Ford Falcon (AU)

Ford Australia

Industry	Automotive
Founded	1925
Headquarters	Melbourne , Australia
Products	Automobiles, including Ford Falcon (AU)

The Ford Falcon (AU) represents a full-size car manufactured by Ford Australia between 1998 and 2002. As the sixth iteration of the Ford Falcon series, it incorporated the upscale Ford Fairmont (AU) variants. This model succeeded the EL Falcon and was constructed on the EA169 platform, which supported Falcon vehicles until 2010 and Territory models through 2011. The AU generation was eventually replaced by the BA series.

Development and design

Initiated under the codename "Project Eagle" in 1993 and officially designated "EA169" in 1994, the AU series development considered multiple paths. Ford Australia evaluated updating the fifth-generation Falcon or importing alternatives such as the American front-wheel-drive Ford Taurus, rear-wheel-drive Ford Crown Victoria, European rear-wheel-drive Ford Scorpio, or Japanese rear-wheel-drive Mazda 929—the latter two being part of Ford’s global portfolio at the time. These options were ultimately dismissed to maintain local preferences for strong towing capability, spacious interiors, and support for domestic manufacturing employment. Research revealed that 69% of Falcons were equipped with towbars, underscoring a preference for rear-wheel drive configurations, while imported models lacked V8 powertrains and diverse body style options.

Design-wise, the AU adopted Ford’s global "New Edge" aesthetic, aiming to appeal to a younger demographic. Although this design was divisive in Australia compared to the more traditional 1997 Holden Commodore (VT), it achieved competitive aerodynamic performance with a drag coefficient of 0.29 for the sedan and 0.34 for the wagon.

For the first time in Falcon history, Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) became available—standard on top-tier trims and optional on others. The AU also introduced Australian firsts such as Variable Cam Timing (VCT) on select six-cylinder engines and adaptive automatic transmissions featuring steering wheel-mounted gearshift buttons on high-performance Tickford Vehicle Engineering T series models.

Relative to its predecessor, the AU reduced curb weight by 35 kg, enhanced bodyshell rigidity by 17.5%, and improved fuel efficiency by approximately 8%. The engine range included advanced six-cylinder units with VCT and temperature sensors enabling a "limp home" function. Powertrain options comprised: base Intech I6 at , XR6 "HP" at , XR6 VCT at , alongside a carried-over 5.0 L Windsor V8 delivering .

Transmission improvements enhanced shift quality; six- and eight-cylinder variants utilized 4-speed BTR M93LE and M97LE automatic gearboxes respectively, with adaptive shifting technology applied to XR models. A 5-speed Tremec T5 manual transmission was also available.

The development budget was around AUD 700 million, with chief designer Steve Park and Interior Design Manager Marcus Hotblack leading key aspects of the project.

Series I (AU)

The initial AU Falcon series debuted in September 1998, promoted with the slogan "I've come a long way, baby." until a significant update in April 2000.

The standard AU lineup featured:

• Falcon Forté, powered by a 4.0 L "Intech" I6 engine, available as Sedan/Wagon, producing ,
• Falcon Forté equipped with a 5.0 L "Windsor" V8 engine, Sedan only, delivering ,
• Falcon Futura with a 4.0 L "Intech" I6 engine, Sedan/Wagon configurations, outputting ,
• Falcon S variant powered by a 4.0 L "Intech" I6 engine, Sedan only, rated at ,
• Falcon XR6 featuring a 4.0 L "HP Intech" I6 engine in Sedan form, generating ,
• Falcon XR6 VCT fitted with a 4.0 L "Intech VCT" I6 engine Sedan only, producing ,
• Falcon XR8 carrying a 5.0 L "Windsor" V8 engine Sedan only, offering ,
• Fairmont luxury model with a 4.0 L "Intech" I6 engine available as Sedan/Wagon producing ,
• Fairmont Ghia equipped with a 4.0 L "Intech VCT" I6 engine Sedan only, rated at ,
• Fairmont Ghia fitted with a 5.0 L "Windsor" V8 engine Sedan only delivering .

