🇦🇺 Australia

Ford FGX MKII Falcon XR8

Country

Australia

Agency

Regional Police — New South Wales Police Force

Manufacturer

Trax

Brand

Ford

Model code

TRR38D

Scale

1/43

Year

2008

Color

Blue

Material

Resin

The XR8 had the same features found in the XR6 Turbo. The bulging hood and supporting emblems on the side skirts differentiated it visually from other XR models. The V8 was in a similar state of tune to the Boss 290 in the BA-BF FPV V8 models (though not exactly the same), with a maximum power of 290 kW (389 hp) and maximum torque of 520 N⋅m (380 lb⋅ft); however, its performance figures were similar to those of the XR6 Turbo despite having a 20 kW (27 hp) advantage according to official figures. A unique feature of the FG XR8 was a semi-active muffler, which opened above 2800 rpm for a throatier sound. However, the XR8 was less agile through corners than I6 variants due to a significantly heavier front end. The XR8 sold poorly compared to the XR6 Turbo, with the majority of volume being in utility sales. The Falcon XR8 was discontinued in June 2010 as a result of its 5.4-litre engine not complying with the Euro IV emissions standard adopted by Australia at that time. The Euro IV emissions would have robbed the engine of power and torque and would have required further investment and development. Although initially expected to be reintroduced with the 5.0-litre "Coyote" engine used in the Ford Mustang GT during 2011,[15] the model was reintroduced in 2014 with the FG-X series Falcon, featuring the 5.0-litre supercharged Miami motor.[16] One of the last Australian produced Ford V8 sedans used by the NSW Highway Patrol was this XR8 FGX Falcon. Armed with a powerful supercharged V8 giving near supercar performance, its ability to chase down the unruly in pursuits was second to none. This car & its capabilities will be missed by the NSW HWP.