Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Ford brings FPV Falcon production in house [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/21/ford-brings-fpv-falcon-production-in-house-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/21/ford-brings-fpv-falcon-production-in-house-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/21/ford-brings-fpv-falcon-production-in-house-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



For the first time since 1976, Ford of Australia is bringing the assembly of its stonking Ford Performance Vehicle line back in-house to the company's Broadmeadows and Geelong facilities. That's a point of pride for FPV, which builds high-performance versions of the Australian Falcon model like the F6, GS and the heroic GT seen here.

In the video below, we hear FPV employees talking in hushed tones about the important legacy that cars like the GT have for Australian gearheads of all stripes, and how proud they are to say that hand-built machines like this GT R-Spec with its Boss 355 engine are now rolling out of their home base. For our part, we're just dying to drive this version of the Coyote V8; the engine is rocking a "Miami" supercharger from Harrop and makes some 450 horsepower.

Continue on below for the video, or you can check out some images of the new FPV at the facility, as well as a gallery of the GT R-Spec car.

Continue reading Ford brings FPV Falcon production in house [w/video]

Ford brings FPV Falcon production in house [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Feb 2013 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>falconfalcon gtfordford australiaford falconford performance vehiclesfpvfpv gtfpv gt boss 335videoThu, 21 Feb 2013 18:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20469964/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/21/ford-brings-fpv-falcon-production-in-house-w-video/20469964/article-detail.xml 20469964 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/000-fpv-gt-broadmeadows-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/000-fpv-gt-broadmeadows-628.jpg <![CDATA[Bentley SUV given green light by VW board]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/05/bentley-suv-given-green-light-by-vw-board/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/05/bentley-suv-given-green-light-by-vw-board/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/05/bentley-suv-given-green-light-by-vw-board/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Bentley EXP 9 concept SUV live at Geneva Motor Show unveiling in 2012

The "will they, won't they" saga over Bentley's SUV plans appears to finally be over. They will. That's according to the German business newspaper Handelsblatt, which is reporting that the controversial SUV will be built after receiving the go-ahead from Volkswagen's board.

Known internally as "Falcon," the still-unnamed Bentley SUV will be based on the EXP 9 Concept that received wildly mixed reviews at its 2012 Geneva Motor Show unveiling. Since the EXP 9's unveiling, there have been a steady stream of leaks and rumors suggesting that the bold-faced vehicle will get a redesign prior to going into production, but it remains unclear how different the final vehicle will look.

According to Automotive News, Bentley is itself stopping short of confirming the green-light report, though it does admit that the SUV's production outlook appears "very positive." Production will likely take place in Slovakia at a plant owned by parent Volkswagen.

Seen as a key part of Bentley's plan to expand its sales volumes, the SUV is expected to arrive within three years under V8 and possibly W12 power, just like the brand's volume Continental GT range. Said to start at a cost of some 200,000 euros - over $270,000 US - the Bentley will stare down a suddenly crowded segment of luxury utility vehicles, taking on newcomers like the Maserati Levante and as-yet unnamed Lamborghini SUV along with segment stalwarts like the Land Rover Range Rover and Porsche Cayenne.

Bentley SUV given green light by VW board originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Feb 2013 13:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bentleybentley falconbentley suvexp 9 fexp9ffalconTue, 05 Feb 2013 13:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20449221/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/05/bentley-suv-given-green-light-by-vw-board/20449221/article-detail.xml 20449221 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/bentley-exp-9-f-concept-geneva-1331323632_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/bentley-exp-9-f-concept-geneva-1331323632.jpg <![CDATA[Bentley EXP 9 F to be redesigned, renamed Falcon?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/22/bentley-exp-9-f-to-be-redesigned-renamed-falcon/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/22/bentley-exp-9-f-to-be-redesigned-renamed-falcon/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/22/bentley-exp-9-f-to-be-redesigned-renamed-falcon/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Bentley EXP 9 F concept live at Geneva Motor Show reveal

In concept form, the Bentley EXP 9 F had neither the styling nor the name to impress us when we first saw it earlier this year at the Geneva Motor Show, and while we already knew some sort of design change was imminent, we're unsurprisingly now hearing that a name change is also in the cards. Automobile Magazine is reporting that the eventual production Bentley SUV will get a complete redesign from what we saw in the EXP 9 F, and it will wear a new name as well: Falcon.

The article says that Luc Donckerwolke, Bentley's newly appointed director of design, is giving the SUV a complete redesign from the concept vehicle, which goes against what we last heard of the vehicle in August that a "radical redesign" was not in the cards. Donckerwolke has been on the design team at various Volkswagen Group automakers since 1992, helping to pen such memorable designs as the Lamborghini Gallardo and Murciélago, but now he is tasked with giving Bentley an SUV worthy of its lineup. Last we heard, the model could go into production in 2015, but there is no indication whether the Falcon will get three-row seating or a plug-in hybrid version as has been previously rumored.

