The sleeker, faster and more technologically advanced new Ford Mustang boasts engine and suspension enhancements, as well as advanced driver assistance features for customers of the iconic sports car.
Available in Fastback and Convertible body styles with a choice of uprated 2.3 EcoBoost and 5.0 V8 engines matched to Ford’s new 10-speed automatic transmission, the instantly-recognisable, powerful Mustang profile now features more refined aerodynamics, and is enhanced with LED lighting technology, and a choice of nine bold exterior colours.
Adding further appeal to the new range is the special edition Ford Mustang Bullitt that will be available at launch, paying homage to the Mustang GT fastback that featured in the legendary 1968 Warner Bros. film starring Steve McQueen.
Offered in classic Bullitt-exclusive Dark Highland Green or Shadow Black, along with a range of unique styling and feature enhancements, only 50 units of the Mustang Bullitt will be available, powered by an uprated 338kW version of Ford’s 5.0-litre V8 that delivers enhanced performance and a ‘more engaging driving experience’ thanks to the fitment of a six-speed manual gearbox.
Unmistakably Mustang
The exterior of the new Ford Mustang delivers a sleeker, more athletic appearance while retaining the instantly-recognisable character honed through more than 50 years of production. The bonnet profile is now lower with integrated air vents, combined with a revised lower grille design to give the Mustang a sharper, more aggressive face while improving aerodynamics.
The Mustang’s dramatic rear-end design is further enhanced with a re-modeled bumper and diffuser element, accommodating standard quad-tailpipes for the 5.0-litre GT model that testifies to the power and performance available.
Three bold, dynamic new metallic paint colours are available – Kona Blue, Orange Fury, and Velocity Blue. New 19-inch alloy wheels are offered in multiple finishes depending on the model, along with 19”x9” Luster Nickel-painted Forged Aluminium versions that are available as an option.
The new Mustang interior delivers a more premium feel. Soft-touch materials now feature for the door linings and the door handles are finished in aluminium.
Leather-trimmed, heated and cooled seats are provided in conjunction with six-way electric adjustment.
Ultimate performance
New powertrain, chassis and technology enhancements enable the new Mustang to deliver the most rewarding driving experience yet.
Ford’s 5.0-litre V8 engine has been further developed to deliver more power and a higher rev-limit than ever before. Peak power climbs from 309kW on the previous model to 331kW, with an accompanying torque peak of 529Nm supported by the introduction of Ford’s new high-pressure direct injection and low-pressure port fuel injection system which improves low-end torque.
The more fuel-efficient 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine delivers 213kW and 441Nm of torque – an increase of 11Nm. The revised engine offers a more responsive and engaging driving experience thanks to a transient overboost function for the turbocharger – triggered under heavy acceleration to provide an extra burst of boost following each up-shift.
Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission is standard across the range – except for the Mustang Bullitt – and uses an electronic control system which enables settings that optimise performance for Drive Modes. Real-time adaptive shift-scheduling allows the transmission to adapt to changing conditions and select the right gear in any situation. Steering wheel-mounted paddle-shifters give drivers maximum control.
New Active Valve Performance Exhaust technology means drivers can for the first time adjust the intensity of the Mustang’s exhaust note to suit their mood and the driving scenario. The innovative Good Neighbour Mode can be programmed to automatically limit the exhaust’s noise output at pre-programmed times of the day to avoid disturbing neighbours, not least when firing up the legendary 5.0-litre V8 early in the morning.
Ford engineers have further optimised Mustang’s driving dynamics to deliver the most engaging driving experience yet. Recalibrated shock absorbers improve stability through corners, and the rear suspension is stiffened with a cross-axis joint that reduces unwanted movement at each corner, which can lead to body flex. Thicker anti-roll bars also better control body-roll for sharper handling.
Recommended retail prices:
- Mustang 2.3 Fastback 10AT – R768 000
- Mustang 2.3 Convertible 10AT – R831 000
- Mustang 5.0 GT Fastback 10AT – R915 800
- Mustang 5.0 GT Convertible 10AT – R978 400
- Mustang Bullitt 5.0 V8 GT Fastback 6MT – R995 400
All models come standard with Ford Protect, comprising a four-year/120 000km comprehensive warranty, three-year/unlimited distance roadside assistance and five-year/unlimited km corrosion warranty. A six-year/90 000km service plan is included, with 15 000km service intervals.
Car Choice will be attending the launch (31 July 2019) of both models and will report back.
