Ford's Iconic Representative

Since its debut in the United States on April 17, 1964, the Ford Mustang has been a unique presence, loved by fans worldwide as America's representative specialty car. Last year marked its momentous 50th anniversary, with various birthday events held globally.

In Japan, official imports of the Mustang began in 1994 (under Ford Sales Japan at the time), giving the model a 20-year history of import in Japan this year. Cumulative sales in Japan have exceeded 17,000 units, solidifying its position as Ford's iconic representative in the Japanese market as well.



The new Mustang, which debuted last December, incorporates Ford's latest technologies without compromise and is said to represent the most significant evolution in its 50-year history. The exterior design has been updated using abundant traditional elements that make it instantly recognizable as a Mustang.



Examples include the reverse-slant "shark nose" front face, the massive and sporty appearance with its trapezoidal grille, and the design of the three-segmented taillights. These symbolic elements, recognizable to anyone as a Mustang, have been arranged with a modern approach, creating a more contemporary and powerful impression.

The body sizeCurrent ModelCompared to the current model (total length 4,815 x width 1,880 x height 1,415 mm: Japanese specification), the new model is 25 mm shorter in length, 35 mm lower in height, and 40 mm wider. The wheelbase remains the same at 2,720 mm (based on North American specifications), indicating a design that emphasizes a wider and lower stance.



The interior, which features a horizontal theme and symmetrical design, also adheres to tradition. While the quality has been significantly upgraded, it incorporates Ford's latest driver connectivity technology, MyFord Touch. This system centralizes various in-car features and information, such as climate control, audio, hands-free calling, and vehicle settings, allowing for intuitive touch-panel operation and voice control (with English voice command functionality), similar to using a smartphone. It is equipped with automatic climate control with dual-zone temperature settings, and the front seats also feature heating and cooling functions.

Three Powertrain Options

A notable feature is the downsized powertrain. Despite its small displacement of 2.3 liters, Ford's latest 2.3L EcoBoost, a direct-injection turbocharged inline-four engine, produces 314 horsepower. In the US market, this engine joins the existing 3.7-liter V6 and 5.0-liter V8 options, bringing the total number of available powertrains to three.



The 2.3L EcoBoost, which will be introduced in Japan, is the smallest displacement in the lineup but delivers a maximum output of 231 kW (314 ps) at 5,500 rpm and a peak torque of 434 Nm (44.3 kgm) at 3,000 rpm. Its power output surpasses that of the 3.7-liter V6, which produces 223.6 kW (304 ps), positioning it between the V6 and V8 in the model range.



While the introduction of the V6 unit to Japan has not yet been announced, the V8, which is confirmed for introduction alongside the 2.3L EcoBoost, boasts a formidable 223.6 kW (441 PS). All engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission (a 6-speed manual is available in the US market) featuring paddle shifters for manual-like gear changes. We eagerly anticipate the eventual introduction of a 6-speed manual model to Japan as well.



Meanwhile, the chassis features newly developed suspension systems for both the front and rear. The rear suspension has finally been upgraded from the long-standing rigid axle to an independent suspension system, achieving a superior balance of driving performance and comfort. The expansion of the luggage space is also largely attributed to this change in suspension type, with the new Mustang offering a generous 382-liter capacity for a 2-door coupe.

The Mustang's New Appeal

Beyond the advancements in hardware and the introduction of new features, the generous incorporation of currently available electronic devices further enhances the new Mustang's appeal, offering more than ever before.



For instance, the powertrain, including the aforementioned 2.3L EcoBoost, features a driving program with four selectable drive modes. These modes include "Normal," "Sport+", "Snow/Wet," and "Track." Each mode adjusts steering weight, throttle response, gear shift timing, and the AdvanceTrac program, allowing drivers to further enjoy their driving experience according to the driving scene and situation.



For reference, AdvanceTrac is Ford's proprietary vehicle stability control system, already implemented in models released in Japan. It integrates traction control, ABS, and ESC to provide safe driving under various road conditions.



The system constantly monitors the vehicle's behavior, integrating information from sensors such as yaw rate, steering angle, and lateral G-force to determine the vehicle's driving state. In the event of a slip, the system detects the danger and automatically controls engine output and individual wheel brakes to stabilize the vehicle's behavior.

The First Right-Hand Drive in Mustang History

The Japanese specification model features suspension tuned specifically for the Japanese market, larger brake rotors and calipers, and a standard performance package for AdvanceTrac that supports sportier driving, enhancing handling and braking performance.



Furthermore, it is equipped with an electric power steering system featuring a "drift compensation function" that supports steering adjustments to counter strong crosswinds or road undulations by monitoring road surface irregularities and directional changes, and an "active nibble control function" that detects and seamlessly cancels out minor steering wheel vibrations.




A unique feature is the "Track Apps" display, which shows performance metrics such as G-force measurement, high-speed braking time, acceleration time to a specified speed (e.g., 0-60 MPH), and time to a specified distance (e.g., 0-1/4 mile), allowing drivers to visually enjoy the Mustang's performance.



The "50 YEARS EDITION," a special commemorative model for the Mustang's 50th anniversary, will be the first to be delivered starting Spring 2015, with a limited run of 350 units for Japan. This left-hand drive model is equipped with a 2.3L EcoBoost engine and features 50th-anniversary emblems on the exterior and interior. Additional special equipment includes embossed leather sports seats exclusive to the 50th-anniversary model, a 50th-anniversary model aluminum plate, and 19-inch wheels.



In the latter half of 2015, Ford plans to introduce the right-hand drive version, a first in Mustang history, along with the 5.0-liter V8 engine and a convertible body style. Expectations are high for the arrival of the new Mustang in Japan, which is set to become a new benchmark for American sports cars.


Ford Mustang 50 Years Edition

Body Dimensions | Length 4,790 x Width 1,920 x Height 1,380 mm

Wheelbase | 2,720 mm

Tread Front/Rear | 1,580 / 1,645 mm

Weight | 1,660 kg

Engine | Inline 4-cylinder Direct Injection Turbo

Total Displacement | 2,260 cc

Bore x Stroke | 87.5 x 94.0 mm

Maximum Output | 231 kW (314 ps) / 5,500 rpm

Maximum Torque | 434 Nm (44.3 kgm) / 3,000 rpm

Transmission | 6-speed AT

Drivetrain | FR

Suspension Front/Rear | MacPherson Strut / Multi-link

Brakes Front/Rear | Ventilated Disc

Price | 4.65 million yen (Sales begin Spring 2015)

*Reservations accepted at Ford dealerships nationwide from November 1st to February 1st, 2015.

*Details regarding the right-hand drive specification will be announced in the latter half of 2015.



Ford Customer Service

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