Ford turns concept into market reality

The F6 E has improved steering and stability.

A Ford Falcon first seen as a concept at the Melbourne motor show in March has made it into production as the brand's premium sedan.

The new F6 E is Ford Performance Vehicles' latest addition to its FG range and arrives, says Ford, to satisfy calls for more performance-based executive vehicles.

"We launched this car at Melbourne as a concept and the expressions of interest in it have been enough to warrant us to go into a production run of the vehicle," said FPV general manager Rod Barrett.

"The F6 E will cater for the corner of the market - in particular executives - that want the performance and dynamics of the F6 with some added luxury appointments in subdued styling.

"Feedback from our customers leaves us confident that the F6 E will be a hit with those looking for something more from their performance vehicle.

Powered by a 4-litre turbocharged in-line six, the F6 E produces 310kW at 5500rpm and maximum torque of 565Nm between 1950 and 5200rpm.

Gearbox is a ZF six-speed automatic with manual mode. Ford claims fuel economy of 12.1 litres/100km. "The styling of the F6 E differentiates itself from its F6 sibling through the use of a softer colour palette and more luxurious finishes and trim," Barrett said.

The F6 E will go on sale in New Zealand in December, priced from $87,990. Ford says the "shadow chrome" alloy finish of the 19-inch wheels was custom-matched to the F6 E's premium Brembo brake package.

The upper radiator and lower bumper grille mesh are finished in black chrome, while the front driving lamps are highlighted with a high chrome bezel and complemented by full body coloured bumpers.

The new FPV badge takes centre stage on both the front and rear of the vehicle and the new F6 E badge features on the rear and side panels.

The F6 E is available in nine colours. Inside, the F6 E features FPV leather seats with the F6 E logo embossed on the headrests. There is a walnut woodgrain finish on the dashboard as well as the doors.

Powertrain engineering head Bernie Quinn said the new model offers improved operating performance under all conditions.

"The F6 E has an improved turn-in response and linearity, better steering precision and stability mid-corner and a reduced roll rate," he said.