Here it is – the first official pics of the last ever Ford Falcon which goes on-sale on 1 December.
These are the sporty XR8 and XR6 variants and if you think the front-end looks familiar you are correct – the last Aussie Ford showcases the company’s latest international design cues with a look very similar to the European Mondeo and American Mustang.
A honeycomb front grille is unique to the XR models.
Ford says the new XR8 Falcon will have plenty of muscle as it will be powered by the GT model’s supercharged V8 engine – that powerplant lurking under a bonnet with a massive bugle to promote its high performance stature.
Also standing-out in this photo are the ultra-modern chiseled headlights and ‘hockey stick’ style LED DRLs.
At the rear, Ford says we can expect the XR models to run wrap-around jewel-like taillights with LED technology and sculptured bootlid with integrated lip spoiler.
XR8 models will feature an under-bumper rear diffuser with quad exhaust pipes.
Still some months away from launch, Ford is keeping most details on the hush but word on the street is the XR8 will also feature steering wheel paddle-shifters for manual changes of the sequential automatic transmission.
Currently the plan is to build Falcons until October 2016 at which time the curtain will come down on Ford’s tremendous local sedan after 56 years – one of the longest-running models in automotive history.
And it will be the end of 91 years of Ford manufacturing in Australia.
“Quite simply, we think this is the best Falcon ever. I just couldn’t be more pleased with what the talented local team’s been able to accomplish, I’m really proud of them,” enthused Ford Australia President Bob Graziano. “When you look at cars like the new Falcon, it’s easy to understand why we are now leading global project such as the new Everest (Range-based SUV) which is designed and engineered in Australia for the world.”
The last-ever Falcon sedan will be joined by ute variants when launched late this year.
