YOUR DRIVE

ALL AMERICAN

When Ford brought their American muscle to the UK, it was never a question as to whether it would sink or swim. The name alone carries so much gravitas that you will struggle to find anyone in the world who doesn’t know its name. Now, with the introduction of the new Mustang, the car pushes further than ever before in both style and performance.

Bringing an update to the instantly recognisable design, the latest edition delivers enhanced aerodynamics along with a sleeker, more aggressive profile – all of which would be pointless if once inside you realised there was no progression in terms of performance and technology. Thankfully, the engineers have done their work under the bonnet to deliver a faster package with an improved suspension setup providing a drive more suited to the European market.

“Europe’s passion for Mustang has proven even greater than we imagined – more than 33,000 Mustangs are already bringing one of the most iconic sights in motoring to the continent’s streets,” said Steven Armstrong, group vice president and president, Europe Middle East and Africa, Ford Motor Company. 

Boasting a suitably muscle-car sized 5.0-litre V8 engine, the Mustang GT now delivers 450 PS and 529 Nm of torque making it possible to sprint from 0-62 mph in 4.3 seconds – when combined with Ford’s new 10-speed automatic gearbox – or 4.6 seconds under your control with the six-speed manual transmission which now features rev-matching technology that delivers smoother, faster downshifts accompanied by a “blip” of the powerful engine.

To support the impressive performance within, the design team have worked closely with the engineers to develop an exterior aesthetic that more than hints at the cars potential. A lower bonnet profile along with integrated air vents not only offer up some rather obvious performance cues, but create a front end worthy of any muscle car poster. At the rear, a quad exhaust system rests proudly alongside an updated rear bumper and diffuser setup which continues the sleeker theme whilst maintaining that iconic rear light clusters and surrounding panel.

Exaggerated wheel arches along with new wheel options and an optional rear spoiler complete the exterior look, providing the perfect finishing touches for this American inspired monster.

Inside, the new Mustang has received further enhancement, whether you look at the improved seats, updated swtich-gear or the technology hidden within, you will still get to enjoy the classic American appeal of the interior space.

Delivering a more premium feel, Ford have introduced soft touch materials for the door linings and the door handles are now finished in aluminium. The centre console also features a new hand-stitched, soft-touch wrap which is finished with contrast colour stitching for a more dynamic feel. Customisation is key in todays premium car market and the Mustang obliges, with a host of options including four aluminium surrounds for the console panel.

A new, very obvious, engine-start button pulses red from the moment the door is unlocked until the engine sparks in to life, urging you to push it, quickly. The button pulses at a rate of 30 beats per minute – mirroring the resting heart rate of a pony.

A Carbon Sport interior package is also available across the Mustang range, including suede-effect Alcantara door and seat inserts, plus a carbon fibre instrument panel surround and gear knob. Leather-trimmed, heated and cooled seats, and a heated steering wheel are also available for the first time, for ultimate comfort – perfect for the colder months. Those who prefer to opt for the leather Recaro racing seat option also now have a choice of three colours; Show Stopper Red, Midnight Blue and Ebony.

Driver assistance technologies have become commonplace and the Mustang is no exception. Now including Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection and Lane Keeping Aid to enhance the driving experience with greater peace-of-mind, everything can be adjusted using the 12-inch all-digital instrument cluster.

Despite all of these modern technologies, the Mustang remains first and foremost a driving machine, and one that packs a seriously fun punch. Adding MagneRide® adjustable suspension and selectable drive modes into the mix combined with that V8 and rear-wheel drive, this is a car to enjoy both on the road and track. You won’t find it hard to get this monster sideways should you choose – on the track of course – just make sure you remember your seatbelt.

Others might not always feel so fondly about your Mustang, so Ford have developed the new Active Valve Performance Exhaust which delivers an innovative Good Neighbour Mode for early-morning or late-night driving to reduce the impact on those around you. Of course, you can still let that engine roar to enjoy its full tone when you’re out on the road.

 This is the perfect modern interpretation of the classic American muscle car of the past. Continuing its iconic aesthetic appeal and bringing a classic power and drive setup to the table alongside the very latest in performance and safety technologies, you will struggle to find reason not to smile when you get behind the wheel.

“There are few cars on the road that can deliver such a combination of heritage, style and performance to such a wide audience. The new Ford Mustang offers the most compelling package yet.” concludes Steven Armstrong.