17 January 2017 David McCowen

2018 Ford Mustang revealed

Faster, smarter, louder coupe on the way in 2018.

2018 Ford Mustang. Photo: Supplied

Brains to match its brawn, that's the idea behind the next-generation Ford Mustang.

Set to arrive locally in 2018, Ford's upgraded performance car is set to be the most technologically advanced car in its class, giving the brand a cut-price alternative to European coupes such as the BMW M4.

New Mustang breaks cover
Leaked video reveals styling updates for iconic coupe.

Building on the platform offered by the current coupe and convertible, the new model is set to offer a customisable 12-inch fully digital display to rival the Audi TT, as well as personalised driving modes similar to those used in European performance cars.

Those settings will direct key hardware elements including a new 10-speed automatic transmission and multi-mode magnetically adjustable suspension that could transform the way Ford's pony car drives.

The blue oval has beefed up suspension bracing, shock absorbers and anti--roll bars across the range, and added a new active exhaust system similar to the bi-modal setup used by local HSV products.

While Ford won't say how much power the new car produces, it says the Mustang GT's 5.0-litre V8 has been "thoroughly reworked" to produce higher numbers, thanks in part to the addition of a new fuelling system blending high-pressure direct injection and and low-pressure port injection for optimum torque and efficiency.

An upgraded safety suite featuring autonomous emergency braking and pedestrian detection systems as well as lane keeping assistance and lane departure warning systems is set to join the fray, and Ford has promised to lift the standard of its interior presentation with "a more premium look and feel".

The new car also features revised styling with new headlamps and smoothed front bumpers joining a ventilated bonnet that no longer features a pronounced power dome.

Full prices and specifications will be confirmed closer to the model's local launch date.

For all the latest info, visit our Ford showroom.

Drive Comments

13 Comments

Nicky | 2017-01-17 23:07:17

Not just the interior! Ford should pay more attention to exterior panel fit, which is appalling! On my Mustang, the bonnet sat at least 1 cm higher than the front bumper panel on the right hand side than it did on the left. When I collected my car, I noticed that two other (4 cyl) models on the showroom floor, including one that belonged to the dealer's sales manager, had the same problem. It was very noticeable and seriously detracted from what is otherwise a beautiful looking car. I insisted that it be addressed, but when I collected it the gap was equal on both sides, but was almost touching the bumper panel in the middle. I was told it was the best they could do. Not good enough!!

Selector 2 | 2017-01-18 00:11:39

@Nicky, I'm not an owner so only a cursory showroom inspection revealed 1980's style interior.Definitely no match for German finish.

Dooli | 2017-01-18 00:31:11

I agree Nicky, I found the same issues, put me right off!

Preg | 2017-01-18 07:05:43

Not even Falcodore standard-really poor. Not a fan of the styling, but how can you make a car that large look like a sports car.

Simiam Sam | 2017-01-18 08:29:03

@ Preg. Completely agree. This revision is even more porky than the outgoing model. Interior very poor. Build quality?..... What build quality. Ford are killing an opportunity here.

Bt | 2017-01-18 10:48:17

Dont understand people having a go at the interior as 80s style. Dont remember big touch screens with voice control, sat nav back and aircon/heated leather seats. Yes it has abit or hard plastic but people forget that this is built to a certain price point. Name another rear wheel drive 2 door coupe with over 230kw (incase of the turbo) and 300kw (v8) for under 50 and 60k respectively. Stop comparing it to an m4 at more than double the price.

Selector 2 | 2017-01-18 23:48:56

@Bt, OK, remove the satnav(a screen) heated seats (tactile only) and visually, you have an 80's interior dah, dah! Look to Kia's stinger for a well priced option with plenty power.

Bt | 2017-01-19 02:48:10

Comparing a 2015 design to a 2018 prototype car yet to be released that no one has sat in yet.

Selector 2 | 2017-01-19 03:27:38

Huh?This is the 2018Mustang, yet to be released in Aus. The Kia is same, and around the same price, yes I'll give you that it is the first release, rather than a 2015 upgrade.

garbonzo | 2017-01-22 05:31:45

While the Mustang is not the 'right' car for me. At least not as an everyday drive. Back seat and luggage space are too small. I don't think this is an improvement. I actually was a huge fan of the previous style. Bit more class, and less aggressive than this new one. Was planning to rent a Mustang next trip to the US. Think I'll settle for another Charger.

Selector 2 | 2017-01-22 21:25:35

@Garbonzo...seriously...this car would be bottom of my hire list in USA, Corvette Zr1 and Dodge Viper well above the mustang.

SouthEast | 2017-01-22 22:21:41

I have a 1965 stang, as all original mustang owners, this model which just turn out to be like a falcon or commodore. A

SouthEast | 2017-01-22 22:23:55

I am a 1965 fastback stang owner (all original, 2nd owner since California) , and like most original stang owners have said, this will just be another commodore or falcon. They will devalue and any joe blow will purchase one once they drop in price... 2018 looks ugly compared to the 2016 model. The older ones will just go up in value!