Ford Performance Vehicles
| Company type | Joint venture (2002–2012), subsidiary (2012–2014) |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Founded | 2002 |
| Founder | Ford Australia, Prodrive |
| Defunct | 2014 |
| Fate | Discontinued after Ford Australia ceased manufacturing operations |
| Headquarters | Melbourne , Australia |
Area served | Australia, New Zealand |
| Products | High-performance Ford-derived vehicles under FPV brand |
| Parent | Ford Australia (from 2012) |
Ford Performance Vehicles was the high-performance division of Ford Australia based in Melbourne, responsible for producing Ford-derived models under the FPV brand from 2002 until 2014.
History
The roots of FPV trace back to 1991 when British engineering company Tickford collaborated with Ford Australia to create enhanced performance variants of the Australian Ford Falcon, introducing vehicles such as the Falcon S-XR6 and S-XR8. By 1999, the Ford Tickford Experience dealer network was launched alongside the FTE T-Series lineup, which was developed from AU Falcon and Fairlane platforms.
Following Prodrive's acquisition of Tickford in 2002, Ford Performance Vehicles was formed as a joint venture between Ford Australia and Prodrive. The FPV brand succeeded FTE, unveiling a revamped range based on the BA Falcon series, reintroducing the GT badge with the FPV GT-P as its flagship model, and adding a turbocharged XR6 Turbo variant.
FPV broadened its offerings by including a high-performance version of the Ford Territory SUV along with various limited editions. Prodrive’s involvement also facilitated factory support for a V8 Supercar team operating under Ford Performance Racing.
In August 2012, Ford Australia assumed full ownership of FPV to maintain engineering, production, and marketing activities domestically. As Ford Australia prepared to cease manufacturing operations, the FPV brand was discontinued in 2014 after a 12-year production run.
Nameplates
Throughout its existence, FPV presented several notable nameplates:
- F6-E
Succeeded the Force 6 as the premium six-cylinder model.
- F6 Typhoon/Tornado
Introduced in 2004 with the BA MkII series, equipped with an upgraded 4.0L turbocharged "Barra" engine. Prior to the FG generation debut in 2008, sedan and utility versions were sold as F6 Typhoon and F6 Tornado respectively.
- F6-X
An SUV variant derived from the Ford Territory platform.
- Force 6
A luxury-oriented model powered by the Typhoon engine featuring subtle styling cues.
- Force 8
The luxury flagship utilizing the GT drivetrain, positioned above the GT-P until it was replaced by the GT-E.
- GS
Entry-level offering below the GT aimed at expanding market accessibility.
- GT
The Falcon-based initial performance model until introduction of GS in 2010.
- GT-E
The highest-specification FPV model that succeeded the Force 8.
- GT-P
A premium GT version featuring most options as standard equipment.
- GT-F
The final GT edition limited to 550 units, equipped with a Miami Supercharged engine.
Model Series (Ford Falcon-based)
BA
The BA series launched in 2002 comprised GT, GT-P, and Pursuit ute models. Pricing for the GT began at A$59,810 while the upscale GT-P commanded A$69,850. The Pursuit shared interior design elements with the GT but was offered as a utility vehicle. Each featured an exclusive FPV body kit inspired by the BA Falcon V8 Supercar, emphasizing FPV’s motorsport heritage.
Powertrain consisted of a bespoke version of Ford’s 5.4L Modular V8 fitted with Mustang Cobra R DOHC cylinder heads, known as the Boss 290. This engine produced at 5,500 rpm and at 4,500 rpm.
Featured Models
- GT
- GT-P
- Pursuit (utility)
MkII update
The MkII update brought bonnet striping, a six-speed Tremec T56 manual gearbox, and 19-inch five-spoke wheels for the GT-P variant. The Super Pursuit ute combined features from both Pursuit and GT-P models.
Additionally, new six-cylinder sedan and utility variants were introduced: F6 Typhoon (sedan) and F6 Tornado (ute). These were visually differentiated by distinct front grille mesh designs and smaller rear spoilers on sedans. Powered by FPV’s tuned 4.0L turbocharged Barra inline-six engine with variable cam timing technology, these produced at 5,250 rpm and torque between from 2,000 to 4,250 rpm.