Bentley EXP 9 F to be redesigned, renamed Falcon? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Nov 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bentley exp 9 f conceptbentleybentley suvexp 9 ffalconThu, 22 Nov 2012 17:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20386140/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/22/bentley-exp-9-f-to-be-redesigned-renamed-falcon/20386140/article-detail.xml 20386140 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/bentley-exp-9-f-concept-geneva-1331323632_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/bentley-exp-9-f-concept-geneva-1331323632.jpg <![CDATA[FPV announces 450-HP supercharged GT RSPEC]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/15/fpv-announces-450-hp-supercharged-gt-rspec/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/15/fpv-announces-450-hp-supercharged-gt-rspec/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/15/fpv-announces-450-hp-supercharged-gt-rspec/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Ford Performance Vehicles (FPV) is the Australian equivalent to Ford's SVT division here in North America. Its high-performance sedan, the GT, is based on the Ford Faclon saloon. FPV has unveiled the most hardcore version of the GT yet - the FPV GT RSPEC. The machine was developed by FPV with the intent of providing track-minded consumers a competition-ready performer.

Under the hood is a supercharged 5.0-liter V8, codenamed "Miami," that puts out 455 horsepower and announces its arrival with a bold "Boss" paint scheme. Power is routed through a ZF six-speed manual transmission, sending power to the road via Dunlop Sport Maxx tires. The GT RSPEC will feature a very limited run of 350 units.

In addition to the GT sedan is a new limited edition Ute that will feature the same fire-breathing supercharged V8 and exterior treatment. Even more rare than the GT, the FPV Pursuit Ute will be limited to only 75 units. Click below for the press release and to get all the nitty gritty specs.

Continue reading FPV announces 450-HP supercharged GT RSPEC

FPV announces 450-HP supercharged GT RSPEC originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiafalconfalcon GT RSPECfalcon utefordfpvGT RSPECuteWed, 15 Aug 2012 09:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20299559/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/15/fpv-announces-450-hp-supercharged-gt-rspec/20299559/article-detail.xml 20299559 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/00-12-fpv-gt-rspec-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/00-12-fpv-gt-rspec-628.jpg <![CDATA[Jay Leno shows off the BaT Falcon of his dreams]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/31/jay-leno-shows-off-the-bat-falcon-of-his-dreams/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/31/jay-leno-shows-off-the-bat-falcon-of-his-dreams/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/31/jay-leno-shows-off-the-bat-falcon-of-his-dreams/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Jay Leno with his new 1963.5 Ford Falcon Sprint

Jay Leno owns all kinds of cars: Steam powered, 100-year-old electric and modern-day supercars. His legendary garage is teeming with millions of dollars of iron.

But his dream car has always been the 1963 1/2 Ford Falcon Sprint. So when he saw exactly the car on BringATrailer.com, he plunked down the $26,000 for the mint condition, seriously modified Falcon and sent a trailer.

This Falcon Sprint is built out exactly the way Leno says he would have built it. It has a 1965 289-cubic-inch small block under the hood with 360 horsepower and the battery in the trunk. It has a stiffened suspension, aftermarket wheels and a five-speed manual transmission (the original came with a four-speed). Leno, who says he regularly reads BaT, released a video on his website, Jay Leno's Garage, of his Falcon find, taking the Mustang precursor for a ride around Southern California.

Check out Jay's video below. We particularly like how he shamelessly hugs his new Ford, which is likely going to live a very good life from here on out.

Continue reading Jay Leno shows off the BaT Falcon of his dreams

Jay Leno shows off the BaT Falcon of his dreams originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Jul 2012 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1963 ford falcon1963 ford falcon sprint289falconfordford falconjay lenojay lenos garagelenosmall blockTue, 31 Jul 2012 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20289942/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/31/jay-leno-shows-off-the-bat-falcon-of-his-dreams/20289942/article-detail.xml 20289942 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/jay-leno-1963-ford-falcon-sprint_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/jay-leno-1963-ford-falcon-sprint.jpg <![CDATA[Falcon future unsure as Ford expected to cease AU manufacturing in 2016]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/30/falcon-future-unsure-as-ford-expected-to-cease-au-manufacturing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/30/falcon-future-unsure-as-ford-expected-to-cease-au-manufacturing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/30/falcon-future-unsure-as-ford-expected-to-cease-au-manufacturing/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ford Falcon GT - blue - front three-quarter view

Ford hasn't said anything about it, but those who predict and those who do business with Ford in Australia expect The Blue Oval to cease production there as of 2016. The primary reason cited is the arrival of Euro 5 emissions standards on November 1, 2016, which are too stringent for the company's bread-and-butter Falcon sedan and Territory crossover to pass. It's been said that it would cost Ford millions to reengineer and retool, but sales of the Falcon sedan have been down for so long now that Ford announced earlier this month that 440 people would be let go from its two plants there.

