We've discussed it before but it's a topic that normally stirs lots of emotions and comments.

Consistency in product and message is also a vital part of building brand image and equity, reputation and hopefully with that comes loyalty and patronage.

Looking at the market place and players, this is a rough list of what i can work out:

Mercedes Benz - AMG
BMW - M Sport
Audi - Audi Sport
Toyota - Lexus/TRD
Nissan - Infiniti/Nismo
Hyundai - N Brand

Now Ex locals:

Ford - Nothing. (elsewhere Ford Performance and formerly Locally Tickford, FPV etc etc)
Holden - HSV (formerly Walkinshaw, HDT)

However as it stands neither Ford or Holden have an active local Performance Brand.

Does Ford need to build a Performance identity again here?

We no longer race (except everywhere else it seems under Ford Performance), Ford themselves are morphing into the Light Truck/SUV company globally.

Is Fords image now one of a light commercial/SUV manufacturer and risks losing credibility with passenger consumers?

Has it already happened??

Is Mustang now such a strong stand alone brand that people no longer see it as a Ford?

Is the Ford Performance Brand a mix of Racing identity and aftermarket parts with less of a retail feel?