New president for Ford Australia
16 Jan, 2008
87 Comments 
Just after the news of Chris Gubbey’s departure from Holden, comes the surprise announcement of Tom Gorman’s decision to quit Ford Australia.
Ford Motor Company’s Executive Vice President of Asia Pacific and Africa, John Parker, today announced that Bill H. Osborne will replace Gorman as President of Ford Australia.
“Bill Osborne has a wealth of business and industry knowledge and will be an immense asset to the Ford Australia team,” said Parker. “He has led the Ford of Canada team admirably since November 2005 and is well placed to take the Australian operations to the next level of global integration and significance. Tom Gorman has been an outstanding leader at Ford Australia and has brought the company through some challenging times. He has elected to move onto other exciting opportunities outside the automotive industry and we wish him well in his new role.”
Osborne, 48, who is currently President and CEO of Ford in Canada, has had extensive experience in engineering, sales, and product development. He also has had involvement with the Duratec V6 program, which will make him a perfect fit for the new Orion’s transition between the current Barra engines and the new V6 coming in 2010.
Mr Osborne takes up his role at Ford Australia from 1st of February 2008.
Location: Home / Ford, Australian Car Industry News, Car News / ...
Rate Post: 
(5 votes, average: 5 out of 5)
Loading ...
-
Print it:
.jpg "07RAV4V6-78hr(2).jpg")
January 16th, 2008 at 9:14 am
Good news Tom is gone in my view. The longer he stayed there the more rotund he became. Only in last few months has Australis got Mondeo, Ranger is not long here, Fiesta is not long here, and nothing else. So if someone from Ford in USA turns around and states how great a job Tom did….well very f***ing funny to hear that for me! Hopefully he can spend more time attending motor shows and seeing what I see in Ford model range in Australia is - CRAP.
Now we have a Canack over here, we better not see the poxed up vomit that Ford USA has for sale as they are rubbish. It seems like since 1998 when AU abortion was released that Ford suffered.
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 9:25 am
LOL..WTF?!
Wheres the argument Ford and Holden are true blue Australian cars…?!
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 9:26 am
FORD cannot rest on its laurels and release more cars. Trouble is they are so tiresome and slow that they conclude “We cant sell the Iosis, or the Verve or the Kuga as not database history record on release in other countries, we will assess this when the time is right and look at pricing parity to Aussie market”
This is reason Ford are where they are. Useless, lagging on R&D (EcoBOOST motor is testament to closing doors somewhat on much more advanced R&D), not confident to release these cars as must be worried on quality and / or relability. This is why they are useless, disorganised in respect to a weakened line up to compete in Australia and floundering. Go back 10yrs ago and if I asked all PEOPLE ON CARADVICE ON WHAT WOULD HAPPEN IF THE MODEL LINE UP DECLINED AND THE OTHERS LIKE HOLDEN, HYUNDAI AND TOYOTA INCREASED THERES…………….you would all laugh.
FORD AUSTRALIA IS A JOKE………………………..
HENRY FORD MUST BE TURNING IN HIS GRAVE AT WHERE DESIGNS ARE WORLDWIDE AS LAGGING IN MY OPINION!
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 9:34 am
LOL….true blue maybe.
Are you Ford supporters happy LPG motors not more readily available in
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 9:50 am
And the quality posts have started!!
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 9:55 am
Ford’s model range here is pretty ordinary, but they also should market some of the vehicles already in their line-up better. Hopefully the new boss and the new Falcon will arrest the sales slide for them.
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 10:40 am
Krishan….LOL
Maybe we may get some *bling* models that the AfroAmericans rappers dress up all fine and dandy? :-)
Its a snub at the “Aussie” sub-managment of FOMOCO.
Then again, its a USA company and they have every right to supply any CEO they see fit.
No different to Japper brands, they NEVER have a non-Japper running the show.
Tom was ok in my book, could have waited till Orion was released all the same.
Cheers
F-0
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 10:54 am
Frugal One….WTF
Hope he will make FoA lead the way and let it break away! And he betta do it right for the Orion or, I don’t want to ever say it but… RIP Ford Falcon 1960-2008 - Hope I’m wrong!
Thought I might do it the way Frugal One does it just for this post
Cheers
Oz.
