. I don’t think so.
You got me on the safety rating and international sales but I think the Orion will change that.
At the end of the day Paul if you want an over priced Camry, by all means get one, it’s your choice.
However if you want an Australian car designed by Australians for Australia, with the history, legend and sub culture that comes with the brand I suppose the Ford Falcon and Holden Commodore will have to do for us laymen.
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June 18th, 2007 at 1:52 pm
QUOTE = Where’s the performance version?
even the TRD whatever has been watered down because anything FWD with over 200kw suffers torque steer.
Well I heard torque steer torque steer torque steer about the Aurion with 200kw on front wheels… Im sure they will work something out to get that power down effectively just like that with the Aurion! And watered down? They dont want ridiculous hype, but latest news is it will be 240kw and 400Nm… thats only slightly off the XR6T which is half a litre more in displacement, with the trump car for the TRD Aurion being that it weighs a good 150kg+ less with the same power!
QUOTE = Most powerful family six?
not in torque figues or in suspension and brakes - ever see an Aurion towing anything bigger than a box trailer.
Ive towed 700kg+ boats with a V6 Camry in the past… sure Falcon and Co are better options with higher low down torque, but the Aurion still has reasonable levels of torque… remember it is lighter as well. Brakes… I dont know where that came from, they all have similar braking power. Suspension its agued isnt the best on the Aurion, but it still handles just as well as the competition!
QUOTE = Most fuel efficient?
Well it is a smaller car. And don’t let anyone tell you differently.
Smaller yet feels still quite large inside…. class leading fuel efficiency, 9.9L per 100km, worth losing 2cm of cabin space!
QUOTE = Best Looking?
Looks are subjective but side on it looks awfully like a Camry. I wonder why.
But if you like driving something with as much street cred of a fridge so be it.
Looks are subjective but the VE is dog ugly and the current Falcon is outdated (awaiting new Falcon). Side on? Not really, it could do with some bigger and more stylish rims, the stock ones dont do it any justice.
QUOTE = Best value for money?
up to $50 grand for a rebadged Camry. I don’t think so.
Up to lol nice to point that out… how about $35k for like 6 air bags, BA, EBD, ESP, Air conditioning (wouldnt ususally mention this but Omega doesnt have it!), 200kw engine, 9.9L per 100km fuel efficency, $100 or so service for the first year or two (cant quite remember), class leading reliablity… and about a dozen other features I cant remember. Base model wise the Aurion IS the best value for money, dont deny that! As you go up the range, the gap shortens between the compeition, for example the SV6 is starting to be comparable to the SX6… but still Toyota offers other features the others dont; quality, reliability etc.
QUOTE = At the end of the day Paul if you want an over priced Camry, by all means get one, it’s your choice.
Ive just highlighted that this ‘overpriced camry’ makes your VE and Falcon look like highway robbery! It shares the central frame with the camry (which isnt a bad thing, cheaper parts duh), the rest including the interior of that central part is unique. And guess what… an Aussie helped design the whole thing! What is overpriced is asking $35k for the VE Omega… no A/C, a pre-historic 4 speed transmission, the least powerful engine at 180kw, 2 airbags (correct me if Im wrong)…etc
QUOTE = However if you want an Australian car designed by Australians for Australia, with the history, legend and sub culture that comes with the brand I suppose the Ford Falcon and Holden Commodore will have to do for us laymen.
As said, an Aussie helped designed the Aurion… the history I get is bad on the Commodore and not great on the Falcon. The VE is that well built for Aussie conditions it doesnt come with Air Conditioning!
Dont get me wrong, Im eagerly awaiting the new Falcon… I use to be a Ford fan and out of the two ‘locals’ (if you could call GM and Ford locals)… its the better option for mine, even the current Falcon I rate over the VE!
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June 18th, 2007 at 2:05 pm
Toyota Aurion, hahahhahaha
Pretty good if you driving white goods.
Most pwerful 6 in it’s class YES
Shame it’s good 5/8 of fuck all of torque and you have to rev the crap out of it to get it moving at any rate.
It is well equiped though.
Aurion was voted last out the Commy, Falcon, Magna and Aurion in a recent test by a car magazine.
Look out billion dollar flop the Falcon is coming
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June 18th, 2007 at 2:26 pm
Paul- TRD is not going up against the XR6 turbo… why you ask??? its because it not a base car,,,a standard model its a specail like a GT, GTS…or who i think as a special car that is a 6… the typhoon the only car in its class in australia, a specialised 6 cylinder proformace vehicle… so lets get real…. 240Kw supercharged aurion VS the 270kw turbo charge typhoon…who will win…lol!!! and when you think about it the XR6 turbo in say a year will be a bout 260-270kw when the aurion comes out!!! lol!! and the Typhoon will be packing a punch with about 300Kw.. so bring it on TRD aurion!! lol that fingure of 240kw will look so little and crapy with a year!!! lol!!
