By Theodore Opara

Ford Motors representatives in Nigeria, Coscharis Ford and BriscoeFord are set to launch the all-new Ford Mustang sport car into the market. The introduction of the Mustang, one of the world’s most iconic cars into the Nigerian market is schedule for the first quarter of the year. The Mustang is a performance car designed for customers who want to standout at any gathering.

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Loaded with innovative technologies and delivering high levels of performance and style, the all-new Mustang is the next chapter in the life of one of the world’s most iconic cars,” says Ford Motors.s

”Ford Mustang inspires passion like no other car,” said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. “The visceral look, sound and performance of Mustang resonates with people, even if they’ve never driven one. Mustang is definitely more than just a car – it is the heart and soul of Ford.”

Mustang’s impact goes well beyond the 9 million-plus cars sold in its 50 years of continuous production. It has made thousands of appearances in film, television, music and video games, and is the world’s most-liked vehicle on Facebook. For the first time ever, Ford will bring Mustang to Nigeria and first shipments will arrive early in 2015.

The Mustang experience

The Mustang offers four- and eight-cylinder engines; the upgraded 5.0-liter V8 is joined by an all-new 2.3-litre EcoBoost® engine that brings state-of-the-art technology to Mustang. Both engines are mated to either a six-speed manual or the optional SelectShift automatic transmission with Steering Wheel Paddle Shifters and Remote Start System.

The Mustang’s EcoBoost engine uses direct injection, variable cam timing and turbocharging to deliver plenty of usable performance across a broad rev range. A unique intake manifold and turbocharger housing enable it to deliver the performance Mustang drivers expect with 231kW and 434Nm of torque.

Mustang GT continues with its proven 5.0-liter V8, now featuring an upgraded valvetrain and cylinder heads that help boost output to 324kW and 542Nm of torque. A new intake manifold features charge motion control valves to partially close off port flow at lower engine speeds. This increases the air charge tumble and swirl for improved air-fuel mixing resulting in improved efficiency and idle stability.

All-new shape, yet unmistakably Mustang

The clean-sheet design of both Mustang fastback and convertible evokes the essential character of the brand, retaining key design elements – including the long sculpted hood and short rear deck – with contemporary execution.

Several key design features define the all-new Mustang, including:

• A lower, wider stance with a reduction in roof height, and wider rear fenders and track
• The return of Mustang fastback with a sleeker profile enabled by more steeply sloped windshield and rear glass
• Three-dimensional, tri-bar taillamps with sequential turn signals
• Contemporary execution of the signature shark-bite front fascia and trapezoidal grille.

The information and controls an active driver needs are all readily accessible in the aviation-inspired cockpit. Large, clear instrumentation puts vehicle information right in front of the driver in the roomier cabin, while improved ergonomics and tactile switches and knobs provide better control. The added width and a new rear suspension contribute to improved shoulder and hip room for rear-seat passengers, and a more usefully shaped trunk can accommodate two golf bags.

Carving up the curves

Mustang features all-new front and rear suspension systems. At the front, a new perimeter subframe helps to stiffen the structure while reducing mass, providing a better 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 larger, more powerful brakes.

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. New aluminium rear knuckles help reduce unsprung mass for improved ride and handling.

Smarter than your average pony

The all-new Mustang features a significant amount of innovative technologies providing drivers with enhanced information, control and connectivity when they want it. From Intelligent Access with push-button start to SYNC and MyKey in every Mustang built, plus standard Track Apps, drivers will be able to customise their time behind the wheel.

On a twisty back 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 advanced new Ford-developed stability control system is tuned to maximise Mustang’s dynamic capabilities. When the time comes to turn up the wick at the track, Mustang GT includes standard launch control on manual-transmission models that enables drivers to achieve smooth, consistent starts every time.

When it’s time to back off and relax for the drive home, available advanced driver-assist features including Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with cross-traffic alert and adaptive cruise control can help ease the load.

50 years of Mustang

April 17, 2014 marked the 50th anniversary of the introduction of the original Ford Mustang and each 2015 model celebrates the milestone with a badge on the instrument panel that includes the galloping pony logo and the words “Mustang – Since 1964.” The 50 Years Appearance Package is optional.

”From day one, we knew if we were going to build a new Mustang, we had to do it right,” said Dave Pericak, Ford Mustang chief engineer. “We built a new Mustang from the ground up that is quicker, better-looking, more refined and more efficient, without losing any of the raw appeal that people have associated with Mustang for half a century.”