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 10:57 am
LOL…you people need a reality check. Falcon will be good. Mondeo, Fiesta and Focus good. Ranger and Territory are ok. REST OF RANGE IS CRAP.
PROTEST LONG AND HARD ON HERE INSTEAD OF ATTACKING ME…let Gummy Bear Basketball Rapper CEO of FORD Aust know you are pissed as the models need to be “MORE” on offer and better look. And if your model aint got the look of style against opposition, downwards one spirals - as Ford has!
WHY DO YOU FORD SUPPORTERS SETTLE FOR LESS WHEN WE DESERVE MORE AND BETTER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 11:17 am
So Maximus, you agree Falcon, Fiesta, Ranger, territory, Mondeo are all good and the rest crap! That leaves Transit and Escape
The Transit (european Van of the year) currently on a waiting list through Dealers!
Escape! Gotta give you that one!
all the same pretty good line up.
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 11:23 am
Hey Phoonfan……..You the original Phoonfan…..
Cheers
Tiger xxx
NM………you ok ???????
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 11:27 am
Looks like maximus is baiting for a fight
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 11:27 am
morn’n Tigger!
That be me!
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 11:28 am
It’s interesting that Gormon has left the car industry altogether - that’s what happens when you eat too much company pie, I guess.
He leaves a broken man…..too many losses, too many below average cars, and too many good cars that look below average, and too many too expensive small cars, and too much pathetic marketing and market timing.
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 12:30 pm
Reckless1,
what are the “below average cars”?
What are the “too many good cars that look below average”?
And what are the “expensive small cars and too much pathetic marketing and market timing”?
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 12:38 pm
Who cares ………as long as Rod baby is still in charge of FPV !!!!
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 12:46 pm
And Roddy make it a killa!
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 12:50 pm
Have to wait and see how he performs.
His credentials do seem better than Gorman’s and working his way up from the bottom reminds me of Geoff Polites CV who did wonders with the BA, of course he was an Aussie.
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 12:58 pm
PHOONFAN…Yes Transit is good and forgot it. I like what you say. How many cars are there and volume on ones we like and fact is way behind in 3rd posy overall in sales numbers. Are you happy with that - I aint and then look at Toyota, Hyundai and Holden and there lineup is larger and real competitive.
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 1:38 pm
NM, Ford’s range is equal or better to Toyota, Holden and anyone else lets see.
Falcon -> Commodore -> Aurion/Camry (They’re the same car with different engines get over it)
Mondeo -> Epica (lmao) -> Aurion/Camry
Focus -> Astra/Viva -> Corolla
Fiesta -> Barina (lmao) -> Yaris
Ranger -> Rodeo -> Hilux
Fairlane -> Statesmen -> ???????
Escape -> ?????? -> Rav4
Territory -> Captiva (lmao) -> Kluger
Falcon Ute -> Holden Ute -> ??????
Transit -> ?????? -> ??????
F250/F350 -> ?????? -> ??????
Well I even surprised myself, looks like Ford has a bigger range than both Holden & Toyota. And you’d have to say that the Ford has a far better range than Holden with European sourced models over Korean.
Ford’s lineup isn’t competitive, my foot. There is not one real dud in the Ford lineup, Focus was outselling supply to begin with, Fiesta is a fantastic small car. The new Falcon is coming out very soon and Territory is one of the best family cars ever.
What Ford’s biggest hurdle is not the cars themselves but they’re marketing. Ford has always has been behind on marketing. Holden have this false image of being the only Australian car. Whereas Toyota has the “perception” of being a high quality product, which is true they have a fantastic product but that has been helped by marketing too. Who doesn’t know Toyota’s catch phrase???
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 1:41 pm
Ok………I get where your coming from!
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 2:37 pm
Glen, but the F-Truck and Fairlane are discontinued. But they still have a good range.
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 3:08 pm
Looks like the shifting the chairs on the Titanic again, just like Holden.
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 3:18 pm
Oz, as far as I know the Fairlane is still for sale for a couple of months. But its going to be a sad day when that last fairlane goes down the assembly line.
But I was just making a point that Ford has probably got the biggest range of cars out there, if you take into account or the different series in each model then i say they would have the largest.
Anyways hope this new guy can do the job
Darcy thats a bit rough about the fried chicken bit.
