It was presented 58 years ago. It was named after the breed of wild American horses, in honour of the eponymous warplanes and the service they provided in World War II. It created a whole category, that of pony cars. It became a legend, a culture, with legendary appearances in film and television (if you haven't seen Bullit, watch it), the music scene and video games. Today, the Ford Mustang is back, with the same, authentic formula we all love: The 5-liter V8, even more powerful!
Η Mustang is one of the most adored vehicles ever. Not coincidentally, it's the vehicle with the most likes on Facebook, but since the last, all-new generation was introduced in 2014, the Mustang has been the world's best-selling sports coupe model every year. The Mustang's impact exceeds the more than 10 million copies sold during its 58 years of continuous production.
Brand new Mustang, then. What changes? Ford says it's the most fun-to-drive Mustang ever built and that, in addition to a sharper design approach and redesigned digital cockpit, the big news is its refined, more powerful and more efficient V8 engine. And since the new Mustang marked Ford's return to motorsports, the Mustang Dark Horse is the most "track-ready" atmospheric Mustang ever built. As the flagship model for Mustang's return to global motorsport, it features upgraded suspension and aerodynamics, as well as a more powerful 5.0-litre V8 engine.
The words of Ford Motor Company's -petrolhead- CEO Jim Farley have special meaning, not only because he loves the Mustang. But also because he sticks to the classic internal combustion engine formula, and that of the multi-cubic-inch, V-configuration engine. And... let the others be electrified! "Investing in a new generation on behalf of Mustang is a big statement at a time when many of our competitors are abandoning internal combustion engine vehicles," Farley says, and continues: "Ford, however, is fueling its own growth plan in internal combustion engines by adding connected technology, dynamic versions and hybrid options to our most profitable and popular cars - all in the Ford Blue family - in addition to investing $50 billion in electric vehicles by 2026."
The performance
The new coupe, as well as the convertible version, upgrades the Mustang's sporty character with improved hardware and software, as well as special tuning, combined with a new fourth-generation (Gen IV) 5.0-liter V8 engine that delivers even greater responsiveness and performance.
"This is the sportiest Mustang yet, and it inspires confidence," said Ed Krenz, Mustang chief nameplate engineer. "Whether driving a Mustang with an automatic or manual transmission, thanks to the driving profiles and optimized engine, suspension and steering, we are now able to offer drivers top performance everywhere from their favorite roads to the track nearest to them."
The new Mustang GT features a new air-cooled system with dual air intake and dual intake butterflies, minimising losses and allowing higher airflow rates.
The new Mustang's capabilities are optimised in a variety of conditions thanks to six driving profiles: the Normal, Sport, Slippery, Drag and Track2 profiles, which are flanked by an additional one that offers numerous settings that can be adjusted to the driver's individual preferences. As the driver selects each mode, corresponding high-fidelity graphics on the digital instrument panel signal its activation.
Driving responsiveness has been improved thanks to better communication between the now faster steering and the wheels, which enhances the vehicle's cornering dynamics.
Rev-matching, which keeps engine revs high when the clutch is engaged to maintain maximum torque delivery during manual gear changes, is standard on the Mustang GT, providing even greater precision.
The Mustang GT is offered with a 10-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual transmission. The Performance Pack is standard and includes 19-inch alloy wheels, a limited-slip differential, 19-inch Brembo brakes and the Active Valve Exhaust system that ensures different engine sounds to suit different driving scenarios. The optional MagneRide® 3 active suspension monitors the "action" a thousand times a second and uses an electronically controlled fluid, adjusting damping according to conditions.
Driver-focused digital experiences
Behind the iconic exterior silhouette of the seventh-generation Mustang is the most technologically advanced and driver-centric cockpit Ford has ever created for its iconic sports car, perfectly blending the past, present and future.
Most notable here is the removal of the traditional double 'eyebrow' in the upper part of the dashboard, an option that paves the way for a flowing, glass-clad, open centre screen awash with technology.
