The Ford Falcon is one of the most important vehicles in Australian history. Produced locally from 1960 until the closure of Ford Australia’s manufacturing plant in 2016, the Falcon evolved from a simple family sedan into one of Australia’s most respected performance and fleet vehicles.

Ford Falcon Generations

First generation:

XP
Second generation:

XT’

XY
Third generation:

XC
Fourth generation:

XF
Fifth generation:

EL
Sixth generation:

AU (1998–2002)
Seventh generation:

BF (2005–2008)
Eighth generation:

FG-X (2014–2016)

Each generation reflected changing Australian tastes, engineering advancements, and competition.

XK–XP Falcon (1960–1966)

The Beginning of the Falcon Story

The XK Falcon launched in 1960 as Ford Australia’s answer to Holden’s dominance. Initially based heavily on the US Falcon, early models struggled with durability on Australian roads.

Ford responded by improving suspension and structural strength, resulting in the XP Falcon, which became known for proving Falcon reliability after extensive durability testing.

Key highlights:

First Australian Falcon
Inline six-cylinder engines
Sedan and wagon variants
XP introduced major durability improvements

These early Falcons established the nameplate but were still developing their Australian identity.

XR–XY Falcon (1966–1972)

The Falcon Becomes a True Australian Car

The XR Falcon marked a major turning point. It introduced a more muscular design and the first V8 engine option in an Australian Falcon.

This era also saw the birth of Falcon performance credentials through motorsport success.

Key developments:

First Falcon V8 models
Introduction of GT performance variants
Strong Bathurst racing success
More Australian-specific engineering

The XY Falcon GT-HO Phase III remains one of the most famous Australian muscle cars ever produced.

XA–XC Falcon (1972–1979)

Full Australian Design Independence

The XA Falcon became the first fully Australian designed Falcon rather than an adaptation of an American model.

This generation introduced coupe variants and continued Falcon’s motorsport success.

Key highlights:

First fully Australian designed Falcon
Hardtop coupe models
Continued GT performance models
Improved ride comfort

The Falcon was now firmly established as a uniquely Australian vehicle.

XD–XF Falcon (1979–1988)

The Fleet and Taxi Favourite

The XD through XF Falcons became extremely popular with taxi operators, government fleets, and families due to durability and simple engineering.

This period focused more on practicality than performance.

Key developments:

Boxy European influenced styling
Carburetted and later fuel injected engines
Strong reputation for durability
Widespread commercial use

The XF became one of the best selling Falcons ever produced.

EA–EL Falcon (1988–1998)

Modernisation of the Falcon

The EA Falcon introduced a completely new platform and modern aerodynamic styling.

This era introduced more advanced electronics and safety improvements.

Key highlights:

All new platform
Fuel injection standard
Improved safety features
Introduction of luxury Fairmont and Fairlane variants
EL Falcon refined the platform significantly

While early EA models had reliability issues, later models improved significantly.

AU Falcon (1998–2002)

The Controversial Falcon

The AU Falcon is perhaps the most controversial Falcon ever produced due to its distinctive “New Edge” styling.

While the styling divided opinion, the AU introduced major mechanical improvements and strong reliability.

Key developments:

New Edge design language
Improved chassis rigidity
Introduction of VCT (Variable Cam Timing)
Strong fleet sales

Today the AU Falcon has developed a cult following due to its durability and affordability.

BA–BF Falcon (2002–2008)

The Birth of the Modern Falcon

The BA Falcon represented one of the biggest leaps forward in Falcon history with a completely new platform and the introduction of the Barra engine family.

Key highlights:

All new platform
Introduction of Barra inline six engines
Independent rear suspension
Major interior improvements
Introduction of six speed transmissions (BF update)

The BA/BF era is widely considered the beginning of the “modern Falcon”.

FG–FGX Falcon (2008–2016)

The Final Generation

The FG Falcon refined the BA/BF platform with major suspension, drivetrain, and technology improvements.

The FG-X became the final Falcon produced in Australia.

Key developments:

Updated Barra engines
Improved chassis tuning
Updated interiors and technology
Final XR and FPV performance models
End of Australian production in 2016

The final Falcon rolled off the Broadmeadows production line on October 7, 2016, marking the end of an era.

Major Falcon Model Variants

Throughout its life, Falcon was offered in many variants including:

Falcon – Base model
Futura – Mid range (earlier models)
Fairmont – Luxury trim
Fairmont Ghia – Premium luxury
XR6 – Sports model
XR8 – V8 performance model
G6 / G6E – Later luxury models
FPV models – High performance variants
Ute – Utility variant
Wagon – Family variant

Why the Falcon Was So Popular in Australia

Several factors contributed to Falcon’s success:

Designed for Australian conditions
Strong and simple engines
Affordable parts
Easy servicing
Comfortable long distance driving
Strong performance heritage
Fleet adoption boosting reputation

Falcon became especially known for durability, with many examples exceeding 300,000 km.

The End of Falcon Production

Ford announced the end of Australian manufacturing in 2013 due to:

Declining large sedan sales
Shift toward SUVs
High local production costs
Global manufacturing consolidation

Production officially ended in 2016.

Despite this, Falcons remain extremely popular in the used car market and enthusiast community.

Falcon Legacy Today

The Falcon remains significant because:

It represents Australian manufacturing history
The Barra engine is highly respected globally
XR and FPV models remain desirable
Many remain affordable enthusiast cars
Strong aftermarket support exists

Values of some performance models have begun increasing as interest in Australian built cars grows.

Which Falcon Models Are Most Sought After Today?

Generally desirable models include:

XR6 Turbo models
XR8 models
FPV variants
Late FGX XR models
Limited editions
Well maintained BA–FG cars

However, even base Falcons remain popular as reliable daily drivers.

Conclusion

The Ford Falcon played a central role in Australia for over 55 years. From basic family transport to high performance turbocharged sedans, the Falcon adapted to changing markets while maintaining its identity as a practical, durable Australian car.