Tickford Vehicle Engineering was responsible for developing the XR range featuring the distinctive "Tickford" wings badge. Beginning July 1999,<ref>the newly established Ford Tickford Experience (FTE) introduced enhanced T series (T1) variants:

• TE50 sedan powered by a 5.0 L "Synergy 5000" V8 engine producing ,
• TS50 sedan with the same powerplant rated at , offered exclusively with an automatic transmission.

Replacing the GLi designation, the Forté targeted fleet buyers and younger customers through competitive pricing around AUD 30,690 inclusive of automatic transmission and air conditioning as standard equipment.

The upscale Falcon Futura emphasized family-oriented safety features like ABS brakes and cruise control with an MSRP near AUD 34,990.

The entry-level sports-oriented Falcon S derived from the Forté featured sportier aesthetics and limited color choices; an optional ESP package added LSD-equipped IRS and ABS systems.

The high-performance XR lineup included XR6 HP, XR6 VCT, and XR8 models distinguished by unique quad-headlamp front bumpers and optional Tickford aerodynamic bodykits.

Fairmont represented the entry-level luxury trim competing against Holden Berlina models and offered premium touches such as woodgrain dashboard inserts and distinct wheel designs. The Fairmont Ghia was positioned as the highest non-sporting trim featuring advanced traction control systems and premium audio but was sedan-only.

Regarding safety equipment, Futura, XR series, and Fairmont trims came standard with ABS brakes and driver airbags; Forté and S models included only driver airbags. Brake components remained consistent across all variants.

Visual differentiation among models relied on grille patterns, bonnet designs (e.g., lower bonnet on Forté versus higher bonnet on Fairmont), alloy wheel styles, lighting assemblies, and interior appointments. Wagon models featured redesigned rear sections compared to earlier generations.

Only the Falcon XR6 VCT and Fairmont Ghia incorporated Tickford-developed "Intech" variable valve timing engines. Independent rear suspension was standard on XR6 VCT, XR8, and Fairmont Ghia trims while optional on other sedans; limited slip differentials were exclusive to XR variants.

Despite competitive pricing strategies—particularly for the Forté—and comprehensive feature sets, AU sales lagged behind its predecessor due to divided opinions on styling changes combined with contraction in the large car market segment.

A May 1999 update introduced enhancements including a larger brake booster unit, front power windows added to Forté and XR6 models, lowered rear suspension by 24 mm on non-XR versions to improve handling dynamics, plus darker interior trim options aimed at elevating perceived quality levels.

To stimulate sales between June and October that year, a limited edition Falcon Classic was released featuring dual front airbags, ABS brakes, cruise control functionality, an upgraded sound system complete with amplifier plus unique trim accents priced at AUD 30,690 retail.

Utility

The AU Falcon Utility variants launched in June 1999 offering XL, XLS, XR6 and XR8 styled side utilities alongside cab-chassis versions including factory-installed drop-side tray models—the first such offerings from Ford Australia in several years.

Unlike its rival Holden Ute’s integrated tray design approach, the AU Utility employed a separate cargo tray allowing buyers to customize aftermarket accessories such as service bodies or camper shells. These utility vehicles found favor among both tradespeople and private consumers alike.

Series II (AU II)

Released in April 2000, the AU Series II introduced several significant enhancements, including:

• The adoption of the "high series" raised bonnet design from Fairmont models
• A more traditional front grille applied to the Forté and Futura variants
• Rear bumpers extended in both depth and width
• Noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) reduction through a laminated firewall, improved under-carpet sound deadening, and rubber engine mounts
• An upgraded braking system featuring thicker discs and twin-piston calipers
• Replacement of 15" wheels with larger 16" wheels to accommodate bigger brakes
• Lowered ride height achieved by revised shocks and ball joints
• Interior upgrades with superior plastics and darker "warm charcoal" cloth seats supplanting vinyl materials
• Enhanced audio systems alongside an advanced SmartShield security system incorporating a transponder key
• Front airbags made standard across all models
• White lenses for turn signals replacing the amber lenses from the previous series

Structural reinforcements to the body aimed at improving occupant protection and ANCAP crash test results, culminating in a three-star adult occupant rating of 24.2. New safety additions included airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, load limiters on front seats, and three-point lap-sash seatbelts for rear centre passengers in wagon variants.