Behind the new, thicker, flat-bottomed steering wheel is a 12.4-inch digital instrument panel that can be configured to display different layouts and new, customisable graphics, depending on the driver's chosen driving profile.
"We're exploiting every pixel," said Craig Sandvig, Ford Mustang interaction design manager. "We can be creative in presenting essential driving information, and give the driver control over color selection, the classic Mustang gauges, or even a relaxing screen in which only minimal details are shown."
This digital instrument panel flows seamlessly to a 13.2-inch SYNC 4 4 central display with a 13.2-inch diagonal that is integrated behind the same piece of glass, at a noticeable angle to the driver. The ergonomic placement of these screens provides easy-to-read information and easy-to-access controls, which combine to create an immersive digital experience.
The new Mustang's fully customisable screens and interior lighting welcome you with dark colours and bronze tones, in line with those used on the Mustang Mach-E. The latter can be fully customised by the user in user-selected tones, while the instrument panel is customised according to the selected Drive Mode. When the driver selects the personalised driving profile, a visualisation of the car's set-up is displayed on the main screen, using Unreal Engine 3D software. By interacting with the touchscreen, the vehicle's settings can be adjusted by virtually rotating the car through the associated graphics.
"We knew what customers wanted - the most digital Mustang ever created while maintaining the all-important driver-focused cockpit," said Ricardo Garcia, Ford interior design manager. "Removing some physical buttons, such as those for climate control and radio, and integrating them into a digital display proved in surveys to be popular among Millennials, Gen-Z and traditional Mustang drivers."
The next-generation Mustang gets a fresh interior design developed specifically for the model to create the most driver-centric cockpit in Mustang history. The car features leather seats and soft-touch plastics on the dashboard and interior doors, as well as a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
The more richly equipped models benefit from a choice of different coloured stitching for the steering wheel and a unique trim pattern across the centre console, complemented by colour asymmetric stripes on the seat belts.
Moving several functions to the car's touchscreen has freed up considerable space in the centre console, which now incorporates a wireless mobile phone charging cradle.
Ford's latest SYNC 4 system is fully compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 5 which integrates seamlessly with the FordPass app. 6 As with the all-electric Mach-E, the all-new Mustang features Ford Power-Up wireless update capability.
The USB ports installed behind the steering wheel and above driver's head height are conveniently positioned to support camera operation for track use, without the interference of cables in the cabin.
The latest B&O 7 sound system delivers premium sound through 12 speakers and a subwoofer. Included in the system is Ford's Electronic Sound Enhancement technology that amplifies engine sound that reaches directly into the cabin.
Impressive design with timeless Mustang elements and more personalisation
The low, horizontal eyebrow at the front of the distinctive three-piece hood aligns with the new LED headlights to create a more aggressive front end, influenced by the design seen on 1960s Mustangs. This section has been optimized to also offer improved pedestrian protection in the event of an accident. The new Mustang's sleek roofline and shorter rear overhang closely follow the proportions of the first-generation Mustang, while the enlarged rear shoulders showcase the car's power in a unique way.
The wider rear end accommodates a new and sharp new three-bar lighting feature, while the redesigned diffuser contributes to improved aerodynamic balance.
For the first time, each model of the new Mustang has its own unique front end, allowing customers to choose the look that best suits their requirements. The Mustang GT, the heart of the Mustang family, features larger grille openings, which are designed to allow increased airflow but also reflect increased power and improved performance. The car's aerodynamics are further optimised both by the addition of new air vents on the bonnet and the redesign of the front splitter.
"The Mustang GT has unique styling elements that deliver on their promise of high performance," said Christopher Walter, Ford Mustang design manager. "The new Mustang is more refined and sharper, and builds on the Mustang's classic intelligence and timelessness."
