Best Large Car

Ford has brought Falcon back to class supremacy with its new FG range, thanks to a sustained approach to product development.

Included is a new body structure with revised door openings for better access, new suspension and steering for improved ride and handling, gains in performance and fuel economy, and a class-leading safety package.

Healthy power and torque output continue to enhance the car’s naturally relaxed manner and on-road competence, while pulling power and rear-wheel-drive make its towing ability unsurpassed in this class.

The now-standard five speed auto in combination with the engine improvements is part of a concerted attack on its Achilles heel, fuel consumption.

While official figures show a modest 0.2 litre/100 km improvement, road testing has revealed a much better story, with Falcon XT delivering an ability to float along at speed and more consistently return figures below 11.0 litres/100 km.

Already noted as a fine riding car, Falcon has newly found cornering poise and accuracy that belies its size, courtesy of suspension and steering improvements.

Cabin dimensions and comfort are strong points.

As a family vehicle, Falcon also has the back seat width to accommodate three adults shoulder to shoulder – although with some compromise in the centre for the transmission tunnel – or the ability to fit three child seats side by side.

The Ford’s dash layout and presentation at the wheel is among the best anywhere.

Importantly, the FG Falcon sedan range is the first locally built car to achieve a five-star crash rating.

Servicing and maintenance costs remain a strong point.

2nd: Toyota Aurion AT-X, 4-door

3rd: Honda Accord V6, 4-door