FORD #1 - Mustang takes pride of place in Paris.

• European specification new Ford Mustang makes public debut in Paris; the first Mustang confirmed to go on sale across the region after 50 years of production will arrive in 2015
• New Ford Mustang fastback and convertible models promise world-class levels of performance and refinement; sleek design retaining classic Mustang key design elements
• New Mustang will deliver power of choice in Europe, from 5.0-litre V8 engine to the all-new fuel-efficient 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine
• State-of-the-art suspension is optimised to deliver world-class handling, precise steering control and ride comfort; innovative technology for enhanced control and connectivity

The new Ford Mustang will make its European production debut at the 2014 Paris Motor Show.

The new Ford Mustang fastback and convertible models will go on sale across Europe in 2015 for the first time after 50 years of production, and promise world-class levels of performance and refinement while embracing the Mustang’s half-century of heritage and status as a global icon.

“The Mustang’s reputation for performance and its iconic status as a symbol of freedom and optimism precedes it even in those parts of the world where the car has never been sold,” said Stephen Odell, Ford executive vice president, Europe, Middle East and Africa. “The new Mustang is modern, technologically advanced and creative, without forgetting the heritage that has inspired Ford customers for generations.”

More than nine 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.

The new Mustang has been developed with world-class performance, driving dynamics and ergonomics in mind – and includes a significant amount of advanced driver convenience and driver aid technologies.

“The new Mustang is one of the most hotly anticipated cars ever, we are very excited to now give drivers in Europe the opportunity to experience the real thing,” said Roelant de Waard, vice president, Marketing, Sales & Service, Ford of Europe.

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 Europe, including the long sculpted bonnet 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,” said Moray Callum, Ford executive director, design, The Americas.

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 trapezoidal grille and 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.

The Mustang experience

The way Ford Mustang looks, drives and sounds is key to the visceral experience. The Ford Mustang offers outstanding power options and a sophisticated new chassis designed to meet the driving dynamics expectations of European drivers.

Ford’s acclaimed 5.0‑litre V8 engine – yielding 418 PS and 524 Nm of torque for Europe – is joined by an all-new 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine that brings state-of-the-art technology to Mustang; delivering turbocharged performance with the fuel efficiency and CO₂ emissions demanded by Europe’s car consumers.

“This EcoBoost engine delivers where a Mustang driver expects it to with a broad, flat torque curve that pours out when you stand on it for easy passing or hustling down a twisty road,” said Dave Pericak, Mustang chief engineer.

The Mustang’s 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine uses direct injection, variable cam timing and turbocharging to deliver usable performance. A unique intake manifold and turbocharger housing enable it to deliver the performance Mustang drivers expect, with 314 PS and 434 Nm of torque for Europe. An automatic transmission option features steering wheel-mounted shift paddles that deliver convenience and control for drivers.

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. Both 2.3-litre EcoBoost and V8-powered GT Mustang models will feature performance brake packages behind standard 19-inch wheels in Europe.

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 European roads and high speed driving culture. New aluminium rear knuckles help reduce unsprung mass for improved ride and handling.

Smart technology

The new Mustang features a significant number of innovative technologies providing drivers with enhanced information, control, and connectivity when they want it.

On a twisty road or a weekend track day, the driver can tap the toggle switches on the console to quickly adjust steering effort, engine response, and transmission and electronic stability control settings using the available Selectable Drive Modes to create the perfect Mustang at any time.

The new Mustang will be among the first vehicles in Europe to offer SYNC 2. Ford’s advanced infotainment system features a high-resolution, 8-inch colour touch screen and advanced voice control for easier access to audio, navigation, climate control and compatible mobile phones.

SYNC 2’s navigation system also offers a split-screen display with detailed intersections, spoken street names, 3D highway junction and landmark views, and the Michelin travel guide. SYNC 2 enables drivers to issue simpler “one-shot” navigation destinations, and to ask the system to “play” a desired artist. Simply pushing the voice control button and saying “I’m hungry” will bring up a list of local restaurants, which you can then get directions to.

“From day one, we knew if we were going to build a new Mustang, we had to do it right,” Pericak said. “We built a new Mustang from the ground up that is fast, great-looking, refined and efficient, without losing any of the raw appeal that people around the world have associated with Mustang for decades.”