Ford Performance Vehicles F6 E

Originally launched as a concept vehicle at the Melbourne International Motor Show earlier this year, the F6 E is a luxury version of the hot F6. Powered by the high performance 4.0 litre turbo-charged DOHC 24 valve in-line six, the F6 E produces maximum power of 310kW at 5500 rpm and maximum torque of 565Nm across the range from 1950 to 5200 rpm.

The new F6 E features the ZF six-speed high-torque automatic transmission with sequential Sports Shift as standard and has a fuel economy figure of 12.1L/100km. The F6 E receives performance 355 x 32mm cross-drilled and ventilated front rotors with Brembo 6-piston calipers and 330 x 28mm cross-drilled and ventilated rear rotors with Brembo 4-piston caliper as standard.

Styling
"As opposed to the overtly sporty F6, the F6 E is more subtle, with striking chrome accents and a refined lip spoiler replacing the bright colours, and large rear wings found on the other models - the colour coding of the 'racoon-eyes' also helps the F6 E to keep a 'low profile'," says FPV General Manager Rod Barret. The upper radiator and lower bumper grille mesh are finished in black chrome, while the front driving lamps are highlighted with a high chrome bezel and complemented by full body coloured bumpers. The new FPV badge takes centre stage on both the front and rear of the vehicle and the new F6 E badge features on the rear and side panels. The 19-inch wheel design was custom matched to the F6 E's premium Brembo brake package and the 'shadow chrome' alloy finish completes an understated yet stylish exterior package.

Interior
Inside the cabin, the F6 E features luxury FPV seats in shadow leather with the F6 E logo embossed on the headrests. The interior environment of the F6 E is charcoal and receives a dark walnut woodgrain finish on the dashboard as well as the doors. The interior is packed with features to ensure a premium driving experience, including a sports leather steering wheel with cruise control and audio mounted switches, dual zone temperature control air conditioning, front and rear power windows, and memory adjustable pedals with alloy pedal controls.

Sports performance maintains ride comfort
"The F6 E gives increased response to the accelerator pedal throughout the rev range, but also provides around town driveability due to better access to torque," FPV Head of Powertrain Engineering Bernie Quinn said.

The automatic transmission has a cylinder cut feature during wide open throttle gear changes, which shortens the 'torque off, torque-back-on' time between gear changes, enhancing the wide open throttle performance feel.
"The result is a vehicle with outstanding performance, better engine response and fuel efficiency, and improved operating performance under all conditions.

Safety
The F6 E is equipped with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and side curtain airbags, both of which are now standard across the entire FPV range. In addition, the F6 E also features a reverse parking camera and reverse sensing system as standard. Other safety features include Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), and 4-channel Anti lock Braking System (ABS), driver and passenger airbags and Beltminder technology for both the driver and passenger. The F6 E is protected by a remote alarm and FPV's ID Datadot identification.

The F6 E is priced at $79,740.

Source: JUST CARS, October 2009, Collectors Issue #164