The 1978 Ford Escort Sundowner was an Australian-built version of the Escort Van, designed specifically for the youth and surfer market. With 85% local content, the Sundowner featured distinctive porthole windows and an extendable load area, making it practical for both carrying gear and sleeping inside.
Buyers could choose between 1.6L or 2.0L engines, but despite its unique appeal, the Escort never gained significant traction in Australia. When Ford replaced it with the Mazda-based Laser in 1980, the van derivative was discontinued, marking the end of the Sundowner's short-lived era.



