Mustang Convertible

With the Coupe only just launched to the press we hadn’t expected to see the Ford Mustang Convertible any time soon but in an unexpected event the drop top Pony car has ended up in Sydney for its global premiere.

The Mustang Convertible steps up levels of quality and design sophistication in an attempt to challenge rivals such as the Audi A5 and BMW 4-Series as well as home-grown alternatives like the Chevrolet Camaro Convertible. The aggressive styling reflects Mustangs of the past 50 years ( most notably the original 1964/5 car) and blends this with Ford’s latest corporate look. Unlike the Fusion and Fiesta though were pleased to see they haven’t slapped on an Aston Martin grill and design details to try and give it a premium look.

The new Mustang stands out from previous generations for being aimed at a global market. Ford consider there will be enough demand outside America to justify marketing the car worldwide and even producing a left had drive version. They are clearly starting with Australia where there is already a strong muscle car following but will also extend sales to Europe. Original rumours suggested the car would be reduced in size but in fact the dimensions tell us that it will be the same length and 1.5 inches wider than the outgoing car. That might cause problems in Europe’s narrower roads and tight city streets where the compact hatchback is king.

While the Ford Mustang remains the working man’s muscle car it has many attractive styling details such as LED ‘gill’ daytime running lights and matching LED taillights. The interior design and material quality takes strides forward with a stylish well thought out look. The roof remains fabric and should be power folding on all models. Underneath, the cabin is larger with increased leg room for larger drivers.

Engines range from a small put potent turbocharged 2.3 litre four cylinder to the usual V6 and V8. The 305 horsepower four-pot EcoBoost engine aims to bring fuel efficiency to this performance car but figures for this won’t be available until 2014. Transmissions are either 6 speed manual or a 6 speed auto with paddle shifters although this is not a dual clutch system. Suspension is also updated, finally being fully independent with new designs at both front and rear.

Final specifications will be revealed before the Convertible Mustang goes on sale next year.