In fact, Ford's Aussie position has been under threat for years. In 2007 the company announced it would close its Geelong engine plant at a cost of 600 jobs, only to reverse the decision a year later and keep the plant operating. Meanwhile, the value of the Australian dollar, cautious consumers and tariff reductions in the overall market have made imports tougher competition and depressed margins. It is the Falcon's troubles that are especially painful, though, causing a planned production cut of 25 percent in November.

In view of Ford's moves and the company's silence on its plans, suppliers have been rewriting their business plans for a future without Ford Australia, letting go of workers and going into receivership. Ford's departure would mean the loss of 3,000 jobs directly, with more to come in the supply chain and incidental industries. Also lost should this come to be: the legendary rivalry between the Falcon and General Motors' Holden Commodore, not to mention that between Ford Performance Vehicles (the FPV GT from 2008 is pictured above) and Holden Special Vehicles.

The front- and all-wheel-drive Ford Taurus range is expected to replace the rear-wheel-drive Falcon, and an as-yet-unnamed crossover would fill in for the Territory. Ford has had a manufacturing base Down Under since 1925 - leaving the country would mean only General Motors and Toyota remain as domestic producers.

Falcon future unsure as Ford expected to cease AU manufacturing in 2016 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Jul 2012 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaemissionseuro 5falconfordford auford australiaford falconford territoryterritoryMon, 30 Jul 2012 11:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20288891/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/30/falcon-future-unsure-as-ford-expected-to-cease-au-manufacturing/20288891/article-detail.xml 20288891 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/fordozdeparture_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/fordozdeparture.jpg <![CDATA[HSV sales strong despite Aussie slump, around 20% of Ford Falcon sales]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/19/hsv-sales-strong-despite-aussie-slump-around-20-of-ford-falcon/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/19/hsv-sales-strong-despite-aussie-slump-around-20-of-ford-falcon/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/19/hsv-sales-strong-despite-aussie-slump-around-20-of-ford-falcon/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

HSV E Series 2 lineup gallery - red, front three-quarter view sedan

The economic doldrums are having a hard time sullying the teflon-coated sales numbers of Holden Special Vehicles, the division that serves the same purpose within Holden that AMG does within Mercedes-Benz. Despite a slump in purchases of large sedans that has affected General Motors' standard Holden Commodore and savaged the Ford Falcon, the pricier and thirstier HSV models are, according to the division's CEO Phil Harding, doing fully 20 percent of Ford Falcon sales. Note, that's not 20 percent of Ford Performance Vehicle sales, the Blue Oval's competitor to HSV, it's to the basic Falcon. It would be like the BMW M5 doing one fifth of Mercedes-Benz E-Class volume.

Naturally, the people in charge at HSV are happy about this. It's true that sales numbers have come down, but Harding said the business case was built on the line's current sales. For now, the brand is "in the black" and "stronger than we've ever been as a business for investing in our future." The previous high flying numbers were a bonus that have helped pay for the work on the HSV version of the VF Commodore that will appear in Q2 next year. And on that note, if HSV could arrange to have that car shipped this way as well alongside the Chevrolet SS Performance, we'd be most grateful.

HSV sales strong despite Aussie slump, around 20% of Ford Falcon sales originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Jun 2012 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiacommodorefalconfordford falconford performance vehiclesholdenholden commodoreholden special vehicleshsvmalooTue, 19 Jun 2012 11:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20260587/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/19/hsv-sales-strong-despite-aussie-slump-around-20-of-ford-falcon/20260587/article-detail.xml 20260587 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/hsvsalesstrong_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/hsvsalesstrong.jpg <![CDATA[Jay Leno's garage grows by one thanks to BaT]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/16/jay-lenos-garage-grows-by-one-thanks-to-bat/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/16/jay-lenos-garage-grows-by-one-thanks-to-bat/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/16/jay-lenos-garage-grows-by-one-thanks-to-bat/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



It turns out Jay Leno shops for classic cars just like the rest of us do: by wasting untold hours drooling over occasionally perusing BringaTrailer.com. The comedian and host of The Tonight Show recently took a shine to a memorable 1963 Ford Falcon Sprint shown on the site, and it wasn't long before a few phone calls were made. Now the previous owner can say he sold a car to one of the world's most well-known collectors, and Leno will have a very-cool Falcon in his Big Dog Garage.

So, what made this particular coupe worthy of such admiration? The '63 had undergone significant revision at the hands of the previous owner and builder, including a substantial weight reduction, suspension tweaks with input from the gurus at Koni, along with a fully blueprinted 302 V8. With an aluminum intake and heads as well as a lightweight T5 transmission, the seller claims to have plucked around 200 pounds from the vehicle's nose.

The idea was to build the car in the image of the Holman Moody Falcons that once competed in the legendary Monte Carlo Rally. Head over to BaT for both the initial sale listing story and the tale of Leno's buying.

