Hints emerge of Mustang at 50
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DETROIT -- Ford Motor Co. has been tight-lipped about its plans for the 50th anniversary edition of the Mustang in 2014. But a few hints are emerging.
The iconic car will likely have independent rear suspension to make it behave more like a global sports car, say insiders familiar with Ford’s thinking. That would match competitors such as the Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger. Since the Mustang’s launch, every one -- with the exception of specialized sporty versions -- has rested on a solid rear axle.
To cover the added cost, Ford needs to sell more units.
The Mustang has appeared recently in Ford’s “Go Further” corporate ads in Europe. Sources familiar with Ford’s planning say the company plans to take the next-generation Mustang beyond North America, to Europe and Asia. For example, last week Ford said it will take the Mustang to the Philippines for the first time.
Some reports say the next-generation Mustang will closely resemble the Ford Evos concept -- also the inspiration for the 2013 Ford Fusion -- which had a gaping front grille aperture that drew comparisons to an Aston Martin.
If the Evos look is in, that would mean the retro look of the current Mustang is out, a change sure to cause chatter among Mustang lovers. Such a dramatic change in direction could ignite a run on the last editions of the current model. One dealer says: “It will be a phenomenal sell-down.”
You can reach Bradford Wernle at bwernle@crain.com.
