2015 Ford Mustang Visits To Africa
All-new Mustang to be shown off at Ford Go Further exhibition
Iconic coupé to be introduced in South Africa and Sub Saharan Africa
PRETORIA, South Africa, 8 July 2014 – Ford Mustang, the world’s favorite pony car, will be on show at Ford’s inaugural Go Further event in Sandton, Johannesburg, on 17 July 2014.
The all-new Ford Mustang fastback and convertible models promise exceptional performance and refinement while embracing the Mustang’s half-century of heritage and status as a global icon. Notably, it will be the most modern Mustang to date, boasting independent rear suspension, a first for the vehicle that will transform the way it handles. Equipment levels will also be on par with what customers have come to expect of Ford’s smart vehicles, including technologies such as SYNC® 2, Blind spot Information System with Cross Traffic Alert, and other driver aid systems.
“Few other cars inspire passion like the Mustang,” says Mark Kaufman, vice president of marketing, sales and service, Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA). “The iconic design and visceral sound of Mustang resonate with people, even if they’ve never driven one. It’s definitely more than just a car – it is the heart and soul of Ford.”
More than 9 million Mustangs have been sold since it was first launched in 1964. The world’s most-liked vehicle on Facebook*, Mustang has made thousands of appearances in film, television, music and video games, and is one of 17 new vehicles that Ford will launch in South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa by the end of 2015.
“With a formidable reputation, both on and off the track, as well as its iconic status as a symbol of freedom, Mustang’s reputation precedes it even in those parts of the world where the car has never been sold,” continues Kaufman. “It epitomises Ford’s aggressive product acceleration; technologically advanced and forward-looking, and embracing the heritage that has inspired Ford customers for generations.”
The new Mustang has been developed with impressive performance, driving dynamics and usability in mind – and includes a significant amount of advanced driver convenience and driver aid technologies.
“We’re proud to have Mustang back in South Africa – and this model is the best Mustang yet,” says Kaufman. “Longtime admirers will be able to see an icon return to South African roads, and we are confident the new Mustang will bring even more fans to the brand.”
Unmistakably Mustang
The clean-sheet design of both Ford Mustang fastback and convertible evokes the essential character of the vehicle, retaining key design elements of the classic Mustangs recognisable to car fans across the globe, including the long sculpted hood and short rear deck, with a contemporary execution.
“You only get one chance to make a first impression and when you see this car, you immediately see a Mustang strong and true,” continues Kaufman.
Several key design features define the new Ford Mustang, including:
• A low roof height and wide stance
• Sleek profile enabled by steeply sloped windshield and rear glass
• Three-dimensional, tri-bar taillamps
• Contemporary execution of the iconic car’s signature shark-bite front fascia
Ford Mustang convertible drivers will appreciate the standard multilayer insulated cloth top that gives the car an upscale appearance and a quiet cabin. The top has a sleek profile when folded for open-air motoring.
Large, clear instrumentation puts vehicle information right in front of the driver in the roomy cabin with an aviation-inspired cockpit, while ergonomic and tactile switches and knobs provide control. The vehicle’s width and new rear suspension contribute to improved shoulder and hip room for passengers and a usefully shaped bootspace that can accommodate two golf bags.
A Mustang for the true driving enthusiast
The new Ford Mustang features all-new front and rear suspension systems. At the front, a new perimeter subframe helps to stiffen the front structure while reducing mass, providing a strong foundation for more predictable wheel control that benefits handling, steering and ride.
The new double ball-joint front MacPherson strut system also enables the use of large, powerful brakes.
At the rear is an all-new integral-link independent rear suspension. The geometry, springs, dampers and bushings all have been specifically modified and tuned for this high-performance application, and are well-suited to high speed driving. New aluminium rear knuckles help reduce unsprung mass for improved ride and handling.
The new Mustang features a significant number of innovative technologies providing drivers with enhanced information, control, and connectivity when they want it.
The advanced, Ford-developed stability control is tuned to maximise the new Mustang’s dynamic capabilities with features like torque vectoring that directs engine power to individual wheels to keep the car on course. When the time comes to turn up the wick at the track, manual transmission variants of the Mustang GT include standard launch control that enables drivers to achieve smooth, consistent starts every time.
Advanced driver-assist features include standard Ford SYNC® with Voice Control and Touchscreen, that lets drivers control their entertainment.
Models destined for South African shores will be confirmed at a later date.
