BF Fairmont MkII

FORD’S BFII facelift was designed to keep the ageing, 2002 BA Falcon-based series – itself a thorough redevelopment of the failed 1998 AU model – fresh in the face of the all-new Holden VE Commodore and Toyota Aurion assault.

The big news is the availability of the ZF six-speed automatic gearbox across the Falcon range, meaning that the Fairmont – which normally has a four-speed automatic – can now be optioned with it.

A similar story applies to Ford’s DSC stability control system.

Visual tweaks include a new headlight, bumper and chrome grille treatments, while minor trim and equipment adjustments were implemented inside.

Engine power and torque figures remain the same in the BFII, delivering 190kW at 5250rpm and 383Nm at 2500rpm, versus the VE Commodore Omega’s 180kW at 6000rpm and 330Nm at 2600rpm.

Ford’s also introduced improved transmission thermal management – faster warm-up and reduced friction losses that allow the six to reach optimum efficiency earlier, which Ford says, improves fuel consumption during cold starts and on short trips.