2015 FG X Ford Falcon six-cylinder vs EcoBoost

A lot of car for not much money. A base model Falcon is cheaper than it was in 2002. But resale value after three years is just 27 per cent. All models get front and rear sensors, Wi-Fi hotspot, digital radio and Bluetooth with audio streaming. Warranty is only average at 3 years/100,000km, service intervals are 15,000km and capped servicing in the first three years costs $985, which is pretty cheap. Costs more to run than the four-cylinder, though.

Costs the same as the six-cyilnder, which at first seems a little odd. Most rivals, including Toyota and Holden, charge a premium for a model with a bigger engine, but their smaller engines are noticeably less powerful. You don't feel short-changed with the turbocharged four. And the four's resale is slightly better at 31 per cent. It also costs $80 less to service over four years, while the difference in fuel use varies from $180 a year (at $1.20/litre) to $225 (at $1.50).

The significant changes for the FG X upgrade give the Falcon a clean and modern look and the now-standard alloy wheels for the base Falcon are an improvement over the steel wheels with covers of the past. Interior still looks dated and plain. A key Falcon virtue is space - loads of head and legroom for all and a big boot.

The interior may be dated, but it does at least look neat and tidy. The multimedia controls and menus are easy to use as well. The only way you can pick this model from the standard six is by spotting the EcoBoost badge, or popping the bonnet.

A lot walked away from Falcon because the six-cylinder was a gas guzzler. It has now further improved the economy, with fuel use dropping 9 per cent to 9.0L/100km, which is impressive for such a large engine (4.0-litres) that produces 195kW and 391Nm. A new lighter six-speed ZF gearbox with a smarter torque converter helps, along with low-resistance tyres and aero improvements.

While the six is grandpa's axe, the turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol four-cylinder is thoroughly modern. Despite being half the capacity of the six, it makes a healthy 176kW and 353Nm. It has an official fuel economy figure of 8.0L/100km, giving it a 1.0L/100km advantage.

Six airbags, stability control, reversing camera and a five-star crash safety rating are standard. The car will also automatically call 000 if it senses a serious accident. Advanced safety features such as lane departure warning, collision avoidance and blind spot warning are not available on any Falcons.

No difference here.

The six-cylinder feels effortless on the freeway, making light work of overtaking. It has loads of torque and the six-speed auto barely has to work, shifting quickly and smoothly. Steep hills don't bother it and down-changes are rare. And for family buyers, the six has the advantage of being able to tow 2300kg to the EcoBoost's 1600kg.

Both Falcons ride and steer well, and there's little discernible difference between the two in the corners, despite the EcoBoost being a little lighter. The idea of a four-cylinder Falcon can take a bit to get your head around, but the EcoBoost is certainly not slow. In fact our own acceleration tests couldn't split the pair. The four also has a nice rorty note under heavy acceleration. It does well in most circumstances, but is not as strong up hills as the six and has to work a little harder.