Ford F6X 2008 Overview
Ford Performance Vehicles (FPV) has turned the already fast Ford Territory Turbo into something amazing: the F6X.
While Ford plans to upgrade the Territory Turbo to make it stand out among the new Falcon sedans, the F6X already has the ability to set it apart.
Its four-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine produces 270kW and 550Nm of torque, meaning the ZF FX6's smart six-speed automatic transmission has plenty of power to get the job done.
Power is up by 35kW over the Territory Turbo, and an extra 70Nm of torque is also offered, with a full 550Nm available from 2000 to 4250rpm.
DRIVING
Suburban pace is easy to maintain without crashing the turbo-six into the redline, resulting in a smooth and quiet ride.
But the temptation to crack the firewall is hard to resist; yielding, the F6X happily pushes forward, nose up and deliberately sniffing the air.
This is followed by a kickdown from the gearbox, accompanied by significant traction that does not need to be softened for cornering.
The F6X sits fairly flat for a tall SUV and, despite the compromise tires (it sits on 18-inch alloy wheels with Goodyear Fortera 235/55 tires), manages to handle corners quickly. To the point. In the end, physics still wins out, but the FPV F6X can be overclocked at incredible speeds.
In fact, a Beemer X5 V8, a modified AMG M-Class Benz, or a supercharged Range Rover Sport V8—all costing at least $40,000 more—would be the only SUVs that could keep it in the eye.
The nose of the F6X points into the turn with amazing precision and feel. There are more than a few sedans that could take a leaf out of this SUV's book when it comes to handling.
The suspension has been upgraded to improve performance, but the already finished Territory chassis was a good starting point.
Revised dampers were installed, and revised spring rates—10 percent stiffer than the Territory Turbo—improved handling without sacrificing ride quality.
That's where the F6X makes up a significant part of European hot rods, with a ride quality based on Ford's local knowledge and experience in striking the right balance between ride and handling.
The brakes do a good job of holding back the F6X's performance. Up front are larger discs with six-piston Brembo calipers.
FPV also says stability control has been reprogrammed with manufacturer Bosch to provide sportier driving before the system intervenes.
The official ADR fuel consumption figure is 14.9 liters per 100 km, but it doesn't take too long to push that figure up to 20 liters per 100 km. Smarter driving will push that figure back into adolescence.
Based on the Territory Turbo Ghia, the F6X is feature-packed, though the thick side stripes may not be to everyone's liking.
Adjustable pedals are a welcome feature, as is the wide-angle reversing camera paired with rear parking sensors.
A sound system with a six-disc CD player in the dash provides quality noise.
Safety features include ABS brakes and stability control, dual front airbags and side curtain airbags for both rows of seats.
The FPV version of Ford's Territory is a versatile package that can haul a family, tow a boat, and handle whatever twists and turns it encounters with dignity.
FPV F6X
Cost: $75,990 (five-seater)
Engine: 4 l / 6 cylinders turbocharged 270 kW / 550 Nm
Transmission: 6-speed automatic, four-wheel drive
Economy: Claimed 14.9 l/100 km, tested 20.5 l/100 km.
