By: IOL Motoring Staff
Ford's all new Mustang has galloped onto the scene and it literally wants to take on the world.
In every iteration since 1964, Ford's pony car was designed specifically for North America, but the new one is a truly global product and it has also been confirmed for South African introduction in 2015.
Whereas previous 'Stangs were brawny but basic, the new one has evolved into a more sophisticated and efficient animal in order to keep global markets happy.
IT’S STILL GOT MUSCLE
But that doesn't mean they've forgotten what a Mustang is all about - which is why Ford will offer its 5-litre V8 in addition to an efficient new four-cylinder EcoBoost engine.
Let's start with the proper one then - the 5-litre V8, according to Ford, delivers more than 313kW and 529Nm, although no performance figures have been released as yet.
The more efficient option is a 2.3-litre direct injection turbopetrol that pushes “more than” 227kW and 407Nm through the rear wheels. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard, although buyers will be able to opt for an autobox with flappy paddles.
The South African line-up will be confirmed closer to launch date.
SOPHISTICATED CHASSIS
The Mustang was never known for its chassis sophistication, but Ford has made things right with the new one, which features a brand new suspension system at both ends, including an integral-link independent rear axle, which the company believes will make the muscle car well suited to demanding European roads and driving styles.
To further hone its stability on the twisties, this Mustang is fitted with a traction control system that includes torque vectoring that can direct power to individual wheels when required.
One thing this new Mustang remains true to, for the most part, is its design heritage.
It's got a low, wide stance and sports a long bonnet, sloping fastback roofline and signature 'shark bite' front design theme and tri-bar taillights.
The interior design pays its own tribute to Mustang history, while thoroughly embracing the modern age with an available eight-inch colour screen, Ford Sync with voice control and a premium 12-speaker sound system.
Mustang soul with a modern twist would be the best way to describe this new pony.
Or, as Ford's product development vice president Raj Nair puts it: “Mustang is definitely more than just a car - it is the heart and soul of Ford.”