2010 FPV GS Ute
Ford Performance Vehicles recently confirmed the inclusion of the GS Ute and sedan as permanent additions to their boutique V8-engined range.
Named as a tribute to the much-loved Ford from the late 1960s, FPV's GS models were developed to entice Australia's automotive enthusiasts -- and entice they have, confirming the existence of a niche market hungry for more. The 2010 model release comes in response to the success of FPV's similarly-named limited edition models launched in August 2009.
The FPV GS Series Ute harks back to the original Falcon GS of 30 years ago, introduced with the XW-model of 1969 and now the second most collectible Ford Falcon behind the GT.
"GS is another iconic badge in Ford's family history in this country," FPV General Manager Rod Barrett said.
"Our aim was to develop a model that provides the performance, prestige and individuality that is a signature of the FPV brand, with its own identifiable model personality, and all at a great price.
"We've achieved all of that and expect the new GS Series models will find their own place in Australian performance motoring folklore."
FPV's GS Ute is specified to provide a combination of GT-based 302kW V8 engine performance, FPV chassis enhancements, bespoke GS graphics and FPV driver comfort features.
Impressively, the new 5.0 litre GS sedan and Ute eclipse the performance of FPV's previous range-topping 5.4 litre GT models!
The heart of the GS is FPV's all-new lightweight supercharged V8 engine, developed and hand-assembled locally, and which produces 315kW of power and 545Nm of torque.
FPV's first-ever supercharged engine, the all-new 2010 V8 is a sophisticated all-aluminium design with double overhead cams and a 32 valve configuration, and is fully EuroIV compliant.
"Last year's limited-edition GS simply reinforced what we suspected, that there is absolutely a market for an entry-level FPV model," FPV General Manager Rod Barrett said.
"The GS provides our customers with a more affordable entry into the range. It broadens the market for potential FPV purchasers, and at the same time delivers tremendous value.
"Perhaps the most exciting thing about our new GS is that while it matches the output of our previous Boss 5.4 litre V8, it actually smoothly outperforms it in every way.
"It's faster and it's more fuel efficient, but perhaps most importantly, the supercharged configuration provides a tremendous 'drive' … this is a fun car, and we think it's going to be enormously successful for us."
Picking up the limited-edition GS stripe graphics on the bottom of the doors, the 2010 version adds bonnet stripes and Boss 315 identification for a truly unique look.
Retained too are the five-spoke alloy wheels, now in silver finish rather than graphite, and FPV branding has been increased via badging on the steering wheel, instrument cluster and key fob, plus a new-design build badge.
Ten exterior colours are offered on the Ute, with three contrasting stripe colour options and a further three interior trim colours.
Like its namesake from three decades ago, the new FPV GS Series offers a list of appealing options, including a six-speed auto transmission recalibrated specifically for the GS's 302kW engine, which is offered at no additional cost.
Manufacturer's list price for the new FPV GS Ute is $51,990.
FALCON GS HISTORY
Launched over 30 years ago in July 1969 with the then-new XW Falcon range, the GS was an option pack available to dress up the base Falcon and higher-spec Futura models. It continued in the subsequent XY and XA models.
In its initial XW-model guise, the GS option pack added 'rally stripes' to the flanks of the bold new bodywork, chrome-finish full wheel covers, GT-spec instrumentation and three-spoke 'rim blow' sports steering wheel. Later GS packs included other options on the XY and XA models.
Many GS owners along the way also added further options to 'personalise' their cars like bucket seats, centre console, disc brakes, wider tyres, power steering and even the 302 ci Windsor V8.
Today, the GS is fondly remembered by enthusiasts for its mix of sporty good looks and luxury appointments, its rarity and its value as an alternative to the Falcon GT.
Specs - FPV GS Ute
EngineBoss 315 high-performance 5.0-litre supercharged DOHC 32V all-aluminium V8
Max. power 315 kW @ 5750 rpm
Max. torque 545 Nm @ 2000-5500 rpm
Transmission TR6060 6-speed manual
Suspension FPV Performance independent double-wishbone at front
Wheels FPV 19" x 8.0 alloy wheel with 245/35ZR19 Dunlop Sport Maxx tyre
Brakes High series (322 mm front rotor with 303 mm rear rotor)