To do this, these engineers dedicated their weekends and after-work hours to develop the necessary equipment to achieve their dream. According to Ford, these engineers only presented the project to the managers once it was completely out of fear of being turned down midway. The management was so impressed with the team’s work that they immediately approved it for actual production. Therefore, courtesy of their dedication, enthusiasts now have a more aggressive performance package for the 2018 Ford Mustang GT referred to as the “Performance Pack Level 2”.

2018 Ford Mustang GT Performance Pack Level 2

What it offers

The Performance Pack Level 2 features a number of performance-oriented upgrades. To start with, the most recognizable feature is the set of huge Y-spoke 19-inch cast-aluminum rollers that have a 10.5-inch width at the front and 11-inch width at the rear. These new wheels are wrapped in305/30ZR-19 Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 high-performing tires. These are the same tires used on the Mustang Shelby GT350R. The pack also features a deep chin splitter whose design is inspired by the Mustang Boss Laguna Seca. The splitter adds 24 lbs of down-force when the GT is cruising at 80 mph. There is also a ducktail spoiler placed on the trunk; the unit which is finished in black adds downforce at the rear. According to Ford, the huge wheels, as well as the aerodynamic upgrades, will also be offered as standalone options via the Ford Performance Parts catalog.

The Pack Level 1 package features are included as part of the Pack Level 2 package; this means you still get all the awesome performance features of Level 1 Including the huge Brembo brakes that feature 6-piston brake calipers. Other features include strut-tower braces, extra chassis, a larger radiator, a stability-control system, electrically-assisted power steering and 3.73:1 rear axle ratio that also features a Torsen limited-slip differential. However, these features have been upgraded for the Pack Level 2 to work well with Level 2’s stiffer springs which are 20% firmer at the front and 13% at the rear compared to base GT models, thicker anti-roll bars (12% stronger at the front and 67% at the rear compared to base models). Pack Level 2 also offers adaptive dampers that are driver-adjustable (these are a $1,695 option for other Mustangs).

When is it available?

The 2018 Ford Mustang GT Performance Pack Level 2 is already available for order along with the 2018 Ford Mustang GT which arrives this spring. The package costs $6,500, which makes it $2,505 more expensive than the Performance Pack Level 1. The package will be offered only with the 5.0 L, V-8 powered Mustang GT coupes with the 6-speed manual gearbox. Buyers who order the package for base GT models must also add the Equipment Group 301A which offers Sync 3 infotainment system, USB ports, driver-selectable driving modes, a 9-speaker audio system as well as a dual-zone climate control at only $2,000.

Buyers can also opt for a navigation system for an extra $795 and the 401A Equipment Group which adds leather seats instead of cloth seats, 12-inch digital instrument panel, a Wi-Fi hotspot and heated steering wheel. Buyers, however, have to hurry and place their orders as the automaker plans to limit production of the package to only 1,500 units annually.

The post 2018 Ford Mustang GT Performance Pack Level 2 appeared first on FordCarsInfo.com.

R-code Mustang Exterior

Kenne Bell took up the standard Mustang and made it more aggressive via adding several Kenne Bell & Hurst add-ons. At the front, the Mustang features a new grille with a “Hurst” badge. The lower intake is also revamped and a gigantic splitter sits below the bumper. The hood is also revised; it sports functional vents above the snout to help cool the “beast” inside.  Each side of the hood bears a “Supercharged” emblem. There is also the “Kenne Bell R-Code” lettering above the grille.

On the flanks, the tuning house added aggressive-looking side skirts that feature aero fins.  There are numerous Kenne Bell and Hurst logos on the front fenders. On the other hand, the rear is much more intimidating. The Stang carries a huge Daytona-inspired spoiler while its race-inspired diffuser integrates quad exhaust outlets. To show everyone that this is not a regular Stang, the rear also sports Kenne Bell R-Code and Hurst emblems on the trunk-lid. The “Hurst” lettering has replaced the typical “Mustang” lettering between the coupe’s taillights.

