FORD'S AUII Falcon range includes a beefed-up XR8 designed to meet the challenge of the 5.7-litre Holden Commodore SS. The newcomer features more aggressive styling as well as uprated mechanicals. Under the bonnet lurks an enhanced 5.0-litre engine that generates 200kW - compared with 185kW previously. Complementing the souped-up powerplant are larger brakes and new 17-inch wheels shod with low-profile tyres that endow the XR8 with go-kart-like cornering capabilities.