Your Official First Look at the 2018 Mustang
A Leaner and Meaner 2018 Mustang? Ford Claims It’s Also Much Smarter
The moment is here! OK, the moment was also here when we brought you a leaked video of the 2018 Ford Mustang in all its glory. But now it’s official! Ford has pulled the silky sheet and officially shown it to the world. So, what do you think?
Another thing that’s now official and no longer a rumor is the death of the V6 Mustang. According to Ford, the proven 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine continues to offer outstanding performance and efficiency advantages. Therefore, it made no financial or strategic sense to retain the outgoing 3.7-liter V6. In other words, the V6 Mustang that’s existed for decades is officially dead.
Ford promises a host of improvements on the 2018 Mustang, though none which are new to the industry. Such improvements include new technology and design changes that’ll give owners more ways to customize their Mustang, better performance from more-powerful engines, and a new MagneRide system. In addition, three new paint colors, 12 distinct wheel choices, and a customizable digital instrument cluster are all being offered.
Because power is nothing without control, Ford claims new shock absorbers will make for better ride control. A new cross-axis joint in the rear suspension will generate increased lateral stiffness.
CHECK OUT: What Forum Members Are Saying About the 2018 Mustang
And innovative stabilizer bars will sharpen response and handling. In addition, Ford’s big surprise is the new MagneRide. Like Chevy’s, Audi’s and Ferrari’s magnetorheological systems, this damper technology is a new option with the Mustang Performance Package to optimize ride and handling.
Last but not least, the manual transmission for both engines has been upgraded for optimal torque. It includes a twin-disc clutch and dual-mass flywheel for the V8. A new 10-speed automatic transmission will be available with both engines in 2018. A wide-ratio span and optimized gear spacing will deliver higher average power for acceleration, therefore improving responsiveness and performance.
The Big Elephant in the Room
Lastly, what about the design? According to Ford it’s a leaner look that offers refined aerodynamics and a more athletic stance. Do you agree?
We wish we did. Perhaps this new Mustang will be like the last, and it will look much better in person than it does in photos. At least that’s what we’re telling ourselves.
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