It was the second significantly re-engineered iteration of the sixth generation of the Falcon, and also included the Ford Fairmont (BA)—the luxury-oriented version.

Interiors, too, were substantially revised, while mechanically, a new independent rear suspension setup was fitted to all sedan derivatives and the engine and transmissions received extensive upgrades.

In the final months of 2002, the BA model received the influential Wheels Car of the Year award,[2] breaking a 36-year drought.

[4][5][6][7] The model's market share briefly topped that of its chief competitor, the Holden Commodore on two occasions, but have failed to match those of the record-breaking EL Falcon.

[11] Ford Australia's intention was to create a European influence for the vehicle, whereby most aspects of the AU's "New Edge" design would be revised.

[10] The BA model introduced an integrated aerial in the car's rear window, instead of the conventional retractable antenna.

The aerial placement improved the vehicle's aerodynamics and ended the breakage issues that had plagued the retractable type found on previous models.

[citation needed] The 156 kW (209 hp) LPG-only Barra E-Gas engine was offered as an option on lower specification models.

[19] Utility body styles were also available with an optional column-mounted automatic shifter (without Sequential Sports Shift) in lieu of the floor-mounted system also offered.

In a crash safety assessment conducted by ANCAP, the BA model scored 27.27 out of a possible 37 points, giving a rating of four out of five stars.

[13] Featuring the base Barra 182 six-cylinder engine, air conditioning, front power windows, and five-speed manual transmission, with the choice of a four-speed automatic, the XT was sold in sedan and station wagon body types.

Futura models gained cruise control, 16-inch alloy wheels, rear power windows and full body-coloured side-view mirrors and side-protection moldings.

Building on the features of the XT, Ford Australia at one point considered not releasing the sports-oriented Falcon XR6 because of the new XR6 Turbo model.

Externally, the Fairmont could be distinguished from the other BA models with its 16-inch alloy wheels[34] and grey mesh grille with chrome surround.

[36] By far the most expensive variant in the BA range, the Fairmont Ghia featured leather upholstery, wood grain highlights, full power options and a unique suspension assembly.

[37] The premium sound system, which incorporated a full-colour LCD screen, was standard, and the centre console stack was characterised by an analogue clock.

Modifications included some cosmetic changes and a new six-speed Tremec T56 manual transmission replacing the five-speed on XR6 Turbo and XR8 models.

The Futura model gained power adjustable pedals, and side airbags, with a DVD entertainment system being offered on upmarket trim levels.

Craig Lowndes and Jamie Whincup won the 2006 Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000 driving a Falcon BA.

After winning the V8 Supercar Championship Series in 2004 with racing drivers Marcos Ambrose and Russell Ingall Ford Australia released two limited run Ford Falcon BA XR8 dealer run-out vehicles denoted 'Enforcer', (only available in Envy Green) and 'Devil R' (named after Ambrose's nickname "The Devil Racer" (in reference to the Tasmanian Devil from his home state)) available in Shock-Wave blue only.

Both vehicles received 18" shadow chrome alloy wheels, carpets with the appropriate 'Enforcer' or 'Devil R' embroidery, leather seats with the model logo embroidery, Momo steering wheel, 'premium' brake package (non Brembo), either the 'Enforcer' or 'Devil R' badging to the exterior and the appropriate model name applied to the XR8 bonnet bulge side decals.

The F6 was visually separated from the GT range with the use of a different pattern in the front bumper grill mesh, and a smaller boot spoiler on the Typhoon.

Critics in the media noted some build quality faults in the BA Falcon, such as inconsistent gaps between trim sections and joints,[42] although other commentators praised the interior design and craftsmanship.