Cape Town - Sleeker looks, more technology and improved performance... details of a refreshed Ford Mustang has been revealed. The muscle car will go on sale in North America in September 2018 but there's no harm in sharing their glee.
Ford South Africa claims there are no plans yet to release refreshed model locally.
So what's new?
Sleeker design: The New Mustang features a more athletic look, with new front and rear-end design that deliver a leaner and meaner look and refined aerodynamics, says Ford.
More advanced technology: New technologies include a 30cm all-digital, cutsomisable instrument cluster. The automaker says MyMode with memory function remembers your driving preferences for the next time you drive, and new driver-assist features such as Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection for increased confidence behind the wheel.
Watch: 2018 Ford Mustang
The 2018 @FordMustang retires its V6 and evolves into a better car https://t.co/D6EIwj0Sl9 pic.twitter.com/F3b4BvpTTH
— Autoblog (@therealautoblog) January 17, 2017
Improved Performance: Powerful engine upgrades, plus an all-new available 10-speed automatic transmission give Mustang even more performance, while available MagneRide™ suspension offers optimum handling; optional active valve exhaust affords complete auditory control – let the engine roar, or not.
There are also three new paint colors - including Orange Fury, and 12 distinct wheel choices.
READ: SA's top-selling sports cars: Mustang on top during festive season
“The new Mustang is our best ever, based on more than 50 years as one of the iconic sports car in America and now, the world,” said Joe Hinrichs, president of The Americas. “Tapping Mustang’s enormous fan base, we’re bringing the new Mustang straight to the people – and introducing the new car across multiple social media channels, reaching millions.”
READ: 3 days of driving Ford's new Mustang in Mpumalanga
The new Mustang is so customizable that even its engine note can be adjusted, says Ford. 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.
New driver-assist technology features include: Pre-Collision Assist with pedestrian detection, distance alert, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist and Driver Alert System.
Ford SYNC Connect with FordPass is available on Mustang for the first time. When using the FordPass app for smartphones, drivers can start, lock, unlock and locate their car for ultimate convenience.
Ultimate performance
There are new shock absorbers for better ride control, a new cross-axis joint in the rear suspension leads to increased lateral stiffness, and innovative stabilizer bars bring sharper response and handling.
MagneRide damper technology is a new option with the Mustang Performance Package to optimise ride and handling in all situations.
Using Ford’s transient overboost technology uniquely calibrated for Mustang, torque is increased for wide-open throttle acceleration on the 2.3-litre EcoBoost.
Ford’s legendary 5.0-liter V8 engine has been thoroughly reworked, claims the automaker. It is more powerful and revs higher than any Mustang GT before. 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.
Energy in the design
In terms of styling, the bonnet is now lower, and remodeled, and the grille delivers a leaner look and refined aerodynamics, upper and lower front grilles, and a new position for bonnet vents. All-LED front lights including signature lighting, low-beams, turn signals, efficient projector high-beams and available fog lights.
The rear gets revised LED taillights, a new bumper, fascia and available performance spoiler. Dual-tip exhaust is standard for EcoBoost Mustang, while the V8 gets a standard quad-tip exhaust.
Inside the car, improved touch points and visual cues provide a more premium look. The center console adds a new hand-stitched wrap with contrast stitching and padded knee bolsters while door handles, rings and bezels are finished in aluminum. Restyled seating surfaces feature new patterns and color choices, the instrument panel sports an updated Mustang badge and there’s a new key fob design. A heated steering wheel is optional.