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June 18th, 2007 at 2:32 pm
Sorry i meant the new orion XR6 Turbo will have about 260-270Kw… so i think it will be close between the TRD aurion and the XR6 turbo till the new falco comes out and bye bye to the TRD
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June 18th, 2007 at 2:44 pm
QUOTE = Sorry i meant the new orion XR6 Turbo will have about 260-270Kw… so i think it will be close between the TRD aurion and the XR6 turbo till the new falco comes out and bye bye to the TRD
We will have to wait an see… but eitherway its my understanding that the TRD Aurion isnt all about hair raising speed, its being placed against the Liberty GT etc… combination of performance, driveability and luxury.
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June 18th, 2007 at 2:45 pm
Ha! so true about the Toyota John Holmes. I have had a drive of V6 Camrys in the past and you do have to rev the crap out of them to get a decent amount of power. Whats the point of better fuel economy when you cant get yourself out of trouble when need be. Toyota’s will always have the boringness factor. I have owned Falcons, Fairmonts in the past and since went to a Mazda which I am about to get rid of because nothing gives you the power and ride of a locally built Ford. Glad that Ford is finally taking the fight to Holden, and I am sure that you have every driver with half a brain in Australia behind you!
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June 18th, 2007 at 2:49 pm
^
Depends which V6 Camry you have owned. I have owned a number, different engine have different characteristics, V6 Camrys with the 3VZ-FE engine have 90% torque at 2000RPM while the 1MZFE (the more recent engine) needs to be revved harder. But this is a completely new engine, its 3.5L as opposed to 3L, it has nearly 50kw more then outgoing V6 Camry, same story with torque. Read the reviews and take the Aurion for a spin… you can rest assure to get peak performance you will have to rev it, but under normal driving it has no issues and returns great fuel efficiency.
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June 18th, 2007 at 2:50 pm
Paul,
There is no doubt the Aurion is a stong package and the falcon is long overdue for a face lift.
I to have owned a Toyota and it , as all makes had it’s strengths and weakness but when I wanted a bigger car the Camry fell short.
I live in the NT and tow a 1500kg ski boat 120km to a dam with five people on board at 130kph very, very comfortably in my BA Falcon.
My BA is not “Shyte” it’s never broken down in 4 years the engine is still strong and quiet, the 4 speed is still smooth and refined and with the sports pac body kit, suspension and 17in alloys it is still a handsome car.
It’ll be hard to part with when the time comes (yes it will be an Orion).
It is a shame though and a reality that most parts on an Aussie car are imported. I fear even the beloved ford inline 6 days are numbers with rumors that Fords new V6 will replace it eventually. But I just feel I’ve done the right thing supporting the Australian car industry when buying one, as arguably one does when buying a Camry or Omega.
And that, in the end can be what it comes down to for alot of people, not extras or styling or power but how a car makes you feel when you get in it and drive.
It’s refreshing to have an arguement on a Blog Paul without getting too personal - well done!!
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June 18th, 2007 at 3:08 pm
I’ve gotta say, the Falcon GT is looking HOT! Thats what I’m talking about! It’s aggressive, styling looks fantastic, the bulge is back! I think the bulge has become an ‘item’ now with the Falcon V8s (XR8 & FPV’s), sort of the same like the shaker was to the XY GT because the reason for the bulge was to fit the V8s in. Since Fairlane, LTD is no more, I think FPV will be able to splurge on the Force 8 some more, getting back to the luxury/sports market hopefuly. Keep up the good work and good on ya caradvice.com, more recognition should be given to these jokers on their site!! SP
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June 18th, 2007 at 5:44 pm
I really like the force 8 it’s sporty and luxury does anyone no if ford will get rid of it in the orion modle?
I really hope they dont
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June 18th, 2007 at 5:50 pm
paul i still cant figure you out,
you go on about saving fuel then you hit out in wanting great power. want to save fuel buy the gas model falcon, yes ford are still the only one to offer a decent “green” option that actually has power. and anyway the falcon economy isnt too far behind the aurion anyway and i think the new falcon should at least match it.
i have had the power/torque debate with you before so could you please stop calling the aurion the most powerfull.
also ford also runs what is possibly the best 6sp in the world so dont get too excited about your toyotas gearbox being the “ducks nuts”
and all of this aside dont forget the falcon is essencially 5 years old and come the release of the new one and all of toyotas hard work in trying to come out of the shaddows might be undone
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June 18th, 2007 at 7:01 pm
QUOTE = you go on about saving fuel then you hit out in wanting great power. want to save fuel buy the gas model falcon, yes ford are still the only one to offer a decent “green” option that actually has power. and anyway the falcon economy isnt too far behind the aurion anyway and i think the new falcon should at least match it.
