Ford Falcon (BA)
| Industry | Automotive |
|---|---|
| Founded | September 3, 1925 in Geelong, Victoria, Australia |
| Headquarters | Australia |
| Products | Automobiles, including Ford Falcon (BA) |
The Ford Falcon (BA) represents a full-size automobile manufactured by Ford Australia between 2002 and 2005. This iteration marked the second significant redesign of the sixth-generation Falcon, which also encompassed the luxury-oriented Ford Fairmont (BA). Additionally, the BA chassis served as the foundation for the Ford Territory SUV.
Unveiled in September 2002 to address the criticisms faced by its predecessor, the AU, the BA featured a more restrained exterior design—every body panel was new except for the door skins—and extensively revamped cabin appointments. From a mechanical standpoint, it introduced independent rear suspension across all sedan variants and incorporated enhancements to engines and transmissions. In October 2004, a Mark II revision brought subtle updates in styling and mechanical components, before the BA was eventually replaced by the BF model in October 2005.
The BA Falcon achieved notable acclaim within the automotive industry, capturing the prestigious Wheels Car of the Year accolade in late 2002, ending Ford's 36-year gap without this honor. It also earned four successive Australia's Best Cars awards over a three-year span. For brief periods, it outperformed its chief competitor, the Holden Commodore (VY), in market share, although it did not surpass sales figures set by the record-breaking EL Falcon.
Development and design
The development of the BA involved an investment of A$500 million and encompassed 24,000 hours dedicated to engine and durability testing. Suspension tuning was conducted at Germany's Nürburgring circuit, while calibration of anti-lock braking systems and electronic stability control took place in Sweden and Australia.
Exterior design
Scott Strong, who was Ford Australia's chief designer until succeeded by Simon Butterworth in 2001, led the exterior styling efforts. The design direction aimed to incorporate European influences by revising much of the AU's "New Edge" aesthetic rather than creating an entirely new body structure. A notable addition was an integrated rear window antenna that improved aerodynamic efficiency and eliminated previous issues with breakage seen in retractable antennas, as well as preventing engine interference from affecting radio reception.
Interior design
Replacing the AU’s "New Edge" interior, Marcus Hotblack spearheaded a modern European-inspired cabin design emphasizing ergonomic functionality. The interior showcased a satin-finish centre console with audio and cruise control switches relocated to the steering wheel for enhanced driver convenience. A large liquid crystal display provided information regarding climate control and audio settings; on Fairmont Ghia models, a premium sound system featuring a full-colour screen was standard. Larger air vents contributed to better climate regulation inside the cabin, while repositioning the headlamp switch improved accessibility.
Colour schemes within the cabin varied according to trim level; for example, entry-level XT models featured a two-tone dashboard panel option that was not available on sportier variants.
Engine and mechanicals
The powertrain lineup consisted of both inline six-cylinder and V8 engines. The base Barra 182 six-cylinder represented a significant upgrade over its AU predecessor by incorporating dual infinitely variable cam timing, boosting output to . This engine also responded positively to higher octane fuels with modest torque improvements. For lower-tier models, an LPG-exclusive version known as the Barra E-Gas was available.
The XR6 Turbo variant featured a turbocharged Barra engine delivering . The traditional AU Windsor V8 was replaced by an adapted North American Modular V8 in two configurations: the Barra 220 producing , and the more powerful Boss 260 rated at . In practice, the Boss 260 often generated outputs closer to and , offering smoother operation with improved fuel economy and reduced noise compared to its predecessor.
Transmission choices included a four-speed automatic equipped with Sequential Sports Shift—a first for Falcons in Australia—as well as a five-speed manual, both featuring floor-mounted shifters. Utility models offered an optional column-mounted automatic shifter without Sequential Sports Shift functionality. The newly introduced Control-Blade independent rear suspension system—derived from technologies used on the Focus and Jaguar X-Type—replaced the former double wishbone IRS on sedans. This setup delivered enhanced performance at reduced cost but added approximately to the base XT sedan’s weight. Wagons and utility variants retained leaf spring live axle suspensions, thus experiencing no significant weight increase.
