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Official: New Mustang headed for SA

America's first pony car, the Ford Mustang, is celebrating its 50th birthday with a new design and plans to go global. What's more, the new Mustang is headed for South Africa!

DEARBORN, Michigan -  Ford celebrates the 50th anniversary of its Mustang with redesigned version of the world’s favourite muscle car.

South African fans of the iconic muscle car can look forward to the redesigned version arriving on our shores in 2015. The Mustang forms part of a local model assault as Ford plans to launch 15 new vehicles in SA by 2017.

The US-built car is currently sold overseas but the new model marks the first time it will be engineered to meet various international safety and emissions standards. A right-hand-drive version is being offered for the first time in the UK, Australia and SA.

Gallery: 2014 Ford Mustang

The engine line-up has yet to be confirmed but Ford has stated that V6 and V8 options will be offered. A 2.3-litre EcoBoost turbo petrol has been suggested, capable of 227kW/400Nm. The six-speed manual and auto will be carried over from the previous car.

‘HEART AND SOUL OF FORD’

Ford vice president of global product development, Raj Nair said: “Ford Mustang inspires passion like no other car. The visceral look, sound and performance of Mustang resonate with people, even if they’ve never driven one.

Mustang is definitely more than just a car, it's the heart and soul of Ford.”

Ford SA's Gavin Golightly said: “The illustrious Mustang brand has alluded us for some year’s in South Africa, but as part of the One Ford strategy continues to develop we can now look forward to welcoming this iconic nameplate to local showrooms.

“The reveal has been much anticipated around the globe and we are thrilled to now be part of the Mustang journey."

FORD TECH

Design changes included a lower roof and wider stance, sloped windshield and rear, redesigned head and rear lights as well as contemporary take on the classic Mustang grille.
 
The model has new suspension, torque vectoring and launch control. The wheelbase is identical to that of its predecessor, but the new car is wider, marginally shorter and lower than before, reports Ford.

The cabin sports improved trim including a metal “slab” facia, updated controls, new three-spoke steering wheel and an upgraded infotainment system with Ford Sync.

Models destined for South African shores have yet to be confirmed.

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