THURSDAY, March 28, 2024
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High-powered Mustang marks a Thai first for Ford

High-powered Mustang marks a Thai first for Ford

Ford has officially launched the Mustang sports car in Thailand with prices ranging from Bt3.599 million for the 2.3-litre EcoBoost Coupe to Bt4.799 million for the 5.0-litre V8 GT.

The iconic Mustang, imported from the US, is the first high-powered model offered by the American automaker in Thailand. Other models offered in the Thai market include the Fiesta, Focus, Ecosport, Ranger pickup and Everest PPV (Pickup Passenger Vehicle).

The Mustang takes on the form of a fastback and is available in four exterior colour choices along with different wheel options. For the 2018 model, the 5.0-litre V8 engine with Ford’s new dual-fuel, high-pressure direct injection and low-pressure port fuel injection for better low-end torque, has been beefed up to 460hp and 556Nm. Acceleration from 0-100km/h is claimed at 4.3 seconds.

The turbocharged 2.3-litre motor develops 300hp and 440Nm and features overboost function. Both are equipped with a newly developed 10-speed automatic that Ford claims has been tested over a distance of more than 10 million kilometres. Last month the American automaker was ordered by a Thai court to pay compensation worth Bt23 million to 296 customers of the Ford Fiesta, Focus and Ecosport for its defective Powershift dual-clutch transmission.

As for the Mustang, Ford engineers highlighted the various settings available for each drive mode, saying that the new gearbox allows the engine to maintain peak power and torque while upshifting, resulting in faster acceleration and seamless shifts. Both models also get the electronic line lock system that brakes the front wheels so drivers can burn the rear tires in order to achieve optimal temperature for quick standing starts.

The drag strip mode also optimises all systems for each of the many driving modes, while the exhaust volume can also be adjusted (to keep the neighbours happy).

The 2018 model gets suspension improvements for better grip and handling, including thicker anti-roll bars. Inside there’s a 12-inch digital instrument cluster and a pulsating red engine start button, gearshift paddles behind the multi-function steering wheel, along with aluminium finish and soft touch materials on the door panel. There’s also a full driver assistance package and infotainment system compatible to both Android and iOS.

The Mustang is available at only 19 selected Ford dealerships in the country. The cars come with Ford Premium Care package that includes five-year/100,000km warranty, five complimentary service checks in 60 months/75,000km, and 24-hour roadside assistance for five years.

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