Ok I cant figure you out! The aim of an efficient engine is to get max power with minimal fuel.. so your first sentence here amuses me. As for the gas model, well I dont know about the Falcon but I worked out with the gas Omega that it would take some 5 years to recoup the extra cost of a gas powered cared (I think it was $4k+ more for the gas Omega). So its not worth it especially when you lose power with gas.
QUOTE = i have had the power/torque debate with you before so could you please stop calling the aurion the most powerfull.
Lol its a fact is it not? ITS THE MOST POWERFUL. Im not saying it has the most torque.. it has 200kw of POWER, the Falcon has 190kw of POWER and the Commodore at its peak has 195 kw of POWER. And Ive fowarded my arguments in relation to torque, the Aurion certainly isnt lacking in this department which is evidenced by taking it for a drive or if your lazy reading the many non-biased reviews (ie anything but Wheels or other mags associated with Holden).
QUOTE = also ford also runs what is possibly the best 6sp in the world so dont get too excited about your toyotas gearbox being the “ducks nuts”
Yes I am aware, its one of its strong points… a reason why I previously said I like the Falcons!!! But the Aurion trans is also very good… you cant have a poke at the Aurion in that respect, only the VE Commodore which offers a 4 speed. Sad part about that is they have the tranny for it, the SV6 has a I think a 5 speed… they are just screwing over the Aussie public or more so fleets who dont care about pay $35k for that crap.
QUOTE = and all of this aside dont forget the falcon is essencially 5 years old and come the release of the new one and all of toyotas hard work in trying to come out of the shaddows might be undone
I have acknowledged that as well! The way I see it, and Im not being biased here, CURRENTLY the Aurion is the market leader (not in sales Im talking for what they offer)… the Falcon is second, then the VE and last is the 380 (if we were talking base models only… the 380 would be ahead of the VE)… I believe this is the order even what the Large Car awards had them in. Once the Falcon comes out things will no doubt change and they will take the lead, they have had time to benchmark against the competition afterall and they offer a larger range of vehcles then Toyota.
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June 18th, 2007 at 10:07 pm
Funny how Ford are copying Holden in a number of ways, in particular with the flaired guards. In regarding Holdens 4 speed auto, that is going very soon if you properly read all car news reports instead of only those with a car you like. Um and you think the VE will always run at a loss. The 1 billion spent on designing the VE will be covered by a years supply of Commodore’s being exported to the U.S.A not even including the other current and future export markets. The VE rules as sales figures have proven for over 10 years straight and you must think all those people and also the fleets would pick a vehicle if it was substandard. The Foulcan won’t change that. Remember AU(awfully ugly, BA (Bloody awful) and BF (Bloody F%$ked) Compared to VE (very, exciting, very enticing, very excellent ) or many others.
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June 18th, 2007 at 10:18 pm
Oh and I forgot to mention the cylinder displacement on demand is coming inside 12 months as well as turbo diesel V6. You will find even more improvements in the VE series 2 due out close to orion foulcans release. Whatever Ford will throw you can guarantee the Commodore will trump it and the auriyawn. Check mate.
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June 18th, 2007 at 10:19 pm
In reply to John.
Mate…Holden didn’t invent flared wheel arches!
If anything, they copied them off BMW in a try-hard attempt to make the Omega look like an M3!
I love the clever antonyms…how cute.
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June 18th, 2007 at 10:21 pm
does anyone know what this model falcon will be called? i remeber all the mags labelling the BA the ‘AV’ falcon before it came out, anyone got any idea
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June 18th, 2007 at 10:33 pm
Yeah flared arches… and ummm the Falcon ones looks reasonable, the Holden ones are a disgrace.
Now for the rest…
QUOTE = In regarding Holdens 4 speed auto, that is going very soon if you properly read all car news reports instead of only those with a car you like
I have read around… havent heard anything. And if they do, it doesnt change anything… Holden have been screwing people over trying to earn every cent they can on a budget with a 4 speed tranny when they have a 5 speed, with a 180kw engine when they have a 195kw engine, when they have air conditioning but they make it an option, when they have stability control but dont make it standard, when they have 6 airbags but dont make it standard… list goes on. Why didnt they have all these in the first place? Because they were taking the Aussie public for a ride while the Japs give it from the start! Gotta ask yourself… whos side are they really on!?
