Work hard, play fast

By Alastair Sloane

This is the performance version of the new Falcon ute, in this case a jet black V8-powered carry-all built for work during the day and play at night.

The 5-litre XR8 will cost $43,995. Standard equipment includes air-conditioning, ABS anti-lock brakes, cruise control and Momo steering wheel. A single CD player is a $500 option.

The XR6 carries the same standard and optional equipment and costs $38,995. The entry-level XL chassis/cab costs $29,995, the XL pick-up $31,995 and the XLS $35,995.

The new five-model ute range is built on the platform of the AU Falcon sedan but the wheelbase has been stretched to create more room in the cabin.

The range also offers two body variants - the traditional fixed-side model and a hinged-side design for better loading convenience.

And just to make life more comfortable for the working man to enjoy his cuppa, the tailgate has integrated thermos and cup holders.

Instruments have been updated to included a convenient distance-to-empty fuel reading and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. Fuel-tank capacity is up from 68 to 82 litres.

Apart from the platform, the ute also borrows from the AU sedan the reworked in-line six-cylinder engine and the revised double-wishbone suspension. The ute's new wide-trac rear suspension comes from the AU stationwagon.

Ford has changed the front and rear suspension to offer better stability and direction under load.

The three XL models are powered by the standard 4-litre engine which produces 6 per cent more oomph - 157kW at 4900 rpm and 357Nm at 3000 rpm.

The XR6 motor delivers 164kW at 5000 rpm and 366Nm at 3500 rpm. The XR8, the stump-puller by day and the cool cruiser with street-cred by night, produces 185Kw at 4500 rpm and a hefty 402Nm at 3100 rpm.