What I love the most about this car is the paint work.  The Stang sports the unique Hurst paint design that features a golden hood, roof, wing accents and trunk-lid; these are contrasted by white sides making the Mustang one piece of art.

Interior

Sliding inside, you will be met by an array of after-market goodies including its bucket seats that are upholstered in black & white Katzkin leather. The leather is contrasted by a stylish topstitching. The seats also sport “Hurst” logos. The floor mats also feature similar “Hurst” logos like the seats while the console lid and door panels feature white leather inserts with a contrasting stitching.

The Stang also features a “Hurst” shifter stick that has reverse lockout. The cabin also features custom door sill plates that also sport ‘R-Code’, ‘Hurst’ and ‘Kenne Bell’ logos. There is also a start/stop button for the engine’s supercharger. Each of the 50 units will feature a number dash plaque.

Engine and performance

The 2017 R-code Mustang beast is motivated by a 5.0 L, Coyote V-8 mill that is connected to a 3.2 L, Kenne Bell supercharger. The supercharger boosts the Mustang’s power to a gigantic 750 horses. This is a huge leap considering the standard Mustang is good for only 435 horses. Details about the R-code Mustang acceleration are yet to be made public but I think the beast takes less than 3.5 seconds to run from a standing position to 60 mph.

In addition to the Supercharger, the engine has also received a host of upgrades including a 4.5-inch cold intake, 168 mm throttle body, and lowered Hurst springs that come in a Gold Hammertone finish. There are also several chassis upgrades.

To ensure all the power translates into massive performance, Kennel Bell has hooked up the R-code Mustang with 20-inch wheels with Nitto high-performance tires. In addition, the vehicle features tire pressure sensors for all wheels and custom 4-wheel alignment. One can opt for custom painted valve covers that are also hand lettered. There is an option for a larger supercharger that sees the power reach a mind-blowing 1,500 hp; this converts your Stang into a “speed monster”.

Price and release date

Well, pricing of the Hurst Kenne Bell R-Code Mustang is still a mystery as of this writing. However, the tuning house has already announced that only 50 models will be made. The tuning is made on Mustang GTs from the 2015 -2017 production years. All models will be listed in the Hurst Kenne Bell R-Code Mustang registry. Buyers will also get a certificate of authenticity from Kenne Bell.

Competition

The R-Code will face rivalry from other after-market tuned models such as the Camaro Callaway SC630 and the Dodge Challenger Hellcat Hennessey HPE850.

The post 2017 Hurst Kenne Bell R-code Mustang appeared first on FordCarsInfo.com.

2017 Ford Mustang Shelby Super Snake Wide Body Concept Exterior

As said earlier, the exterior of the wide Mustang Super Snake is similar to that of the regular Super Snake. The only major difference is the increased track size by 2.5 inches in front and 4 inches at the rear. The model also rides on 20-inch wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot SportCup II wheels with a 12.5-inch width at the rear and 11-inch width for the front wheels. Other features include rear quarter panels, vented front fenders, a rocker styling kit, extended wheel lugs, rear control arms as well as performance spindles.

Interior

Shelby has not released interior details of this wide body serpent. However, I expect the model to receive an upgrade if Shelby decides to take it into production which I think is very likely. In case that happens, I would expect to see a large touch-screen. The screen comes in handy in reviewing one’s performance at the tracks as well as displaying importance details about the vehicle as one does his/her rounds at the tracks.

Engine and performance

As said earlier, the Mustang shares its engine with the F-150 Super Snake. The unit is a supercharged 5.0 L, V-8 engine that Shelby has tweaked to produce a whopping 750 horses just like on the regular Mustang Super Snakes.

Shelby did not reveal actual performance figures of the wide body serpent but regular models take 3.5 seconds to run from a standstill position to 60 mph.

