LAST HULK FRIDAY 2014: is FGX the Falcosaurus?

[1TUFFUTE]

Originally Posted by HULK_I6T

Now that the FGX falcon has been revealed is it enough to send off the ford falcon ? Will it be remembered as the Falcosaurus? Brutal performance in a bare bones package?

We know the xr6t and xr8 offer brutal performance but it's also unchanged from fg... (GT / xr6t / xt)

The FGX is a pretty decent looking car but isn't it just a fg in a new frock? The interior looks pretty much the same as fg

It seems that FGX is more about value for money rather than anything new to chew on. Obviously the xr8 is a cracker of a car for the money but it's just really all the leftover GT bits from fg at a bargain price.

Many of the reviews say its a cracking car for the money but it's low on gadgets and modern comforts that other car makers boast about.

I've even read the term Falcosaurus a few times. It's almost like the FGX falcon is a muscle car, big performance and bare bones equipment (relative to other new cars).

Has the falcon always been behind on technology? Is the last car actually consistent with the flavour of the falcon of years past? Big rugged powerful car, spacious, good value, reliable but nothing innovative or revolutionary?

Is the term Falcosaurus appropriate?

Not a bad question actually....but as mentioned I think it's all in the model designation. FGX. So it's not a totally new model but it's certainly the best bang for your buck EVER in the Australian muscle car world

Ford has done an amazing job giving us an awesome last hurrah with such I minimal budget. I'm sure most expected a little less!

[SensationFG8]

Originally Posted by Falcon Coupe

Speaking from experience?


The manual one I drove had traction control looking like a strobe light in 3rd from 70 to 100.
It also went through a roundabout almost from a stop in 4th. Love that torque.

I could neither confirm nor deny if that is something I have experienced

Let's just say it would seem some perhaps didn't really give it the berries if it held traction in 3rd...

[arronm]

Originally Posted by SensationFG8

Does turning the tyres in 4th at 100 count?

Sure, but a stock XR8 wont do that. The GT 335 I drove wouldn't even do it in second. To put it bluntly I was unimpressed with the power.

[SensationFG8]

I would question your commitment to the accelerator pedal if that's the case, I can spin my boss 290 up in 2nd. I don't think anyone has ever accused a Miami of having too much traction...

[Stefan]

What gadgets are missing Hulk? What does an equally valued car have that the FGX hasn't?

My "new" cars are always at least 5 years old, my only new car was a BF GT now seven years old but it was not exactly gadgety.

My Audi is 2007 also, no really flash gadgets either.

Blue tooth would be nice and I guess an FGX has that...

[hootar]

Originally Posted by arronm

Sure, but a stock XR8 wont do that. The GT 335 I drove wouldn't even do it in second. To put it bluntly I was unimpressed with the power.

Yep, Sounds like traction control worked fine for you. Maybe try turning it off next time and feel the Difference in power.

[HULK_I6T]

Originally Posted by Stefan

What gadgets are missing Hulk? What does an equally valued car have that the FGX hasn't?

My "new" cars are always at least 5 years old, my only new car was a BF GT now seven years old but it was not exactly gadgety.

My Audi is 2007 also, no really flash gadgets either.

Blue tooth would be nice and I guess an FGX has that...

Its not just the gadgets missing, it feels a generation old to drive/steer.

the vf commodore is based on the VE platform but they managed to make it feel like a completely different car. Different dash and all.

the fgx is essentially a fg in a different frock, fling in the GT motor from the parts bin under the hood and thats that. Other models only received an exterior styling tweak and thats it. (Moreso to introduce mustang)

[T-Pak Addict]

Typical Hulk... Cant think of the extra gadgets he wants in a Ford so then complains about its ride/handling....

[Falcon Coupe]

Originally Posted by HULK_I6T

Its not just the gadgets missing, it feels a generation old to drive/steer.

It's the vibe

[Itsme]

Originally Posted by HULK_I6T

Its not just the gadgets missing, it feels a generation old to drive/steer.

the vf commodore is based on the VE platform but they managed to make it feel like a completely different car. Different dash and all.

the fgx is essentially a fg in a different frock, fling in the GT motor from the parts bin under the hood and thats that. Other models only received an exterior styling tweak and thats it. (Moreso to introduce mustang)

Typical Hulk.
Arguing for the sake of arguing

[NX74205]

Originally Posted by HULK_I6T

Has the falcon always been behind on technology?

Not always, I think it used to represent great value for money as far as the gadget/price ratio is concerned. But they haven't kept up in that regard.

