The Coyote V8 engine under the bonnet of the new Ford Mustang is the most powerful standard version yet produced by Ford, thanks to some tweaks that minimise induction loss by enabling higher air flow rates.
“Investing in another generation of Mustang is a big statement at a time when many of our competitors are exiting the business of internal combustion vehicles,” says Jim Farley, CEO of Ford Motor Company. “Ford, however, is turbo-charging its ICE growth plan, adding connected technology, opinionated derivatives, and hybrid options to our most profitable and popular cars – all in the Ford Blue family – on top of investing $ 50 billion in electric vehicles through 2026.”
The much smoother exterior look of the new Mustang may well reflect modern styling trends, but for die-hards like myself, the absence of the distinctive Mustang side panels may take some time to absorb.
Inside, the fighter jet-inspired cockpit offers the driver two flowing, curved and customisable displays to show information the driver wants or needs to see.
“We’re taking advantage of every pixel,” says Craig Sandvig, Ford Mustang interaction design manager. “We can be creative in showing necessary driving information and give the driver control of selecting colours, classic Mustang gauges or even a ‘calm’ screen where only minimal details are displayed.”
The digital instrument cluster is configurable to flow seamlessly into a 13,2-inch SYNC 4 centre stack behind a single piece of integrated glass angled toward the driver.
“We knew what customers wanted and designed the most digital Mustang ever while retaining the all-important driver-focused cockpit,” adds Ricardo Garcia, Ford interior design manager. “Removing some of these physical buttons, such as radio and climate control, and integrating them into a digital display was popular in research with Millennials, Gen-Z and traditional Mustang drivers alike.”
The centre console can also incorporate an available wireless mobile phone charging pad4. New overhead USB ports are installed above the cockpit, conveniently placed for track cameras and other devices, helping prevent wires from draping across the cabin.
The roofline is optimised for driver entry and exit without removing their helmet on the track. An extended rear deck houses a new signature tri-bar lighting and redesigned diffuser for improved aerodynamic balance in the rear.
Each model in the Mustang lineup carries its unique front end. GT is differentiated from EcoBoost models by larger, more aggressive grille openings engineered to allow increased airflow, reflecting the increase in power and performance. The car’s aerodynamics are optimised further with additional hood vents and redesigned front splitter.
“Both the EcoBoost and Mustang GT have unique styling cues that deliver on their promise of Mustang Performance,” says Christopher Walter, Ford Mustang design manager. “The new Mustang is more chiselled and edgier, leaning into Mustang’s classic brawniness and timelessness.”
The 5,0-litre V8 continues to offer a standard six-speed manual transmission as well as the option of a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The new Mustang comes equipped with Ford Co-Pilot310 features, including Speed Sign Recognition, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Lane Centering Assist, Evasive Steer Assist and Reverse Brake Assist. Another key feature is Active Pothole Mitigation, included with the Performance Package, which continually monitors suspension, body, steering and braking input and adjusts suspension response accordingly.
The new Mustang goes on sale in the USA soon. The local market has to wait for Ford South Africa to announce plans and specifications for its local introduction.