Featured Models
- F6 Tornado (utility)
- F6 Typhoon (sedan)
- GT
- GT-P
- Pursuit (utility)
- Super Pursuit (utility)
BF
Introduced in 2005, the BF series kept its existing engine configurations but incorporated a six-speed manual transmission as standard across all variants, alongside an optional German-engineered ZF six-speed automatic gearbox, also utilized in Jaguar and BMW models. The GT adopted the 19-inch wheels from the GT-P, while the GT-P and Super Pursuit featured exclusive wheel designs. The Typhoon and Tornado variants offered optional 18-inch or newly designed 19-inch black-spoke wheels. Each model received refreshed body kits; notably, the F6 Typhoon showcased distinctive styling with fog lamp surrounds painted to match the body color, a lower grille emphasizing the intercooler, and a rear bumper featuring mesh inserts and an enhanced diffuser. GT versions included a dual exhaust system integrated into the diffuser.
Key Models
- F6 Tornado (utility)
- F6 Typhoon (sedan)
- GT
- GT-P
- Pursuit (utility)
- Super Pursuit (utility)
MkII revision
The MkII revision brought no changes to the drivetrain but standardized 19-inch wheels throughout the range and introduced minor aesthetic updates. A highlight of this update was the debut of the Force 6 and Force 8 models, developed to rival HSV’s Senator Signature. These models shared mechanical components with the automatic GT and targeted luxury-oriented customers through more understated styling—omitting rear spoilers and utilizing conservative color palettes—effectively positioning FPV’s interpretation of the Falcon Ghia luxury trim.
In the final phase of BF MkII production, special editions underscored FPV’s heritage: the GT "40th Anniversary" paid tribute to the Falcon GT legacy; the F6 "R-Spec" Typhoon stood as FPV’s only turbocharged R-Spec model; while the GT "Cobra R-spec" sedan and utility variants featured firmer "R-Spec" suspension dampers, with the sedan’s power output increased to .
Key Models
- F6 Tornado (utility)
- F6 Typhoon (sedan)
- Force 6
- Force 8
- GT
- GT-P
- Pursuit (utility)
- Super Pursuit (utility)
Limited Editions
- F6 "R-spec" Typhoon
- GT "40th Anniversary Edition"
- GT "Cobra R-spec"
FG
Debuting in 2008, FPV’s FG lineup was built upon the Australian Ford FG Falcon platform. This range comprised the six-cylinder F6 sedan and ute—phasing out the Typhoon and Tornado names—the F6 E sedan, V8-powered GS sedan and ute, along with GT, GT-P, and GT E sedans. The turbocharged 4.0 L inline-six engine generated and , while the GT’s 5.4 L V8 produced and . GS variants were equipped with a detuned version of the GT’s V8 engine.
Throughout this generation, four limited edition GT models were launched: GT 5th Anniversary, Black Edition, R-Spec, and the GT-F (introduced during MkII).
Key Models
- F6 (sedan & utility)
- F6
- F6 E
- GT
- GT E
- GT-P
- Pursuit (utility)
- Super Pursuit (utility)
Limited Editions
- GT 5th Anniversary
- GS
- GS (utility)
MY10 enhancement
In October 2010, ahead of the FG MkII refresh, the previous 5.4 L V8 engine was replaced by a supercharged 5.0 L V8 (Miami). This upgrade elevated power outputs for the GT lineup to , with GS models at . This powertrain allowed acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in under five seconds, outperforming primary competitor HSV GTS in both horsepower and torque. The transition was necessitated by Euro IV emissions standards compliance that could not be met by the older 5.4 L unit.
The Pursuit and Super Pursuit utility variants were discontinued during this period; consequently, GS remained FPV’s sole V8 ute offered in regular production.
Key Models
- F6 (sedan & utility)
- F6
- F6 E
- GS
- GS (utility)
- GT
- GT E
- GT-P
Limited Editions
- GT Black
MkII Revision
In December 2011, FPV refreshed its lineup in conjunction with the Falcon (FG) MkII update; both the GS sedan and utility models received cosmetic enhancements inspired by the XR series.
The year 2012 saw the introduction of the R-spec variant, a track-oriented model equipped with a supercharged 5.0-litre V8 engine—then recognized as Australia's quickest accelerating production vehicle. Although widely considered a spiritual heir to the legendary "HO" Falcon series, FPV opted not to revive that specific badge.