The braking setup featured ventilated front discs measuring 287x28 mm, solid rear discs sized at 287x16 mm, twin-piston aluminium-headed front calipers, larger brake pads, an upgraded master cylinder, and booster. Optional Tickford Premium Brake packages were available for XR6 VCT and XR8 models, which included 329 mm grooved front discs paired with twin-piston C4 calipers.

Additional refinements encompassed a 100-watt stereo system with a single-slot CD player, variable intermittent windshield wipers, an instrument panel door lock/unlock button, as well as standard air conditioning, power windows, and automatic transmission on the base Forté model. Ford also introduced a comprehensive 3-year/60,000 km scheduled maintenance plan throughout the range.

The Series II standard model lineup comprised:

• Falcon Forté: 4.0 L "Intech" inline-six Sedan/Wagon (157 kW, 357 Nm)
• Falcon Forté: 5.0 L "Windsor" V8 Sedan (175 kW, 395 Nm)
• Falcon S: 4.0 L "Intech" inline-six Sedan (157 kW, 357 Nm)
• Falcon Futura: 4.0 L "Intech" inline-six Sedan/Wagon (157 kW, 357 Nm)
• Fairmont: 4.0 L "Intech" inline-six Sedan/Wagon (157 kW, 357 Nm)
• Falcon XR6: 4.0 L "Intech" inline-six Sedan (164 kW, 366 Nm)
• Falcon XR6 VCT: 4.0 L "Intech VCT" inline-six Sedan (172 kW, 374 Nm)
• Falcon XR8: 5.0 L "Windsor" V8 Sedan (200 kW, 420 Nm) until April 2001; thereafter a handbuilt variant from May 2001 producing (220 kW, 435 Nm)
• Fairmont Ghia: 4.0 L "Intech VCT" inline-six Sedan (168 kW, 370 Nm)
• Fairmont Ghia: 5.0 L "Windsor" V8 Sedan (175 kW, 395 Nm)

Engine configurations largely remained consistent initially except for the increased power output of the XR8 and the July 2000 debut of the LPG-fueled "Intech E-Gas" engine employing a single-point carburetor instead of sequential fuel injection. LPG tanks were sized at 92 litres for sedans and expanded to 115 litres for wagons.

Limited edition variants included the X-Pack (a Forté upgrade featuring alloy wheels and an XR-style rear wing), SR (a Forté-based successor to the S model equipped with ABS), Futura Classic, Futura & Fairmont Ghia 75th Anniversary editions celebrating Ford Australia's establishment in 1925, and the XR8 Rebel which incorporated a Ford Racing bodykit, 18-inch wheels, MOMO steering wheel and gear knob, plus a bundled Sony PlayStation 2.

Late in 2000, Stillwell Ford dealerships in South Australia introduced the Sportryder variant—essentially an X-Pack outfitted with lowered sport suspension fitted with Pedders components and CSA alloy wheels—priced at AUD 29,990.

The Falcon Utility Series II range consisted of XL, XLS, XR, and XR8 variants with limited editions such as Tradesman (XL), Sports Edition and Marlin (XLS), along with Pursuit (XR).

The FTE T2 lineup featured:

• TE50: 5.0 L "Synergy 5000" V8 Sedan (220 kW, 435 Nm)
• TS50: 5.0 L "Synergy 5000" V8 Sedan (220 kW, 435 Nm)

Series III (AU III)

The last Falcon model based on the AU platform made an unexpected appearance at the Sydney Motorshow in November 2001.

The Series III range closely resembled the AU II but saw the discontinuation of the Falcon S. It introduced a limited edition Falcon XR6 VCT ST equipped with a distinctive Ford Racing bodykit derived from the XR8 Rebel, alongside the launch of the Falcon XR8 Pursuit 250 Utility by TVE, which featured an enhanced 250 kW power output.