Jay Leno's garage grows by one thanks to BaT originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1963 ford falcon sprintbatbring a trailerbringatrailerfalconfalcon sprintfordford falconjay lenoMon, 16 Apr 2012 18:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20216626/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/16/jay-lenos-garage-grows-by-one-thanks-to-bat/20216626/article-detail.xml 20216626 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/pict2728-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/pict2728-opt.jpg <![CDATA[eBay Find of the Day: '64 Ford Falcon "Tiki Taxi"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/14/ebay-find-of-the-day-64-ford-falcon-squire-tiki-taxi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/14/ebay-find-of-the-day-64-ford-falcon-squire-tiki-taxi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/14/ebay-find-of-the-day-64-ford-falcon-squire-tiki-taxi/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

1964 Ford Falcon Squire

All summer, I make it a point to hit the local cruise nights, and while there are plenty of regulars on hand week to week, a few cars make just one appearance and vanish. Way back in May, the car you see above, a surf-themed 1964 Ford Falcon Squire dubbed "Tiki Taxi", showed up. Immediately smitten, I snapped a bunch of photos, all of which are now gallerized here. Good thing, because the car never materialized again.

Fast-forward to today. Turns out, the "Tiki Taxi" is for sale. The coolest '64 Falcon station wagon in the known universe has a 289, three on the floor, and a JVC cassette deck to play your Martin Denny tapes during the ride to Trader Vic's. Current high bid (as of post time) is $6,600, and you still have two days to get in on the action. Check out the photo gallery to see just how beautifully turned out this wagon really is. You can also download full-resolution shots here.

eBay Find of the Day: '64 Ford Falcon "Tiki Taxi" originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 14 Jan 2012 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1964auctioncustomebayfalconfor salefordkustomsquirestation wagonsurf themedtiki taxiwagonSat, 14 Jan 2012 11:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20148846/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/14/ebay-find-of-the-day-64-ford-falcon-squire-tiki-taxi/20148846/article-detail.xml 20148846 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/tikitaxianunez628hero_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/tikitaxianunez628hero.jpg <![CDATA[Rear-wheel drive Falcon gets five-year committment from Ford]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/rear-wheel-drive-falcon-gets-five-year-committment-from-ford/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/rear-wheel-drive-falcon-gets-five-year-committment-from-ford/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/rear-wheel-drive-falcon-gets-five-year-committment-from-ford/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ford Falcon

Fans of the rear-wheel drive Ford Falcon can breath easy, at least until 2016. According to Australia's CarAdvice.com, Ford has announced that automaker will invest $103 million to sustain both the Falcon and Territory SUV through the next five years. The news came courtesy of Ford Australia president Bo Graziano and Ford Asia Pacific president Joe Hinrichs at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show. Ford is expected to unveil refreshed versions of both the Falcon and the Territory in 2014. The automaker is expected to use the investment to improve the vehicles' efficiency and safety. The cash injection should add around 300 jobs, as well.

Ford Australia will likely focus on aerodynamics, tire adjustments and transmission improvements to eke out better fuel economy and reduced CO2 emissions. A new six-speed automatic gearbox is expected to debut with the new models.

And what happens after 2016? Ford isn't saying, though the company has made it clear Australia will receive a new large car based on a global platform. That vehicle will likely offer buyers both front and all-wheel drive configurations, thereby putting an end to the long-standing rear-wheel drive Falcon lineage.

Rear-wheel drive Falcon gets five-year committment from Ford originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 falcon2014 ford falconaustraliafalconfordford australiaford falconford territoryterritoryThu, 12 Jan 2012 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20147237/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/12/rear-wheel-drive-falcon-gets-five-year-committment-from-ford/20147237/article-detail.xml 20147237 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/ford-falcon-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/ford-falcon-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ford displays two Mad Max Interceptor Concepts in Australia [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/08/ford-displays-two-mad-max-interceptor-concepts-in-australia-w-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/08/ford-displays-two-mad-max-interceptor-concepts-in-australia-w-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/08/ford-displays-two-mad-max-interceptor-concepts-in-australia-w-v/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Ford Mad Max Interceptor Concepts
Ford Mad Max Interceptor Concepts - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you were unlucky enough to find yourself in the middle of a post-apocalyptic dystopic world where gang violence and a complete lack of any real human society were the norm, there's only one vehicle you'd want the keys to: a matte black Ford Falcon coupe. Don't believe us? Apparently you've missed out on the Australian cinematic masterpiece that is Mad Max.

Besides launching Mel Gibson's acting career (we're not touching that one with a ten-foot pole), the film and its two sequels were famous for the outlandish cars and motorcycles used to rundown unsuspecting prey and their precious last drops of gasoline. And no single machine from the film was as memorable as Max's Pursuit Special, a 1973 Ford XB Falcon GT351.