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 3:19 pm
I agree with u Glen. Ford has the better product from a car person’s view point in most cateogories. Lame marketing and dealer network lets em down. I can’t believe how these captains of industry are so dense. Unfortunately I don’t think a yank CEO for Ford will cut it. Look how the Japs and soon Koreans have decimated it. A proper E gas option on Falcon would have caught the others sleeping.
Just got to copy Toyota spin marketing as Glen says and as Hyundai is successfully doing. Hyundai and their best Warrantee is an absolutely brilliant move in winning buyer acceptance. Ford and Holden do a mighty job considering the volume they move. Hopefully Orion and Commodore underpinnings being used for world models will give them greater autonomy and support from the parents.
Didn’t Mister T do some adds for Toyota at some stage?
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 4:03 pm
GLENN….very funny! Why is it the rest of the car buyers find your views irrelevant
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 4:07 pm
FORD ARE SO LAME….have E-Gas option and how hard is that advertised in print media or TV or radio………can tell you as easy answer on that…………..STUFF ALL AS NIL!
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 4:10 pm
REALCARS……………….gee whiz, ummm sales numbers for the year showing Ford 3rd and there Falcon being outsold by Mazda 3 - that pisses me off and you defend the impossible - LMAO so loudly!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And where did you find glum chump proud as punch Ford CEO Mr Mormon………….at the Aussie Motor Show looking forlorn spying on Commodore Wagon.
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 4:19 pm
TOYOTA is business smart as Ford falling over themselves with haphazardous marketting (as the E-Gas is not pushed properly - yet brent crude is at record levels…….you think the penny would drop real loudly at the CEO’s table when not spying looking glumfully at other cars at motor shows - gee only TP and myself read Mormons face and posture properly in that Caradvice post. HA HA HA HA….). The fact Toyota is in front is also compounded by others not having good business acumen, poor marketting, an obsession with quality and reliability and Ford having an average market range. The Mondeo is nice…yet I have NOT SIGHTED ONE, THE RANGER IS RARELY SPOTTED AND THE TRANSIT……LOL, IS THAT ONE A MIRAGE AS ONLY SIGHTED TWO IN BRISBANE.
FORD means a great deal to USA should be the catchphrase!
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 5:22 pm
Just have a look at the sales charts.
Every Ford product is superior to every other manufacturer’s product according to Glen (pity he doesn’t know what Ford doesn’t sell any more, kinda reveals the intellect.)
Is there any market segment where the Ford offering sells more than the Holden or Toyota offering? Jeez, if the buying public was smarter, they’d all buy Fords instead of the Toyota or Holden they are buying now, and Glen would be a happy man…..
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 5:36 pm
Naughtyius Maximus
Seriously you need to RELAX.
Oh shit mazda 3 outselling ford i guess i better trade my falcon in and get a mazda cause thats what the papers are telling me
Who gives a shit?……Really?
Havent seen a ranger go to where they are building the second gateway bridge and you will see at least 20 of the things there
I have seen a shit load of rangers with council stickers on the doors also.
go lie on the couch and take a few deep breaths and REEELAAAX!
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 5:39 pm
Naughtyius Maximus… Mate, you Holden lovers of 1 (ONE) CAR MANUFACTURED DOWNUNDER need to get out of your time warp as the once iconic Aussie maker has deserted you guys bigtime and made you carry on like a pork chop. Time and time again you guys go on with absolute crap and it is only the depth that varies!
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 5:50 pm
Naughtyius Maximus just settle down mate!!! The main reason why Ford is behind it because the Falcon looks to old. wait untill the Orion is on sale FIRST before you carry on like a pork chop, as Bubba Ganush said, the Ranger is a popular council work ute so it’s the Falcon that realy needs an update to lift Ford’s sales.
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 6:02 pm
LOL, overwhelmingly the facts state that the Falcon is declining in numbers! I was merely pointing out the Mazda 3 was ahead of the Falcon. Dont misread the obvious as short end of straw!
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 6:05 pm
Do I need to repeat my self NM?????????????????????????????????????????????????????
I said… WAIT UNTILL THE ORION IS ON SALE BEFORE YOU WINGE!