QUOTE = The VE rules as sales figures have proven for over 10 years straight and you must think all those people and also the fleets would pick a vehicle if it was substandard
No fleets mean everything. The reason why their private sales are so low, even when considering people do wait for the fleet cars to buy as they are cheaper…. has alot to do with your prviate buyers actually having to put their hands down their OWN wallets and use money they worked hard to EARN. Given this, you look for the best car without caring if its image is ‘Australian’ or not. Thats why Toyota and Co get alot of private purchases while those private buyers who want Falcons etc wait till they are cheaper because given their lack of value for money it wouldnt be wise for them to buy new! And on fleets, they often give employees only two choices… Falcon or Commodore. That has a major effect as to why these two models have around 80% fleet sales. They often dont offer Toyotas etc because they want an ‘Aussie’ image…. yet for example the Aurion is by far better then the disgraceful Omega, which as a result isnt shown when it comes to sales (although combined Camry and Aurion sales are doing very well).
QUOTE = Whatever Ford will throw you can guarantee the Commodore will trump it and the auriyawn. Check mate.
Omega : 0-100km/h in 9seconds
—————————–
Aurion : 0-100km/h in 7.4seconds
‘Check Mate’… not to mention Ive owned V6 Camrys from last century that were quicker then this new Omega. POS.
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June 18th, 2007 at 10:49 pm
This driving machine looks like the new Ford Mondo!
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June 18th, 2007 at 10:59 pm
At least the new Falcon will come with standard air-conditioning…unlike the Commodore Omega! What a bloody joke.
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June 18th, 2007 at 11:07 pm
Must agree that VE wheelarches are terrible, huge. Look like they were designed by grade 4s… “Aw, Sick! They’re so big mate!” The Orions seem much, much more subtle thank God.
On topic,
thanks for more great pics. Orion Falcon is will be on my buying list. The Ford inline six is already a wonderful motor to drive on country roads, and smooth on city visits. Economical, too! (8L/100km country)
I have driven the new Toyota Camry and other Tojos quite extensively, and Paul is right to suggest they are good. However, for me the Ford is hard to top for where and how I like to drive… can’t explain it, every Ford we have owned has been loved, and every Falcon I have sold I have missed. No other brand, except my old LandCruiser, has imbued such loyalty.
See you at the dealer’s in late 07/early 08!
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June 19th, 2007 at 12:42 am
Il stick with the xr8 toyota are a quick perkly lil car very popular o.s.
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June 19th, 2007 at 12:43 am
But the have some quick perky fords too like a mini ba lookin thing rs edition.
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June 19th, 2007 at 12:46 am
Forget about it…
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June 19th, 2007 at 2:33 am
i dont wanna start a riot here but i dunno something just doesnt sit right with the aurion being in the same class as falcon and commodore. it may be my overpowering sence of australian pride and my distaste to anything from toyota, or maybe its the fact its FWD. i dont know ive never like toyota, i never plan to own one, and althought im sure im gonna cop a beating for it i dont have any eveidence to suggest why, its just a gut feeling.
HOWEVER… everyone has their own opinion and labelling a car something that is either wrong or distasteful i feel is rather stupid. if you have a gut feeing follow it… even if it is for toyota.
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June 19th, 2007 at 2:58 am
It’s seems they’re doomed if they do and they’re doomed if they don’t.
Before every release car enthusiasts say they want to see ‘revolutionary’, ‘cutting edge’, or’fresh’ design from the latest Comm or Falc and then if either company comes up with anything bar a A6/5series/E-class(usually the 5year old or mid cycle car from these brands) mash up they start screaming ‘ugly stick’.
BA looked like a six year old Audi and VE is derivative of BA. Australian designed cars are never going to be either ‘revolutionary’ or ‘cutting edge’ as Ford and Holden seem to believe (rightly or wrongly) that the Australian consumer wants vanilla and conservative with perhaps a few go fast bits tacked on for the sports models.
Anyone who looks at Falcons or Commodores and can’t see how comprehensively derivative they are of truly ground breaking design houses like those of BMW and Merc has their head in the sand and is probably the kind of person who wears the Australian flag to sporting events (even those where Australian’s aren’t competing).
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June 19th, 2007 at 3:15 am
Let me clarify what I meant by VE being derivative of BA I only mean this in hte sense that VE resembles BA not that VE studied BA and took styling cues from it.
