2009 FPV GS Sedan And GS Ute Released

FORD PERFORMANCE VEHICLES HAS TODAY launched an all-new GS Sedan and GS Ute, reinventing a badge that goes back 30 years to the XW GS of 1969.

Like that earlier GS, the new limited-edition model is to provide a lower entry-point into FPV's performance stable.

At $54,950 (plus on-roads) for the Sedan, and $49,950 (plus) for the Ute, the GS variants sit between Ford's XR range and FPV's GT and F6. Importantly, that pricing puts both the GS Sedan and Ute under the bar for the Luxury Car Tax.

"We aimed to provide the GS Series owner with a GT driving experience with this engine. AT 302kW, it's the perfect entry to our range, which steps up to the turbocharged F6 at 310kW and the full GT-spec V8 at 315kW," FPV General Manager Rod Barrett said.

The GT-based  302kW V8 under the bonnet runs the twin-throttle bodies and intake system of the GT, but with a recalibrated ECU taking the top-edge off the power output but matching the GT's 551Nm of torque.

While 30 years ago the XW GS could be had with the standard 'six', on those specs the new GS will be no slouch. As Paul Cook, FPV Programs Manager said at the launch, "We took the entire GT drivetrain... and created a unique power curve for the GS. The new car gets the same hardware as the GT."

Featuring GS graphics, FPV chassis enhancements and interior updates, and sitting on 19-inch rims (Graphite for the Sedan, Alpine Silver for the Ute), there is a hefty dollop of 'bang for the dollar' value loaded into the GS.

With understated lines and well-kitted interior, the sharp pricing and raw specs of the GS stack up well against its European performance rivals. (A drive will tell the tale; watch for TMR's road test shortly.)

With just 250 Sedans and 75 Utes to be released, buyers may need to be quick off the mark - the performance car market, especially for local brands, has held up well in the current downturn.

The 5.4 litre V8, producing its 302kW @ 6000rpm and 551Nm @ 4750, and driving through the standard six-speed manual, runs a GT-spec exhaust system and sits on a GT-spec suspension set-up.

The GS also offers a premium sound system, Bluetooth compatibility, iPod connectivity, GT instrumentation, starter button and dual-zone climate control as standard features.

"Today, the original GS is the second most-collectible vehicle after the GT," FPV's Dave Harding said.

FPV will be hoping that the new limited edition GS excites buyers in the same way. It would appear to have the right car at the right price. "People are still out there to buy fast Fords. There is always going to be a market for FPVs," Rod Barrett said.