Ford Tickford Experience (FTE) expanded its lineup with more potent T3 variants:

• TE50 Sedan: 5.6 L "Windsor" V8 engine delivering 249.8 kW and 500 Nm torque
• TS50 Sedan: 5.6 L "Windsor" V8 engine delivering 249.8 kW and 500 Nm torque

On the exterior, Series III models incorporated body-colored side mirrors and strips, standard side skirts, darker headlight lenses, clear side indicators, and a dot matrix windscreen designed to minimize glare. Interior enhancements included rear power windows and velour upholstery on the Futura; Fairmont models gained a 6-way power-adjustable driver's seat; while Fairmont Ghia featured a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat complemented by leather trim. ABS braking was made standard across all variants. Nevertheless, XR models experienced some equipment reductions: the XR6 no longer came standard with a limited-slip differential, which was now optional; all XR versions downgraded to a 4-speaker single-CD audio system.

An optional "Havoc" bodykit was available, comprising redesigned front and rear bumpers with stainless steel mesh inserts, fog lamps, side skirts, and an optional rear spoiler. Buyers of the XR8 could also choose Tickford or Ford Racing bodykits originally introduced on the AU II XR8 Rebel. Both Fairmont and XR models had access to the "REX" (Rear Entertainment XTreme) package, offering rear-seat DVD or gaming console entertainment systems.

By September 2002, combined production numbers for Falcon Series II and III reached 237,701 units.

As of 2020, there were 44,816 AU Falcons still registered in Australia—of which Victoria accounted for 17,192 (38%). By 2023, New South Wales had approximately 2,004 AU Falcons registered.

FTE T series

In response to Holden's Commodore range featuring a 5.7-litre GM V8 engine, Ford Australia collaborated with Tickford Vehicle Engineering to develop the Ford Tickford Experience (FTE), introducing the T series performance sedans aimed at competing directly with Holden's offerings. This series included the short-wheelbase TE50 and TS50 models, as well as the long-wheelbase TL50, based on the Ford Fairlane platform. These vehicles combined upgraded mechanical components with an ownership program branded as "FTE Premium Assist."

Manufactured between 1999 and 2002 over three versions—T1 (AU), T2 (AU II), and T3 (AU III)—the T series was powered by a hand-assembled "Synergy 5000" V8 engine, a modified iteration of the Windsor V8 that featured an engraved plaque identifying its builder. With Windsor engine production ceasing, FTE utilized remaining engines to create some of the most powerful naturally aspirated EFI Windsor engines worldwide, including a 'Windsor Stroker' variant with displacement increased to 5.6 litres.

Transmission choices differed by model: the TE50 was available with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic gearbox; meanwhile, TS50 and TL50 variants came exclusively with an automatic transmission featuring Australia's first "Electronic Sport Shift" (ESS), allowing manual gear changes via steering wheel-mounted controls.

Inside, upgrades included MOMO steering wheels and optional Brembo braking systems. Externally, FTE pursued a more sophisticated look compared to Holden Special Vehicles, incorporating chrome mesh grilles, 17-inch wheels on TE50s, larger 18-inch wheels on TS50s, and subtle rear spoilers on early editions. The T2 update added an XR-style rear wing to the TE50 while retaining a low-profile spoiler on the TS50. The T3 iteration showcased 18-inch wheels alongside more aggressive V8 Racing-inspired bodykits featuring prominent rear wings.

Verte Automotive

In the United Kingdom, Verte Automotive—then operating as a subsidiary of AC Cars—began importing AU utilities in March 2002 under the name Verte Tempest. Offered in XL and XLS variants, these models were equipped with a 4.0-litre inline-six engine running exclusively on LPG. By late 2002, there were intentions to equip AC Green and Black coupes with this engine in both LPG and petrol configurations, alongside plans to launch Tempest XR6 and XR8 utes and sedans, followed by the Tempest T-Series and extended-wheelbase Fairlane/LTD variants. Nevertheless, these ambitions did not come to fruition.

