Global platforms are the only way forward

[marcosambrose]

In light of this article:

http://www.drive.com.au/Editorial/Ar...rticleID=57745

And numerous other reports that the next Falcon will not be RWD, i think as hard as it may be to accept - the RWD Falcon is certainly coming to the end of the line.

Now i know certain die hard fans will be up in arms in 5 years time when we get FWD and AWD Taurus' at the dealerships, the pure economics of the current global situation means that special cars like the Australian designed and built Falcon are no longer sustainable.

In europe we see platform sharing virtually everywhere, from the PSA group (i.e Peugeot, Citroen) to Ford, to Fiat, and Audi/VW. Effectivly this trimming of one-off platforms like our Aussie Falcon/Territory means that our favourite car brands can continue on being profitable, although the thought of driving a FWD scares some people.

Just why that is im not too sure why, the latest developments in technology as seen in the new generation A4 and Focus RS indicate that FWD cars can effectivily be as secure and quick to drive as a RWD around a racetrack.

Throw the twin turbo V6 that we are getting in 2010 and the AWD system in the Taurus and you have a boat puller that in on par with any current RWD Falcon.

My point is: Relax, the sky isn't falling, just be cool with whats coming.. im sure it will be quality.