The FG-X Falcon represents the final chapter of Australian Ford Falcon production. Released in 2014 as an update to the FG platform, the FG-X combined the most refined version of the Falcon chassis with the final evolution of the Barra engine.
As the last Falcon ever produced in Australia, the FG-X has become significant and is increasingly seen as a future collectible, particularly in XR6 Turbo and XR8 form.
Production years: 2014–2016
Platform: Updated FG architecture
Body styles:
FG-X Falcon Overview
- Sedan
- Ute
Major updates over FG:
- New front-end design
- Updated rear styling
- Revised interior technology
- Improved infotainment system
- Final Barra engine refinements
- Suspension tuning improvements
Although mechanically similar to the FG, the FG-X represented the most refined Falcon Ford Australia ever produced.
Why the FG-X Was Important
The FG-X was significant because it was:
- The last Australian-built Falcon
- The final Barra-powered Falcon
- The most refined Falcon
- A farewell model for Ford manufacturing in Australia
Production ended on October 7, 2016, marking the end of 56 years of Falcon manufacturing.
FG-X Falcon Model Range
The FG-X range was simplified compared to earlier Falcons.
Main models included:
Falcon XT – Base model
Falcon XR6 – Sports model
Falcon XR6 Turbo – Turbo performance model
Falcon XR8 – V8 performance model
G6E – Luxury model
G6E Turbo – Luxury performance model
Unlike earlier models:
- Futura was discontinued
- G6 was discontinued
- Focus shifted to core models
Ford streamlined the lineup due to declining large sedan demand.
FG-X Engines
The FG-X used the final evolution of Falcon powertrains.
Naturally Aspirated Barra
XT / XR6
4.0L Barra 195:
- 195 kW
- 391 Nm
Proven, durable, and well understood by this stage of production.
Barra Turbo (Final Evolution)
XR6 Turbo / G6E Turbo
4.0L Turbo Barra 270:
- 270 kW
- 533 Nm (overboost)
- Final production version of Barra
These engines remain highly desirable due to tuning potential and historical significance.
Miami V8 (XR8)
XR8
5.0L Supercharged Miami V8:
- 335 kW
- 570 Nm
This made the FG-X XR8 one of the fastest factory Falcons ever produced.
FG-X Transmissions
Transmission options included:
6 speed ZF automatic
Widely considered one of the best transmissions fitted to Falcons.
6 speed manual
Available on XR models.
The ZF remains highly regarded for reliability when serviced properly.
FG-X Key Specifications
Typical FG-X XR6 specs:
Engine: 4.0L inline six
Power: 195 kW
Torque: 391 Nm
Transmission: 6 speed auto or manual
Drivetrain: RWD
XR6 Turbo:
Power: 270 kW
Torque: 533 Nm
XR8:
Power: 335 kW
Torque: 570 Nm
These figures remain competitive even by modern standards.
FG-X Interior and Technology
FGX introduced improvements over FG:
Updates included:
- New ICC interface
- Updated touchscreen
- Improved materials
- Revised instrument cluster
- Improved connectivity
While not modern by current standards, the FG-X interior is generally considered the best Falcon interior produced.
FG-X Driving Experience
The FG-X represents the most developed version of the Falcon driving experience.
Strengths include:
- Mature suspension tuning
- Comfortable highway driving
- Strong acceleration
- Stable handling
- Refined ride quality
Many enthusiasts consider FG-X the best driving Falcon overall.
FG-X Falcon Reliability
FG-X Falcons benefit from the Falcon platform being fully matured.
Strengths include:
- Proven Barra reliability
- Strong ZF transmissions
- Known maintenance requirements
- Strong parts availability
- Extensive owner knowledge base
Reliability is generally very good when properly maintained.
Common FG-X Problems
Because FG-X is based on FG, many issues are similar but generally less frequent due to refinements.
Common issues include:
ICC Electronics Issues
Possible issues:
- Screen freezing
- Bluetooth issues
- Software glitches
Less common than early FG issues.
Diff Bush Wear
Still possible due to Falcon design.
Symptoms:
- Rear clunk
- Driveline movement
Cooling System Ageing
As cars age:
- Radiator wear
- Hose deterioration
- Thermostat failures
Preventative maintenance helps avoid major issues.
Turbo Wear (XR6 Turbo)
Possible with high km or heavy modification:
- Boost leaks
- Turbo wear
- Oil leaks
Generally strong if maintained properly.
Supercharger Maintenance (XR8)
Miami V8 requires:
- Proper servicing
- Belt inspection
- Regular maintenance
Reliable when maintained.
FG-X Running Costs
FG-X Falcons remain relatively affordable compared to European performance cars.
Typical ownership factors:
Parts: Good availability
Servicing: Moderate
Fuel: Moderate to high
Insurance: Higher for turbo/V8
Overall still reasonable for performance cars.
Is the FG-X Falcon a Good Used Car Today?
FG-X is often considered one of the best modern Falcon purchases.
Good choice if you want:
- Final Falcon model
- Modern Falcon experience
- Strong performance options
- Future classic potential
- Australian automotive history
Less ideal if you want:
- Modern safety assists
- Hybrid fuel economy
- Latest infotainment
For Falcon enthusiasts, FG-X represents the end of the line.
What To Check When Buying an FG-X Falcon
Important inspection areas:
- Full service history
- Transmission behaviour
- ICC function
- Cooling system condition
- Turbo condition
- Supercharger condition (XR8)
- Modification quality
- Accident repairs
Original, well maintained examples are becoming more desirable.
Most Desirable FG-X Models
Generally most sought after:
Best daily driver:
FG-X XR6
Best performance value:
FG-X XR6 Turbo
Best collector interest:
FG-X XR8
Luxury performance choice:
G6E Turbo
XR8 Sprint and XR6 Sprint models (limited editions) are particularly collectible.
FG-X Falcon Market Value Trends
FG-X values remain stronger than FG due to:
- Final production status
- Lower production numbers
- Historical significance
General trends:
XT:
Affordable modern Falcon
XR6:
Strong value daily
XR6 Turbo:
Strong enthusiast demand
XR8:
Collector interest rising
Sprint models:
Premium values
Values may strengthen long term as Australian-built vehicles become rarer.
FG-X Falcon Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
- Final Falcon model
- Proven engineering
- Strong performance options
- Comfortable driving experience
- Historical significance
- Good reliability
Weaknesses
- Limited modern tech
- Fuel consumption
- Ageing electronics over time
- Performance models higher running costs
FG vs FG-X Differences
Main FGX improvements included:
- Updated styling
- Improved interior technology
- Final Barra refinements
- Improved reliability
- Reduced model complexity
Mechanically they are similar, but FGX benefits from final development improvements.
Why FG-X Falcons May Become Future Classics
Several factors support long-term desirability:
- Last Australian Falcon
- Last Barra powered Falcon
- Strong performance credentials
- Enthusiast demand
- Limited production numbers
Historically, “final generation” cars often become desirable among collectors.
Conclusion
The FG-X Falcon represents the final and most refined version of one of Australia’s most important cars. While based on earlier Falcon architecture, it benefited from decades of development and represents the peak of Falcon engineering.
For buyers today, the FG-X offers a combination of strong performance, proven reliability, and historical significance that few Australian cars can match. As the last Falcon built in Australia, its place in automotive history is already secure.