I see where you're coming from Brute6. I was a bit pissed that Ute buyers have to pay extra for more than a few things.
1. 18" Alloys
The only reasons I see the sedan has 18"s is to lift its game a bit against the SS and to provide a little bit more over the Turbo for the price. Ford aren't going to just throw them in on the Utes, especially if Holden doesn't. I see a lot of XR8/6T Utes with 18"s and just as many without. Personally I probably would have had them if they were standard but, like davway, would have found them a killer come tyre time. As it is I've gotten over 30k out of my 17"s and will probably change at 35k. As for 18"s, tyre wear has been mixed across the FF crew with some sets being pretty much screwed by 20k. I personally wouldn't be too happy paying twice as much for tyres replaced in half the time. Lack of traction control doesn't help (see point 7). Load-lugging is another issue as well.
2. Passenger Airbag
Funny one this. I too was pissed at having to pay an extra 500bucks for this, especially since it's standard on the SS. I can see that Ford are giving owner's the option of carrying a baby in the passenger seat, and why not, If I had a toddler I'd be proud to have them in the Ute. There's no shortage of space in the back for prams, folding cots, nappy bags, stuffed toys as well as a small menagerie of pets. At least some of the F trucks have a switchable airbag like outback_ute mentioned. Great idea but not one Ford Aus is going to throw money at just for the Utes.
3. Second Keyfob
This was bloody stupidity with the BA, fortunately it's standard now on MKII. I couldn't believe this one and had my dealer throw it in. As it was they had forgotten come delivery (even though it was on the order sheet) and I wouldn't sign until I got it.
4. CD Stacker
This is standard now in both the XR8 Sedan and has been standard on the VY SS Ute from the start. 600bucks extra in the Ute is a real bugger.
5. Locking Fuel Door
No can do, and even if you want a locking cap aftermarket from Supercheap or Autobarn you can only get them on order.
6. Side Airbags
No can do. It could be argued that the Ute is stronger against a side impact but it's the impact of one's head against the B-pillar or side glass that's the killer here. Probably something to do with the fold-forward seats.
7. Traction Control
No can do. Now on the HSV Z Maloo this may lift everyone's game. Personally I'm not a fan and am glad it's "permanently off" in the Ute. Driving a powerful Ute in the wet does require incredible discretion and self-control and TC would be good where these traits are in short supply.
There's plenty of other minor things I've left out here. You have to remember though that the XR8 Utes are roughly 10k cheaper than their sedan counterparts. Also the Ford vs Holden Ute segment is a warzone in itself and affordability is king. Corners get cut to keep things that way.
I am still very happy that I was able to get a Boss Ute with 260kw for little over 40k on the road and nicely optioned too. Not to mention only having to pay half the duty at purchase time (2.5% for commercial vehicles vs 5% for sedans). As it is also registered in a rural area the Vic Rego is almost $100 cheaper than a locally registered sedan and $200 cheaper than a metro registered sedan.
For all my whinging I still have to admit, seems like the lucky country alright.
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