The Final Evolution
By 2008, the Falcon nameplate had already carved out more than half a century of Australian motoring history. The BF had done a solid job refining the early‑ and mid‑2000s formula with better reliability, sharper handling, and a more polished ride — but Ford Australia knew the Falcon’s final chapter needed something bolder.
Enter the FG. This was the ultimate evolution of the rear‑wheel‑drive Falcon: a ground‑up modernisation with fresh styling, smarter engine tech, major safety gains, and a cabin packed with 21st‑century features. The FG didn’t just update the Falcon — it reset the benchmark, proving that Australia’s homegrown hero could finish its story with real style, performance, and sophistication.
Design and Styling Comparison
Exterior Design
BF Falcon styling included:
- Subtle mid-2000s updates over the BA Falcon
- Balanced, conservative styling
- Distinct XR6/XR8 trims
FG Falcon introduced:
- Completely refreshed exterior with sharper, modern lines
- Redesigned front bumper, headlights, and grille for a more aggressive look
- Sleeker rear styling with integrated tail lights
- Optional sports and luxury trim packages
- Aerodynamic enhancements improving fuel efficiency and high-speed stability
The FG looked modern, bold, and contemporary, representing a clear evolution over the BF without losing Falcon’s traditional presence.
Interior Design
BF interior highlights included:
- Redesigned dashboard with improved ergonomics
- Comfortable seats
- Modern materials and technology for early 2000s
FG interior improvements included:
- Completely revamped dashboard with modern controls and displays
- Redesigned seats with superior support and comfort
- Updated infotainment systems, climate control, and safety features
- Enhanced materials for a more premium feel
- Greater focus on driver ergonomics and usability
The FG interior felt significantly more modern, comfortable, and technologically advanced than the BF.
Platform and Engineering Changes
The FG Falcon retained the underlying BF platform but incorporated major updates:
Chassis and suspension:
- Suspension revised for better ride comfort and cornering
- Improved independent rear suspension tuning for sedans
- Enhanced steering precision and overall handling balance
Brakes and safety:
- Disc brakes standard with ABS and traction control
- Advanced safety features including optional stability control
- Stronger chassis structure for improved occupant protection
Performance engineering:
- Updated Barra inline-six and modular V8 engines with improved power and efficiency
- Refined transmission and driveline for smoother acceleration and reliability
- Optimized suspension for high-speed stability and everyday comfort
The FG offered a modern, capable, and refined driving experience while remaining true to Falcon’s performance-oriented roots.
Engine and Drivetrain Comparison
Engine Options
BF Falcon engines:
Six-cylinder:
- 4.0L Barra inline six
- XR6 High Output variant
V8:
- 5.4L Modular V8 (XR8)
FG Falcon engines:
Six-cylinder:
- Updated 4.0L Barra inline six, improved for efficiency and smooth delivery
- XR6 Turbo variant introduced later for significantly enhanced performance
V8:
- 5.4L Modular V8 with improved power output and drivability
- Optional manual and automatic transmissions refined for smooth operation
The FG engines were modernized for improved efficiency, smoother power delivery, and enhanced performance, especially for turbocharged variants.
Transmission Options
FG offered:
- 5-speed manual and 6-speed automatic on later models
- Improved gearbox calibration for smoother shifts
- Enhanced driveline reliability and responsiveness
Performance Comparison
The FG provided:
- Refined ride with improved handling and braking
- More precise steering and cornering stability
- XR6/XR8 and XR6 Turbo performance variants significantly more capable
- Better highway stability and daily driving comfort
Compared to the BF, the FG felt more modern, powerful, and confident in both performance and everyday usability.
Model Range Comparison
BF Falcon range:
- Sedan, Wagon, Utility
- Fairmont luxury variant
- XR6 and XR8 performance variants
FG Falcon range:
- Sedan, Utility
- Fairmont and G6 luxury variants with modern features
- XR6, XR6 Turbo, and XR8 performance variants with updated engines and handling
- Optional technology and convenience packages
- Limited special editions and performance-focused models
The FG expanded comfort, technology, and performance options, creating the ultimate expression of the Falcon nameplate.
Technology and Features
BF features included:
- Mid-2000s interior and comfort features
- Air conditioning, power windows, mirrors
- Independent rear suspension on sedans
FG improvements included:
- Modern interior with premium materials
- Redesigned infotainment, climate control, and instrumentation
- Enhanced suspension and handling refinements
- Advanced safety systems including stability control, side airbags, and improved crash protection
- Optional turbocharged XR6 variant for high-performance enthusiasts
The FG emphasized comfort, technology, and safety while retaining the performance Falcon DNA.
Driving Experience
BF Falcon
Strengths:
- Smooth ride and comfortable cabin
- XR6/XR8 performance capable
- Balanced handling and reliability
Weaknesses:
- Styling slightly dated by late 2000s standards
- Interior technology limited compared to FG
FG Falcon
Improvements:
- Modern, comfortable, and technologically advanced cabin
- Enhanced handling, braking, and steering precision
- XR6 Turbo and XR8 variants deliver significantly improved performance
- Smoother and more refined ride for daily and spirited driving
The FG delivered a fully modern driving experience while preserving Falcon’s performance character. The FG Falcon offered more powerful, more responsive and more refined versions of the same engines as the BF Falcon
Reliability and Common Problems
BF Falcon
- Reliable but older engines and transmissions require regular maintenance
- Suspension and drivetrain components may need attention in high-mileage vehicles
- XR6/XR8 variants require routine care
FG Falcon
- Modernized engines and driveline improve long-term reliability
- Turbocharged XR6 variants require careful maintenance
- Advanced safety systems reduce repair concerns from minor accidents
- Overall more dependable than BF when properly maintained
Ownership Costs Today
Purchase Price:
- BF: Standard models moderately priced; XR6/XR8 collectible
- FG: Standard models slightly higher; XR6 Turbo and XR8 variants highly sought after
Parts Availability:
- Good support for both generations
- Turbo and V8 performance parts more expensive for FG
Running Costs:
- Standard models similar between generations
- Performance variants (XR6 Turbo/XR8) cost more to maintain
Collector and Enthusiast Value
BF Falcon:
- Reliable mid-2000s Falcon with XR6/XR8 performance
- Refined interior and comfortable ride
- Practical collectible
FG Falcon:
- Final generation Falcon with modern styling, technology, and performance
- XR6 Turbo and XR8 variants highly desirable
- Advanced safety and comfort features make it a standout
- Collector’s choice as the end of Falcon production
Choose BF if:
- You want a refined mid-2000s Falcon with simpler technology
- You prefer a classic naturally aspirated XR6/XR8
- You are on the market for a quality ‘B series’ Falcon
Choose FG if:
- You want the final, most modern Falcon with advanced technology
- You value turbocharged performance and updated safety
- You want a highly collectible end-of-era Falcon
Verdict – Which Is Better?
The BF represented a refinement of the early- and mid-2000s Falcon, balancing comfort, performance, and reliability. The FG modernized the Falcon with sharper styling, advanced engines, enhanced technology, and improved safety — delivering the ultimate expression of the rear-wheel-drive Falcon.
BF Falcon: Mid-2000s refinement, reliable, comfortable, performance-capable XR6/XR8.
FG Falcon: Final-generation more modern Falcon, advanced technology, XR6 Turbo/XR8 performance, highly collectible. For collectors, the BF is valued for reliability and classic mid-2000s appeal, while the FG is prized as the last Falcon, combining modern performance, technology, and comfort. Together, they represent the evolution and culmination of Australia’s rear-wheel-drive icon