The Ford Mustang returns for the 2012 model year, relatively unchanged. For the most part, the car is exactly the same as its 2011 counterpart. In addition to a new exterior color option, Lava Red Metallic, and the deletion of Sterling Gray Metallic, Ford will offer a few new takes on the previous year's model.
For instance, buyers will find the universal garage door opener standard on select premium models, sun visors with a storage system will become standard equipment, as will illuminated vanity mirrors. The specially tuned EPAS (Electric Power Assist Steering) system will now also come with three modes; comfort, normal and sport. Most importantly, buyers will have the option of purchasing a new Boss 302 Special-edition Mustang this year. A special Boss 302 Laguna Seca model is also available. The company will also offer a track only Cobra Jet Mustang.
New Features
- Special Boss Edition Mustang Available
- New Lava Red Metallic Exterior Color
- Universal Garage Door Opener Standard on Select Premium Models
- Sun Visors with built-in Storage System Standard Equipment
- Illuminated Vanity Mirrors Standard Equipment
The 5.0L "Coyote" and 305 Horsepower 3.7L V6 Return
The 2012 Mustang lineup will once again feature the 5.0L Ti-VCT Coyote V8 engine, producing up to 412 horsepower and 390 lb.-ft of torque, as well as the 3.7L Ti-VCT V6 engine which is capable of producing up to 305 horsepower and 280 lb.-ft. of torque. Meanwhile, the special-edition Boss 302 Mustang will feature a 5.0L Hi-Po Ti-VCT V8 engine outputting 444 horsepower and 380 lb.-ft. of torque. The 2012 Shelby GT500 Mustang returns with its 5.4L Supercharged 4V Ti-VCT V8 Engine producing 550 horsepower and 510 lb.-ft. of torque. That, folks, is fast.In the realm of gas mile, the automatic V6 Mustang will once again offer 19 city/31 hwy EPA-estimated, while the automatic GT Mustang offers 18 city/25 hwy EPA-estimated miles per gallon. The Boss 302 offers 17 city/26 hwy EPA-estimated, while the Shelby GT500 returns at 15 city/23 hwy EPA-estimated miles per gallon. (Additional 2012 Figures)
The Shelby GT500 and Boss 302 Mustang are only available with a manual transmission, while buyers of the V6 and GT can opt for either a manual or an automatic.
Modifications and Options
As with 2011, the Mustang will be offered with a variety of options for the 2012 model year. For starters, buyers can opt for the base model V6 & GT, or step up to the Premium V6 and Premium GT models. The V6 Premium package includes Ambient lighting, 6-gauge cluster with Mycolor, while the GT Premium package offers a Shaker 500 audio system, and voice activated SYNC, in addition to other items.From there, some optional upgrades include Ford's SYNC System, a Shaker 1000 Audio System, Glass Roof (with stone interior) on select models, Rearview camera, SVT Performance Package, and a Reverse Sensing System with security package.
Meanwhile, a new Lava Red interior will be available on Premium V6 and Premium GT Mustangs. It will feature a black interior environment with Lava Red doors inserts & leather seat inserts.
Mustang Packages
The V6 Performance package will return, although it is not available with the new Lava Red Metallic exterior color. The Mustang Club of America edition package will return, as will the V6 Pony Package which features 18-inch wheels, a unique grille, and various other items. Buyers can also opt for a Comfort package featuring heated front seats, and an Electronics package which includes voice activated navigation with SIRIUS Travel Link, HD radio, and dual-zone automatic temperature controls. An optional HID Headlamps & Security Package comes with HID Headlamps, Active anti-theft system, and a wheel locking kit. The California Special Mustang package will also return in 2012. A Brembo brakes package is available for buyers of the GT Mustang.Mustang Pricing
Folks will be happy to hear pricing has been reduced on the base model GT. The 2012 base GT model will cost $500 less than the 2011 model, at $29,995 (including an $850 destination charge). Meanwhile, the Premium GT model will cost $200 more than last year $33,895(including $850 destination charge), while the Premium GT Convertible $38,895 (including $850 destination charge) is $700 more than its 2011 model counterpart.As for the V6, a base coupe will start at $22,995 (including $850 destination charge), while the base V6 Convertible will start at $27,995 (including $850 destination charge).
The 2012 Boss 302 will start at $40,995 (including $850 destination charge), while the Shelby GT500 will start at $49,495 (including $850 destination charge).
