American cars that have enjoyed so much time on stage in addition to marking so much the cultural imagination are rare. By its accessibility, but also by its ability to capture the attention of a large audience, the Mustang is still and always a must in the world of sports cars. In preparation for his 60e anniversary, which will be celebrated in April 2024, it revealed itself on Wednesday evening, more techno than ever, not without taking a look at its past while keeping its V8.
Posted at 3:35 p.m.
Admittedly, on the aesthetic level, this new seventh-generation Mustang builds on the bases of the previous vintage by presenting itself under a more aggressive look by means of angles added to the front. To date, it is probably the Mustang that comes closest to muscle cars in its stylistic exercise. We also recognize in the roundness of the rear fenders and the roof line resemblances to the Chevrolet Camaro.
In known grounds under the hood
We therefore detect an evolutionary form in this Mustang, which essentially uses the same mechanics as its predecessor, despite rumors pointing to a hybrid livery.
As a starter, the 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder will shine with only the contribution of a 10-speed automatic transmission. The manual survives as for it by guiding the V8 of 5 L, always with the possibility of synchronizing the mode in downshift. This engine can also be obviously coupled with the automatic transmission. Ford has not yet revealed anything technically, but ensures that the V8 will be the most powerful 5 L ever produced. It could therefore be close to 500 hp.
A version for closed circuit enthusiasts
At the same time, Ford will launch a new Dark Horse version, which essentially picks up where the Mach 1 left off. It will bridge the gap between the GT and the explosive Shelby using a reworked 5L V8 whose power is increased to around 500 hp , using, among other things, connecting rods borrowed from the current Shelby GT500.
Chassis upgrades are vast, from shocks with stiffer springs, beefier anti-roll bars and plenty of parts responsible for improving cooling. This livery also receives the Tremec six-speed manual gearbox, unlike the GT which will always use the Getrag, a bit controversial in the circle of connoisseurs.
A very digital dashboard
However, the biggest difference is in the lair of this Mustang. Ford has decided to completely reform the cabin by means of a juxtaposition of two screens, both for instrumentation and multimedia navigation. Ford also wants to capture the attention of a younger audience.
The 2023 Ford Mustang will arrive at dealerships in both coupe and convertible versions during the summer of 2023.