Faults:

This Italian SUV needed an engine rebuild at 140,000. Other than that, everything has worked properly.

It has proven to be an extremely reliable, rock solid vehicle.

General Comments:

The Laforza has turned out to be a true Italian tank. It goes through any snow, and I do mean any. No other 4x4 has been able to compare with its snow/ice abilities. I've had to pull my friends with new Dodge, Ford, Chevy and Range Rovers out of snow banks in the past.

Additionally, the shear bulk of the Laforza on the road is evident when cruising. People do move out of the way when they see it coming down the road in their mirrors. Which is a good thing, since it was the only vehicle to break through the crash test barrier during DOT approval.

Laforzas are without a doubt one of the best kept SUV secrets in the U.S.. Some ended up landing in the hands of people who simply didn't understand what they were or how to care for them. Those are the ones that are either abandoned or running around in poor condition. Thankfully, many other Laforzas ended up as part of ultra exclusive auto collections. These Laforzas only come out in the winter or tow their stablemates to shows, races, etc.. Given that these SUVs are in good homes, they will be around for a long time to come.

Bottom line, if you're looking for a Laforza, look for one that's been well cared for, as restoring a neglected one could cost a fortune.

Faults:

Like most Italian cars the electrical wasn't the most reliable. This was cured by an electrical upgrade from Mark at LaforzaMZ.

Had the AC recharged.

Replaced the original tape deck with a CD unit, new speakers & sub-woofer.

Otherwise, just oil changes. The engine is a Ford V8 5.0 and under 100,000 is pretty much bullet-proof.

General Comments:

The car is SOLID! Built like a tank yet has a remarkable turning radius. You can turn around on a street without doing a three point turn. The steering is surprisingly good.

It is not under powered by any means, but it isn't a race car. For a vehicle that weighs 5,000 pounds it handles quiet well, just don't expect to beat anyone at a red light!

WONDERFUL interior which is comfortable and ahead of its time - looks brand new (2005). Exterior is unique and gets plenty of attention.

Faults:

Bad electricals, as with all Laforza's or Italian cars for that matter. Repaired with an electrical upgrade.

When I first got the car, it acted up in certain areas, due to lack of use. It's fine now.

Temperature gauge reads hot, yet the temperature is fine. I got a lower thermostat anyway because the stock thermostat was 195 degrees, which is iffy. I got a 180 degree thermostat installed.

General Comments:

The car accelerates as maybe a Bronco of the same year would (same 5.0 Ford V-8). It has a premium exhaust, which helps.

I hear superchargers help the performance of these SUV's in a big way.

Comfortable seats with Italian leather.

Gets a lot of attention. It may sound shallow, but I do enjoy that.

I have had no road rage challenges in this car, due to size I'm guessing.

Bad gas mileage (10/16) is a trade-off I'm willing to take for now, but it may start to wear on me.

Nice design that was copied by later Land Rover, Range Rovers; it's a fact (check out the rear of an 89 Laforza, then a 96 Range Rover). Yes, Land Rover triumphed, due to establishment. They're basically Fords now, too.