Global platforms are the only way forward

[BENT_8]

Originally Posted by Carby

I wouldn't be so sure about that. The aerodynamics of a SUV suck - at high speed their aero efficiency is appalling using far more fuel than a nice strealined FG would, and I suppose it depends on how frequently they have to tow things if it's only occasionally then a RWD Falcon is more than adequate.

Besides, if Ford does stop making a RWD Falcon I can just see a number of Ford guys going to Holden - why wouldn't they? Many don't really care about the Holden/Ford thing - it's just whats "best" at the time, but when it's all said and done the Commodore and Falcon are so similar in size performance and other abilities, Ford would be handing the RWD market to Holden on a platter! It may be a smaller market - but you can be assured that the future generations of Commodores and Falcons (if they survive) will have far more efficient engines to keep them ecomomically viable.

A RWD Falcon cant pull 2500kg's! the Ranger will and i doubt anyone with enough money to own a new SUV and boat/caravan weighing 2500Kg+ wont be concerned with an extra 2c per Km because of aerodynamics, infact i doubt it would even be a deciding factor.
Add to this Fords attempt to push wagon buyers towards SUV's by leaving a Falcon wagon varient off the list meaning anyone who needs large load carrying capabilities will find the Falcon too restrictive.

Now dont take this the wrong way but i have to ask what rock you've been hiding under as most people recognise that Automotive manufacturers worldwide are on their knees including FoA.
There is not enough market share to justify continued investment in a vehicle which is only sold here and NZ.
Holden may continue with a smaller RWD vehicle such as the Torana concept thing, but then Holdens always sell, you dont have to be overly bright to want one, and they'll put their eggs in that basket confidently as they have done for years, remember the VB-VL days when they downsized from the large Kingswood platform. People said they were doomed, but they still sold plenty.