Ford unveils all-new Mustang
Ford has pulled the wraps off its all-new Mustang, which features a fighter-jet inspired digital cockpit and will be flying into the New Zealand market in late 2023.
The seventh-generation model will be available with a number of options and performance levels, including convertible or coupe, V8 or turbocharged 4-cylinder, and manual or automatic.
It was revealed at the Detroit auto show this week and marks the latest chapter in a storied history that dates to the vehicle’s launch in 1964. The redesign is Mustang’s first since the sixth generation launched in 2015 as a global product for the first time.
Jim Farley, chief executive of Ford Motor Company, says the new Mustang is a “big statement” at a time when many marques are moving away from internal combustion engines.
“Ford, however, is turbocharging 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 US$50 billion in electric vehicles through 2026,” he explains.
The interior has been revamped to offer the driver two curved displays. Based on the same Unreal Engine 3D software technology found in modern video games, Mustang’s digital instrument cluster can be customised to display different animated designs.
There is also a new race-inspired flat-bottomed steering wheel, which provides more space when getting seated.
Outside the vehicle, animated welcome lighting greets drivers as they approach while Mustang’s splash screens come to life while entering the vehicle.
The centre console can incorporate a wireless mobile phone charging pad while new overhead USB ports are installed above the cockpit.
Styling cues
Ford says each variant in the Mustang line-up carries its own front end. The GT is differentiated from EcoBoost models by larger grille openings, engineered to allow increased airflow. The car’s aerodynamics are optimised further with the addition of new hood vents and redesigned front splitter.
“Both the EcoBoost and GT Mustang have unique styling cues that deliver on their promise of Mustang performance,” says Christopher Walter, design manager, Mustang. “The new Mustang is more chiselled and edgier, leaning into Mustang’s classic brawniness and timelessness.”
The Mustang Convertible has a one-touch activation with a single-handle centre latch that opens and closes the fully lined and insulated fabric roof.
New engine technologies feature in the latest generation of vehicles, with the GT powered by a 5.0-litre Coyote V8 engine.
Ford offers a six-speed manual transmission for customers who want an uncompromised connection to eight-cylinder power, or there is Ford’s advanced 10-speed automatic transmission.
The EcoBoost model has better fuel efficiency than its siblings and is powered by an updated, four-cylinder turbocharged 2.3-litre powertrain.
There are six drive modes, these are normal, sport, slippery, drag, track plus a customisable setting with up to six individual profiles.
On the safety front, driver assistance technologies include speed sign recognition, intelligent adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, lane-centring assist, evasive steer assist and reverse brake assist.
