2018 Ford Mustang Shows Its Fresh Face
This is the refreshed 2018 Ford Mustang, which was “unveiled” at a private event in Detroit last month, but now that the Chicago Auto Show is in full swing, we’re finally getting an up-close and personal look at this iconic sports car.
Front and rear its styling has been massaged, giving it a leaner, more refined look. There’s a new grille, repositioned hood vents and improved aerodynamics. Full LED lighting is also available, for both low- and high-beams as well as the turn signals.
Aside from design, Ford’s done plenty of work under the hood, though no horsepower or torque figures have been released. Unfortunately for rental-car companies, the entry-level V6 engine is dead; the company’s 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbo-four now serves base duty.
2017 Chicago Auto Show Coverage
Of course, a V8 will still be offered, an updated version of Dearborn’s oh-so-sweet Coyote five-oh. With both port and direct fuel injection, this engine should rev higher and deliver more power… precisely how much remains to be seen.
As for transmissions, the six-ratio manual has been further refined, gaining a new dual-mass flywheel and twin-disc clutch on GT models. But the biggest gearbox news is the availability of a 10-speed automatic, which should seriously improve both performance and efficiency. New shock absorbers and available MagneRide dampers should measurably increase driving pleasure.
Inside, the 2018 Mustang’s cabin has been updated with more premium materials, fresh patters and new colors. Even the key fob has even been redesigned. Further upping the quality ante, there’s an available 12-inch customizable digital instrument cluster.
Improving convenience and safety, more driver-assistance technology is being offered than ever before. This includes pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist and more.
Surprisingly for a refresh, there’s a lot going on here, including heavily updated powertrains, more technology and a refreshed interior. But perhaps best of all, in person, it looks nice, with none of that “fish face” we saw in leaked photos.
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Born and raised in metro Detroit, Craig was steeped in mechanics from childhood. He feels as much at home with a wrench or welding gun in his hand as he does behind the wheel or in front of a camera. Putting his Bachelor's Degree in Journalism to good use, he's always pumping out videos, reviews, and features for AutoGuide.com. When the workday is over, he can be found out driving his fully restored 1936 Ford V8 sedan. Craig has covered the automotive industry full time for more than 10 years and is a member of the Automotive Press Association (APA) and Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA).
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This looks very little (nothing?) like a Mustang. Without the running horse in the grill I would guess it to be a Japanese brand - most likely a Toyota.
Not a fan of the way the hood overlaps the headlights. Makes me wonder how much force is on the hood latch at speed.