The extra 4 inches for the rear track and 2.5 inches at the front enabled the automaker to enhance the Mustang’s handling. Handling is further enhanced by the vehicle’s fully adjustable coil-over suspension system and larger wheels wrapped in performance tires for extra grip.

Stopping power for the gigantic mill is courtesy of larger Brembo brakes that feature 16-inch discs with 6-piston calipers at the front and 14-inch discs with 4-piston calipers at the rear.

Price and release date

Being just a concept, Shelby did not accompany the Mustang’s release with an official price tag. I expect the automaker to take the model into production in the nearby future as the “serpent” has been received well by enthusiasts across the globe just for the few days it has been on the limelight.

The post 2017 Ford Mustang Shelby Super Snake Wide Body Concept appeared first on FordCarsInfo.com.

2017 Mustang Shelby Super Snake Exterior

The Super Snake is based on the Mustang GT. The exterior has a host of Shelby-engineered components. The new model comes with the Super Snake’s all-familiar bulging front hood with forced air scoops. The new scoops are however smaller than those on the  2015 version of the Shelby Super Snake. The grille has new mesh while a commemorative nameplate replaces the Shelby logo on the grille. It reads “50th Anniversary Super Snake” and features Carroll Shelby’s signature on top. The pronounced front splitter also carries Shelby’s name, a feature continued on the space between the taillights where the “Shelby” lettering has replaced the Shelby logo.

On the sides, Mustang’s splitters have been replaced with Shelby-made components. The rear, on the other hand, has a new tail panel, spoiler and a new diffuser.

The model also wears the all-familiar Shelby racing stripes, more badges as well as commemorative emblems throughout the body such as the one placed after the front wheel arches. This one reads “Shelby 1967-2017”.

The model will be available with Ford factory colors in addition to Shelby’s blue-and-white scheme. It rides on a set of 20-inch forged aluminum wheels that have either a black or a polished finish. The wheels are wrapped in special Shelby-spec performance tires.

50^th Anniversary Shelby Super Snake Interior

No Shelby-built Mustang has ever embraced a luxurious cabin. This “rich” history did not end with the Anniversary Super Snake. It is however hooked up with a host of upgrades including a new gauge cluster with wireless gauges. Anniversary logos and seats are featured all over; they are on the seats, floor mats and on door sill plates. A special plaque is placed on the dash to denote the serial number of each model, a sure way of saying this is not your ordinary Mustang.

There is an option for buyers to have the seats wrapped in Katzkin leather. For those planning to take their “Serpents” racing; they can opt to throw away the rear seats in favor of a four-point roll bar.

The engine Specs and performance

Power is what matter most for these types of automobiles. Under the hood of the “serpent” is a Coyote V-8 with a displacement of 5.0 liters.  This mill is paired with a supercharger to churn out 670 horses. The torque figure was not released but expect over 600 lb-ft. This makes the standard Mustang GT’s 435 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque look conventional.

If you still want more “venom” from your snake, you can opt for Level 2 upgrades. This involves adding a Kenne Bell or Whipple Supercharger to bump power output to 750 hp and over 700 lb-ft of torque, the latter is yet to be confirmed though. Adding these level two upgrades makes the Shelby Super Snake 50th Anniversary superfast needing only 3.5 seconds to hit 60 mph from standstill. It completes a quarter-mile in 10.9 seconds. The mill can be paired with either a manual or automatic transmission system.

Price and release date

The fun that comes from driving a serpent that spits over 700 horses comes at a hefty price. The Super Snake 50^th Anniversary Edition package is priced at $36,795. Adding the base Ford Mustang GT takes the total price of the serpent to $69,995. Adding level 2 upgrades including either of the Superchargers means you will end up paying in excess of $80,000 for the fire-breathing monster.

The 50^th Anniversary Super Snakes will be limited to only 500 units so you had better hurry and place your order right away.

Competition

Being a one-off model, it is a bit hard to find a suitable mode that can rival the Shelby Super Snake 50th Anniversary. I can only think of the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat X, a one-off model that was created in 2015 by the Walsh Motorsport.

