FPV F6 2012 Overview
Test Drive

FPV F6 2012 Overview

We pay attention to the newest and brightest stars in the automotive world, asking the questions you want answered. But there's only one question that really needs to be answered - would you buy it?

What it is?

It's a true six-piston Ford Performance Vehicle hot rod - arguably faster than the acclaimed FPV GT V8. The F6 is popular as a Highway Patrol chase car, it accelerates faster than most cars on the road (automatic or manual), looks pretty wild, and has the dynamics to match. Holden has nothing like the HSV line.

How many?

The price is $64,890, but there are options like satellite navigation (which should be standard).

What are competitors?

Everything from FPV and HSV is in the F6's field of vision. It will waste most if not all of it, especially at relatively low to medium speeds.

What's under the hood?

Power comes from a 4.0-litre turbocharged six-cylinder engine, mostly from a Falcon taxi engine with (major) improvements. Maximum power is 310 kW and 565 Nm of torque is available at 1950 rpm.

How are you?

Like a rocket. Off the line, in the mid-range and in the top range - it doesn't matter, the F6 has what it takes to nudge you right back into the sports seat. For a 5.0 to 0 km/h sprint, we think it would be a 100-second sprint, perhaps faster - 4.0 seconds seems achievable.

Is it economical?

Surprisingly yes, if you drive steadily. On the track, we saw less than 10.0 liters per 100 km, but the overall figure for the 600-km mixed test drive was about 12.8 liters per 100 km on gasoline with an octane rating of 98.

Is it green?

Not really, it generates a lot of carbon dioxide - understandable given the power output and performance.

How safe is it?

All Falcon models and Falcon-based vehicles receive five stars for crash safety. This one gets a rearview camera for 2012.

It's comfortable?

Very. We expected it to be rock-hard - a rock-solid sports sedan, but no, the F6 has a stiff yet comfortable ride, makes little noise, and offers a fairly luxurious driving experience with a premium audio system, leather, multi-function controller, and a steering wheel, among a host of goodies. . I hate the start button - after turning the key - dumb.

What is it like to drive a car?

Exciting is the best way to describe the F6 driving experience. The engine is incredible and the dynamics are pretty good, even if the steering is a little twitchy. Multiple driving modes like European performance cars would be an improvement. Need wider tires for more traction and cornering grip. The four-piston Brembo brakes don't do well on twisty roads. Optional six-piston Brembo should be standard for the dosha.

Is this value for money?

Against expensive European cars, yes. Compared to the FPV GT and HSV GTS, yes. From a purely pragmatic point of view, we don't see the point of buying a V8 other than for the sound.

Would we buy one?

May be. But it's bait for the cops. Trying to keep the F6 at the speed limit is a challenge that takes your mind off your job of safe driving.

FPV F6 FG MkII

Cost: $64,890

Guarantee: Three years/100,000 km

Accident Rating:  5-star ANKAP

Engine: 4.0-liter 6-cylinder, 310 kW / 565 Nm

Transmission: 6-speed manual, rear-wheel drive

Dimensions: 4956 mm (L), 1868 mm (W), 1466 mm (H)

The weight: 1771kg

Thirst: 12.3 l / 100 km 290 g / km CO2

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