Best Aussie-built Ford ever?

Ford had to do something radical if it was ever going to reel in Holden’s lead after the AU Falcon disaster. Even though the jury is still out over who will eventually grab the top spot this time around, Ford has fired a direct hit at Holden.

Many observers believe the new ($500 million) BA Falcon is the best Aussie Ford ever built. It has already grabbed awards for best family car, Wheels Magazine Car of the Year 2002, and the new XR6 turbo has received a gong for best sports car under $57,000.

Everything about the BA is better than its predecessor. Outside, it is far more pleasing to the eye, especially where the major work has been done at the front and rear. The new interior is fresh, smart, functional and, above all, comfortable.

There have been significant improvements in ride, handling and safety, with many new innovations. These include placing the fuel tank forward of the rear axle, the introduction of optional power-adjustable pedals and the all-new Control Blade (IRS) independent rear suspension system.

All new Falcons feature ABS brakes with Electronic Brake Force Distribution and bigger brake rotors. Also standard are dual front two-stage airbags and front seatbelt pretensioners. Even little things have been addressed to provide a more polished appearance. Windscreen washers are now under the bonnet, the radio antenna consists of strips in the rear glass and wheel weights are now on the inside of the wheels.

In addition to major modifications to its sheet metal and interior, Ford has introduced more powerful engines across the board. The standard 24-valve 4.0-litre straight six features twin overhead camshafts and Variable Camshaft Timing. It develops an impressive 182kW of power and has 380Nm of torque on tap. This is substantially more than the 152kW of power and 305Nm of torque that can be squeezed from Holden’s current 3.8-litre V6.

Ford has also introduced a very powerful, turbo-charged version of the 4.0-litre engine known as the Barra 240T. Available in the XR6, this engine features a Garrett GT40 turbo charger with an air-to-air intercooler. The turbo runs 6psi of boost to produce a massive 240kW of power at 5,250rpm and 450Nm of torque at between 2,000rpm and 4,500rpm. According to rumour, the power had to be wound back to prevent it getting too close to the XR8’s new 260kW V8.

...offers a choice of complete manual control
...works superbly with this smooth and powerful engine

Other engines in the new range include a dedicated LPG version of the 4.0-litre six offering 156kW of power and 372Nm of torque. A new 5.4-litre SOHC 24-valve V8 with 220kW and 470Nm is optional on entry and luxury models. The new XR8 features a lusty BOSS 260 5.4-litre 32-valve DOHC V8 that develops 260kW of power and a massive 500Nm of torque.

Ford has equipped the BA with a new tiptronic-style automatic transmission. Standard fitment on some models and a $920 option on others, the Sequential Sports Shift transmission offers a choice of complete manual control, a fully automatic mode with top gear lockout or an Adaptive automatic mode.

The Police Journal tested the fabulous Turbo XR6. This is truly a stunning sports sedan that offers exhilarating performance with exciting ride and handling characteristics. With 240kW of power to unleash, it walks all over Holden’s supercharged V6, which can only muster 171kW. It even has more power than the Holden’s GEN III V8 which, in standard form, produces 225kW or 235kW in the Monaro.

But how do these figures relate to its driveability? The XR 6 is simply sensational to drive. The Police Journal test car featured a notchy, five-speed manual transmission that works superbly with this smooth and powerful engine. Power comes effortlessly anywhere in the range, with no hint of the turbo-lag found in some blown Japanese imports.

Zero to 100km/h is achieved in slightly fewer than six seconds, and this car is certainly at its best during overtaking manoeuvres. Instead of being a risky chore, it’s something to which you’ll look forward. The car’s handling is pin-sharp, its ride supple and, when pushed, it sounds a delightful exhaust note.

At $43,965, it is only a handful of dollars more than some racy Japanese fours, most notably Subaru’s WRX. Following the XR6 T, the Police Journal test-drove an everyday Futura with the new Sports Shift automatic transmission. Although not stunning in any particular area, it is a fabulous car to sit in and drive. It is smooth, quiet and powerful, has stacks of space, looks good, rides and handles superbly and is fitted with all the desired features.

Prices start at $33,640 (XT manual) and rise to $37,750 (Futura auto) and $49,980 (Fairmont Ghia). Economy on test averaged 13.5litres/100km (XR6 T) and 12.7litres/100km/h (Futura).