Overview

LIKE a fine wine, the new Falcon XR8 has matured into a completely practical V8 sports sedan that, for some, remains the pinnacle of Ford's performance car range.

Sharing all of the redesigned FG Falcon upgrades, it advances the cause with a vastly more commodious interior featuring a slicker new dash, plus a comprehensively overhauled front end comprising all-new front suspension and steering gear, making it wieldier than before.

There's also a lusty 290kW 5.4-litre V8 direct from the FPV parts bin, mated to a new six-speed manual and a reworked version of the superb ZF six-speed auto.

And all for less than $45,500.

It’s just a pity that it uses more fuel, isn't as quick and doesn't handle as sharply as the heir to its throne, Ford's own XR6 Turbo, which no longer commands a price premium over the former Falcon king.