Ford updates Falcon

The new Ford FG Falcon MkII gets front fascia redesigns, revised rear badging, new alloy wheels and chrome grille finishes across the range, with G6E and above adding new projector headlamps, black mesh accents for XR6s and other minor treatments.

There’s more in the cabin, with a new instrument cluster , upgraded audio systems, and a new Interior Command Centre (ICC) with an 8-in colour touch screen on all Falcon sedan models except XT (where it will be available as an option) and on XR6 and XR6 Turbo models (but also an option on the entry-level XL).

All audio systems – base, prestige and premium – have been upgraded with the inclusion of a new USB input facility to play MP3 audio files.  In USB mode, the user can play and browse all MP3 files through the audio system.

Safety has been hiked with the addition of side curtain airbags and rear parking sensors across the entire sedan range and head/thorax-protecting side airbags as standard equipment across the full Falcon Ute line-up.

A new stability control system – including traction control, emergency brake assist and ABS – will be added as standard on the entry-level Falcon Utes.

Under the bonnet, EcoBoost engine direct injection and turbocharging technology promises the sedan range more economy, power and performance with low CO2 emissions.

Ford says that -- similarly to recent turbodiesels -- the smaller EcoBoost petrol engines use a common-rail high-pressure direct injection fuel system to deliver “a precise amount of fuel in the exact spot for fast and complete burn”. More details on the Falcon EcoBoost engines will be available closer to their launch early next year. Chances are it will be around the same output as the Volvo version of the engine which generates 177kW and 320Nm. Like the Volvo and Ford's own Mondeo, it is also likely to be teamed with a six-speed Powershift, twin-clutch robotised manual gearbox.

The EcoBoost technology is spreading through Ford around the world, and will be available in 80 per cent of Ford global models by 2013.