Compared to earlier Falcons, the BA exhibited improvements in ride comfort and towing capabilities. Official fuel consumption ratings for the Barra 182 were , city and highway respectively; however, actual fuel usage tends to be around 12% higher in typical driving conditions.
| Engine | Power | Torque | Transmission | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manual | Automatic | |||
| 4.0 L Barra 677 I6 (petrol) | 182 kW (244 hp) | 380 N⋅m (280 lb⋅ft) | 5-speed BorgWarner/Tremec T5 manual | 4-speed BTR M93LE automatic |
| 4.0 L Barra E-Gas I6 (LPG) | 156 kW (209 hp) | 372 N⋅m (274 lb⋅ft) | ||
| 4.0 L Barra 240T turbocharged I6 (petrol) | 240 kW (320 hp) | 450 N⋅m (330 lb⋅ft) | 5-speed BorgWarner/Tremec T5Z manual | 4-speed BTR M95LE automatic |
| 5.4 L Barra 220 V8 (petrol) | 220 kW (300 hp) | 470 N⋅m (350 lb⋅ft) | 5-speed Tremec TR-3650 manual (BA) 6-speed Borg-Warner T-56 manual (BA II) |
4-speed BTR M97LE automatic |
| 5.4 L Boss 260 V8 (petrol) | 260 kW (350 hp) | 500 N⋅m (370 lb⋅ft) | ||
Safety
Ensuring passenger protection was a primary concern for Ford's engineering team. Anti-lock braking systems came standard across all models, while electronic brakeforce distribution was included as a standard feature on most versions. Higher trim levels incorporated traction control to minimize wheel slip. Dual front airbags were fitted as standard throughout the lineup, with side-impact airbags offered on premium trims such as the Fairmont. In ANCAP crash tests, the BA series achieved a score of 27.27 out of 37 points, resulting in a four-star safety rating.
Model range
- Falcon XT
Primarily designed for fleet customers, the Falcon XT served as the entry-level model and achieved the highest sales figures. It was equipped with the base Barra 182 six-cylinder engine, air conditioning, front power windows, and came with either a five-speed manual or an optional four-speed automatic transmission. Available in both sedan and wagon variants, it also provided an option for the Barra 220 V8 engine. The XT earned Australia's Best Family Car honors in 2002 and 2004.
- Futura
Targeting family buyers seeking a semi-premium offering, the Futura included features such as cruise control, 16-inch alloy wheels, rear power windows, and body-coloured mirrors and trim throughout. Optional extras included side-impact airbags and power-adjustable pedals. This model was available in sedan and wagon forms.
- Falcon XR6
Building upon the XT’s foundation, the sportier XR6 incorporated a unique body kit shared with both the XR6 Turbo and XR8 models. It retained the naturally aspirated engine found in the XT and Futura, paired with a standard five-speed manual transmission.
The XR6 Turbo (XR6T), introduced during this generation, received widespread praise and was named Best Sports Car under $57,000 in 2002. While visually similar to the XR6, it featured a Garrett GT35/40 turbocharger that increased power output to 240 kW.
- Falcon XR8
Serving as the top-tier sports variant, the XR8 was equipped with specially calibrated suspension components, XR-branded seat trims, 17-inch wheels, and introduced a new 5.4-litre Boss 260 V8 engine that delivered 30% more power compared to its predecessor.
- Fairmont
The Fairmont marked Ford’s luxury entry within the BA lineup, distinguished by 16-inch alloy wheels and a grey mesh grille framed by chrome surrounds. Standard features encompassed traction control, dual-zone climate control, woodgrain detailing, velour seating surfaces, automatic headlights, and illuminated footwells. Mechanically based on the XT model, customers could select the Barra 220 V8 engine option.
- Fairmont Ghia
As the premium flagship trim, the Fairmont Ghia boasted leather upholstery, woodgrain accents, comprehensive power accessories, unique suspension tuning, and an advanced sound system featuring a full-color LCD display. An analogue clock adorned the center console stack. This generation marked the first inclusion of reverse parking sensors as standard equipment.
- Falcon Ute
Launched in October 2002 with six initial variants—XL Cab Chassis, XL Wellbody, XLS Cab Chassis, XLS Wellbody, XR6 Wellbody, and XR6 Turbo—the Falcon Ute expanded Ford’s commercial vehicle range. Two further models followed: a revived XR8 early in 2003 and the RTV introduced in September 2003. The RTV ("Rugged Terrain Vehicle") featured enhanced ground clearance, underbody protection plates, a lockable rear differential, distinctive grille styling, flared wheel arches, and 16-inch alloy wheels. Originally named "Hi-Ride," its final designation was chosen through a public naming contest.