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 6:10 pm
NM,
gee go off mate!!!! are you trying to get us to stand on top of a hill and lift our kilts (brave heart style) and moon the oppisition?
mate i agree with fords hopeless marketing campaign. that is the main reason they are getting hosed in sales. nothing to do with their products as i believe in many cases they have the class leader.
toyota hoses both ford and holden for vehicle range. who said ford offers more than toyota?
well you were forgetting about Tarago, Avensis, Prius (yes we know its a hopeless car but they still sell it to the government in an effort to get people to like them), the massive landcruiser range and prado versions too.
there are a few more too.
cant remember what other stuff you dribbled NM but another thing i strongly agree with you about (and it makes me bang my head on the desk) is why have ford never marketed the fabulous E-gas range????????
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 6:12 pm
So simple one, I agree the Orion will pick up sales, but you have major issues getting it into your head that sales overall are mountains behind Toyota. Like what part are you missing? The whole lot…..LMAO
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 6:26 pm
Now your talking sense NM. As for range they are about equal overall, yet Toyota sells alot more. I also find it laughable that Ford is better in their range, both sales and quality surveys dont indicate this, the only thing they are superior in is an image of being Australian. But whats this, a yank is replaced by another yank at the top of Ford AUSTRALIA, maybe they should just called it Ford U.S. Gormon is smart though, the skip has jumped out of that burning wreck… now its someone elses problem.
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 6:54 pm
Actually TP I would disagree that range numbers about same. Dont know actual numbers, dare say Toyota has more Toyotas versus Ford.
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 7:02 pm
TP
toyota has a hell of a lot bigger range than ford. how can you read a few examples of mine and still sit there and say it isnt so.
also how many class leading vehicles does toyota have? (bugger all) and they are sales leader.
what does all they mean………………???
simply that toyotas marketing and PR heads know how to make sure cars are sold.
thats the real spot where ford lag behind toyota, not because ford offers total crap like you always suggest
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 7:05 pm
There at the mountain looking down all of you, dazed, confused, fine with were Ford is…….well Iam not and I like Falcon of mine and am annoyed where Ford is going and as I said until they bring in more models that are priced to sell with heaps of inclusions then I will call a spade a spade.
Lets see what Aussie Osbourne does, cause if we get fed some of the crap coming out of USA from Ford then all downhill.
LOL you people reply out there and I asked you people to look at facts a for some reson it gets personal? You should be personally upset at where Ford has treaded water since AU crap release back in 1998 - like me!
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 7:13 pm
Andrew M…I agree marketting has got a lot to do with it. So has history and track record. Glitzy selling is only one factor. In the brew comes the touchy feelie nature of the car…do as I did when know someone who looked at Focus and Corolla as the difference is there laid out in front of you. Toyota take more risks then Ford in regards to model releases in my eyes - like the 2009 Celica coming up is hot and I really dont care its not a Ford as nothing in Ford camp! Toyota have a solid range and have forged ahead with there massive computer simulation for R&D…where has Ford been? Mr Mormon the ex-CEO looking shit worried gazing at Commodore wagon and being on phone talking down pushing ahead Downunder. Thats why he has been flammed as useless and quiet!
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 7:16 pm
Ford’s Australian range is awesome compared to the crap here in the US.
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 7:17 pm
And the marketing here is just as lame also…
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 7:43 pm
if ford wants to pull some sales then yes they must pull their marketing finger out.
their current range in the falcon is good enough for me.
why whinge about the crown in the states when we will never get it because we have the falcon instead.
the main thing ford needs to bring here is the Kuga.
i say getting rid of the boring old Mazda twin would do wonders for sales in the days of an SUV boom. they got it right when the launched the territory though, you got to give them that. they caught everyone else sitting on their hands with that. the only thing is they should have struck again while the iron was hot
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 7:43 pm
Marketing has alot to do with it… get off your high horses…. this country is dominated by marketing efforts by Ford and Holden (not only normal mediums such as TV but this little thing called the V8 supercars) while Toyota apart from sponsorhsips dont really market that well, I certainly havent been influenced for example by those short and meaningless Camry adverts (short live to), or Aurion adverts (again, short lived) or ‘hot’ Corolla advert. Point in case, marketing doesnt effect the crucial stats such as reliability, Toyota has the runs of the board… the people come flocking.
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 7:55 pm
ANDREW M…thats why Iam non-plussed as you know due to vibrant models getting released.
