By Theodore Opara

Ford Motors has finally launched the iconic Ford Mustang into the sub-Sahara Africa market with an official test drive by selected Motoring Journalists from across the region in Cape Town South Africa.

Arguably the most anticipated new model introduction in Ford Sub-Saharan Africa’s illustrious history, the launch of the legendary Ford Mustang has finally become a reality, to the delight of motoring enthusiasts across the region, including Nigeria, Ghana, Madagascar, Senegal and South Africa.

The Mustang is Ford’s most revered and recognisable nameplate, having become an automotive icon the moment it was launched in 1964, followed by more than 50 years of continuous production and over nine-million cars sold to fans around the world.

The latest Mustang, unveiled on 17 April 2014 to mark its remarkable 50th anniversary, is available for sale in selected left-hand drive Sub-Saharan Africa markets following the commencement of production at the Flat Rock Assembly Plant in Michigan.

Speaking at a dinner in Sand Bay Hotel, Cape Town, South Africa, the Managing Director Ford sub-Sahara, Jeff Nemeth said: “This is the car we’ve all been waiting for! The mighty Mustang is here.” According to him, the new Mustang has been a global hit since it was launched internationally last year, and was the world’s best-selling sports car in the first half of 2015.

It is the world’s most-liked vehicle on Facebook (with more than eight million likes), and has made more than 9 000 appearances in television, music and video games. It has co-starred in films with Hollywood stars Will Smith, Nicholas Cage, Jason Statham, Tom Cruise, and perhaps most memorably Steve McQueen – in the cult 1960s movie Bullitt.

The Mustang is loaded with innovative technologies and delivers dazzling performance and style. It is available in a comprehensive line-up spanning 13 model derivatives, including the sleek and seductive Fastback, as well as the stunning Convertible and the race-inspired Shelby GT350.

In terms of powertrains, and depending on markets, buyers have the option of a 2.3 EcoBoost, 3.7 Ti-VCT V6**, 5.0 Ti-VCT V8 and the roaring 5.2-litre V8 with a flat-plane crank, as used in the exclusive Shelby GT350 Mustang.

There is a choice of either six-speed manual or automatic transmissions, and the option of both Fastback and Convertible body styles to suit every taste.

Unmistakably Mustang

The clean-sheet design of the 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 the world, including the long sculpted hood and short rear deck, with a contemporary execution.

Several key design features define the new Ford Mustang, including its low roof height and wide stance, the sleek profile enabled by the steeply sloped windshield and rear glass, the contemporary execution of the iconic car’s signature trapezoidal grille and shark-bite front fascia, plus the famous three-dimensional tri-bar tail lamps.

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 sun-soaked 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 intuitive control. The vehicle’s width and sophisticated rear suspension contribute to impressive shoulder and hip room for passengers and a usefully shaped boot space that can accommodate two golf bags.