The GT-F 351 represented the concluding chapter for the Ford Falcon GT/FPV GT lineage. The "F" signifies Final, while "351" honors the traditional Falcon GT engine displacement and reflects its power output measured in kilowatts. This model is powered by a recalibrated Coyote 5.0-litre V8 generating , with momentary overboost allowing for power spikes exceeding , complemented by suspension enhancements derived from the R-spec. Visually, it stands out through distinctive black trim and a bespoke stripe design.
Key Models
- F6 (available in sedan and utility)
- F6
- F6 E
- GS
- GS (utility)
- GT
- GT E
- GT-P
Limited Editions
- GT R-spec
- Pursuit (utility) combining R-spec and GT-F styling cues
- GT-F 351
- GT-F "351"
Launched in June 2014 as the final Falcon-based GT sedan and FPV offering (alongside the Pursuit Ute), production was capped at 500 units for Australia priced at $77,990 each, plus an additional 50 units allocated to New Zealand. The GT-F integrates launch control technology, Brembo six-piston front and four-piston rear brake calipers, upgraded suspension components, and Dunlop Sports Maxx tires sourced from the GT R-spec. Its supercharged Coyote V8 is retuned to deliver a base peak power of , with brief overboost surges up to , while maintaining consistent torque output across a wide range.
Inside, the cabin features darker trim accented with orange highlights and includes numbered build plaques; externally, it boasts stealth black side mirrors, spoilers, door handles, wheels, blackout light surrounds, and a signature striping package offered in various colors coordinated with exterior paint options.
Notably, the NSW Police Force procured one of these final FPV GT sedans tuned by racing icon Dick Johnson to produce , establishing it as Australia's most powerful police vehicle as of 2015.
FPV auctioned off build numbers 001 and 500 via eBay to support the National Breast Cancer Foundation; these vehicles fetched $236,100 and $157,600 respectively.
F6X
In January 2008, Ford Performance Vehicles introduced the FPV F6X, a performance-oriented luxury version of the Ford Territory SUV. It was powered by the F6 270 Turbocharged 4.0 L DOHC inline-six engine paired with a ZF six-speed automatic gearbox and featured full-time all-wheel drive. As FPV’s inaugural model not based on the Falcon platform, the F6X delivered output figures of and , making it Australia’s most potent six-cylinder SUV at that time.
Production ended in February 2009 after a total of 251 units were manufactured.
Concept Vehicles
- Galaxie 540
During an FPV open day in 2004, a clay model Fairlane was presented featuring a customized front fascia incorporating GT headlights, bonnet, and body kit elements.
- Territory P-SUV
At the 2007 open day event, a Territory-based concept was displayed showcasing an open cargo area behind the seats. The floor and foldable rear seatbacks were finished with machine-polished metal panels.
- GT "Black Edition" concept
Unveiled at the 2011 Melbourne motor show, FPV displayed the "FLPV concept" or "Black Edition," built upon the supercharged GT series. This concept sported an all-black exterior with distinctive front bumper styling and staggered wheel sizes. While some design aspects were considered for future production models, only wider rear wheels were ultimately incorporated into the R-spec and GT-F variants.
5.4L Modular "Boss" V8
- Boss 290
Derived from cast iron 4V DOHC Boss short blocks manufactured in Windsor, Ontario, the Boss 290 combined locally produced intake manifolds and pistons with Mustang Cobra R DOHC 4-valve cylinder heads. FPV designated it according to its power output: 290 kW (394 PS; 389 bhp) at 5,500 rpm and a torque of 520 N·m (380 lb·ft) at 4,500 rpm.
- Boss 302
Developed for the BFII FPV GT Cobra special edition, the Boss 302 delivered 405 hp (302 kW) and 398 lb·ft (540 N·m) of torque. This engine was also utilized across all V8 FPV models until the introduction of the FG series in 2008.
- Boss 315
For the FG MkI model, the 5.4L engine was enhanced to produce 315 kW (428 PS; 422 bhp) and 551 N·m (406 lb·ft) by employing a new camshaft profile, adjusted timing, reinforced pistons, and an increased compression ratio of 10.8:1. A detuned version producing 302 kW powered the limited edition FPV GS within the FG lineup.