In case you didn't know, the Mad Max series is due for a fourth installment. Tentatively due to hit theaters sometime in 2012, Mad Max: Fury Road is set to star Tom Hardy, Teresa Palmer and Charlize Theron... but, of course, the real stars we're most interested in will be the cars, which are currently being designed.

Two of the leading candidates for the hero car have been created in roughly 40-percent size and are on display at the Australian International Motor Show in Melbourne. See the two scale models along with a slew of other potential designs in our high-res image gallery below. We also suggest you click past the break to check out a quick video of the concept on the show floor in Australia, along with the related press release.

Continue reading Ford displays two Mad Max Interceptor Concepts in Australia [w/video]

Ford displays two Mad Max Interceptor Concepts in Australia [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Jul 2011 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>falconford falconford falcon xbford+australiafordaustraliamad maxmad max 4mad max carmad max carsmad max: fury roadmad+max+interceptor+conceptmadmaxinterceptorconceptmel gibsontom+hardytomhardyFri, 08 Jul 2011 19:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19987005/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/08/ford-displays-two-mad-max-interceptor-concepts-in-australia-w-v/19987005/article-detail.xml 19987005 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/ford-mad-max-lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/ford-mad-max-lead.jpg <![CDATA[FPV shows off sinister GT-based concept with supercharged 5.0]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/01/fpv-shows-off-sinister-gt-based-concept-with-supercharged-5-0/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/01/fpv-shows-off-sinister-gt-based-concept-with-supercharged-5-0/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/01/fpv-shows-off-sinister-gt-based-concept-with-supercharged-5-0/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

ford performance vehicles fpv concept

Ford of Australia's performance arm, Ford Performance Vehicles, always unveils machines that cause our drool to drip all the way down to the Outback - and we're not talking gimmicky steakhouses here. A new FPV showcar has just been revealed for the Australian International Auto Show in Melbourne, and we're already stuffing our mouth with gauze. It's called the FPV Concept, and it's based on the Ford Falcon GT sedan.

Looking decisively evil in its blacked-out color scheme, the FPV Concept is powered by a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine. Large 19-inch wheels help sort the handling and power, with eight-inch-wide rollers up front and 9.5-inch-wide wheels in the rear. The suspension is track-tuned and in our dreams, the exhaust system has been tuned by Hades himself.

Sadly, this FPV Concept is just another vehicle in a long line of Australian muscle machines Americans will never get to buy. Learn more about this particular one by reading the full press release posted after the jump.

Continue reading FPV shows off sinister GT-based concept with supercharged 5.0

FPV shows off sinister GT-based concept with supercharged 5.0 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Jul 2011 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>falconfordford australiaford falcon gtford performance vehiclesfpvfpv conceptfpv gtFri, 01 Jul 2011 14:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19981422/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/01/fpv-shows-off-sinister-gt-based-concept-with-supercharged-5-0/19981422/article-detail.xml 19981422 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/fpv-concept-1309536505_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/fpv-concept-1309536505.jpg <![CDATA[V8 Supercar driver celebrates win by drifting entire victory lap]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/20/v8-supercar-driver-celebrates-win-by-drifting-entire-victory-lap/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/20/v8-supercar-driver-celebrates-win-by-drifting-entire-victory-lap/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/20/v8-supercar-driver-celebrates-win-by-drifting-entire-victory-lap/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Shane Van Driftenberg
V8 Supercar race winner drifts around the track - Click above to watch the video after the jump

Racing is racing. Drifting is drifting. The two don't generally cross over, for one simple reason: drifting is slow, and racing is fast.

Unless your name is Gilles Villeneuve, the general rule is that drifting through a corner isn't as fast as braking on the way in, clipping the apex and powering out. But at the Skycity Triple Crown this past weekend at Hidden Valley Raceway in Dawin, Australia, one Shane Van Gisbergen celebrated victory by drifting his Ford Falcon V8 Supercar around nearly the entire cool-down lap sideways, the tires lit up and the crowd going wild. It's a rare sight, and you can watch it for yourself in the video after the jump.

Continue reading V8 Supercar driver celebrates win by drifting entire victory lap

V8 Supercar driver celebrates win by drifting entire victory lap originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Jun 2011 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>driftfalconfordford falconShane Van Gisbergenv8 supercarsMon, 20 Jun 2011 19:25:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19970947/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/20/v8-supercar-driver-celebrates-win-by-drifting-entire-victory-lap/19970947/article-detail.xml 19970947 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/shane-van-driftenberg_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/shane-van-driftenberg.jpg <![CDATA[Falcon Motorcycles Black Falcon is the epitome of the art [UPDATED w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/16/falcon-motorcycles-black-falcon-is-the-epitome-of-the-art/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/16/falcon-motorcycles-black-falcon-is-the-epitome-of-the-art/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/16/falcon-motorcycles-black-falcon-is-the-epitome-of-the-art/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Falcon Motorcycles Black Falcon
Falcon Motorcycles Black Falcon - Click above for high-res image gallery

One of these days, we're going to make it down to the Quail Motorcycle Gathering. Aside from being a Mecca for the two-wheel set, the venue also serves as the backdrop for numerous debuts. This year, Falcon Motorcycles pulled the sheets back on its latest creation - the Black Falcon. The machine started life as a legendary Vincent Black Shadow that had been converted into a drag racer and lakebed heathen.

