Nov 2000 Volume 81 Number 11
"serving the protectors"
| Nov 2000 Volume 81 Number 11 "serving the protectors" |
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MOTORING |
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| By Jim Barnett |
Ford’s new AU II Falcon is marked by revised styling, additional standard equipment and superior on-road dynamics. It pleases the eye and is far better to drive than its predecessor, the AU Falcon.
The Ford design team stole Fairmont’s bonnet before designing new grilles across the board. This immediately transformed Falcon’s front from harsh to stylish, particularly on Forte and Futura. As well as fitting a redesigned rear bumper and Fairmont tail lights, the team added 16-inch wheels and 60-series tyres. A neat spoiler - standard on Futura and a low-cost option on other models - addressed the excessive slope on the boot lid.
The addition of a laminated metal firewall suppresses mechanical noise, making the cabin much quieter. New seat fabrics, minor changes to the dash layout and additional equipment add to Falcon’s improved ambience.
Ride quality, handling and steering response have been improved largely due to re-calibrated rear suspensions. Braking efficiency has also been improved with the addition of larger pads and rotors and a higher capacity power booster.
Ford has thrown down the gauntlet with a long list of standard equipment on the $30,845 Forte. In addition to the previously standard air conditioning, automatic transmission and driver’s airbag, the AU II now has:
- Passenger airbag.
- 100-watt single-CD sound system.
- Power front windows.
- Remote central locking with panic alarm.
- Other features include:
- A key-out courtesy light feature.
- Overhead holder for sunglasses.
- Eyeball map lamps.
Ford has dangled another carrot by offering 24-hour roadside assistance and scheduled services to 60,000km in the purchase price. A dedicated LPG fuel system is available on Forte and Futura for just $798.
Forte sedan proved under test conditions to be infinitely better than its predecessor. The big straight six delivers stacks of power, and the automatic transmission does its job well. It’s smoother and quieter than before, and the stiff chassis ensures it copes easily with spirited drives on winding roads.
Nissan’s all-new four-model Pulsar line-up boasts revised styling, two new engines, bigger interiors and added value for money. Its European exterior styling and striking new chrome grilles give Pulsar a similar appearance to Nissan’s classy Maxima. The low bonnet, raised boot lid and arched side window design give Pulsar a contemporary new look compared to the previous model’s conservative style. Pulsar is agile, smooth, corners confidently and, even though the engine is quite busy at 110km/h, the cabin remains quiet.
Although built on the same wheelbase as its predecessor, the new model is 150mm longer, 5mm wider and 50mm taller. This translates into more headroom, greater cabin width and larger boot capacity.
The dashboard is highlighted by two-tone colours and a T-shaped design flowing toward the centre console. The interior is smart, comfortable and functional; it offers plenty of storage areas and good visibility. The small, thick steering wheel, light manual gearshift and white gauge backgrounds, give the Q sedan a sporty feel which matches its sporty exterior.
The well-equipped entry model - LX manual sedan - comes into the market at $19,390. Standard features include:
- Air-conditioning.
- Remote central locking.
- Four-speaker single-CD audio system.
- Driver’s airbag.
- Power mirrors.
- Height-adjustable driver’s seat.
The similarly equipped ST 1.8-litre manual costs just $600 more at $19,990.
For $21,590, the sporty 1.8-litre Q sedan features:
- Alloy wheels.
- Rear spoiler and side skirts.
- Power windows and upgraded interior trim.
- For $23,590, the range-topping Ti manual features:
- Climate-control air-conditioning.
- ABS
- Passenger airbag.
- Front seatbelt pre-tensioners.
Automatic transmission is available across the model range for an additional $1,800.
LX is fitted with a new 1.6-litre DOHC engine, delivering 83kW of power. All other models feature a more powerful 1.8-litre DOHC engine producing 92kW. Both engines feature four valves per cylinder, distributorless ignition and VTC (Valve Timing Control).
VTC boosts low- and mid-range torque, and delivers more power at higher engine speeds.
Nissan claims Pulsar’s new MS platform (incorporating floorpan, engine, transmission and suspension) increases body rigidity by 30% over the previous model. This, according to Nissan, improves ride and handling and reduces NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) levels.
Pulsar’s on-road performance is very good. It’s a delightful, well-stacked car in base form and won’t break the bank.
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