The 2010 Mustang is more powerful, features a revised interior and exterior, and is available with options such as a backup camera, voice activated navigation, and 19-inch wheels. In a press statement, Paul Randle, Mustang chief engineer said, "The new Mustang marks new levels of both power and refinement. We've designed and engineered this to be the next classic Mustang that everyone talks about for years and years."
The 4.6L V8 engine gets a boost of 15 horsepower, bringing its numbers to 315 hp and 325 lbs.-ft of torque. The engineers at Ford have equipped the new base 2010 GT Mustang with an air-induction system pioneered on Ford's extensive racing programs. This true ram-air system delivers a colder, denser intake charge to the cylinders resulting in increased horsepower and torque. Randal said, "That means more horsepower and more torque in all driving conditions." Ford also increased the redline of the V-8 Mustang to 6,500 rpm.
The 4.0L V-6 Mustang returns once again with its 210 hp and 240 lbs.-ft. of torque.
The 2010 Mustang will also feature a 5-speed manual or automatic transmission.
Of note, both the V-6 and the V-8 Mustangs will feature larger exhaust tips in the rear. In all, the tips increase from 3-inches to 3 1/2 inches in length.
The ride of the 2010 Ford Mustang has also been improved. For instance, Ford worked to include a three-link rear suspension with a panhard bar as standard equipment on all Mustangs. In addition, vehicle Engineering Manager Tom Barnes said, "We adjusted the springs, stabilizer bars and shocks to better balance the ride, steering and handling for all models, which results in a more engaging driving experience. The 2010 Mustangs feel more controlled for steering and handling, yet retain a good ride balance."
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."
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.
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."