5.0L Coyote "Miami" V8
In October 2010, FPV replaced the 5.4L Boss V8 with a supercharged 5.0L V8 known as "Miami," based on the Coyote architecture. This all-aluminum quad-cam engine project cost $40 million and required three years of development, offered in Boss 315, Boss 335, and Boss 351 variants.
Following FPV's closure, the Boss 335 powered the reintroduced XR8 within the FG-X lineup. A special XR8 Sprint edition delivered enhanced performance figures.
- Boss 315
This base-level engine powered GS sedans and utes, generating 315 kW (428 PS; 422 bhp) at 5,750 rpm along with 545 N·m (402 lb·ft) of torque between 2,000 and 5,500 rpm.
- Boss 335
Fitted to GT variants (GT, GT-P, GT-E), this version produced 335 kW (455 PS; 449 bhp) at a range of 5,750 to 6,000 rpm and torque between 2,200 and 5,500 rpm. Fuel efficiency improved by approximately 4.5%, with consumption figures around 13.7 L/100 km (automatic) and 13.6 L/100 km (manual).
Boss 345 Exclusive to the FG X XR8 Sprint model, this engine generated 345 kW and delivered 575 Nm of torque. Under optimal conditions, an overboost function increased output to 400 kW / 650 Nm—matching that of the FPV GT-F. Instead of displaying power ratings, this engine featured a unique build number engraving.
- Boss 351
A specially calibrated engine unique to the GT-F model, named in homage to classic Cleveland engines found in Falcons. It achieves up to a claimed output of 400 kW (536 hp; 544 PS) and torque of 650 N⋅m (479 lb⋅ft), representing roughly a fifteen percent increase in both power and torque when conditions allow.
4.0L "Barra" I6
- Barra 270
For BA/BF F6 Typhoon and Tornado models, a Garrett GT3540 turbocharger elevated power output to at 5,250 rpm with torque available at between 2,000 and 4,000 rpm.
- Barra 310
Within the FG series, the GT3540 turbocharger was maintained instead of switching to the smaller GT3576 used in FG XR6 Turbo models. This engine delivers power at 5,250 rpm and torque spanning from 1,950 to 5,200 rpm—making it Australia's first engine to exceed one hundred horsepower (75 kW) per litre. The F6 achieves acceleration from 80 to120 km/h in just 2.8 seconds.
- Barra 325
Exclusively found in the FGX XR6 Turbo Sprint variant, this is essentially a Barra 270T equipped with a Garrett GT3540 turbocharger and an updated carbon fibre intake system.
V8 Supercars
Ford Performance Racing (FPR) was founded by Prodrive in 2003 to establish a connection between FPV road vehicles and Ford Falcon V8 Supercars. Although initially facing challenges, the team progressed to secure second place in the Teams' Championship in2006 while Mark Winterbottom finished runner-up in the Drivers' Championship in2008. In January2013, Prodrive sold FPR to Rusty French and Rod Nash. That year marked FPR’s inaugural Bathurst1000 victory with Winterbottom and Steven Richards driving a Falcon FG. In2015, following Ford's gradual retreat from V8 Supercars support programs,FPR was renamed Prodrive Racing Australia.
Prominent drivers associated with the team include Craig Lowndes, Glenn Seton, Greg Ritter, David Brabham, David Besnard, Jason Bright, Mark Winterbottom, Steven Richards,and Will Davison.
Drifting
FPV introduced the 'DRIF6', a modified F6 Typhoon specifically engineered for competitive drifting, aiming to attract a younger demographic beyond the usual V8 fan base. In 2006, this vehicle participated in the national Drift Australia Series, piloted by driver Adam 'Newtonmeter' Newton. Additionally, Gary Myers operated the car for Street Machine Magazine, commending its impressive power output.
The DRIF6 secured its highest qualifying spot at 5th place during an event at Mallala Motorsport Park. While performing a demonstration run at Queensland Raceway with Warren Luff behind the wheel, the car suffered a severe crash that resulted in Luff being hospitalized. Subsequently, the damaged car was showcased in China as part of a sponsorship campaign before being repatriated to Australia, where it is currently exhibited at the Ford Australia Discovery Centre located in Geelong, Victoria.
See also
External links
- Official website (archived, 27 Sep 2002)
- Ford Australia