Hillier Coupes

The Hillier brothers developed a two-door AU Falcon Coupe in 2000, based on an ex-police forte’ specification vehicle, which premiered at the Summernats festival. After securing a partnership with Ford Australia, this project evolved into the striking red 300+ concept showcased at the 2001 Melbourne Motor Show, designed to divert attention from the Holden Monaro. Subsequently, Roman AutoTek (now known as AutoTek) collaborated with Hillier to create a more radical show vehicle: the Ford ‘Arrow’ coupe, unveiled at the 2002 Melbourne Motor Show. Initial plans called for a limited production run of 100 Hillier coupes priced at $135,000 each; however, orders were reduced to 20 before Ford withdrew its backing, halting further production. Ultimately, only three coupes were built: the Ford 300+ concept, the Autotek 'Arrow' coupe, and a red XR8 coupe.

Concept cars

Ford Australia and its collaborators developed multiple concept vehicles based on the sixth-generation Falcon aimed at enhancing market appeal:

• R5 utility: Debuted at the 2000 Sydney Motor Show, this V8-powered crew-cab featured rear-hinged suicide doors and an increased ride height by 75 mm. It previewed design cues later incorporated into the BA Falcon’s dashboard and elevated the BA Falcon RTV utility range; by the 2001 Melbourne Motor Show, it transitioned from rear-wheel drive to all-wheel drive to align with Ford Australia's forthcoming platform strategies. The vehicle sported a unique "Uluru Sunset" paint finish that shifted color from yellow to purple depending on lighting conditions.

• Falcon XR8 Xplod sedan: Presented in 2001 but never entering production, this model showcased a distinctive "Firestorm" gold paint scheme. It housed a , 5.0-litre V8 engine fitted with custom Remus exhausts and Pacemaker extractors, complemented by a full Tickford body kit, upgraded brakes, 18-inch MOMO alloy wheels, black-and-gold Recaro leather seats, and a Sony "Xplod" audio/DVD system that inspired its name.

• Falcon 300+ coupé: Unveiled at the 2001 Melbourne Motor Show by Advanced Engine Components (AEC) and Miller Design at an investment of A$1 million. Initially supported by Ford Australia's Geoff Polites, it featured Fairmont interior trim and a supercharged Ford Mustang-derived 4.6-litre engine delivering , enabling acceleration from 0–100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. Despite intentions to produce at least 100 units with 15 confirmed orders, full-scale manufacturing never commenced.

• Arrow coupé: Introduced at the 2002 Melbourne Motor Show as a more aggressive coupe iteration developed by aftermarket distributor Autotek alongside Hillier Conversions. Manufactured in limited quantities with prices ranging between A$100,000 and A$140,000 depending on specifications.

Motorsports

The AU Falcon entered competition in the V8 Supercars Championship starting in 1999 amid high expectations but was hampered by aerodynamic constraints that limited its competitiveness. Across four seasons, it secured eight victories out of 52 rounds and achieved 22 pole positions (42%), including three at Mount Panorama. Additionally, it recorded the fastest lap in 46 out of 125 races (36%). In total, the AU amassed 23 race wins (19%) but did not claim either a championship title or a Bathurst 1000 victory—an uncommon shortfall for modern Falcons. Significant triumphs included winning the 2001 Queensland 500 with drivers Paul Radisich and Steven Johnson (#17 Shell Helix DJR Falcon) and repeating success in the 2002 Queensland 500 with David Besnard and Simon Wills (#9 Caltex Havoline SBR Falcon). Due to Ford's limited achievements during this era, "Project Blueprint" was introduced to level competitive disparities.

Privateer Trevor Haines competed in a TE50 model achieving 13th place overall in the 2002 Australian GT Production Car Championship and later finishing ninth outright alongside a Class 5 victory in the 2002 Bathurst 24 Hour. Warren Luff secured consecutive wins in both the 2002 and 2003 V8 Brute Ute series piloting an AU Falcon XR8 ute. The AU Falcon also attained success within Australian saloon car racing events.