2005 Ford Falcon XR6 review from Australia and New Zealand

Boot rubber split on right side. To be replaced.

Leather on gear stick coming away. To be replaced.

This is my second BA XR6. The original was an auto. This is a 5 speed manual. It was pre loved.

The first time I sat in this car, I knew it was for me. Everything was how I like it. That was 3 months ago, and today when I sit in this car I like it.

It’s a 4L NA. (non turbo). I know the Turbos and V8s have a lot more power, and yes at times I would have enjoyed that extra power to play with when climbing a hill, but when all is said and done, for me this is the right combination. (I have owned 351 and I’m over it) There is more than enough power for my needs.

This car was a special order for a company executive and has all the top options fitted.

Interesting to find it’s a 5 speed, where as 6 speeds were available and the norm in 2005???

The leather seats are excellent and hold me in place, whereas the standard velour seats are no where near as good. The sound system is the Premium model. It is great where as the standard system just does not do the job. This car has in built Sat Nav, which I think is OK until the day I asked about replacing the map DVD (V10) from WhereIs. $400 new they said, which is a joke. I will not be replacing it at that cost so the UBD remains in the car.

The head and tails lights are all excellent, although the alleged fog lights are in my opinion, useless.

Their only value is for idiots who love to drive around with them on even in sunshine. Fog lights in name only.

I do get annoyed at the front bummer bar as the lower section is low (close to the ground) and does at times strike things.

The engine is very quiet. I can't believe it's running at times. Am I strange? I can’t wait for the exhaust to get a hole in it so that I can fit a louder one, because that is the one thing this car needs. A better exhaust note when powering up a hill.

Overall I am very happy, and would not go back. I have even arranged an extended warranty, which is good value as the more technical cars become, the more that can go wrong.