Ford launches Mustang GT and Dark Horse in SA

The seventh generation Mustang GT as well as performance focussed Mustang Dark Horse are now available in SA and promise to be the most exciting and visceral versions yet. Highlights include a fighter jet-inspired digital cockpit, an advanced 5.0-litre V8 engine and an edgier, timeless exterior design. 

Ford have recently launched two new Mustang models in South Africa. This offering includes the seventh generation Mustang as well as the performance focussed Mustang Dark Horse.

The seventh generation of an American icon

The seventh generation Mustang is now available in SA and promises to be the most exciting and visceral version yet, with highlights that include a fighter jet-inspired digital cockpit, an advanced 5.0-litre V8 engine and an edgier, more timeless exterior design.

An exterior design that includes timeless Mustang cues

The seventh generation Mustang GT adds modern chiselled looks to the heritage inspired design. This includes a low, horizontal brow across the front that emphasises the frontal width while the upper grille is influenced by the original 1960s design. Tri-bar LED headlamps continue the Mustang’s classic lighting signature. A sleek roofline, broad stance and shortened rear overhang are also true to the authentic proportions of the first generation, along with the widened rear haunches.

Large, aggressive grille openings are engineered to allow for increased airflow while aerodynamics are further optimised with the addition of new hood vents, a redesigned front splitter and a race-inspired rear diffuser that offers improved aerodynamic balance.

A completely rethought interior

A fighter jet inspired cockpit offers the driver two flowing and curved displays that can be easily customised to show information that the driver wants or needs to see.

A 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster displays different animated designs and drive mode dependant visuals. The digital instrument cluster can be configured to flow seamlessly into a 13.2-inch SYNC4 centre stack behind a single piece of integrated glass that is angled towards the driver. A motorsport inspired, flat-bottomed steering wheel adds a further sporty touch.

The Black Onyx leather trim includes full leather seats incorporating heating and cooling functions for optimal comfort. Accent stitching and a unique upholstery perforation across the seat inserts further enhance the high-quality interior ambience, complimented by colour co-ordinated, asymmetric accent striping on the seat belts.

A premium B&O sound system with 12 speakers, including a subwoofer contributes to the visceral Mustang ownership experience, with music streaming possible via wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Powerful 5.0-litre V8 performance

The Mustang GT is powered by an advanced naturally aspirated 5.0-litre Coyote V8 engine. Improvements include a dual air intake box and dual throttle body design, facilitating an output of 328kW and 540Nm.

Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission, which offers varying shift patterns according to the drive mode selected.

Performance Pack comes standard

In South Africa the Mustang GT comes standard with the Performance Pack, which adds a host of track-focused features including a front suspension tower brace, Torsen limited slip differential, MagneRide active suspension, Brembo brakes, brake ducts, an auxiliary engine oil cooler as well as an active valve performance exhaust system to the offering.

Advanced driver assistance technology

The new Mustang features an extensive range of advanced driver assistance features, including Speed Sign Recognition, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Lane Centring Assist, Evasive Steer Assist and Reverse Brake Assist. Active Pothole Mitigation, included with the Performance Package and MagneRide active suspension, continually monitors suspension, body, steering and braking input and adjusts suspension response accordingly.

Mustang Dark Horse takes performance to the next level

With sinister looks, tailored aerodynamics and a specially tuned Coyote 5.0-litre V8 engine, the Ford Mustang Dark Horse sets new standards for the American icon by adding numerous performance focussed features to the seventh generation Mustang.

The heart of the Mustang Dark Horse is its unique 5.0-litre Coyote V8 engine that has been specially modified with numerous enhancements, including performance connecting rods. The result is an output of 334kW and 540Nm.

The engine is finished off with a dual throttle body intake design that improves engine breathing and which is accentuated by open nostrils in the front grille. The 10-speed automatic transmission can be manipulated via sport paddle shifters.

Additional performance updates include NACA ducts for brake cooling, an auxiliary engine oil cooler, a rear axle cooler and a unique and lighter weight radiator with improved cooling capability and more powerful cooling fans.

Unique chassis tuning includes the fitment of larger rear sway bars and heavy-duty front shocks. Stopping is courtesy of Brembo six-piston callipers with 390mm ventilated discs upfront and 355 mm discs at the rear.

The Mustang Dark Horse is differentiated by a variety of striking visual cues. Upfront a bold, shadow graphic surrounds the darkened LED Tri-Bar headlamps, which compliments a unique gloss black grille with trapezoidal nostrils and lower front bumper with high gloss fangs. Lower side skirts and a fixed rear wing, a new race-inspired diffuser and darkened quad exhaust tips demonstrate the car’s track focused design cues. Unique Mustang Dark Horse badges adorn the fenders, boot and door sills.

The interior of the Mustang Dark Horse has been updated with sportier features including a thicker, flat-bottomed steering wheel wrapped in suede and finished with Bright Indigo Blue accent stitching and anodised silver paddle shifters. A dedicated drive mode button is at thumb’s reach, allowing drivers to quickly choose the desired driving setup.

Contrasting blue stitching across the door panels and seats, the gearshift gaiter and centre console further emphasise the sporty ambience of the cabin, enhanced by unique deep blue indigo seatbelts. Interior trim bezels and vents are finished in black alley.

Model range and pricing

Mustang GT Fastback 5.0L V8 10AT                                   R1 300 000

Mustang Dark Horse 5.0L V8 10AT                                     R1 500 000