I want to see the Kuga, Verve and Iosis (Ha Ha Ha - my favourite topic) but the coupe Verve and many variants of it. Until that day happens and other models come out then Iam iffy of Ford. Look at the Escape model and then go on American website and looks like Explorer crap over there. There models are average and humdrum and I hate the look. I will ring it loud again and again - go look at USA Ford website as you will struggle to like the cars. My philosphy is out with ex-CEO Ford Aust Mormon (LOL) and reinvent the designers as too Americanised and Ford is truly having issues to whether it looks like Explorer and weirdo stuff in USA and then we go to this kinetic flow design of Verve, Iosis, Kuga, Mondeo, Focus, Fiesta. So its in no mans land and this backed up by regular US guys like Lee, etc.
It really does not matter who runs Ford here really, designs and package sells it. Ford better get it right and land the new breed of non-USA cars here and also broom out the dead wood USA hack designers and put them in charge of an amusement park as there work sux!
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 7:56 pm
….vibrant new models NOT getting released (TYPO ABOVE)
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 7:57 pm
NM; look at the crap you are typing out; Toyota takes risks? They are renowned for being bland and invisible.Who gives a shit if they sell more, they are mind numbing to drive and their current range is truly uninspired.
Stop endorsing Toyota, you heroin-addict blog troll.
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 8:03 pm
TP is right and the sooner we get rid of Red versus Blue and go back to days of Ford Sierra where we get any foreign entrants (other then Commodore and Falcon) in the better. Its double dutch saying Red versus Blue and then go to wherever it was in Arab Emirates and NZ or China with only Australia cars! That is a stupid decision and crap…take the races overseas as has been the case and take overseas cars to include them in all races. WAKE UP CONTROLLING BODY THAT RUNS ARTC ROUNDS!
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 8:07 pm
Ford has a case of the 380, remember a few weeks before the 380 was released and the pres quit. We all know how well that did, it shows how much faith Tom had in the falcon doin a runner before it is released, at the end of the day he may have put the last nail in Fords coffin.
As for fords marketing they are idiots, just because it has a german gear box (falcon) does not make it german inspired!
As for the few of you who said ford has a chart topping range, you better go shoot up again before you come back to reality! Toyota had 5 of the top 8 selling cars of last year, now say ford has a top line up
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 8:07 pm
XENI WORRIER PRINCESS…Ford wont release Kluga, Iosis, Verve and Toyota bringing in new models like Klugger, RAV4, Celica, Hilux, etc, etc. What do you call state of the art R&D getting built which is enormous…..these are risks - calculated risks!
So cut the crap and get a grip…sounds like you have numbed and blinded your thinking!
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 8:27 pm
Hopefully this bloke will give the XR n Fairmont models some good direction and make them a different from the base model. I will say he wont be able to use his full extent of his power until they start working on the huntsman falcon but i do hope he does what we all want him to do with ford, and that is for all falcon, fairmont n territory based cars to beat it holden variant in everything. sales, performance, price u all get the picture. Hopefullly he brings back the fairlane n ltd n make the a big step over the fairmont in 2010. Exspecially in the looks department. In 1975 you could never reconise it all a falcon n now it just looks lke a stretched falcon (Im not from the 70’s just seen pics lol). Come on, lets see some real luxury cars with a difference n some balls!!!
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 8:29 pm
NM,
dont you know drugs are bad?
S-L-O-W D-O-W-N
TP,
i love how suddenly toyota doesnt advertise and ford does very much so.
it wasnt so long ago where you were sprooking about toyotas sponsorship with the AFL (the biggest billboard in the country)
what toyota has might be meaningless adverts but its about getting the name out there not necesarrily how sporty the advert is.
Mark,
ha ha ha funny line in penetrating the president ill give you that….very clever
you missed my point.
yes toyota has many top “sellers” but they arent always top in their class for “ability”
therefore meaning they arent the best cars in their class yet they still manage to sell them
toyotas highest 2 selling vehicles the corolla and hilux are far from being the top in their class yet they still sell/sold plenty of them.
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 8:33 pm
NM,
im really not following you when you say fords line up with Falcon, Focus, Fiesta, Ranger, Territory, Mondeo is good/great but the rest is crap…..
well what exactlly is this rest you “keep” talking about?
the escape? is that it?
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 8:48 pm
To Bill Osborne: Please don’t have any Falcon commercials with those stupid european voiceovers like in the Mondeo ads, or you’ll kill Ford Australia. We want people to think it’s made in OZ not in Germany….
