Ford to Release New-generation Mustang Early 2024

The seventh-generation Ford Mustang will cost from $64,990 and be available in three models, including a new limited-edition ‘Dark Horse’ version with additional power, chassis tuning and unique design highlights.

The new Mustang, which arrives next year in the model’s 60th anniversary, replaces the current four versions — two coupes and two convertibles — and reduces the EcoBoost engine’s available to only one version, the coupe Fastback with 10-speed automatic. All other Mustangs will have the 5.0-litre V8 in manual o automatic and in two outputs.

Prices are up with the entry-level Fastback EcoBoost (four-cylinder turbo) to be launched in 2024 at $64,990 (plus on-road costs), up $12,400, while the GT Convertible rises $12,340 to $86,752.

The Dark Horse, which is a first for the Australian market and only available as a coupe, is $99,102 for the manual and $103,002 for the automatic.

Ford Australia said that the 1000-unit special edition Dark Horse was the first new Mustang performance nameplate in 21 years.

Ford Australia president and CEO Andrew Birkic said the new Mustang “is sure to make owners smile every time they drive it.” 

“The car’s improved performance, handling, and the addition of the Mustang Dark Horse special edition make it a great choice for anyone looking for an exhilarating driving experience.” 

Externally, the seventh generation adds a more modern chiselled look with a low, horizontal brow to emphasise overall frontal width and an upper grille shape influenced by the original 1960s design.

The roofline and broad stance are also true to the authentic proportions of the first generation, while the widened rear haunches point to the power over the wheels in true Mustang style.

Inside is an all-new interior with two flowing and curved displays that can be quickly customised to suit the driver’s preferences.

It has a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and new drive-mode-dependent visuals. Based on the same ‘Unreal Engine’ 3D creation tool used in modern video games, the car’s current setup – based on drive mode selection – is displayed on the centre stack as real-time graphical renderings. Settings can be adjusted by simply swiping the graphic to rotate the car virtually in a true gaming style.

This digital instrument cluster complements a 13.2-inch SYNC 4 centre stack behind the same piece of integrated glass, angled towards the driver.

Together, these screens create a fully immersive digital experience that emulates a fighter jet cockpit – but in a real-world sports car. 

All Australian Mustang models come with a B&O audio with 12 speakers including a subwoofer.

Changes to the fourth-generation Coyote 5.0-litre V8 include dual 80mm throttle bodies and air inlets; and a dual-fuel delivery system works to deliver high-pressure direct-injection and low-pressure port fuel injection for increased low-end torque and high-rev power.

The updated 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The engine updates include a revised exhaust manifold; revised twin-scroll, low-inertia turbocharger with electronic wastegate; revised camshaft timing; and integrated air-induction system.

In a first for Mustang, the electric park and ‘drift brake’ allows conventional park-brake operations during the everyday on-road environment and can also be enabled as a slalom course-ready ‘drift brake’ at the racetrack in conjunction with the ‘track drive’ mode.

All Mustangs will also have Ford’s ‘active-valve performance exhaust,’ which helps reduce back pressure and is designed to help improve power while also providing Mustang’s signature deep growl.

Controlled via the steering wheel or centre-stack touchscreen, drivers can select from four modes: Normal, Sport, Track and Quiet mode, each offering a signature rumble.

The Quiet mode ensures the exhaust valves are set to be closed during a pre-selected timeframe so that the Mustang doesn’t wake the neighbours.

The All-New Mustang supports track enthusiasts with embedded track apps on the 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster. It will also provide the driver with performance options, including acceleration timer, accelerometer, brake performance, lap timer; and launch control (manual transmission only).

Australian Mustang models will also feature many performance options as standard.

These include big Brembo brakes, a larger radiator with improved cooling capability and more powerful cooling fans.

The 5.0-litre V8 GT models also receive an auxiliary engine oil cooler, along with 19x9-inch front and 19x9.5-inch rear carbonised grey-painted aluminium wheels, with 255/40R19 front and 275/40R19 rear Pirelli P-Zero tyres.

The Mustang Dark Horse has upgraded power with the V8 engine rated at 349kW/548Nm that drives to a Torsen differential.

Several powertrain enhancements were made for performance at the track. Mustang Dark Horse receives auxiliary brake cooling ducts, a transmission cooler and rear axle cooler to improve endurance and recovery.

It also has unique chassis tuning including stiffer front springs and uniquely tuned MagnaRide shocks capable of monitoring wheel and tyre movement 1000 times per second, which optimises performance based on road surface or driving mode.

The Dark Horse also features wider staggered wheels (19 by 9.5-inch front and 19 by 10-inch rear), with Brembo front six-piston brakes with 390mm rotors.

Inside, it has a leather-wrapped, flat-bottomed steering wheel that features microsuede inserts with blue-accent stitching, anodised silver paddle shifters (automatic transmission-equipped cars) and a dedicated drive mode button at thumb’s reach to allow drivers to choose the desired driving setup quickly.

The new Mustang is available for purchase at Ford dealerships across Australia, with first customer arrivals scheduled for Q2 2024.