Featuring a host of improvements, new technology and design changes, Ford has unveiled its revamped Mustang in the US.
Promising ‘even better’ performance from more powerful engines, and with new MagneRide suspension technology, customers also have more to personalise their Mustang - with three new paint colours, 12 distinct wheel choices and a customisable digital instrument cluster.
All models now have new shock absorbers for better ride control, while a new cross-axis joint in the rear suspension leads to increased lateral stiffness, and stabiliser bars bring ‘sharper response and handling’ says Ford.
The 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine continues to offer ‘outstanding performance advantages’ versus the outgoing 3.7-litre V6. Using Ford’s transient overboost technology - uniquely calibrated for the Mustang - torque is increased for wide-open throttle acceleration.
The 5.0-litre V8 engine has been thoroughly reworked says the American car giant, with more powerful and revs higher than any Mustang GT before. This power increase was achieved with the first application of Ford’s new dual-fuel, high-pressure direct injection and low-pressure port fuel injection on a V8 engine – delivering robust low-end torque, high-rpm power, and improved fuel efficiency.
The manual transmission for both engine options has been upgraded for optimal torque. For the V8, the manual transmission has been totally redesigned to include a twin-disc clutch and dual-mass flywheel to increase torque capability and deliver more efficient clutch modulation.
A new 10-speed automatic transmission, available with both EcoBoost and V8 engines, has a wide-ratio span and optimised gear spacing, to help deliver higher average power for acceleration, ‘improving responsiveness and performance’.
Compared to the previous six-speed, the new 10-speed transmission has quicker shift times, better low-speed tip-in response and significantly reduced friction losses. The electronic control system includes unique tunes for different drive modes and features real-time adaptive shift scheduling to ensure the right gear at the right time. Steering wheel-mounted shift paddles allow drivers maximum manual control.
Styling wise, the car’s exterior design is described as more athletic, with a lower, re-modeled bonnet and grille that deliver a leaner look and refined aerodynamics. New upper and lower front grilles, and a new position for bonnet vents are joined by all-LED front lights including signature lighting, low-beams, turn signals, efficient projector high-beams and available fog lamps.
The rear gets revised LED tail lamps, plus a new bumper, fascia and available performance spoiler. Dual-tip exhaust is standard for EcoBoost Mustang, while V8-powered Mustang GT gets a standard quad-tip exhaust. Fresh exterior colours include an all-new signature Orange Fury.
On the inside, the centre console adds a new hand-stitched wrap with contrast stitching and padded knee bolsters while door handles, rings and bezels are finished in aluminium. Restyled seating surfaces feature new patterns and colour choices, the instrument panel sports an updated Mustang badge and there’s a new key fob design. A heated steering wheel is optional.
The refreshed Mustang includes Ford’s first 12-inch all-digital LCD screen in the dashboard. MyMode with memory function allows customers to save their favourite drive settings, including suspension and steering preferences.
Highlights of the Mustang’s customisable options include an engine note that can be adjusted. Delivering an audible experience 'like never before', an all-new active valve exhaust system is optional on Mustang GT, with a fully variable soundtrack to match the entire acceleration range.
Also for the first time, the new model benefits from Ford driver-assist technology including re-Collision Assist with pedestrian detection, distance alert, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist and Driver Alert System. Ford SYNC Connect with FordPass is now available - when using the FordPass app for smartphones, drivers can start, lock, unlock and locate their car for ultimate convenience.
The new Ford Mustang goes on sale in North America this Autumn.