AUII Ford Falcon Ute Pursuing Success

Thursday, 10 May 2001, 4:06 pm
Press Release: Ford New Zealand

Following the launch of the highly successful limited edition 'Pursuit,' Ford New Zealand will now offer the choice of a V8 200kW powertrain, or a 4.0-litre VCT-equipped in-line six-cylinder power plant, in all new AUII XR series utes.

"The reaction to the Pursuit was absolutely stunning, with the production run being sold almost overnight," said Light Truck Brand Manager, Jane Winterman.

"As a result, we've decided to make the enhanced powertrains standard."

Since its launch in 1999, sales for the AU ute have been nothing but outstanding.

"The number of AUII utes that we sold last year was an increase of almost 110% over the 1999 figure. We achieved market leadership of the segment by 437 units," she said.

Power and torque figures of both engine derivatives in the new AUII ute also make for impressive reading.

The sequentially injected 5.0-litre V-8 produces 200kW of power at 5000rpm and 420Nm of torque at 3750rpm, and the VCT engine produces 172kW at 5000rpm, and 374Nm at 3500rpm.
All XR utes are fitted with AUII sedan-style 17" alloy wheels, and road hugging P235/45 ZR17 tyres.
Standard features on the 200kW XR8 and VCT XR6 utes include air conditioning, drivers' airbag, power windows, cruise control and an AM/FM sound system with an in-dash six-stack CD player. Factory-fitted options include passenger airbag, leather seats and a Momo sports steering wheel and gearshift.

The recommended retail price for the 200kw XR8 ute will be $46,500 and the XR6 VCT $41,500.

Ends

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