Thanks
Oz.
To Cobra 302: I agree!
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 9:08 pm
Im glad there is a new shape coming,not that i dont like ba shape holden has used the same shape since 98 vt,so its due at least we stay 1 step ahead always and more kw alot more.290kw xr8 is nothing to laugh at.hehe.
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 9:10 pm
1. Falcon Orion will be fine (piss poor updates)
2. Fairlane / LTD ????????? average or gone
3. Escape - rubbish
4. Territory - needs update and LPG motor
5. Focus is updated much better
6. Fiesta finally updated better
7. Ranger not pushed enough
8. Mondeo too late released to fill class below Falcon
9. Commercial range only Transit and thus limited
10. 4WD range too limited with Escape and Territory and no mega serious 4WD
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 9:26 pm
Ford cant rest or sleep until its sells big like when the ba came out everyone wanted one, they still do but cant afford it.A ba xr8 and xr6t is still worth 30k just look in a car yard,as for the bf well enough said.
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 9:59 pm
NM, are you trying to tell this “Bill Osborne” what he needs to do to make Ford Australia better?
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 10:09 pm
I know all the ford model names whats good and whats not,escape is not rubbish its like a baby teritory.Do you work at ford or nissan with a name like that i think of nissan maxima which is rubbish i might add.
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 11:02 pm
1. NM = Rubbish, no new updates, poor comments on Ford, complete rubbish assumptions and needs to f-off out a here…
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 11:10 pm
You are spamming this thread like a true junkie, and waxing lyrical about the day Toyota will rule the world in a manner which is blissfully disgusting. State of the art R&D is nothing unique or exceptional, and all of Toyota’s vehicles lack the dynamic prowess of their competitors.
THERES NOTHING INSPIRING OR CUTTING EDGE IN THE RANGE!!!! even the Prius is a wank. So your ’state of the art R&D’ means dick! I’ll concede they are competent and reliable but coma inducing and performance lacks. I bet you will use the 200kW as an example to counter act this but they have no answer for GM and Ford’s heavy hitting V8s. Toyota of present lacks the emotional appeal and their quality is slipping.
The fact you cited Kuga( which is all but confirmed) Iosis ( a styling excersize that foreshadowed Mondeo) and Verve as examples means you know absolutely jack shit about cars, and Rav4, Hilux and Freddy Kluger all have Ford foes.
Its people like you who are starting to make me question the blog movement, because despite the fact you lack knowledge you have to put your moronic opinion on display every five minutes. STFU you mouth-breathing moron.
(Report)
January 16th, 2008 at 11:24 pm
Toyz r dust trd crew,supra,soarer,celica,hilux,and finally the camary trd which is stale and has nothing on a xr6t. Cant even sell your stale old soarer at the car yard they wont touch em all the above for that matter,10 years time 20 year old car.A 290kw xr8 is nothing to laugh at hehe.
(Report)
January 17th, 2008 at 3:18 am
Xenu, that spray was epic.
As for Bill H. Osborne, I hope he is knows how to market and push for the products needed to round out the local range.
His first wake up call will be trying to understand our market.
Anyone have any ideas on how he’s going to be able to do that in the short time frame that Ford Australia has to turn things around.
(Report)
January 17th, 2008 at 5:43 am
1. Updates before Orion to Falcon average twice. Nearly next too no model differentiation in cars - have a look at top end Falcons and not much massive differences there!
(Report)
January 17th, 2008 at 5:44 am
YES “OZ” - Iam not arguing. My words are here for new CEO.
(Report)
January 17th, 2008 at 8:06 am
Who cares about Ford or Holden or Toyota for that matter there is a new King coming and thats the VW group, I mean seriously look at what Vw/ Audi are doing they are building quality cars with quality materials and attention to detail that is 2nd to none, I mean seriously Ford or Holden start building cars with quality I think everyone is just about over quantity its 2008 not 1978. Australia has caught up with the rest of the world we have a taste for premium products not taxis, the old Aussie attitude of that will do just doesn`t cut it anymore and anyone that fires back with what about the new billion dollar baby get ova yourselves[ Audi just ivested 13 Billion into devolpment alone] its still a taxi even if its got a Hsv badge stuck on it, the problem with Holden or Ford is where they start from, if you start with shit you can add as much extras too them as you like but you still end up with shit and the problem with Toyota is and its not there quality its they just build ugly boring cars with bad plasticky interiors, they just aren`t desirable they need some style.