I needed to vent a little. The new Falcon looks good, but none the less somewhat derivative, this is always going to be the case and is not necessarily a fault all the major brands look to other designers for inspiration and direction and look at ‘trends’. This studying of trends is vital. I think that the front lights are reminiscent of the Honda Accord Euro(no bad thing). The rear lights which can be seen in other photos more clearly(not the ones avalable here) look fairly original with a dip mirring the one found in hte headlights. This is bound to be met with cries of ‘ugly stick’ as it is seemingly original.
I’d like to see Falcon’s and Commodores take some huge risks with design of course huge risks rarely pay off but they can eg Chrysler 300C.
One problem that plagues falcon’s of the past in particular is that they lack a ‘face’ that evolves. The progressive change from VN to VP to VR VT etc shows an evolving face whereas falcon seems to be constantly searching for a ‘look’. The aesthetic transition from XF to EA was fairly smooth but ED to EF was more of a jump and then EL to AU, what a shock. Companies need to telegraph design cues to the consumer so they do not come as a shock.
BF to Orion looks set for a fairly smooth transition and maybe Falcon has found a face they can call their own again (like they did in the XY to XA change over of the 70s).
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June 19th, 2007 at 6:49 am
so where is the new orion?
Their pics of the ba/bf
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June 19th, 2007 at 5:02 pm
Julian,
in a way you are spot on. the designers are too scared to make any radical changes to their cars appearences. ford tried it (with the AU) and nearly got shot by the public. it was cause of the shock factor you talked about because people did not immediately recognise/relate to it. thats why the AU11 had new panels to try square it up a bit. but on the other hand it could be said as the series that the XR6 took off a fair bit. people didnt mind that cause they wanted something that was a bit more distinguished from the base falcon.
I dont know how anyone can make decisions on looks at this point either. there are a few things you can make assumptions on but thats it. yes im predicting a more recognisable transition this time. for one i think they were just testing headlight changes with the BF11 to gradually work in the “slant” that this new one seems to have
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June 19th, 2007 at 7:33 pm
Aston, ford suck, troy JUST TO MENTION A FEW OF THE JELOUS PEOPLE WASTING THERE TIME LYING, YOU GUYS ARE EITHER BI-EST OR JELOUS THAT YOU SUPPORT THE OTHER CODE’S WHO CANT COMPETE IN LOOKS WITH THE FALCON, WORST CASE SCENARIO EVEN IF IT LOOKED LIKE BA, THE BA WAS A SEXY CAR ANYWAY
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June 19th, 2007 at 7:52 pm
the xy to xa was the the biggest change ford did..
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June 19th, 2007 at 7:56 pm
Where the hell do all the Holden rejects get off saying that the VE is an original model!? Sorry guys but looking at the VE it kinda looks a lot like a BA Falcon! I’m sure that Holden had the original design planted away in their “brains” somewhere…
Holden are a weak excuse of a car! They aren’t even Australian any more! At least Ford Australia are capable of making their own engines and don’t have to import them in from the USA like Holden do.
Even if the Orion is a failure (i doubt) then it doesn’t really matter because Ford have a 6 cyl car that can kick every single V8, V6, and 4cyl that Holden GM have ever created! So stick that right up your dodgey looking Holden SV6 Commodore Tailpipe…
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June 19th, 2007 at 8:35 pm
Judging by the photos… the Falcon (or at least the lower models) still doesnt have LED rear brake lights and I doubt it will have projector headlamps. Finer details still something to be desired.
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June 19th, 2007 at 8:47 pm
Forget about it.
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June 19th, 2007 at 9:31 pm
Holden and it’s supporters are one-eyed 20th century bogans and thats a fact, have you seen the people that drive new and used Holdens? they bloody wear ugg boots to the shops, what derelict bogans, get some style and substance…
Orion is literally going to $hit all over the Holden’s billion dollar bungle. Whoever said the VE looked ‘european’ - you have to be joking, to my best knowledge all the latest euros have curves! not f**king obese wheel arches and rectangular parts everywhere…
VE? typical fat American lard (why do you think GM want them so much?)
Orion? car for modern Australia.
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June 19th, 2007 at 9:37 pm
So far i love what i c the ve commodore looks like a space ship the front is 2 high and chunky the new falcon looks like it has a sleek design ITS HOT
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June 19th, 2007 at 9:52 pm
Damn straight! Holden have tried to combine a 2003 Falcon with a TS Astra, not a good mix.
And Paul, pull your finger out of your arse.
Ford have had projector headlamps since 1993! Just look at the XR6 or XR8 in the ED, EF, EL, AU 1-3 series! Last time I checked, they have projector head lamps… And who really cares about LED Tail lights! Whoa! Don’t wanna miss out on them!
