The FG Falcon represented a major evolution of Ford Australia’s long-running Falcon platform. Released in 2008 as the successor to the BF Falcon, the FG brought major improvements in refinement, safety, technology, and driving dynamics while continuing to develop the highly respected Barra engine platform.

Today, the FG Falcon is widely regarded as one of the best value modern Australian cars, offering strong performance, good reliability, and comfortable long-distance driving ability.

FG Falcon Overview

Production years: 2008–2014
Platform: Updated BA/BF architecture
Body styles:

• Sedan
• Ute (FG Utility range)

(Note: Wagon production ended with BF)

Major improvements over BF:

• Completely redesigned exterior
• New interior design
• Improved suspension tuning
• Updated electronics
• Improved safety features
• Better refinement

Ford focused heavily on improving ride quality and handling, making the FG one of the best driving Falcons produced.

FG Falcon Model Range

The FG Falcon range covered both fleet buyers and enthusiasts.

Main models included:

Falcon XT – Base model
Falcon XR6 – Sports variant
Falcon XR6 Turbo – Turbo performance model
Falcon XR8 – V8 performance model
G6 – Mid luxury model
G6E – Premium luxury model
G6E Turbo – Luxury performance variant

FPV performance variants included:

FPV GT
FPV GT-P
FPV F6
FPV GS

The FG era is often seen as the peak of Falcon refinement before local production ended.

FG Falcon Engines

The FG continued development of the Barra inline six and V8 options.

Naturally Aspirated Barra

FG XT / G6

4.0L Barra 195:

• 195 kW
• 391 Nm

This was a refined version of the earlier Barra with improved efficiency and smoothness.

XR6 Engine

4.0L Barra 195 (XR tune):

• 195 kW
• Slightly sportier tuning

Barra Turbo Engine

XR6 Turbo / G6E Turbo

4.0L Turbo Barra 270:

• 270 kW
• 533 Nm (overboost)
• Excellent tuning potential

Later FG Series II models increased power further.

FG Falcon V8

XR8

5.4L Boss V8 (early FG):

• 290 kW

Later replaced by:

5.0L supercharged “Miami” V8 (FG Series II):

• 335 kW
• 570 Nm

This became one of the most powerful Australian Falcons ever produced.

FG Falcon Transmissions

Transmission options included:

6-speed automatic (ZF)
Highly regarded for smooth shifting and durability.

6-speed manual
Available in XR variants.

The ZF automatic is often considered one of the best transmissions fitted to Falcons.

FG Falcon Key Specifications

Typical FG XT specs:

Engine: 4.0L inline six
Power: 195 kW
Torque: 391 Nm
Fuel consumption: approx 9.9–10.7L/100km
Transmission: 6 speed auto or manual
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive

XR6 Turbo:

Power: 270 kW
Torque: 533 Nm (overboost)
0–100 km/h: approx low 5 second range

These figures made FG Falcons very competitive in their class.

FG Falcon Driving Experience

The FG is often praised for its balance of comfort and performance.

Driving characteristics include:

• Comfortable highway cruising
• Strong mid-range power
• Stable high speed handling
• Predictable RWD dynamics
• Improved interior refinement

Many owners consider FG one of the best long-distance Australian cars.

FG Falcon Reliability

FG Falcons are generally considered reliable when maintained.

Key strengths:

• Proven Barra engines
• Strong ZF transmission
• Mature platform development
• Good parts availability
• Strong community knowledge

Many FG Falcons now exceed 250,000–400,000 km with proper servicing.

Common FG Falcon Problems

As these cars age, some known issues appear.

ICC (Interior Command Centre) Failure

Common issue affecting:

• Screen freezing
• Audio failure
• Climate control issues

Repair often involves specialist repair services.

Diff Bush Wear

Similar to BA/BF Falcons:

Symptoms:

• Rear clunk noise
• Driveline movement

ZF Transmission Servicing Needs

While strong, the ZF benefits from servicing despite “sealed for life” claims.

Symptoms of neglect:

• Harsh shifting
• Delayed engagement

Regular fluid servicing helps longevity.

Cooling System Ageing

Typical ageing issues include:

• Radiator wear
• Hose deterioration
• Water pump wear

Preventative maintenance is recommended.

Turbo Wear (XR6 Turbo)

On higher km vehicles:

• Wastegate wear
• Oil leaks
• Boost issues

Generally reliable if not heavily modified.

FG Falcon Running Costs

FG Falcons remain affordable compared to modern vehicles.

Typical ownership factors:

Parts availability: Good
Service costs: Moderate
Fuel use: Moderate
Insurance: Reasonable

Turbo and V8 models cost more to maintain but remain manageable compared to European performance cars.

Is the FG Falcon a Good Used Car Today?

For many buyers, FG represents one of the best used Falcon options.

Good choice if you want:

• Modern Falcon feel
• Strong reliability
• Comfortable daily driver
• Affordable performance
• Good highway car

Less ideal if you want:

• Modern driver assist tech
• Small car fuel economy
• Latest infotainment

Condition and service history matter most.

What To Check When Buying an FG Falcon

Key areas to inspect:

• ICC screen operation
• Transmission behaviour
• Diff bush wear
• Cooling system condition
• Service history
• Turbo condition (if applicable)
• Modification quality

Avoid poorly modified performance cars where possible.

Which FG Models Are Most Desirable?

Popular variants include:

Best budget option:
FG XT

Best daily driver:
G6 or XR6

Best performance value:
XR6 Turbo

Best luxury performance:
G6E Turbo

Best V8 option:
XR8 (Miami V8)

Collector interest:
Late FG Series II XR models

Turbo and V8 cars are becoming increasingly desirable.

FG Falcon Market Value Trends

Values vary based on:

• Condition
• Kilometres
• Model variant
• Modifications
• Service history

General trends:

Base models:
Affordable entry level cars

XR6:
Moderate enthusiast interest

XR6 Turbo:
Strong demand increasing

XR8:
Strong enthusiast interest

G6E Turbo:
Often considered a hidden gem

Clean original cars continue becoming harder to find.

FG Falcon Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

• Strong Barra engines
• Excellent ZF transmission
• Comfortable ride
• Strong performance models
• Modern compared to earlier Falcons
• Good enthusiast support

Weaknesses

• Ageing electronics
• ICC failures
• Fuel consumption compared to modern cars
• Some interior wear
• Turbo/V8 maintenance costs

Why the FG Falcon Remains Popular

The FG remains popular because it represents:

• One of the most refined Falcons
• Strong performance value
• Modern usability
• Proven engineering
• Australian automotive history

Many enthusiasts see FG as a sweet spot between modern usability and traditional Falcon simplicity.

Conclusion

The FG Falcon represents one of the most complete Falcons ever produced. Combining decades of engineering development with proven drivetrain components, it delivered a strong balance of comfort, performance, and reliability.