True to its tradition, the Mustang Convertible continues to offer maximum freedom and contact with nature. The fully lined and top-insulated fabric roof opens and closes with a simple touch and by unlatching the associated central security system inside. The compact roof design and the adoption of an independent rear axle suspension also help create a spacious trunk that can accommodate up to two golf bags.
Under the hood, a new engine cover, a black dome bar, a redesigned badge, and more sophisticated wiring and piping all contribute to improving the aesthetics of the space that houses the heart of the new Mustang. Special lighting and corresponding graphics on the Mustang's displays also welcome customers when they approach the vehicle.
The all-new Mustang is launched with 12 colour options, including three new colours Blue Ember, Vapor Blue and Yellow Splash. Customers can also choose from black or red Brembo brake calipers, all with the Mustang logo, as well as two new 19-inch alloy wheel designs.
More safety features, more technology
The seventh-generation Mustang in coupe and convertible versions is equipped with Ford's next-generation driver assistance systems, as in the Mustang Mach-E, including Speed Sign Recognition, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with stop-and-go, Lane Centering Assist, Evasive Steer Assist and Reverse Brake Assist. 8 Another key feature is Active Pothole Mitigation, which continuously monitors the suspension, body, steering and braking systems and adjusts the suspension response accordingly. Stolen Vehicle Services 9 - a feature through the FordPass 6 app that provides 24-hour support in the event of a theft - is also new to Mustang.
Owners can stay connected to their Mustang through the FordPass app in other ways, using remote features such as remote vehicle start and stop, locking/unlocking doors, scheduling a start time, vehicle tracking, and vehicle health and condition checks.10 The FordPass app instantly provides users with important vehicle information, including fuel and oil levels, service history, and information related to the
The new Mustang Dark Horse offers ultimate track capability
Along with the new Mustang GT, Ford is introducing the Mustang Dark Horse, which is not only the ultimate track version of the model, but also the vehicle that will be the cornerstone of the company's presence in motorsport.
Building on the sporty character, sharper design and digital experiences of the seventh-generation Mustang, the Dark Horse range offers the most focused handling and track performance of any Mustang to date.
"We took the all-new Mustang, the best performing 5.0L V8 engine, and added power, improved aerodynamics, tires, steering, and created an interactive cockpit to build a Mustang that outperforms every Mustang 5.0L that came before it," Krenz said.
At the heart of this new Mustang is a version of the all-new fourth-generation (Gen IV) V8 engine with higher performance, new camshafts and unique tuning, along with dual intake butterflies that deliver twice the amount of fresh air to the engine for maximum performance. The Dark Horse version comes standard with a unique six-speed TREMEC manual transmission with a paddle shifter adorned with a titanium ball made via 3D printing - exclusive to this model - or Ford's 10-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel paddles.
The Mustang Dark Horse comes standard with the Performance Package that upgrades performance and includes an oil cooler for the transmission (automatic version), a uniquely designed water cooler, lower weight, greater heat dissipation capacity and more powerful fans, one for the rear axle and an auxiliary oil cooler. A Torsen-type limited-slip differential maximizes the traction levels provided for improved acceleration and cornering balance.
The whole package also includes a unique tuning, with a larger rear anti-roll bar, heavy-duty front shock absorbers, 19-inch front brakes with fixed-piston calipers with larger rotors, a dome bar, special "K" shaped rear reinforcement, a Torsen differential, different sized wheels front and rear (19 x 9 inches front and 19 x 9.5 inches rear) and Pirelli P-Zero PZ4 tires. MagneRide® 3 active suspension is standard, offering optimized handling on the road and track.
The electronic drift brake 2 brings a new technology to the track, unlocking the rear-wheel drive Mustang's side-slip capabilities combined with the charm and functionality of a traditional, mechanical handbrake. The Performance Electronic Parking Brake is designed both for novice drivers to learn and improve their drifting skills, and for more experienced drivers looking for a ready-made solution for racing.
