It's an odd decision. I have no doubt that the 2.0l engine will put out some power, the numbers being stated put it in the realms of Mitsi EVO and Subi STi. Those types of engine are impressive, however I just can't see them as practicle in a large car. Those types of engines are very highly strung, require heaps of servicing (5000kM service intervals usually) and plain don't offer the kind of effortless no fuss everyday driving experience the type of person who buys a Falcon expects. Fords 'green' engine choice has to be a diesel. A diesel will offer that kind of driving experience. Don't bag diesels. Modern diesels a bloody fantastic engines.
Great to see the IL6 keeps on, and I predict the majority of Falcons sold will have the IL6. The biggest purchaser of the Falcon 4 will be government and government agency fleet buyers. The fleet dept. buyers won't be the ones driving them. The people driving them will wish they had the 6. Reasale on 4cyl Falcons will be a disaster.
Hopefully the 4 cyl Falcon is an export strategy in which case it's success or otherwise in Australia is less relevent provided it works for the export markets. But then if were talking Europe then again diesel's the way to go. So still very confused by Fords direction here.
This also creates a headache for some of the authorities with their 'no turbo' laws for young drivers.
Whilst I am perplexed by Fords announcement, I hope it works. There's a lot riding on it including the jobs of some of my friends and family.
|