The post 2017 50th Anniversary Ford Mustang Shelby Super Snake appeared first on FordCarsInfo.com.

2018 Ford Mustang GT Convertible Exterior

The new visual modifications make the Mustang look more polarizing than ever. At the front, the new look is characterized by a new grille with a trapezoidal opening at the lower part. Flanking the grille are smaller LED headlights and heritage-laced strips of LED DRLs. The front bumper has also been revised while the hood sits much lower. On the sides, the model features LED light strips in place of triangular-shaped units in the last model.

The rear carries over almost unchanged except for the revised taillights, a new diffuser as well as a modified license plate recess. Models powered by the EcoBoost mill features dual exhaust pipes while the GT features quad pipes with a race-inspired center section.

There are three new exterior colors i.e. Kona Blue, Orange Furry and Royal Crimson. In addition, the Mustang will feature 12 new wheel designs.

2018 Ford Mustang GT Convertible Interior

Except for the open roof that offers all the headroom in the world, the convertible is identical to the coupe. Like the coupe, the convertible flaunts the new instrument cluster, a new feat for the Mustang. The 12-inch LCD offered as an option has three views that can also be customized depending on the driver’s preferences. The screen can be configured to display various information for the vehicle’s Normal, Sport and Track driving modes. The automaker has also hooked up the Mustang with a new adaptive suspension dubbed the MagneRide borrowed from the Shelby GT350.

Being a performance-oriented car, the Mustang packs high-tech features; these features include various electronic driving aids such as a pre-collision assist system with the pedestrian detection system, a lane-departure warning system, distance alert as well as a lane-keep assist. Buyers can also opt for the FordPass, a Smartphone app that allows the driver to lock, unlock, start or even locate the car in a parking lot.

The images presented by the automaker highlight the instrument cluster with a 1,964.5 numbering on its odometer, a reference to the first generation of Mustangs which arrived at dealer showrooms as 1964.5 models. The 289 miles reading is a representation of the first-gen GT’s 289-cubic-inch V-8 mill.

Engine Specs and performance

Like the coupe, Ford will also not use the naturally aspirated 3.7 L, V-6 on the drop-top version. Therefore, the base mill will be a turbocharged 2.3 L EcoBoost 4-cylinder mill. The automaker revealed that this engine will get a power increase but did not reveal the actual numbers. Buyers looking to get more “juice” from their convertible will have an option to go for the 5.0 L, V-8 engine.

For 2018, this engine will feature direct as well as port fuel injection which will help increase output as well as improve its fuel efficiency. The engines will be mated either to a 6-speed manual gearbox or to the new 10-speed automatic gearbox. The systems channel power to the rear wheels.  The brand-new, 10-speed automatic gearbox improves low-speed acceleration while still boosting fuel economy.  According to Ford, the system also features real-time adaptive shifting to ensure the right gears are selected.

According to social media discussions, the images presented feature the car in the fourth gear at a 55 mph speed that hint at a possible 455 lb-ft of torque. The 4700 rpm may be a hint of 470 hp output. These are mere speculations and official figures will be released later on. If this were to be true, the Mustang will be more powerful than the 6^th-Gen Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.

Price and release date

Ford is yet to communicate the official release date of the Mustang or its official prices. The 2018 Ford Mustang GT Convertible will likely arrive at dealerships late this year or early next year. The convertible will first tour 50 regional shows before being delivered to dealerships.

The post 2018 Ford Mustang GT Convertible appeared first on FordCarsInfo.com.

2018 Ford Mustang Exterior

From all directions, it looks like a Mustang; however, a closer look reveals the several changes made on the exterior design. Most of the new changes are to be found at the front fascia.  The grille is new but almost similar to the one on the outgoing model. Ford has added a trapezoid-shaped opening below the grille.