And another thing, Toyota have ever only made one good model car, and that would be the Supra.
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June 19th, 2007 at 9:52 pm
Its hot forget about it.
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June 19th, 2007 at 10:01 pm
i like the new ve holden and i like fords but i havent seen the ford orion so i cant really campare it to the holden. Those picturs look like the bf the only difrence i see is the door handles and the front bumper the rest looks like the bf not that thats bad i love the bf falcon its very nice i love the gt and the xr modles there really hot. looking forwed to seeing the orion uncuverd.
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June 19th, 2007 at 10:04 pm
ye your write it does look like the bf with difernt doors and a diferent bumper. does any one els thinks so as well.
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June 19th, 2007 at 10:04 pm
The doors have a nice curv at the bottom and will be good once uncovered.forget about it…
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June 19th, 2007 at 10:06 pm
IT alot different forget about it..
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June 19th, 2007 at 11:26 pm
What a warmed over piece of shiit.
Hello, it’s AU all over again !!!
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June 19th, 2007 at 11:51 pm
Gavin,
The DNA of the XA is distinctly Ford and the obvious evolution of the XY. Though there are notable and significant differences such as a proliferation of curves over more squarish panels on the XY the XA still maintained many cues from it’s predecesor such as the headlight arrangement and the hip line on the rear doors.
The first car in a new generation always carries many of the trademarks of the previous incarnation. The BF to orion looks set to carry on with this tradition.
It is to Ford’s detriment when they do not telegraph cues from one generation to the next eg the massive leap from EL to AU there was a jump from ED to EF.
This new Falcon looks pretty good so far. Here’s hoping they improve the build quality which is a major concern to consumers considering a private purchase and an area which has been notoriously poor on falcon’s past.
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June 19th, 2007 at 11:57 pm
Ford sux,
how is this the AU all over again?
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June 20th, 2007 at 11:06 am
Geez there alot of one-eyed biased Holden Supporters here who just want to say, its ugly, its AU again. Usually this happens when they’re scared that it is a better car than their precious rebadged Opel’s.
Anyway from what i can see the Orion is looking very tough especially the FPV and XR’s. I really want to see drive train specs though. Safe to say ZF auto and inline 6 are staying but what is happening with the V8’s, will the Boss remain or is it a new engine, hopefully an Alloy block instead of cast iron to save weight I know ford have been testing that.
Ok for all those VE lovers, have a chat to AVIS car rentals, ask them how many problems they’ve had with VE’s, or NRMA and ask them how many calls they’ve had on them. The SS is the only good looking VE out there. The other models look out of proportion with 16″ steelies underneath those massive wheel arches, and the bum sticks up way too high.
And Ford aren’t copying Holden with the wheel arches, big wheel arches have been around for a long time. But if anyone is copying someone, its Holden copying the Ford Focus with those wheelarches.
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June 20th, 2007 at 11:08 am
Oh and the reason why there is no wing on the GT, is cos its mostly cosmetic at road speeds so is not needed on the test vehicles.
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June 20th, 2007 at 4:23 pm
y the hell are there holden fans on this site are use scared fords better then holden
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June 20th, 2007 at 4:43 pm
this car looks so tough the ve is going to look week compared to it.
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June 20th, 2007 at 5:27 pm
yea i agrea with you BOB
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June 20th, 2007 at 5:34 pm
paul,
I admit i looked to see if tails were led too. (just out of interest)
but i reckon ford has prob the 2nd best thing to led’s at the moment. their design at the moment (on all territory’s and from BF mk1 on) at a quick glance look like led’s. the light is scattered from inside the taillight using reflectors rather than the typical coloured diffuser cover. thus making a very clear light, and no or little interference from the sun
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June 20th, 2007 at 6:06 pm
^
Yeah thats abit of a trend with the non-LEDs looking like that. But still I find it disappointing, it doesnt have quite the same appeal and its comes down to one thing… cost cutting. But Im not gonna crucify the Falcon over that, particularly when you have the E with a 4 speed tranny going about as a ‘new car’ in the year 2007.
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June 20th, 2007 at 6:07 pm
* E = VE of course.
Fingers crossed the FPVs have the LEDs just like they have the Xenons now.
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June 20th, 2007 at 8:50 pm
The main improvement I’d really like to see is a smaller steering wheel. The BF MKII Falcon is great in every feature apart from the massively huge steering wheel…
But even if they don’t do that, the Car is still gonna look hot as.
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June 20th, 2007 at 9:38 pm
Long 1990’s nose and ancient dash to axle signify the fact that this is a reskin of the current platform…..
