V8 Mustang models confirmed by Ford South Africa
While the next-generation Mustang is set to gallop into South African dealerships later this year, stock will be limited.
2024 is shaping up to be a good year for car enthusiasts. Ford is bringing the all-new Mustang GT Fastback and the limited-edition Dark Horse to our shores.
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These Mustangs aren’t ponies playing dress-up. After careful consideration, Ford has chosen just two mean machines to unleash on the South African market: the Mustang GT Fastback 10AT and the Dark Horse 10AT.
The GT Fastback upholds the legendary muscle car tradition. Under the bonnet lurks a comprehensively updated 5l ‘Coyote’ V8 engine, naturally aspirated for that pure, old-school feel. This beast pumps out 362kW and 567N.m of torque, a significant jump from the current model’s 330kW and 529Nm. But if you crave even more power, the Dark Horse is your predator of choice. This Mustang boasts 372kW of fury and 567N.m of torque. The Dark Horse packs a punch thanks to a modified version of the aforementioned V8, featuring special high-performance piston connecting rods inherited from the mighty Shelby GT500.
Both Mustangs channel their power to the rear wheels. You can choose between a Tremec six-speed manual transmission (carried over from the previous Mach 1) for a more hands-on experience, or an upgraded 10-speed automatic gearbox for seamless gear changes. A Torsen limited-slip differential is standard equipment, ensuring power gets to the ground efficiently.
The Dark Horse isn’t just about brute force; it boasts precision handling too. Ford has endowed it with unique chassis tuning, larger rear sway bars, and sophisticated MagneRide shocks that constantly monitor wheel and tyre movement at an astonishing 1 000 times per second. This translates to sharper handling and a more connected feel on the road.
Slip inside the Dark Horse, and you’re greeted by a driver-focused cockpit. A thick, flat-bottomed steering wheel wrapped in grippy suede awaits your grasp, complete with Bright indigo-blue stitching for a touch of flair. A dedicated drive mode button sits within easy reach, allowing you to customise your Mustang’s personality on the fly. This flanks a crisp 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster with customisable screens displaying everything you need to know, including different drive mode readouts. Passengers won’t be left wanting either, thanks to a massive 13.2-inch centre touchscreen infotainment system.
The list of goodies doesn’t stop there. Ambient lighting lets you personalise the cabin’s mood, while a wireless charging pad with a USB-C port ensures your devices stay juiced up. A thumping sound system by Bang & Olufsen delivers the soundtrack to your journey, and illuminated sill plates add a touch of drama as you enter or exit the car. Standard features include adaptive cruise control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a race-inspired rear diffuser for that aggressive look.
Related: Driven: Ford Mustang V8 Dark Horse
The Dark Horse lives up to its name – it’s a special edition with some exclusive features on top of the GT’s offerings. You get an extra 10kW of power to play with, a performance rear spoiler for added downforce, and 19-inch wheels in a menacing Tarnished Dark finish. Ford even throws in a first-ever forward-facing pony badge for a unique touch, and menacing LED headlights with darkened bezels complete the Dark Horse’s aggressive visage.
Inside, the Dark Horse gets a special instrument panel badge with its unique chassis number, a leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel with performance suede inserts and a black bezel, and premium vinyl and suede sport seats that hug you during spirited drives.
However, due to the global popularity of the Dark Horse, only a limited number of these beasts will be available in South Africa each year. While pricing is yet to be confirmed, one thing’s for sure – the next-generation Mustang is set to gallop into South African dealerships sometime in the latter half of 2024.
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