The all-new 2024 Ford Mustang has just been revealed at the Detroit Auto Show. It’s everything ‘Stang owners were expecting in a great-looking package, available as both a coupe and convertible with a choice of EcoBoost and 5.0-liter V8.
The first thing we want to talk about is how good this looks. The overall proportions are reminiscent of the S550 Mustang which dates back to 2014. However, the 2024 model just has this brooding attitude, and everything is a little big sharper, and more aggressive.
At the front, you’ll notice the headlights and hood form one continuous brow from one end of the car to the other. It’s like the 2024 Mustang had a staring contest with the 1970 Mach 1… and won. Beautiful!
The S650’s Tri-Bar LED headlights will make it immediately recognizable when it’s going down the road. For the first time ever, the EcoBoost models will have their own less aggressive front ends, so you’ll immediately be able to tell the rentals from the V8s just by looking at the grilles. Also, if it’s got the hood vents, that’s the V8 GT, so you’ll know whether to take that drag race or not.
We’ve seen a little bit of criticism directed towards the rear end. Apparently, the taillights are too small. But most new cars take some getting used to, and these new taillights are probably not going to collect water.
Performance gains?
Ford likes to get all the attention it can, and the 2024 Mustang obviously won’t be available until next year. So just like with the Bronco, we can’t tell you how much power it’s making.
Both the 2.3-liter turbocharged “EcoBoost” engine and the 5.0-liter V8 have been confirmed. The manual is still available, but the hybrid systems and AWD that were rumored have not been discussed. Again, they could just be delayed, but word is Ford has dropped their development.
Ford says that the newest 5.0L Coyote V8 will be the most powerful Mustang GT engine to date. Starting in 2018, this made 260 horsepower until it was reduced to 450 hp for emissions. So, are they shooting for the 480 hp of Mach 1 or just 470 hp? Regardless, the 2024 Ford Mustang will be a real Dark Horse of drag racing and naturally aspirated V8s.
To achieve these gains, the new Mustang is equipped with a 4th-generation Coyote engine that has dual intake boxes and throttle bodies. The EcoBoost is described as “all-new” meaning we could see gains over there as well.
Both EcoBoost and GT models will be available with the Performance Pack adding a front strut brace, Torsen limited-slip diff, 390-mm front Brembo brakes, and wider rear wheels and tires. On top of this, you’ll be able to ride MagneRide adaptive dampers, Recaro seats and an active exhaust. Speaking of which, the 2024 Mustang has a feature that lets you rev the engine from the outside, by pressing the key fob.
Perhaps the most quirky and interesting feature is the electronic drift brake, designed for “novice drivers to learn and improve their drift skills while also providing expert drivers with a competition-ready system.” It looks like a normal handbrake but operates the rears using e-motors and will be quite interesting to see in practice.
A cabin fit for 2024
While the Mustang’s engines and design feel familiar, the interior takes this muscle car into the space age. There’s barely any hint of “retro”, as this pony sports a long digital dash consisting of one 12.4-inch screen for the dash instruments and another 13.2-inch one for the SNYC 4 infotainment. It looks just like a Mercedes or BMW in there!
You can still get a 10-speed automatic with the Mustang. It’s standard for the EcoBoost, but you’d be a fool to miss out on one of the last V8s with a six-speed manual.
The roof of the fastback coupe has been extended to make it easier to wear a helmet on the track. But we think the 2024 Mustang is the best-looking convertible since the original model in the 1960s. It just looks so natural, and the open top puts your nice red leather interior on full display.