Even if the the styling is half decent, it will be impossible to hide the old proportions…
VE will have it all over this car styling and proportion wise, for years to come I’m afraid…
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June 20th, 2007 at 10:06 pm
^
Are you for real? IMO the VE was a step back from the outgoing model in terms of styling, I honestly think the VE looks fugly, especially in base forms where its crappy features like a fat arse and large wheel arches are exentuated.
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June 20th, 2007 at 10:17 pm
We all know that Ford is way better than Holden. We all know that only hooligans drive Holdens. We all know that Ford has always been and will always be the best car on the road. We all know that the only way Holden can win on the track is to run the Ford off the road.
The Falcon is better finished inside than the Commode. The Falcon looks sleeker on the road than Commode. By the way, commode is another word for toilet. Appropriate, don’t you think.
I have great faith in the design teams at Ford. I will also admit that someone dropped the ball when they released the AU, but they have more than made up for that with release of the BA.
I, for one, can’t wait for the Orion to hit the road. I will be trading in my XR8 for a new Orion. The only decision I have to make is…..XR8 or FPV.
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June 20th, 2007 at 10:18 pm
of course youd say that, youre an aurion nut
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June 20th, 2007 at 10:32 pm
Yes chopper thats why I am saying I rate the Falcon over the Commodore… Im a nut for logic. Something alot of people dont have around here, the Aurion is a damn fine car. The VE was a billion dollar blunder. The Falcon for mine has in recent history been the superior of the two in most aspects, I cant see this changing especially when considering that the current Falcon already has it over the VE, they aernt going to get worse just better.
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June 20th, 2007 at 10:43 pm
i think theres more bias than logic in your reasoning
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June 21st, 2007 at 10:29 am
There appears to be a lot of padding under the front and back black-outs. At a guess I’d say the front and back is very rounded which I believe will soften the extent of overhangon the Orion. I do hope that Ford has included a turbo diesel in their engine lineup.
We seem to have a classic BMW-Mercedes comparison ala Commodore-Falcon. Have a look at the styling comparisons.
One thing that does stand out with the new VE Commodore is that it’s quite high. When you look out your rear vision mirror the VE looks like a 4X4, high with flared guards.
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June 21st, 2007 at 11:00 am
Post of mine must have been deleted or didnt come up… there is logic in most of my stuff chopper, Aurion is a quality car. Im eagerly awaiting the Falcon as I think it will be a true contender, the current Falcon is decent but being older lacks in some areas, such as airbags and stability control. The new one will be updated and provide better value then the Commodore which relies solely on fleets who couldnt care less about the car as long as its ‘aussie’ buying their crap.
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June 21st, 2007 at 1:33 pm
When is fpv going to improve there engine kws,290 is so out of date,ive heard whispers the 08 gt,s will be 320kws,can someone confirm that for me,then il put my order in.
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June 21st, 2007 at 3:37 pm
we wont know the offical figures until the release date of the new GT
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June 21st, 2007 at 6:27 pm
Tony m
why would we want a turbo diesel falcon?
and can anyone please tell me what is sooo good about diesel? i dont understand it. yeah they are a bit more economical, but 9 times out of 10 diesel costs more at the bouser. also you lose power aswell (i know you gain torque but it doesnt make up for it). and above all that, doesnt diesel release more pollutants?
i cannot understand why car makers would invest time and money in to developing diesel engines for their vehicles.
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June 21st, 2007 at 7:53 pm
the dj falcon produces 320 with a mild cam change
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June 21st, 2007 at 9:40 pm
Yeah I too think why the huge amount of love for diesel when it doesnt do anygood for the environment (thats if is not biodiesle).
Falcon dont need a diesel engine, they already have LPG going for them. If people want diesel, than drop it in the teritory.
As for the pirce of diesel being expencive, here in SA is quiet cheap. ($1.20-$1.26 , while ULP $1.21-$1.40)
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June 21st, 2007 at 10:05 pm
well i agrea with andrew about why making a ford turbo diesel. well what i say is if they bring out a turbo diesel they should drop the lpg. or they should make a lpj turbo that would be cool.
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June 21st, 2007 at 10:53 pm
they are making a hydrogen turbo xr6. the got some funding from the gocernment and they are working on it
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June 22nd, 2007 at 2:59 pm
I agree with Paul on this, the VE Commodore has been released just under a year and has already outdated itself.
The newer Falcon Orion will be the outstanding competitor for the Aurion. Although Toyota has been named the world’s most reliable and most economical car brand. Ford is still going to put a large fight against them. And with the Falcon Orion they just might be able to out do them… Stranger things have happened.