After a year of work by a six-man crew, the bike has transcended mere transportation. The blueprinted engine now produces a full 75 horsepower thanks to lightened, balanced internals, and a set of massive brakes sourced from the locomotive sector stand ready to bring the party down from its 140 mph top speed.

There isn't a single piece of the Black Falcon that hasn't been broken down and re-engineered to perform and look better than the factory ever intended. Falcon even constructed two tanks for the machine - one for road travel and smaller, one-gallon piece for racing duty. We're completely smitten. Head over to Bike Exif for a full rundown on the creation, and be sure to check out this beautiful machine in our high-res image gallery.

*Update: Video can now be found after the break.

Continue reading Falcon Motorcycles Black Falcon is the epitome of the art [UPDATED w/video]

Falcon Motorcycles Black Falcon is the epitome of the art [UPDATED w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 May 2011 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black falconfalconfalcon motorcyclesfalcon motorcycles black falconquail motorycle gatheringvincentvincent black shadowvincent motorcyclesMon, 16 May 2011 19:24:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19942010/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/16/falcon-motorcycles-black-falcon-is-the-epitome-of-the-art/19942010/article-detail.xml 19942010 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/falcon-black-shadow_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/falcon-black-shadow.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Ford Taurus design points the way for next Falcon, Mondeo]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/27/report-2013-ford-taurus-design-points-the-way-for-next-falcon/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/27/report-2013-ford-taurus-design-points-the-way-for-next-falcon/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/27/report-2013-ford-taurus-design-points-the-way-for-next-falcon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Ford Taurus
2013 Ford Taurus - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you've been wondering exactly what Ford has in mind for the next-generation Falcon, look no further than the recently revealed 2013 Taurus for a few clues. Ford design guru J Mays has officially made it clear that the look of the sedan will be transposed onto several of the automaker's other products, including models like the Mondeo and Falcon. The crew from Go Auto spoke to Mays at the New York International Auto Show last week where the designer said that the corporate look will still allow each model to flex its character.

Mays said that the design was heavily influenced by vehicles like the Audi A6 and that the new trapezoidal grille design on the 2013 Taurus will allow the vehicle's face to be easily applied to a range of products. Even so, don't expect to see exact carbon copies across the dealer lot. Mays made it clear that the design can be modified to deliver everything from an aggressive visage to a more subdued look.


Gallery: 2013 Ford Taurus

2013 Ford Taurus2013 Ford Taurus2013 Ford Taurus2013 Ford Taurus2013 Ford Taurus

[Source: Go Auto]

2013 Ford Taurus design points the way for next Falcon, Mondeo originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Apr 2011 18:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 new york auto show2013 ford taurusfalconfordford falconford mondeoford taurusj maysmondeonew york auto showWed, 27 Apr 2011 18:21:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19922709/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/27/report-2013-ford-taurus-design-points-the-way-for-next-falcon/19922709/article-detail.xml 19922709 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/2013-ford-taurus-630-1303745308-1303936243_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/2013-ford-taurus-630-1303745308-1303936243.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Ford FPV Boss 335 GT makes us wish we were Australian]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/09/video-ford-fpv-boss-335-gt-makes-us-wish-we-were-australian/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/09/video-ford-fpv-boss-335-gt-makes-us-wish-we-were-australian/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/09/video-ford-fpv-boss-335-gt-makes-us-wish-we-were-australian/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Ford Boss 335 GT
2011 Ford Boss 335 GT - Click above to view video after the jump

Ford claims that the 2011 Boss 335 GT packs the most-powerful V8 ever offered in an Australian sedan. And after seeing four-time Australian Touring Car champ Allan Moffat at the wheel, we're inclined to believe them.

The Boss 335 GT squeezes 450 horsepower from a supercharged, DOHC 5.0-liter V8 based on the same mill powering the 2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302 in the U.S. With 10 more horsepower than our Mustang and two more doors, the Boss 335 GT is likely one of the most efficient ways of getting you and three friends arrested Down Under.

Unfortunately, that privilege is reserved solely for the Australians, as there's zero chance the Boss 335 GT will come to our shores. Hear the 335 GT in action after the jump. Thanks for the tip, Dan!

