Preview: 2018 Ford Mustang has got sleeker, faster and safer
The Ford Mustang is one of the cult classic automobile brands of the world. Who would not remember that long chase in the popular movie, Gone in sixty seconds. Over the years, the Mustang has gone through a series of design and power train changes. And now Ford has unveiled the latest iteration of the Mustang with a set of comprehensive updates that has made the muscle car look sleeker, go faster and also pack in more safety equipment than before. The 2018 Ford Mustang will go on sale in Europe in 2018. Here are all the details that have been released before the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show.
In terms of design, nothing can come close to the iteration that came in the 60s. The 2018 Ford Mustang does retain the core design but gets a more sleeker design compared to the previous model. This has been achieved by the now lower bonnet with integrated air vents. The grille has been lowered too that gives a more aggressive front as well as contributes to the aerodynamics. It gets all-LED lights that consists of the headlights, daytime running lights, indicators and the tri-bar tail lights.The rear bumper has been tweaked with new contours and a diffuser. One can also opt for the boot spoiler that will be available as one of the individual customization options on the 2018 Mustang. The 2018 Ford Mustang will be offered in three new shades, kona blue, orange fury and royal Crimson. In addition, it also gets 19-inch forged alloy wheels with an option between nickel, ebony black and polished aluminium finishes.
Ford states the interior of the new Mustang has been updated with more premium soft touch materials. The centre console now features a new hand-stitched wrap finished with stitching in a contrasting red. It also features heated and cooled seats, along with a heated steering wheel. RHD vehicles will also get optional Recaro seats. The instrument cluster features a 12-inch LCD screen. The display will show a game-style animation when the electric line lock is activated. The 8-inch touchscreen system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The 2018 Ford Mustang makes use of the updated 5.0-litre V8 and 2.3-litre Ecoboost engines. The 5.0-litre V8 gets an additional 40PS, making the total power output of 450PS, compared to the 410PS of the previous model. The low end torque has been improved with the new dual-fuel, high-pressure direct injection and low-pressure port fuel injection system. The smaller displacement 2.3-litre EcoBoost motor now delivers 290PS, lesser than the 313PS that it put out in its present form. This motor complies with Euro 6.2 emissions requirements. Both the motors are offered with the new 10-speed transmission. Ford states that this unit offers better efficiency and acceleration. The 2.3L EcoBoost also features Line Lock to help the driver perform burnouts and warm the tyres. Yes, that's how one should warm tyres for better traction. For the enthusiasts who have a liking for manual gearbox, there is the six-speed manual unit mated to the 5.0-litre V8. This one also features launch control as standard.
Ford claims the re-calibrated shock absorber improve stability through corners, while the rear suspension has been stiffened for more agility. The 2018 Ford Mustang gets two drive modes, Drag Strip Mode and individual mode.
While the deliveries in the UK will happen in 2018, we believe Ford India will be getting the updated Mustang to our shores as well.