Mk II
In October 2004, Ford introduced the Mk II (BA II) Falcon to maintain market momentum ahead of the 2005 BF facelift. This update brought aesthetic refinements and replaced the previous five-speed manual transmission with a six-speed Tremec T56 manual gearbox on the XR6 Turbo and XR8 variants.
The Mk II XT model showcased a MKII emblem, wider spokes on the hubcaps, automatic headlights, cruise control as standard, and a redesigned cup holder assembly. The Futura trim gained power-adjustable pedals and side airbags, while higher-tier versions offered an optional DVD entertainment system. Meanwhile, the XR8 sedan was upgraded with an enhanced premium sound system.
Ford Falcon BA in V8 Supercars
Starting in 2003, the Falcon BA was actively campaigned in Australia's V8 Supercar series. Marcos Ambrose clinched back-to-back championships in 2003 and 2004 behind the wheel of the BA Falcon. Additionally, Craig Lowndes and Jamie Whincup triumphed at the 2006 Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000 driving a Falcon BA.
Enforcer and Devil R
Following their triumphs in the 2004 V8 Supercar Championship with drivers Marcos Ambrose and Russell Ingall, Ford Australia launched two exclusive BA XR8 dealer run-out editions: the 'Enforcer' (painted Envy Green) and the 'Devil R' (finished in Shock-Wave Blue, inspired by Ambrose’s moniker "The Devil Racer"). Both models were equipped with the 'Boss 260' 5.4-litre V8 engine delivering 260 kW (353 HP), matching the standard XR8 power output. Production was limited to 125 units each (56 manuals and 69 automatics), without unique build numbers as seen on FPV variants.
These special editions came with owners manuals personally signed—Russell Ingall for the 'Enforcer' and Marcos Ambrose for the 'Devil R'—alongside engine bay plaques bearing their signatures. Standard features included 18" shadow chrome alloy wheels, embroidered floor mats, leather upholstery embossed with model insignias, Momo steering wheels, upgraded brake systems (excluding Brembo components), distinctive exterior badges, and bonnet bulge decals specific to each edition. Positioned below FPV GT and GT-P pricing, these enhanced versions aimed to utilize remaining factory options before transitioning to the updated BF series.
FPV range
Ford Performance Vehicles (FPV), Ford Australia's official performance division, developed a lineup based on the Falcon BA under its own brand. The initial 2003 BA collection comprised the GT, GT-P, and Pursuit models. The GT served as the entry-level FPV offering starting at A$59,810, while the GT-P represented a more luxurious variant priced from A$69,850. The Pursuit was a utility variant sharing seating, basic interior components, and wheels with the GT. Each model sported FPV-specific body kits reminiscent of the BA Falcon V8 Supercar design, reinforcing its motorsport heritage.
Powering these vehicles was a bespoke Ford 5.4-litre Modular V8 equipped with DOHC 4-valve cylinder heads derived from the Mustang Cobra R engine. This unit was designated as the Boss 290 by FPV due to its output figures: at 5500 rpm and torque at 4500 rpm.
- 2004 BA Mk II update
With the Mk II refresh in 2004, the GT, GT-P, and Pursuit models received new stripe graphics including bonnet decals along with an upgraded six-speed Tremec T56 manual transmission; additionally, the GT-P gained larger 19-inch five-spoke alloy wheels. FPV also launched the Super Pursuit ute that combined Pursuit utility features with those of the GT-P.
New additions included six-cylinder sedan and ute variants named F6 Typhoon and F6 Tornado respectively. These stood apart visually from GT models through elements such as front bumper grille mesh and a smaller rear spoiler on the Typhoon. Both were powered by FPV’s adaptation of Ford’s Falcon Barra 4.0-litre DOHC 24-valve turbocharged inline-six engine featuring variable cam timing technology. This powerplant generated at 5250 rpm along with torque of across a broad band from 2000 to 4250 rpm.
Issues and criticism
Automotive reviewers highlighted concerns regarding the BA Falcon's build quality, particularly noting irregularities in trim alignment. Nonetheless, some commentators commended the vehicle's interior styling and the quality of its workmanship. Within the pre-owned vehicle market, BA Falcons excluding FPV models tend to depreciate significantly, largely due to an influx of former fleet cars entering resale and the influence of rising fuel expenses on buyer interest.