The black fog lights openings have been replaced with aggressive, triangular cutouts and slim vertical vents. All-LED headlights whose outer corners point downwards flank the grille. Triangular turn signals have been replaced with stripes and placed below the main LED lights. The model also features a revised engine hood.

At the rear, changes are less dramatic. The tri-bar taillights on the previous model have been revised. There is also a new diffuser and a new license plate recess. The EcoBoost model now flaunts dual exhaust pipes while the GT gets a more aggressive quad pipe tips whose center section is race-inspired. There are three new exterior paint works to choose from, they are Kona Blue, Royal Crimson and Orange Furry. In addition, the automaker has added twelve new wheel designs.

2018 Ford Mustang Interior

Unlike the exterior, the interior did not get many changes. Ford has however added hand-stitched seat wrappings with attractive contrast stitching as well as padded knee bolsters. The seats have been restyled and feature new color choices and patterns.  The model’s bezels, door handles and rings have an aluminum finish for a premium look. Ford has added a Mustang badge on the new model’s instrument panel. Both models have an option for a heated steering wheel.

Tech-wise, the model gets a 12-inch digital instrument cluster. The screen can be customized to correspond to the model’s Track, Sport and Normal modes. There is also a fourth mode christened “MyMode” which enables extra customization such as memory settings for throttle, steering and suspension preferences. The automaker’s SYNC Connect along with FordPass is offered as an option. This system enables a driver to lock, unlock, locate and start the car via a Smartphone.

For safety, the Mustang features forward collision assist, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, lane departure warning as well as drowsy driver monitoring. Others include rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot warning as well as reversing camera which carry over from the outgoing model.

Engine Specs and performance

The biggest changes are to be seen under the hood where the automaker has dropped the 3.7 L, V-6. This means the 2.3 L, EcoBoost mill is the base unit. The EcoBoost mill has been tuned to produce more juice although the automaker is yet to confirm by how much.

The 5.0 L, V-8 will also be tuned for more power but the automaker again remained mum about the actual figures. The power increase is courtesy of the automaker’s dual-fuel, high-pressure direct fuel injection as well as low-pressure port fuel injection. This also results in improved fuel economy. The automaker has also upgraded the manual gearbox to handle the increased power. On the V-8, the gearbox will feature a dual-mass flywheel and a twin-clutch for better clutch modulation and better torque capability. Ford has however introduced the new 10-speed automatic system that is available for both mills.  The system provides quicker shift times, less frictional losses and improved low-speed response.

Price and release date

I don’t expect the price of the Mustang to increase significantly. However, since the V-6 has been discontinued, expect the base price to be more expensive. The base EcoBost model currently starts at $26,195. The 2018 Mustang price will likely have a starting price of $27,000 while the EcoBoost Premium will attract around $33,000. More information will be available close to the model’s on-sale release date in the second half of this year.

Competition

The 2018 Ford Mustang competes with the Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger. However, the Mustang is getting ever closer to the BMW M4 Series and it is a matter of time before the Mustang goes head to head with the Beemer.

The post 2018 Ford Mustang appeared first on FordCarsInfo.com.

2017 Ford Mustang Shelby FP350s Exterior

On the outside, the FP350S looks almost identical to the Mustang GT4 as well as the Shelby GT350R-C. Only a few visual differences tell it apart. At the front, the only difference with the above models is that it has additional splitter struts compared to the GT350R-Cand slight modifications on the bumper where it misses canards on each side compared to the GT4. Still, on the splitter, Ford has used carbon-fiber to reduce overall curb weight.

On the sides, the wheels are the only feature that sets it apart from the above models. It features 19-inch wheels that are wrapped in Pirelli tires rather than Continental tires like on the GT350R-C. There is an option for 18-inch forged wheels.

At the rear, the model is unique. It features a larger wing made from carbon-fiber. The wing sits higher than the one on the GT4 or that of the GT350R-C that looks more of a spoiler than a wing.

