BC

• Published:November 14th, 2008
• Comments:No Comment
• Category:Automotive

Good
• Technically advanced engine
• Extreme flexibility with peak torque stretching between 2000 – 4500 rpm
• Effortless 6-second 0 – 100 km/h performance
• Very roomy and practical
• Interior well appointed and attractive
• Attractive styling
• A whole lot of performance car for the money

Price and Equipment

If you want a cheaper, faster vehicle better than the Falcon 5.4 Liter XR8 V8, you better go for an XR6T which is the nominal flagship of Ford’s performance range. XR6T starts at $43,965

Under the Hood

The Ford Falcon’s XR6 Turbo’s turbocharged 4.0 liter, six cylinder engine is an excellent example of what efficiency is all about. It uses less fuel despite it’s fast speed and enormous power. The steering is also greatly enhanced now that Ford has eliminated other traits from the previous models making turbo power almost seamless.

How it Drives

The shift action of XR6T is smooth but the thumping noise coming from the tail shaft can really be bothersome. The brakes are great for everyday use but it would be nice if it would be bigger. Based on our tests, the brakes had normal feel when driven normally but has the tendency to fade when used heavily.

According to Ford the braking performance is the same if not better. But based on the test we’ve done, we know that the XR6T needs more braking power, not less, since it showed that it was arriving at corners more rapidly than before.

Comfort and Practicality

Ford has done some monumental enhancements with the XR6T. The BA is distinct because of its quad front headlights which perform well. While the XR6T is a head turner because of its body kit, lights, and oval exhaust tip, the straight line performance is also commendable because of its bootlid and intercooler which is situated in the front air dam.

On board, XR6T gives impeccable comfort and plenty of space with a headroom of a 190cm tall front occupant and with the seat slid back—there will be so much legroom that it would be highly impossible for your feet to even reach the firewall. In the rear, there is also plenty of headroom for people up to 190cm. The XR6T’s seats are comfortable and supportive which will help relax the driver.

In addition to those features, XR6T also has brilliant central LCD panel that displays air conditioning and ventilation status, time and audio settings. With the XR6T, sun glare will be avoided in 99 percent. The main controls are not clustered and are laid out for convenience and easy navigation.

Safety

Ford XR6T’s safety equipment comes with twin front airbags, air conditioning, remote central locking, cruise control, power windows, mirrors and driver’s seat, adjustable seatbelt anchorages with seatbelt pre-tensioners and a trip computer.