(Report)
January 17th, 2008 at 8:26 am
Seems NM is pissed at Ford and is just having a rant at the new CEO……..hoping hes reading this post! Nothing wrong with that at all. Hell Ive done it before and hubby got banned from his dealership for the same thing on the AFF…..
NM is still true to Fords…so all good!
(Report)
January 17th, 2008 at 8:28 am
Yes the range better change BM as Iam blue (like my Falcon) - but I like others to and NOT out and out Ford. Come car racing…………….BLUE baby!
(Report)
January 17th, 2008 at 8:37 am
Heading in cool direction is 2009 model new Ford Focus ST. Like really CEO taking over….you can do all the crossing the t’s and dotting the i’s and cross checks, etc - future success comes down to slick designs and in particular street appeal. Ford has had mjor trouble with this!
Hopefully Ford adopts the sledgehammer approach of just do it and take some risks - design it right for dam well once and have massive model variation in Falcon range and if luxury models are done…. dont just change grille and thats it as very piss poor and the public have reacted!
(Report)
January 17th, 2008 at 12:02 pm
Well i think we knoe NM, Reckless and such are just here to get they’re jolly’s off by trying to get people to bite.
So reckless1 what do you say about my intellect??? Who made you the numero uno about who makes the best cars. Its a bloody opinion everyone is entitled to have one. I have a pretty good f***ing idea whats a good car and not considering I work in a car yard and know which cars have problems more than others. What do you do??? You probably sit at your home pc after a long day flipping Big Macs at Maccas pissed off so you think you’ll come here and hang s**t on someone on the internet (you tough bastard you)
My opinion is Ford’s current range of cars is pretty damn good in quality, reliability & style. I didn’t say they were the best but they are very good. Much better than Holden’s line up in my opinion.
BTW NM & Reckless1, Fairlanes & LTDs are still being sold until Orion’s release. Ranger’s have a 4-6 month waiting list because Ford have sold so much (ask my boss he is trying to buy one for himself) Ford’s biggest problem is not the products, its the MARKETING. People as a whole are pretty dumb, they’ll believe most things they are told. How many people are Holden Fans because daddy was??? Good marketing can make a s**t car sound great. I know a few Holden fans that will swear black & blue to me that Barinas, Epicas & Kaptivas are Ozzy made just because Holden cleverly worded their ads for them. (Kaptiva ad mentions ozzy built V6, Epica ad mentions Ozzy engineering)
(Report)
January 17th, 2008 at 12:30 pm
what u talkin bout willis?
(Report)
January 17th, 2008 at 1:05 pm
Naughtyius Maximus, why don’t we start a new topic in the forum of what we need to get through to Bill Osborne to help Ford Australia?
(Report)
January 17th, 2008 at 4:22 pm
NM Im amazed how you know so much about this knew CEO all due to…………….A PHOTO
Just cause he is moving over doesnt mean that every yank in dearbourne michigan is coming over to!
not to bag the site but i highly doubt that Osbourne is going to check every aussie car website to think what runner up Ford CEO Naughtyius Maximus two cents in how to run ford better.
As for the V8 super cars going to Bahrain NZ etc maybe the main part of those races is that we get to see our OWN BREED of vehicle in the global view not european or american Ford and GM product but AUSTRALIAN PRODUCT. I would love to see car movies with the main car being a Senator, Monaro (not pontiac not vxr but HOLDEN) GT, Pursuit etc.
Look you have your gripes trust me we ALL KNOW now knock it off all you are doing is making a dick of yourself
(Report)
January 17th, 2008 at 4:46 pm
BUBBA…Iam not getting personal on CEO but rather reading Ford at where it is! Facts are clear as noted and Iam not playing the bling man, rather call the fulltime stats on Ford.
I actually see what TP has to put up with and I always admired him even though I stirred him. One reason why… at most times he did get some good facts dug up and rattled most of you.
So Bubba (man with a name like that you have bling or what or not related to this guy?) I suggest you stop playing with it as your struggling!
(Report)
January 17th, 2008 at 5:45 pm
Struggling at what?
Apart from the ranger comment i havent contested anything you have to say.
In regards to Toyota The guy has points yes the toyota is reliable, yes it is the market leader.
