If you're viewing this on a mobile device and can't see the video, please click here.
That was fast! It’s hard to believe the current-generation Mustang is already getting its first major facelift. When the current car made its global debut over three years ago it was such a huge leap forward from its predecessors that it still feels new. But being one of the bestselling sports coupes in the world, Ford would of course want to keep its iconic pony car on top.
The American carmaker has just pulled the wraps off its new 2018 Mustang, and thankfully its designers didn’t stray too far from the current model’s winning formula. While its basic silhouette remains the same, those with sharp eyes will notice the sleeker nose which not only visually lightens the front-end, but also improves aerodynamics.
Its hood—which features vents reminiscent of the 1968 GT 390—is now lower; same goes for its wider hexagonal grille flanked by slimmer, reshaped LED headlights. Its lower grille has been widened for a more aggressive look, while its foglights have now been positioned next to the LED turn signals.
While the changes up front might be noticeable even from several meters away, the updates at the rear are more subtle. Its trademark tri-bar LED taillights are still 3-dimensional but now have a concave profile. It gets a more aggressive rear diffuser and quad exhaust tips on the GT variant.
Other changes include a black creased trunk panel, a reshaped license plate recess, and a new available higher-profile performance rear spoiler. Personalizing your pony car? No problem. You now have a total of 12 wheel designs to choose from, new paint colors which includes the signature Orange Fury, and redesigned racing stripes.
Although it retains the same general design inside, its new reconfigurable 12-inch LCD screen gauge cluster and upgraded interior materials give its cabin a more premium ambiance.
Ride comfort and handling are improved thanks to retuned suspension systems, with new shock absorbers and new cross-axis joints in the rear. The Mustang Performance Package now features optional the MagneRide Damping System, a feature once exclusive to the Shelby GT350.
Two gasoline engines will be offered: an updated 2.3-liter EcoBoost in-line-four, and a heavily revised 5.0-liter V8 which now features high-pressure direct injection and low-pressure-port fuel injection. While Ford didn’t reveal any numbers, it did mention an increase in torque for the turbocharged mill and a gain of both horsepower and torque for the V8 unit. Both engines can be paired to either a six-speed manual transmission or a new 10-speed automatic transmission.
The 2018 Mustang hits US showrooms later this year. Expect export markets to follow at a later date. If you dig its new styling, now is a good time to start saving up for one.