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading Video: Ford FPV Boss 335 GT makes us wish we were Australian

Video: Ford FPV Boss 335 GT makes us wish we were Australian originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 09 Apr 2011 12:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 ford boss 335 gt2011+ford+boss+335+gt+specs2011fordboss335gtspecsallan moffatbathurstboss 335 gtfalconfordford+fpvfordfpvfpvfpv+boss+335+gtfpvboss335gtSat, 09 Apr 2011 12:24:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19908017/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/09/video-ford-fpv-boss-335-gt-makes-us-wish-we-were-australian/19908017/article-detail.xml 19908017 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/ford-boss-335-v8-4w-1293364_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/ford-boss-335-v8-4w-1293364.jpg <![CDATA[Video: The making of the Falcon Kestrel]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/18/video-the-making-of-the-falcon-kestrel/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/18/video-the-making-of-the-falcon-kestrel/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/18/video-the-making-of-the-falcon-kestrel/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Falcon Kestrel video
Building the Falcon Kestrel - Click above to watch video after the jump

We've set about ticking off the days of 2011 with a little help from the ever-luscious Bike Exif calendar. Along with some of the best photography on two wheels, we've also been treated to a quick history of the featured bike of the month as well as information on the builder.

This month's machine is none other than the lovely Falcon Kestrel. With over 2,000 man-hours worth of fabrication wrapped up in the Kestrel, there's little wondering why Falcon took home the Best Custom trophy at the 2010 Quail Motorcycle Gathering.

Now Falcon has been so kind as to release a video showing exactly what went into the Kestrel's creation. According to Hell For Leather, builder Ian Barry is a sucker for employing some of the lost arts of metal fabrication, including silver brazing, and all of his talents went into bringing this particular bike to life. Check out the video after the jump.

[Source: Hell For Leather - sub. req.]

Continue reading Video: The making of the Falcon Kestrel

Video: The making of the Falcon Kestrel originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Feb 2011 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>falconfalcon kestrelfalcon motorcyclesian barrykestrelmotorcyclevideoFri, 18 Feb 2011 16:55:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19847000/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/18/video-the-making-of-the-falcon-kestrel/19847000/article-detail.xml 19847000 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/kestrel-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/kestrel-630.jpg <![CDATA[Ford shows Aussies who's Boss with special FPV Falcon]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/26/ford-shows-aussies-whos-boss-with-special-fpv-falcon/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/26/ford-shows-aussies-whos-boss-with-special-fpv-falcon/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/26/ford-shows-aussies-whos-boss-with-special-fpv-falcon/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

FPV Boss 335 GT
FPV Boss 335 GT - Click above for image gallery

There's no shortage of similarities to be found between Australia and the United States. Both are former British colonies flying red, white and blue flags; both are big masses of land divided into states; both have Top Gear spinoffs and share a common affinity for Crocodile Dundee. We could go on, but the key commonality here is love for muscle cars. More than anything, that's what ties these two countries together from opposite ends of the Earth.

General Motors has capitalized on that shared trait by bringing powerful Holdens over to America under Pontiac badges. Arch-rival Ford, meanwhile, has gone the other way, taking a popular American performance badge and slapping it on one of its Australian products.

The result is the Ford Boss 335 GT. Based on the Falcon sedan, Ford Performance Vehicles (FPV) has given the Boss 335 GT a touch more power than the 2012 Boss 302 Mustang: the 335's supercharged 5.0-liter DOHC 32-valve V8 pumps out 450 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque (compared to the 440hp and 380 lb-ft on the all-motor Boss Mustang). The power's driven to the 19" rear wheels through a six-speed manual and kept in check by oversized, cross-drilled and ventilated Brembo brakes.

FPV's also made sure the special Falcon got all the requisite striping you'd expect from a Boss, and equipped the interior with everything they bad to throw at it. With the American and Australian dollars close to par, though, the $70,000 sticker price may seem a little steep. UNfortunately, this is an exclusively Aussie product, so if you (i.e. our U.S. readers) want to show 'em who's Boss, you'll have to stick to the Mustang. Dang.


Gallery: Ford Boss 335 GT


[Source: FPV via Top Speed]

Ford shows Aussies who's Boss with special FPV Falcon originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 26 Dec 2010 11:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiabossfalconfordford australiaFord Boss 335 GTford falconford falcon boss 335 gtford performance vehiclesFPVFPV Boss 335 GTfpv falconSun, 26 Dec 2010 11:05:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19777001/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/12/26/ford-shows-aussies-whos-boss-with-special-fpv-falcon/19777001/article-detail.xml 19777001 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/ford-boss-335-v8-4w-1293364126_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/ford-boss-335-v8-4w-1293364126.jpg <![CDATA[Introducing the Kestrel from Falcon Motorcycles [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/05/introducing-the-kestrel-from-falcon-motorcycles-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/05/introducing-the-kestrel-from-falcon-motorcycles-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/05/introducing-the-kestrel-from-falcon-motorcycles-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Falcon Motorcycles Kestrel - Click above to watch the video after the break

Despite our best attempt to harbor a deep-seated loathing when it comes to the hoards of under-thought and over-raked custom motorcycles, and by default one-off bikes as a whole, rare occasions arise when we feel obligated to stop and take note of something beyond the wave of metallic peanut tanks. Such an occasion arose with the release of the Kestrel, a sophomore effort from the L.A.-based studio of Falcon Motorcycles.