As for Holden, the Orion is going to mop the floor with them. Sorry Holden rejects, but it’s true.
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June 22nd, 2007 at 3:06 pm
it looks like shit
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June 22nd, 2007 at 3:22 pm
azza your a dickhead aurion sucks balls like u hsv maloo worlds fastest ute what u got nuthin
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June 22nd, 2007 at 3:25 pm
Azza I wouldnt go so far as to say the Falcon is going to help Ford on itself… but they are in with a great chance with the Focus (esp the new Focus whenever that comes out), soon to be Mondeo (again a true competitor UNLIKE the Daewoo Epica to the Camry) and the Falcon. It would seem that Ford and Toyota are going from strength to strength while Holden is doing the oppositie, with a total of 5 Daewoos (Epica, Viva, Daewoo, Captiva, Barina) having had the unfortunate task of wearing the Lion badge. Currently all isnt extremely bad at Holden because fleets are holden them up and so are the taxes on imports, but if these variables change then they are up shyte creek without a paddle because what they offer to prviate buyers is sub-standard.
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June 22nd, 2007 at 3:31 pm
QUOTE = azza your a dickhead aurion sucks balls like u hsv maloo worlds fastest ute what u got nuthin
Hahaha worlds fastest because no-one in their right mind gives a flying f*ck about utes… they aernt performance cars, they would have to have one of the worst weight distributions going around… not to mention no weight where it matters - over the drive wheels. Good for shoving tools in the back though.
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June 22nd, 2007 at 4:33 pm
holden might have the fastest ute but fords still beter thats for shore
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June 22nd, 2007 at 4:57 pm
But they don’t have the fastest ute…
They don’t have the fastest or best looking anything. Sorry but the way I see it, Holden started going downhill from the VT model and on.
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June 23rd, 2007 at 5:18 am
Hey i want xr8 290kw or 320kw gt game over hsv.
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June 23rd, 2007 at 5:20 am
Forget about it xr8 is 290kw this time.
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June 23rd, 2007 at 10:30 am
^
Can you just ‘forget about’ the oncoming bus next time you cross the road.
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June 23rd, 2007 at 6:18 pm
So if thats true that the XR8 and FPV V8 Series are going up to 290kw and 320kw would that mean that the F6 Typhoon and Tornado will go up to 300kw?
Or will they go higher due to APS’ arrival in scene and making the F6 Engine up to 309kw in the Phase 2 Typhoon and Phase 3 Tornado in 2006?
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June 23rd, 2007 at 8:30 pm
Geeez mate you have some issues, split personality. Do you hear voices inside your head? You aernt that guy who has pics of Naomi Robsons head stuck to bikini models all over your bedroom wall are you… thought you got locked up lol
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June 23rd, 2007 at 8:49 pm
Paul you are right…. I do have a split personality, my medication has worn off so I get like this. I dont wanna ask for more though because see Im in jail and Im someones bitch, if I move Im going to get punished again… although I actually enjoy it.
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June 23rd, 2007 at 8:52 pm
Ohhhh k Tony, I thought so… hope you get better soon.
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June 23rd, 2007 at 9:37 pm
Bloody hell, I realise it’s very camouflaged but YUCK! I was really hoping they’d pull out something attractive this time. I want to see massively flaring wheel arches, short fat bonnets and super high windowsills. Someone take a freakin cue from Commodore. I hope they prove me wrong on launch day.
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June 23rd, 2007 at 10:03 pm
yes yes james’ i wish they could make a car just the way i wanted it aswell
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June 24th, 2007 at 12:18 pm
have been looking on the internet and have found some interesting news. The 6.2 Ltr V8 is still under developement and can be made for strong displacement all the way up to 7.0 Ltrs. The power output for the 6.2Ltr is around 317kws and torque is 576Nm. The engine layout thatwe will see is a DOHC and 4 valves per cylinder. The engine block is deep skirt with cross bolted mains. The Bore diameter is 102mm centerline and a 95mm stroke. There will also be a 5.8Ltr/355in2 DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder V8 with the same bore size but a shorter (89mm) stroke. There are also rumors of a Twin Turbo variant going under developement with all V8 engines with direct fuel injection. If they come over here with in the next 3 to 5 years, expect them to have varible cam timing. Intake valve size is 2.10″ and 1.62″ exhaust. They will most likely be All Alloy!!! We asked for a real ford V8 and now it looks like we may just get what we asked for. Go the Blue oval. P.S, I think they have mistake the XR^ Turbo for thr F6 Typhoon and the new orion falcon looks the works, exspecially the GT.
Come on