Ford Falcon EcoBoost 2015 Review

There's a kid in every family that seems to get ignored. You know the one: bright and quiet, talented yet unseen in a brood of louder more athletic siblings. The Falcon EcoBoost is much the same.

In Ford's 13-strong Falcon sedan range it's the sporty XR variants that receive the most attention, while equally competent – albeit for their own reasons – models like the four-cylinder EcoBoost and gas-fired EcoLPi fall by the wayside.

Part of the reason is that Ford Australia does little to blow its own trumpet. I'd wager the majority of the car-buying public is unaware of the existence of the new FG X-series Falcon, let alone its four-cylinder line-up. But exist it does, and countering the preconceived notion that small-engine-plus-big-car-equals-no-good, the Falcon EcoBoost is a lithe, lively and lighter alternative to is six-cylinder brethren.

The main trouble with the four-cylinder variant, however, is that at $35,900 (plus ORCs) it is identically priced to equivalent models powered by the locally-sourced Barra 'six'. Of course it could be argued that the imported EcoBoost engine, with direct injection and variable geometry turbocharger, is technologically superior to the aging multi-point injected in-line six – and that it's around 10 per cent 'greener'. But it's also down on power and torque by roughly the same margin, giving the perception that the value equation does not stack up.

In isolation, though, the Falcon EcoBoost brims with merit. Weighing in at 1656kg (kerb), and with an output of 176kW and 353Nm, its performance isn't far off that of the 1723kg / 195kW / 391Nm six-cylinder. The abundance of low-down torque (from 2000rpm) gives the EcoBoost-powered model accessible acceleration in stop-start traffic, complemented by a linear mid-range and fizzing top-end for competent highway running.

It's here that the Falcon EcoBoost proves doubly worthy. Not only does it offer the drive and economy to benefit long-haul drivers, but a level of quiet refinement that is welcomed on the open road. With the smooth-shifting six-speed auto keeping engine speed below 1800rpm at 100km/h, there's very little driveline noise to speak of. Couple this with a slippery new body and the acoustic benefits of higher profile tyres (215/60R16) the quietude of the cabin is really quite remarkable.

In fact it's so quiet that the only real annoyance is the hiss of the HVAC fan. Ventilation is controlled by a single-zone climate control system, operable via the centre fascia or voice-activation button on the steering wheel. Like most in its price range the Falcon EcoBoost also offers cruise control, power windows and mirrors, remote central locking and a full-function trip computer, but also adds a digital radio (DAB+) receiver as part of the AM/FM/CD/USB/Bluetooth-equipped SYNC 2 infotainment system.

It's a shame, then, that the dashboard, centre stack, door skins, console and instrument panel appear – and feel – very plasticky. The whole lot is essentially carried-over from the previous FG-series Falcon; Ford's allocation of funds was clearly spent on changes to the sheetmetal and a handful of chassis tweaks.

Realistically, however, there was little that needed doing. Cabin accommodation is pragmatic with seating for five adults. The four outboard positions are supportive and comfortable – in that order – giving plenty to praise after hours at the wheel. Conversely, the high-set seat makes it difficult to obtain an ideal driving position.

Another quirk was that the boot lid is not offered with an internal handle for closing. It mightn't seem like a big deal, but when you're dressed in your Sunday bests, grabbing a wet and muddy boot lid isn't exactly ideal.

Assuming you don't plan on towing much (1600 v 2300kg, braked) there's really little other measureable gain to be had from buying the 'six'. Yes, the Falcon EcoBoost has its quirks and, no, it doesn't quite have the same machismo as its burly big brothers. But just like that kid we mentioned earlier is definitely worthy of a little more attention.

2015 Ford Falcon EcoBoost pricing and specifications:
Price: $35,900 (plus on-road costs)
Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol
Output: 176kW/353Nm
Transmission: Six-speed automatic
Fuel: 8.0L/100km (ADR Combined)
CO2: 189g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety Rating: Five-star (ANCAP)