Buyers will have an option for a graphics package that features double racing stripes that commence from the snout and run rearwards to the trunk-lid. There are also vertical stripes on the doors as well a host of “Ford Performance” lettering and logos.

2017 Ford Mustang Shelby FP350s Interior

The interior of the model is still a mystery. However, since it is a race-specific model, I expect it to be fully equipped with all equipment required for track racing in the U.S.A. The automaker, however, intimated that the model’s cockpit will have an FIA-compliant roll racing seat that has 6-point harnesses, as well as a quick-release steering wheel. This wheel helps in case of a crash and makes it easy to enter or exit the car.

To improve performance analysis in the cockpit, the FP350s features a MOTEC data system that enables easy acquisition of performance data. The model will also feature a simplistic display in place of the traditional, analog cluster. Also, expect to find an upgraded center stack integrated with more knobs, buttons and switches.

Engine specs and performance

The FP350S has received a significant revision under the hood. It is fitted with a 5.2 L, V-8 mill. The mill features a flat crank plan. It also features a 12-quart-deep sump oil pan and cooler. It is paired with a Tremec 3160 manual gearbox with an integral shifter and oil pump as well as a Torsen differential that features a 3.73 rear drive ratio. To aid the engine is a race-tuned exhaust system in place of the standard unit. Official performance details are not yet out but the engine is estimated to produce 526 hp and 429 lb-ft of torque. This power will enable it to accelerate from 0-60 mph in an estimated time of 3.5 seconds.

To bring the monstrous engine to a halt are AP Racing Radi-CAL 6-piston brake calipers that feature 14.6-inch rotors for the front wheels and AP Racing 4-poston clamps that feature 13.4-inchrotors at the rear. Beefed-up cooling ducts help channel cooling air to the braking system making it remain effective as you dash along the tracks.

Price and release date

Ford is yet to announce official prices of the FP350S. As for the release date, the model will go on sale next year in time of the racing season.

Competition

Since the model will compete in three different series, it will compete with a number of models. In the Trans Am series, the 2017 Ford Mustang Shelby FP350s will sweat it out with the likes of BMW M3, Dodge Viper and Chevrolet Corvette in the TA3 class and Chevrolet Camaro in the TA4 category. It will also face the Camaro in the SCCA and NASA series.

The post 2017 Ford Mustang Shelby FP350s appeared first on FordCarsInfo.com.

Ford Mustang GT4 Turnkey Exterior

The Ford Mustang GT4 Turnkey exterior is based on the Shelby GT350R-C.  However, the GT4 exterior is more aerodynamic as well as more aggressive. At the front, the GT4 uses a grille and bumpers that are identical to those of other IMSA racecars. The GT4 however features extra aero fins at each of its corners. The hood is unique; it features large air vents as well as quick release fins.

On the sides, the model is also unique in that it rides on Forgeline 18-inch by 11-inch wheels which are covered in slick tires. At the rear, the racecar features a diffuser and a huge wing to improve its aerodynamics as well as add some downforce, which comes in handy when flying down the tracks. The model is finished off with dark-gray paintwork with blue and white accents. The body also features numerous Ford logos and those of Performance Parts providers.

Ford Mustang GT4 Turnkey Interior

Ford did not avail much information about the model’s interior styling. Understandingly, being a racecar, there is not that much information to talk about either.   I understand that the cabin has been modeled specifically for racing. To start with, the model comes with a fully FIA-compliant roll cage as standard. The model also features a MoTeC dash logger.

In addition, the Mustang GT4 Turnky also features a new digital display as well as lightweight door panels.  Drivers will love the Alcantara wrapped steering wheel, antilock-braking controller, motorsports engine control and Sparco driver seat.

Engine and performance

Ford has looked at its existing lineups of racecars for the drive-train that will provide the juice for the GT4 on the tracks. The honor has been given to the engine that powers the Shelby GT350 as well as some other IMSA racecars. The unit is a 5.2 L, naturally aspirated V-8 mill. In fact, the mill is the fastest naturally aspirated engine ever to come from the Ford’s factory. The mill is also the first production V-8 to feature a flat-plane crankshaft.