Yeah, we know it's a shop, not a studio where one builds motorcycles, right? In the case of Falcon, the line between motorcycle and art form seems to be blurred. Founders Ian Barry and Amaryllis Knight like to think of their creations as "art that can be pulled off the wall, and ridden into town." After a childhood run-in with a pack of bikers mounted on British iron, Barry developed a preference for not only the style of the two wheelers, but also the historical importance of bikes built across the pond.

Now all grown up, Knight's obsession has sent Falcon on a quest to reproduce 10 motorcycles, which despite being completely custom will share a a few commonalities: all British and all of particular historical significance - that is, in the Knight's opinion. The Kestrel, which is based on a 1970 Triumph Bonneville, is the second in that line of creations. It will make it's debut two years after Falcon's firstborn Bullet, which was commissioned by actor Jason Lee.

Take two years and 2,000 man hours, a basket-case Bonnie, sprinkle in the right amount of panache and viola, the Kestrel is born. Check it at the Quail Motorcycle Gathering on it's first journey from the nest. Hit the jump to see the complete video of the Kestrel at Falcon's home base.

[Source: L.A. Times]

Continue reading Introducing the Kestrel from Falcon Motorcycles [w/video]

Introducing the Kestrel from Falcon Motorcycles [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 May 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bonnevillebritish motor heritagebritish motorcyclesBritishMotorcyclesBritishMotorHeritageFalconfalcon kestrelFalcon Motorcyclesfalcon motorcycles kestrelFalconKestrelFalconMotorcyclesFalconMotorcyclesKestreljason leeJasonLeekestrelNortonnorton motorcyclesNortonMotorcyclesQuail motorcycle gatheringQuail Motorsports GatheringQuailMotorcycleGatheringQuailMotorsportsGatheringtriumphtriumph bonnevilleTriumphBonnevilleWed, 05 May 2010 19:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19464854/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/05/05/introducing-the-kestrel-from-falcon-motorcycles-w-video/19464854/article-detail.xml 19464854 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/falcon_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/falcon.jpg <![CDATA[DetNews: New Ford Police Interceptor to be Taurus-based]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/11/detnews-new-ford-police-interceptor-to-be-taurus-based/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/11/detnews-new-ford-police-interceptor-to-be-taurus-based/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/11/detnews-new-ford-police-interceptor-to-be-taurus-based/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Will the new Police Interceptor be a toughened Taurus SHO? - click above for high-res image gallery

Just a quick note: The Detroit News is reporting that the next Ford Police Interceptor will be based on the same platform as the Taurus. For you platform geeks out there, that's the Ford D3 chassis that underpins everything from the the Lincoln MKS to the Volvo XC90 to the Ford Flex (though the Flex and the Lincoln MKT ride on a lengthened version called D4). Yesterday, we explained that a new Police Interceptor is showing up tomorrow (Friday, March 12) in Las Vegas and that it probably won't be riding on the Panther platform. Regardless, the concept will be unveiled at the Vegas Motor Speedway.

There's still no official word from Ford on the matter, however. However, if the new Interceptor is in fact Taurus-based, that means no rear-wheel drive Falcon in the United States. Which is a definite bummer. Also, while there are all-wheel drive variants of the D3 platform - and we think it's safe to assume that if the new Police Interceptor is D3-based it will be AWD - it lacks frame rails. Has Ford figured out a way to make a unibody car tough enough for police work? We shall see. And if the new PI is a Taurus, will it be based on a modified 365-horsepower SHO? We'd wager yes. Let's just hope they fit some bigger brakes for cop duty, eh?


Gallery: Review: 2010 Ford Taurus SHO


[Source: The Detroit News]

DetNews: New Ford Police Interceptor to be Taurus-based originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Mar 2010 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>D3D3 PlatformD3PlatformD4D4 PlatformD4PlatformFalconFordFord Falconford police interceptorFord TaurusFord Taurus Police InterceptorFord Taurus SHOFordFalconFordPoliceInterceptorFordTaurusFordTaurusPoliceInterceptorFordTaurusSholaw enforcementLawEnforcementPanther PlatformPantherPlatformpolice carPolice InterceptorPoliceCarPoliceInterceptortaurus policeTaurusPoliceThu, 11 Mar 2010 16:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19395261/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/11/detnews-new-ford-police-interceptor-to-be-taurus-based/19395261/article-detail.xml 19395261 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/630pisho_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/630pisho.jpg -1 2