New Generation RWD Ford Falcon Arrives in Melbourne

For as long as General Motors has been bringing over Australian-built Holdens, and selling them as Pontiacs in North America, enthusiasts and insiders have long suggested the same to Ford for a rear wheel drive, large car. Ford of Australia’s rival to Pontiac’s new G8, the Falcon, has just been redesigned, and the new “FG” generation has just been shown at the Melbourne auto show.

Featuring a stiffer frame, more standard safety equipment, and a redesigned front suspension setup, the new Falcon should be competitive against its chief rival, the Holden Commodore. Ford opted to give the Falcon two different front end designs, depending on series name. “G” series cars feature a look that’s in sync with the Mondeo and the European Focus, while the “XR” series is more like the current model. Inside, the Falcon has been updated with improved materials and a flush, integrated HVAC and audio headunit for a more sophisticated look.


The FG generation Falcon is available with four different engines and a multitude of trim levels, ranging from comfortable family four-door to muscle sedan. Three of the four engines are 4.0-liter straight sixes, one of which is capable of running on LPG (propane). The standard engine is rated at 261 hp, but on XR models it is upgraded with a turbocharger and intercooler to 360 hp. The range-topping engine for the Falcon FG is a 5.4-liter “Boss 390” V8, making 388 hp. Performance-oriented models come equipped with a six-speed manual, while an optional six-speed ZF automatic is available. The base transmission is a five-speed auto.

As of now, Ford doesn’t have any plans to bring over a rear wheel drive sedan like the Falcon, however, as GM and Chrysler appear to be committed to RWD for their large sedans, Ford may opt to join them.