In the current road-going GT350, the engine produces 526 hp ad 429 lb-ft of torque. Due to weight issues, the GT4 Turnkey may get less power. I understand that the GT4 mill will be paired with a 6-speed Holinger transmission system that comes with paddle shifters. In addition, the model has received a chassis revamp from Multimatic Motorsports. The new additions include stabilizer bars, lower rear control arms and dampers.

Price and release date

Ford is yet to release the pricing information of the Ford Mustang GT4 Turnkey. However, according to ongoing rumors, the model will be more expensive than the Shelby GT350R. However, it will not come cheap, so expect a price tag of over $100,000.

The automaker has however confirmed that the model will be offered globally. Ford also revealed that the model would be eligible to compete in all GT4 categories anywhere in the world. Ford will start receiving orders on December 1, as the model will be released in time for the 2017 season.

Competition

The GT4 will face fierce competition from other Impressive GT4 racers such as the Porsche Cayman GT4 ClubSport, BMW M4, Chevrolet Camaro Z/28.R, Aston Martin Vantage, and McLaren 570S GT4.

The post Ford Mustang GT4 Turnkey appeared first on FordCarsInfo.com.

This is an indication that the 2018 model will flaunt revised fascias. However, considering the model recently underwent a more comprehensive revision for the 2015 model year, I don’t expect many changes.  According to credible sources, the automaker is also planning to offer new special packages for the model including the popular “Mach 1”. Read along to find out what Ford has in store for us next year:

2018 Ford Mustang Convertible Exterior

Due to the heavy camouflage, our photographers could not get a clear shot that reveals the changes done on the model. However, except for the soft rooftop of the convertible, it is usually identical to the coupe. I expect the two models to share the same body even for the 2018 model year.

From the photos we have, it is clear that the convertible will feature new LED headlights at the front. I also expect the grille to be revised albeit slightly and a similar treatment to the bumper. The side intakes will likely be enlarged and given a chrome treatment. Except for the possibility of new wheel designs, I expect the flanks to remain unchanged.

Like the front fascia, the rear one is also heavily camouflaged which is an indication that the model rear has been revised. Specifically, the camouflage hides revised LED taillights. It is also likely for the automaker to offer revised exhaust tips, a diffuser-like element as well as a new rear spoiler that is sportier than the current one. The exterior will also be offered in a host of new colors including the Mustang’s iconic “Grabber Blue”. More information will be available when we capture a testing mule with less camouflage.

2018 Ford Mustang Convertible Interior

Just like the exterior, we are unable to specifically tell how the cabin of the 2018 Ford Mustang Convertible looks like due to the camouflage.  I do not expect Ford to change the cabin as a more comprehensive redesign was added for the 2016 model year. The new SYNC 3 will definitely feature.

I hope Ford will consider spreading the system to more models as it was only offered on the Premium package in the 2016 models.  Yet again, the automaker is set to offer the California Special Package.  This package comes with unique ebony leather upholstery with Mike suede inserts on the seats, embossed logos and a red contrast stitching. These packages are specifically targeted to customers looking for a dose of exclusivity in their models.

Engine specs and performance

As of this writing, there have not been any reports intimating a likely change of the Mustang’s engine lineup. The base engine will remain the 3.7 L, naturally aspirated V-6 mill that is currently rated at 300 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. This engine may however be revised for more power  output to help models  attain a sub 6 seconds 0-60 mph run.

The next engine in the lineup is a turbocharged 2.3 L, 4-cylinder EcoBoost mill. This engine is good for 310 horses and 320 lb-ft of torque. The engine may also be revised for more power output, which will see its 0-60 mph sprint reduce to five seconds flat for models equipped with an automatic transmission and maybe 5.4 seconds for models using a manual gearbox.

