OCT 2010
FORD has bamboozled the mid-tier luxury car market with its G6E Turbo and dare I say, may have won over a few Holden fans in the process.
Winner of Carsguide Car of the Year and People’s Choice in 2008, the 2010 model again takes off as the flagship of the G-Series luxury range (G6, G6E, G6E Turbo) and the first Falcon outside the XR6 Turbo to embody one of the most potent mass-produced performance engines built in Australia.
The G6E has cranked up the specs for 2010 and horsepower, now delivering an astonishing 270kW at 5250rpm via a six-speed automatic gearbox. To compare, it is on par with the Holden Calais 6.0-litre V8 in terms of outright power, but outdoes the roaring lion brand in torque. Price wise, expect to pay around $60,000 for the Ford and from around $56,000 for the Holden.
Delivery is sudden in the Ford’s turbo, almost like a powerband between the rev ranges of 2000 – 4750, but there’s also a slight safety net in the guise of traction and stability control systems to keep the wheels from burning rubber at every squirt.
The six-speed automatic transmission also has sequential sports shift option but it is rarely used as the auto knows exactly when to link gears – both up and down. With a low first gear ratio and higher top gear ratio, the transmission ensures a spirited excursion.
Kitted out with full leather upholstery, comfort is assured and there’s also ample leg space up front and electric adjustable three-way seat options plus steering wheel column adjust.
For tricky reversing spaces, there’s a rear camera that displays the area back of the car. Optional features include 19” x 8” G Series 10-spoke alloy wheels and a satnav with Suna Traffic Channel.
Driving the G6E around the city, one is reminded of the childhood Holden v Ford battles my mate and I would scrap over while pinned to the couch as Bathurst rumbled in front of us. When I confided that I was reviewing the new Ford to my old chum – he quipped:
“About time, go Courtney at ‘the mountain’.” Obviously some reference to Bathurst and it’s good to know that after 30 years, he has finally been able to rest past grievances – not.
As far as the blue oval is concerned, it’s on a winner with the G6E Turbo - easily the best to roll off Ford Australia’s production line.
Get our daily business news
Sign up to our free email news updates.
)
)
)
)
)
