2024 Ford Mustang revealed as Dodge axes the Challenger

Ford may be looking towards an electrified future in the coming years, but when it comes to their pony car, they are sticking to tradition. This is the 2024 Ford Mustang and the Blue Oval has just given it one heck of a makeover and plenty of new high-tech upgrades.

Now on its 7th generation, Ford claims it's the most visceral and exhilarating version of the pony car yet. With its more sculpted exterior, jet fighter-inspired cabin, and countless cutting-edge tech, and a choice between turbocharged or natural V8 power, the all-new Mustang is proof muscle cars still matter in this day & age. This is a clear difference from what Dodge has planned for the Challenger and Charger as both will be discontinued in the coming years.

“Investing in another generation of Mustang is a big statement at a time when many of our competitors are exiting the business of internal combustion vehicles. Ford, however, is turbocharging its ICE growth plan, adding connected technology, opinionated derivatives, and hybrid options to our most profitable and popular cars – all in the Ford Blue family – on top of investing $50 billion in electric vehicles through 2026,” said Jim Farley, CEO of Ford.

Starting with its looks, Ford decided to retain the familiar profile from the previous S550 Mustang for the all-new S650 generation. However, the designers made the pony car more chiseled and sculpted. The LED headlights are now sleeker and are accompanied by more muscular fenders at the front. Meanwhile, the rear gets an edgier finish thanks to sharp-looking rear fenders that seamlessly connect to the distinct trunk lid. In addition, the coupe (or fastback) version gets a longer roofline which Ford claims will allow drivers to easily ingress or egress from the Mustang while wearing a helmet during track days. Last but not least, the signature tri-bar LED taillights get a minor redesign for a flashier look.

If you still prefer the pony car as a droptop, you're in luck as Ford also revealed the 2024 Mustang Convertible. It gets a fully-lined and insulated fabric roof which can be deployed with a one-touch switch.

Ford also made it easier for drivers and enthusiasts to distinguish between an EcoBoost or V8-powered Mustang GT. That's because the V8 gets a different front end thanks to a larger opening and a more aggressive grille design. The V8 GT also comes with new hood vents and a redesigned front splitter to make it more distinct from the EcoBoost variant. In the previous generation Mustang, the only way to tell an EcoBoost or the V8-powered GT is the trunk badge at the back. The EcoBoost gets the Mustang logo while the V8 comes with the GT badge.

Like the all-new Explorer, the Mustang now gets a pair of displays. Borrowing inspiration from fighter jets, the 2024 Mustang gets two flowing and curved displays that can be customized depending on the driver's preference. First is the 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster that runs on the Unreal Engine 3D creation tool used in modern video games. This will give drivers the choice to select from various styles of gauges and multi-info displays.

Meanwhile, a 13.2-inch SYNC4 touchscreen resides on the center stack behind a single piece of integrated glass that's angled towards the driver. Not only does it come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but it also comes with various connectivity features like Amazon Alexa built-in with Ford Streaming for seamless streaming of music or podcasts via voice command.

Other interior features on the 2024 Mustang include synthetic leather seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, a wireless charging pad, and overhead USB ports for powering dash cams and other devices.

As mentioned earlier, the all-new Mustang soldiers on with internal combustion and no electric assist. While Ford has yet to reveal horsepower and torque figures, the Blue Oval says the 2.3-liter EcoBoost is all-new while the 5.0-liter Coyote V8 is now on its fourth generation. This means both engines could produce more ponies and torque than what the current versions make. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost currently produces 314 PS with 476 Nm of torque while the 5.0-liter V8 cranks out 466 PS and 569 Nm.

Transmission choices for the 2024 Mustang are a 6-speed manual gearbox and a 10-speed automatic. However, the 6-speed is only available on the base version of the V8 as the EcoBoost is now only available with the aforementioned 10-speed.

For those who prefer their 'Stang to come with more mechanical upgrades, there's the optional Performance Pack which adds a host of track-focused features. From a front tower brace, Torsen limited-slip differential, optional MagneRide suspension, wider rear wheels and tires, and larger 390mm/355mm rear Brembo brakes, those who like to track their Mustang will undoubtedly want to have these upgrades on their pony car.

With the all-new Mustang set to go on sale in the US starting in the summer of 2023, it will be a long while before the 7^th generation pony car arrives here in the Philippines. So for those who plan on getting one, be prepared for a lengthy waiting period.