Originally Posted by Falcon Coupe

As part of the upgrades across the Falcon range, Ford has responded to feedback and added new customer-focused content:
 Emergency Assistance (all models)
 Front and rear parking sensors (all sedan models)
 Rear reversing camera (all sedan models)
 Rain-sensing wipers (G6E, XR series)
 SYNC2 with 8’’ integrated colour touch screen (all models)
 Voice control system developed in partnership with Nuance (all models)
 Digital Radio (DAB+) (all models)
 Dual antenna system (all models)
 Wi Fi hot spot (all models)
 New alloys (all models

• New front fascia featuring the Ford signature trapezoidal grille moved high up on the front end with chrome detailing on the outer bezel and bars (G6E)
• New headlamps
• Unique G6E fog lamp bezels
• Distinctive ‘laser-cut’ slim headlamps featuring technical graphics and finishes as well as unique signature lighting for G6E models
• All new rear fascia with split tail lamps featuring LED technology and new sculpted deck lid with integrated rear spoiler
• New 16-inch alloy wheels on Falcon as standard
• New 18-inch alloy wheels on Falcon G6E as standard
• New exterior colour: Fine Alloy option for G6E

Rear Camera with Overlays
A reversing camera is now standard on all Falcon sedans

Key contributors to the fuel efficiency improvements are aero gains and a new, lighter and more fuel efficient six-speed ZF automatic transmission, which has been adopted on I6 petrol models, including the EcoLPi.
Apart from the new aero pack, Australia’s ultimate entry Falcon sedan model also benefits from 16-inch Michelin low rolling-resistance tyres.
The aerodynamic pack from the Falcon EcoBoost has now been adopted across the entire Falcon sedan range, except XR8. New front and rear bumper designs also contribute to improved aerodynamic performance.
As well as the fuel efficiency improvements, the Falcon suspension has been harmonised across models, to provide the driver with a more connected, sportier driving experience without compromising ride comfort.
The Falcon gains a modified FG MkII G6 petrol suspension package and the Falcon EcoLPi gains the XR6 EcoLPi suspension package. Compared to the current entry Falcon FG MkII this means:
 Larger diameter front stabiliser bar, from 31 mm to 32 mm
 Retuned front and rear springs and dampers
 Front suspension geometry adjusted to complement new Michelin tyre

....

What exactly is it behind on...lack of push-rods?

All Falcon models are also fitted with an 8" colour touch screen, a traditional HMI button interface and voice control to access systems such as:
• Entertainment system controls
• Climate control settings
• Phone information
• Satellite navigation with Traffic Message Channel (standard G6E, XR8)^
SYNC2 offers multiple audio options including:
 Radio DAB+, FM, FMAS, AM & AMAS
 Audio files/music streaming from compatible smartphones via USB or Bluetooth®*
 Audio files from connected USB devices including memory sticks, flash drives, external self-powered hard drives
 SD card slot: Play and browse audio files from SD cards (note: SD slot in Titanium is used for Satellite Navigation software)
 CD/MP3/WMA: Play and browse the contents of an MP3/WMA CD or CD
 Auxiliary input: Play audio from a connected MP3/other audio devices
iPhone and iPod Integration
There is a fully integrated interface between the iPod unit and the vehicle’s audio system on all Falcon models.
It allows the user to control the iPod player through SYNC2, HMI buttons or steering wheel mounted buttons and through voice control.

I didn't know there was a Falcon Titanium ...

As for what it's missing? I can get these features on a Mondeo Titanium but not on the G6E:

Smart key entry
Keyless start
Remote start
Automatic folding wing mirrors
Blind spot monitor
Lane keeping assistance
Active City Stop
Auto up/down all windows
Cross traffic alert
Park assist
Adaptive cruise control
Panoramic sunroof
Heated seats front and rear
10-way power adjustable front passenger seat

Given the similarity in price, I see no reason why I should buy a G6E instead of a Mondeo Titanium. I think most buyers who isn't fussed about where the car is built will feel the same.

[Stefan]

Originally Posted by HULK_I6T

Its not just the gadgets missing, it feels a generation old to drive/steer.

the vf commodore is based on the VE platform but they managed to make it feel like a completely different car. Different dash and all.

the fgx is essentially a fg in a different frock, fling in the GT motor from the parts bin under the hood and thats that. Other models only received an exterior styling tweak and thats it. (Moreso to introduce mustang)

What? Your OP says FGX is "low on gadgets"..."behind on technology"?

Now it's the feel that is no good?

Thread fail on your last Friday thread for the year.

[T-Pak Addict]

Do we really really need all this stuff??
I mean back when I started driving a radio was an option....
We even had to unlock the door with a key, my god how did we ever cope!!!