They have earned a good reputation early on starting from the SR Corolla up to present, the hilux has defonatley got a impressive history behind it both these cars are incredibly known as a fantastic basic runabout and remarkable work hack.
but this is in turn leads to my gripes. It seems toyota has cashed in on these vehicles reputation you are now paying 23k for a basic runabout meanwhile compeditors are charging up to 3-4 k less.
Its like the Tonka Truck story. When i was a lad Tonka Trucks were the ultimate boys toy, for 10-15 dollars you could get a big rugged diecast yellow dump truck that could handle the abuse of a 2yr old boy and his siblings could throw at it and still manage to get handed down to the poor cousins to take another 3 years of being left outside in sand boxes and thrown around the place
now 40 dollars buys you a plastic truck with diecast tray if you are lucky. In other words a whole lot of money for a Tonka sticker.
the Hilux is now the designer workhack and the corolla is now the designer basic runabout. big price for bugger all
im not so one eyed as you think my point to you is i can fill up my opinion on how toyota is ripping off the public, how holden caters for yanks more than the australian public (SSV Commodore for under 40k!) but you know what we have all heard it before.
I got no qualms with what you have to say you have some good points your method is what grates me.
(Report)
January 17th, 2008 at 5:48 pm
type error i meant “fill up this site with ongoing blogs full of my opinion
(Report)
January 17th, 2008 at 6:53 pm
Glen,
i agree totally with you mate.
how can someone sit at a computer and type along blaming fords range for its lower placed sales on the ladder when it is CLEARLY their hopeless ADVERTISING.
you only need to look at holden. so NM are you saying holdens rnage is heaps better through out than fords hence why they sell a few more cars?
that is the perfect illustration that ford needs to learn how to advertise and promote a strong and healty image.
if no LPG yet on territory is so bad how come you dont “dis” the others for not having LPG on anything at all?
also the transit isnt the only thing in the commercial range….
falcon ute
ranger
transit
econovan……….whats your point there?
(Report)
January 17th, 2008 at 6:57 pm
Bubba,
great explanation with the tonka illustration.
i know cause i bought one chrissy time (not for my self ha ha ha) and you can get exactlly the same thing on the stand next to it for 10 bucks cheaper with out the tonka sticker.
also i still havent had an answer as to why the corolla and hilux are toyotas 2 best sellers yet both are far from class leaders???
well i suppose you did answer it Bubba….. its that perception thing of getting something much better
(Report)
January 18th, 2008 at 7:56 am
Exactly Andrew it is instilled in the general public that the toyota is a reliable car which it is. They can get away with building something with not as much options and features as the compeditiors and still sell millions due to the perception of “cheap runabout”
big bucks for a badge.
(Report)
January 18th, 2008 at 6:04 pm
Yet the Aurion was a class leader in features in options… sorry your wrong
(Report)
January 18th, 2008 at 6:39 pm
TP,
Thats only because they are trying REALLY hard to establish a market segment, much the same with the Kluger. The established models are pretty much all underspecced & overpriced.
(Report)
January 18th, 2008 at 7:06 pm
TP,
im chasing an answer to why the HILUX and COROLLA are their 2 biggest sellers yet both are far from class leaders………
but with the Aurion Bret is right. they are trying to establish a market. it is a common technique for new comers to any sort of market to pack in heaps of features. they wouldnt get noticed otherwise.
but now ford and holden have loaded their falcon and commy with equivalent value anyhow. i think it only took them a few months to top them up.
but if its plain ole good value you are looking for I’d be heading straight to the Mitsu dealer. what they offer in the 380 and the price they sell it at, leaves the other 3 for dead
(Report)
January 18th, 2008 at 7:45 pm
Quote [NM] Actually TP I would disagree that range numbers about same. Dont know actual numbers, dare say Toyota has more Toyotas versus Ford.
I think your right because the last time I checked Ford didn’t sell any [New] Toyotas.. they Focused [pardon the pun] on Fords.
(Report)
January 18th, 2008 at 8:41 pm
hahaha….yep …..!^^^^^^^^^
Smart arse..but a cute one at that!hehehe See that time on the cross trainer has paid off for you!
(Report)
January 21st, 2008 at 3:58 pm
TP
The aurion is a different class altogether. I was referring to the economy class and commercial line ups
(Report)