NEW FALCON: The model range

Is it goodbye to Futura, Fairmont, et al? That certainly seems to be the case based on Ford's early-release images of the FG Falcon model range and the information we've garnered ahead of today's unveiling of the new large car.

Though the new car was 'scooped' by various online and print outlets in the lead up to today's unveiling, in truth, not a single un-camouflaged photograph of the FG Falcon was published.

Even the Carsales Network's eye-in-the-sky couldn't repeat its VE Commodore busting images. Overall, a top effort by Ford's team...

Revealed today therefore is a car that we've had little time to study. In the images, at least, it looks evolutionary. Indeed, while we'll reserve our final judgement until we see the car on the road, some models require a second look to differentiate them from the existing BF MkII equivalent.

That said, there's plenty of Ford DNA in the look of the new car -- and more than a hint of Mondeo. With the new car's arrival, Ford dealers are definitely going to have a line-up that is more cohesive in terms of styling than some of their competitors.

The biggest change -- save from the fact this is the first all-new Falcon in ten years -- is Ford's decision to move to alphanumeric model designations.

While the XT nameplate is retained to kick off the sedan range, the Futura and Fairmont F-cars have been replaced with models wearing the G6, G6E and G6E Turbo designations.

Near as we can guess from studying Ford's images, the G6, G6E and G6E Turbo appear to step into the gaps vacated by Futura, Fairmont and Fairmont Ghia models respectively. Whether this is the case or, indeed, the models are straight 'swaps' should be cleared up today as part of the launch.

Fortunately in the case of the XR sports models the nomenclature is pretty much a carry-over from the BF MkII range -- unlike the cars themselves.

With their upgraded powertrains and more, the XR6, XR6 Turbo and XR8 should do the trick to re-invigorate the Blue versus Red battle quick smart!

In the light commercial arena, the Falcon Ute is the opening shot with R6, XR6, XR6 Turbo and XR8 variants all set to be offered.

As detailed separately, there is no FG Falcon wagon. Rather, Ford has announced a BF MKIII wagon will be offered in XT trim only in both naturally-aspirated petrol and E-Gas versions only (more here)

For more images follow these links
XT image gallery (more here)
G6 image gallery (more here)
G6E image gallery (more here)
G6E Turbo image gallery (more here)
XR6 image gallery (more here)
XR6 Turbo image gallery (more here)
XR8 image gallery (more here)
Ute image gallery (more here)

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