[sico]

Originally Posted by T-Pak Addict

Do we really really need all this stuff??
I mean back when I started driving a radio was an option....
We even had to unlock the door with a key, my god how did we ever cope!!!

In this age of gadgetry most sheeple will go for the more feature packed car.

[arronm]

Originally Posted by T-Pak Addict

Typical Hulk... Cant think of the extra gadgets he wants in a Ford so then complains about its ride/handling....

Dont take his word for it, grab the latest WHEELS magazine and have a read.

[T-Pak Addict]

back in the 80's nothing handled, standard options were very few and most people were pretty happy with that, cars were simple, you could fix them yourselves.... No wonder the young lads have no interest in cars these days, they are far too complicated!

[blueoval]

The way I have always looked at it, the more gadgets there are, the that can go wrong. Some of the gadgets are useful, others are there to give you a fuzzy feeling inside and to brag to others what you have.

[arronm]

We dont live in the 80s and soon cars will drive them self.

Maybe we all should use typewriters, VHS, and watch black and white TV.

[LoudPipes]

Back in the 80’s phones were plugged into your home and most people were happy with that.

Now days I feel as though I’m the only person on the planet who can go out without taking my mobile with me.

As much as I don’t feel the need to be constantly connected to the world by carrying a media device everywhere and I do at times find them complicated, I do understand progression and advancement and how it takes on as the norm for most people.

Youngsters of today have a different world, they are tech savvy.

When I first became interested in cars it was mainly a choice between cars and sport, there was no gaming consoles, no video, no internet, no easy connection with the world, no 24 hours of multiple HD television stations, no a million and one things to occupy myself with as an alternative to cars.

Look how the internet and forums have changed the face of car culture compared to 30 years ago.

I don’t think cars have become far too complicated, I think people are either into them or they have a hive of other alternatives to focus their interest on.

And as far as not wanting the high tech user interaction and safety advancements that are taking over in cars these days, you are just showing your age.

And this is a comment from a fellow in his 70’s who drives an XY for fun.

[LoudPipes]

If anyone watched South Park in the last week the show was about the new Call of Duty – Advanced Warfare being released but none of the young kids wanted to play it.

They were all on Youtube watching someone commentate on some else playing it.

Times change and so do the generations, I’ve not seen a bunch of children on the side of a dirt street playing marbles in years.

[SensationFG8]

Originally Posted by arronm

Dont take his word for it, grab the latest WHEELS magazine and have a read.

Wheels is the only publication to not praise the Ford in that department... don't take my word for it though actually go drive one. No I don't believe for a second you have already, that's based purely on your claim you couldn't spin it up in 2nd.

[arronm]

Meh.....

[arronm]

Drove one. Wasn't impressed. After all the hype I was waiting for this big power hit. Didn't come. That's my opinion

[Silver Ghia]

Originally Posted by arronm

We dont live in the 80s and soon cars will drive them self.

Maybe we all should use typewriters, VHS, and watch black and white TV.

That's why in 5 years time or more, with advancement in vehicle technology and gadgets, anything more that Ford may have equipped the FG X with, will be completely outdated therefore irrelevant and unnecessary (if they are still working).

Therefore I'm sure many owners will rather have it without, as the FG X, especially the XR8, will be a keeper for them.

[SensationFG8]

I still dispute the legitimacy of your claim, your experience of being unable to spin the wheels in 2nd gear does not line up with that of anyone else on this forum. That is my opinion, fairly sure most other Miami owners would say the same about your "experience".

[T-Pak Addict]

Originally Posted by arronm

Drove one. Wasn't impressed. After all the hype I was waiting for this big power hit. Didn't come. That's my opinion

That's not how a supercharger works..... That's how a Turbo works

[Silver Ghia]

Originally Posted by SensationFG8

I still dispute the legitimacy of your claim, your experience of being unable to spin the wheels in 2nd gear does not line up with that of anyone else on this forum. That is my opinion, fairly sure most other Miami owners would say the same about you "experience".

I think he's complaining he didnt get the F6 like turbo surge.

[SensationFG8]

Perhaps, I'm pretty sure he hasn't driven one, there is too much in what he says that is not close to the real world.

[NX74205]

Originally Posted by T-Pak Addict

back in the 80's

It's not the 1980s anymore. Technology advances at an exponential rate. Some people don't feel the need to keep up, and that's fine, but just because you don't doesn't mean nobody else does.

[T-Pak Addict]

Yeah guess there is nothing like boosting mid corner on a nice hills run.... No thanks
Rather know its on boost the whole time....