New Exterior
The 2010 Mustang also sports a revised exterior. Ford says the changes improve the overall performance of the car. Product Design Engineer Steve Parks said, “We’ve reduced the drag coefficient, which measures the ability of the Mustang to slip through the air, by 4 percent in the V-6 models and 7 percent in the GT models. In addition, we reduced the front aerodynamic lift for the 2010 Mustang by 37 percent for V-6 models and 23 percent for GT models, which significantly improves steering feedback and driver confidence at higher speeds.” Once again, I sure am looking forward to a test drive in the 2010 Ford Mustang.On the outside the 2010 Mustang sports a new grille as well as a power dome hood, a revised front fascia, and a revised rear end. New for 2010 is the location of the V-6 Mustang’s fog lamps. They are now located on the lower fascia. The GT’s fog lamps remain in the same location, although they are smaller in size than those found on previous 2005-2009 Mustangs. In addition, the car’s antenna has been moved to the rear, its washer-fluid nozzles are tucked into the cowl, and the taillights feature three LED bulbs firing sequentially from the inside for turn indication. This sequential bulb feature was popular on classic Mustangs.
Another nifty feature of the 2010 Ford Mustang involves filling it up with gas. The Mustang features an Easy Fuel Capless Fuel Filler System. What’s that you ask? Well, the capless system is designed to help reduce fuel tank evaporative emissions by eliminating the potential to drive with a missing or improperly installed gas cap. Oh, and the car also features an optional SOS Post Crash Alert System that activates the hazard flashers and sounds the horn after a crash where the airbags deploy or safety belt pretensioners activate.
The 2010 Ford Mustang also features new exterior colors such as Red Candy Metallic with Tinted Clearcoat (U6), Kona Blue Metallic (L6), Grabber Blue (CI), Sunset Gold Metallic (GQ), and Sterling Grey Metallic (UJ). Returning colors include Black (UA), Brilliant Silver Metallic (UI), Performance White (HP), and Torch Red (D3).
Refined Interior with Many Creature Comforts
One glance inside the 2010 Mustang and you’ll notice it’s a different car. It’s more refined and features optional creature comforts such as Ford’s Voice-activated SYNC communications and entertainment system, Dual-Zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control, Navigation System with SIRIUS® Travel Link, and a Reverse Camera System. That’s right, the 2010 Mustang features a backup camera. The Ambient Lighting System with MyColor option also returns for 2010. A nice new addition to this feature is the ability to adjust the color of the “M U S T A N G” logo in the aluminum door sills.A new center console features a mounted trunk release, lockable stowage in the center floor console, and covered cup holders.
In addition, the car features an upgraded instrument panel, a new centerstack, and a one-piece instrument panel design. Kim Zielinski, Mustang Instrument Panel engineer said, “The centerstack is quite progressive. The electronic finish panel containing the audio and climate control buttons and knobs are integrated into the finish panel.”
Ford says the interior of the 2010 Mustang was also designed to be quieter than before. Greg Wayne, NVH supervisor for the Mustang said, “We wanted to improve the driving environment for the customer. While you’re traveling down the road, it’s now much easier to have a conversation with your passengers, but when you stand on the gas, you still hear the roar of the engine and the sweet sound of the exhaust.”
Those seeking sky views without going full convertible will be happy to hear the glass roof option is once again available for Mustang coupes, both V-6 and V-8. The option will set you back about $1,995 extra.
The 2010 Mustang also features new seat options with accented colors. Buyers now have the choice of leather trimmed bucket seats in: Brick Red/Cashmere Accent, Charcoal Black/Grabber Blue Accent, Charcoal Black/Cashmere Accent, Stone, Charcoal Black, Saddle.
Pricing and Availability
The V-6 coupe will start at $20,995 (excluding destination and delivery) and $25,995 for the V-6 convertible. The V-8 powered GT coupe base price is $27,995; the GT convertible starts at $32,995. The Shelby GT500 Coupe has a MSRP of $46,325, while the GT500 Convertible starts at $51,225. “More than 9 million customers have made Mustang one of the world’s most beloved automotive and cultural icons,” said Ken Czubay, Ford’s vice president of U.S. Sales and Marketing in a press release. “Not only is this the best Mustang ever, it’s also the best bang for the buck for our customers.”That makes the V-6 Ford Mustang cheaper than the 2010 V-6 Chevy Camaro which is priced at $22,995 including a $750 destination charge. What about the V-6 Challenger you ask? Well, the new Mustang's cheaper than Dodge's ride which starts at $21,995 including a $675 destination charge.
Production of the car takes place at Ford’s Auto Alliance International Plant in Flat Rock, Mich. It will become available in March 2009.