At the top of the lineup will be the 5.0 L V-8 power-plant that produces 435 horses and 400 lb-ft of torque in the current model. I understand there are plans to tweak the power-plant to produce around 450 horses and around 420 lb-ft of torque. Such a boost in power will likely result in a 0-60 mph run of around 4.2 seconds for models paired with an automatic transmission system, which is very impressive for an every-day use convertible. EPA ratings will be released close to the model’s on-sale date.

The most exciting news is the fact that a new 10-speed automatic transmission system, a product off collaboration between Ford and GM will replace the current 6-speed automatic transmission system.

Price and release date

Ford may showcase the model at the Los Angeles Auto show this November or at Detroit in January next year before delivering the Mustangs into dealerships in the second quarter of 2017. As for the price, Ford is still keeping details a secret but expect the model to start at around $28,000 with the top trims attracting in excess of $40,000.

The post 2018 Ford Mustang Convertible appeared first on FordCarsInfo.com.

The upcoming model is set to tame the rising popularity of the Camaro which is seriously giving the Mustang a good run for its money. Read along for more information:

2018 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 Exterior

Unlike the last generation, the new GT500 will go on a diet in a bid to improve its performance.  The model will benefit from a huge dose of aluminum and carbon fiber. The testing mule we captured making testing runs was heavily wrapped so we couldn’t make much of its styling.

Heavy camo’ at the front is an indication that the model will feature a revised bumper with modified air intakes. The grille will also be revised to help channel more cooling air to the monstrous engine that will be tucked under the hood. The hood will also be revised to feature a huge power dome. At the rear, the testing mule feature a larger wing mounted on top of the trunk-lid.  The rear also features a revised exhaust system.

Other performance-oriented features include, bigger wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires and Brembo brakes to provide stopping power for the monstrous engine. The aerodynamics details of the exterior have also been revised to improve the model’s performance.

2018 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 Interior

The interior styling is still a mystery. At this point, I bet that the automaker is yet to design a befitting cabin for the GT500. However, I think interior designers of the GT500 cabin will draw inspiration from the GT350. In particular, the dash, center console and door panels will be identical to those of the GT350. However, the model will come with its own unique features to distinguish it as the top-dog of the Mustang lineup.

Expect a new infotainment screen and bespoke gauges tailored to help drivers monitor their performance on the tracks.

The model will also feature quality upholstery with attractive contrast stitching. Being not a solely track-focused muscle car, expect the model to feature a host of convenience features such as a sound system, an air conditioning system, rear seats as well as a rear camera.

Engine and performance

Ford has not revealed the exact mill that will provide the juice for the new GT500. However, rumors doing rounds on the internet allege that a twin-turbocharged engine is the most likely. While this would be a significant move, considering a supercharger was used in the last generation. The new engine would be in line with the automaker’s latest power-train strategy. The “TT” lettering on the testing mule’s windscreen further points to the possibility of a twin-turbo engine.

Ford has already confirmed the engine will be used by the SVT Raptor. Like the GT500 testing mule, the SVT also featured the “TT’ lettering on its windscreen. Actual details of the mill are still a mystery but many enthusiasts argue a modified version of the 5.0 L, Coyote, V-8 mill is likely.

The GT500 will be the only factory-built Muscle car in the market powered by a twin-turbo. According to rumors, the output which is believed to be in excess of 700 horses (could reach 800 hp) will help the GT500 reclaim the top spot among factory-built muscle cars.

Price and release date

Well, it is too early to expect price confirmation from the automaker since even a release date has not been set. However, the GT500 is on track to be the most expensive 6^th gen Mustang. The model may cost as much as $80,000. According to rumors, the model will be built in limited numbers; thus if you want one, you better keep yourself updated about its development.

Keep it here for all the latest information about this and other models.

Competition

The 2018 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 will compete with other two impressive, factory-built muscle cars in the likes of Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 and Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat.

The post 2018 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 appeared first on FordCarsInfo.com.