New Ford Mustang revealed with V8 and Dark Horse

The much-anticipated new-generation Ford Mustang was unveiled yesterday and, contrary to what many had expected, it arrives with no electrified version at all, being introduced solely with combustion engines.

One possible explanation is that it continues to use an updated version of its predecessor’s platform.

Of the engines revealed, the naturally aspirated 5.0-litre Coyote V8 naturally takes centre stage - the only “heart” that matters in this pony car? - alongside the extensively revised turbocharged 2.3 EcoBoost four-cylinder, which Ford describes as an all-new engine.

The Blue Oval says the 5.0 V8 will deliver more power than before, thanks to a new air-intake system featuring dual air intakes and a dual-throttle-body arrangement.

As if retaining the V8 were not welcome enough news, it can also be paired with a six-speed manual gearbox. Alternatively, the 10-speed automatic returns, although it is the sole transmission offered with the 2.3 EcoBoost.

As has been the case since the first Ford Mustang generation, torque is sent exclusively to the rear wheels. This puts paid to rumours of a first-ever four-wheel-drive Mustang.

Change without revolution

The Ford Mustang has not attempted to “break” with its past visually either, although its development is clear to see.

Its proportions and lines still make it instantly recognisable as a Mustang, but the shapes and surfaces have been reworked. New details include LED headlights that give it an even more aggressive “look”, while the rear lights move closer in style to those of the electric Mustang Mach-E crossover.

At the rear, broader wheel arches lend the new Mustang a more “muscular” stance, whether in coupé or convertible form, the two body styles in which the Mustang will continue to be offered.

The 2.3 EcoBoost and V8 versions will also be easy to tell apart. V8 Mustang GT models receive a distinct front end, with a grille divided into three sections, larger air intakes, new bonnet vents and a redesigned front splitter.

Several equipment packs will also be available for the V8 Mustang GT, including one feature likely to attract plenty of attention: an electronic handbrake designed for drifting, the “Performance Electronic Parking Brake”.

Although it looks like a conventional handbrake, once activated it operates the rear brakes through electric motors. Its purpose? To help less experienced drivers improve their drifting skills while giving more seasoned drivers a competition-ready system.

Alongside this system, and for those who enjoy “drawing attention”, the new Mustang also features a function that lets owners start the car remotely and rev the engine using the key fob.

An all-new Ford Mustang interior

While the new Ford Mustang has so far appeared to be an exercise in evolution, it is inside that the American model sets itself furthest apart from its predecessor.

Technology now plays a far greater role, led by two displays that dominate the cabin: a 12.4-inch instrument cluster, accompanied by an infotainment screen measuring up to 13.2 inches.

The infotainment software combines Ford’s SYNC4 system with Unreal Engine 3D, allowing for higher-quality graphics. It is also joined by the Amazon Alexa assistant.

Ford also promises considerable improvements in material quality and perceived refinement, though these can only be confirmed once we see the new Mustang in person, as we did with its predecessor.

Dark Horse means hardcore

Despite only just unveiling the latest Mustang generation, Ford has already introduced a more focused and sporting variant.

Called the Mustang Dark Horse, it takes over from the Mustang Mach 1 - a pony car variant we have already tested - and brings a range of performance equipment that is optional on other Mustang models.

This includes a Torsen limited-slip differential, a thicker rear anti-roll bar, revised dampers, a front strut brace and larger Brembo brakes.

Under the bonnet sits the same 5.0 V8 as in the Mustang GT, but the Dark Horse is expected to offer more power, although Ford has not yet disclosed any figures.

Expect it to produce more than the Mustang Mach 1’s 480 PS in the US - 460 PS in Europe. Could it reach 500 PS?

For the track

The Mustang Dark Horse will also be offered in two additional circuit-focused versions: the Dark Horse S and the more extreme Dark Horse R. While the former is a kind of “toy” for track-day enthusiasts, the latter will be eligible to compete in official racing.

The Mustang Dark Horse S comes with a racing seat and removable steering wheel, an FIA-certified roll cage and other equipment. The Dark Horse R adds a fuel cell and various Ford Performance Parts components.

The new Mustang will also mark Ford’s official return to GT3 championships, beginning in IMSA, with its competitive debut taking place at the 2024 Daytona 24 Hours. It will also race at the 24 Hours of Le Mans that same year, using a 5.4-litre version of the Coyote engine.

Before then, a Mustang GT4 will appear, racing from 2023 in several championships, including IMSA, SRO and FIA GT.

Will it come to Europe?

Despite increasingly stringent emissions regulations, Ford has confirmed that the new Mustang will not only come to Europe, but will also bring the 5.0 V8 Coyote with it.

The sporting Dark Horse version will likewise reach the “old continent”, although Ford has not yet revealed when it plans to launch its iconic sports car in Europe.

What we do know is that it is expected to arrive in US dealerships during the summer of 2023.