The Dark Horse version also features visual upgrades that have been adopted both to reflect its status as the top-of-the-line version of the seventh-generation Mustang, and to enhance its track prowess.
"It's more than just a new name. Dark Horse brings a new design language to the Mustang that is sophisticated, yet perfectly suited to its dual purpose of high performance on the road and track," said Joel Piaskowski, global director, Ford Design. "The visual changes, both inside and out, send the message that Dark Horse has a directional focus on performance. The mechanical changes reinforce Dark Horse's purpose, providing the driver with increased confidence and capability."
At the front, a bold graphic surrounds the dark LED headlights, which frame a unique gloss black grille with a trapezoidal design and a redesigned lower front bumper in high-gloss. Side skirts and a fixed rear spoiler, a unique diffuser that draws inspiration from racing and dark-coloured quad exhaust tips are the design elements that demonstrate the version's focus on high performance on-track.
The traditional Mustang badges are replaced with a new Dark Horse logo on the front wheel arches, boot door and door sills, while the anodised Dark Tarnish variant of the famous pony still adorns the front end. Inside, the unique Dark Horse badge replaces the familiar Mustang pony on the instrument panel and digital displays. Each car also features a unique chassis number.
Unique to the Mustang Dark Horse is the Blue Ember metallic paint - a cool, dark shade that emits a warm glow when it catches the light. A choice of painted or unpainted graphics running along the roof and hood are also available in a variety of colors and patterns. The optional Appearance Package includes dark Brembo Notorious Blue brake calipers with a brighter Grabber Blue logo.
Inside, a flat-bottomed steering wheel with a thicker rim incorporates anodised gearshift controls and a dedicated button for selecting Drive Mode, which is within easy reach of the driver's thumb and finished with unique Indigo Blue stitching and suede upholstery. The steering wheel sits in front of a 12.4-inch digital instrument panel, whose displays adjust according to the Drive Mode selected by the driver.
The blue stitching on the centre console, door and seat panels, as well as on the leather cover of the gear selector, enhance the cabin ambience, further enhanced by the unique blue seat belts. The Appearance Pack in the Dark Horse trim adds Deep Indigo Blue seats that feature perforated upholstery.
The interior trim, panels and vents are adorned with Black Alley, a dark metallic gloss finish that replaces the familiar silver tones found on other Mustang versions. In the center of the cockpit in the Dark Horse version equipped with the six-speed TREMEC manual transmission is a gear selector made of anodized blue titanium that prevents heat buildup on its surface.
The Dark Horse also features the latest B&O 7 sound system, providing clear sound through 12 speakers and a subwoofer.
Dark Horse "leads" the return of Mustang to world motorsport
The introduction of Dark Horse lays the foundation for Mustangs that will race in a variety of classes and events around the world, including GT3, GT4 and NASCAR.
"We're introducing the all-new Mustang to racing. With our race program underway, we are confident we have the right car to drive us to success," said Mark Rushbrook, global director, Ford Performance Motorsports.
The Dark Horse S has been built exclusively for racing activities and is a "stripped down" version of the conventional Dark Horse production version. All non-essential components, as well as trim, have been removed, while inside there is an FIA-certified safety cage, safety nets, a racing seat with seat belts and a racing detachable steering wheel. Other safety features include fire extinguishing and electrical disconnect systems.
Ford is returning to GT3 racing with an all-new race car, the Mustang GT3 IMSA, which will also be available to customers, starting with the 2024 Daytona 24-hour race in 2024. The race car was created by Ford Performance and Multimatic, featuring a 5.4-liter V8 engine.
A new Mustang GT4, which will be available to customers, will also debut in the 2023 season. It will be available worldwide for GT4 classes in IMSA, SRO and FIA GT. A new version of the Mustang will also make its debut next season in the Australian Supercars racing series, while new models will debut in the NASCAR Cup series and NHRA Factory X racing in future years.
