Not much in the way of content is available yet, though a few fast-cut videos and smoky burnouts do whet the appetite for more. Interested parties can sign up for updates to be kept abreast of the latest developments, while those that feel compelled to tell their story could win themselves one of the 2010 models when they are finally released for sale in early 2009.
The next iteration of the Mustang might take some inspiration from the gorgeous Mustang Giugiaro concept (pictured) from 2006, though it will certainly see a great deal of rationalization as the production process irons out the more expensive creases and lines. Nevertheless, starting with such a beautiful design would almost certainly result in an attractive final product, though spy shots captured to date indicate the company is well along the road to whatever design it has chosen.
While the Challenger, Camaro and Mustang camps have long been divided on Mopar, GM and Ford lines, newer buyers may not share the brand loyalty that those who grew up with the cars feel so fiercely, and the long time lag of the Mustang behind its competition could cost sales if people jump on the first car that’s available. Building the car’s image in advance may be a measure that Ford helps will lock potential buyers into the Mustang brand, and help them wait out the long months until the car is finally on dealer lots.
Mustang Giugiaro Concept
Reader Comments
Sat Aug 16 2008 12:53 AM
Gus says
I hope they don't stray too far from the classic concept, that is to say, the shape that started it all. Mustangs (and the others) all got so far away from where they started, that they were hardly recognizable to the purists anymore.
Take a page out of the book of Porsche; Evolutionize, not revolutionize...
Sat Aug 16 2008 3:05 AM
David Moll says
Agreed. I love how the rear fenders kick up into the trunk lid at the B-pillar. Combined with the longer roofline and the low, broad front end... yowza. :o
But as a footnote... I'd argue that Dodge and Chevrolet are simply late to the party. Ford has practically had the market to themselves since '05, considering how poorly the Pontiac GTO sold...
Sat Aug 16 2008 4:03 AM
bambam says
It looks good as it is.
if you can improve it, then while not.
Sat Aug 16 2008 5:40 AM
HECTOR says
Gus took it right out of my mind, including the allusion to Porsche.
Except I go the opposite way.
The Mustang is not exactly a 911. And while I don't mind maintaining ties to the past in car design I'm disgusted when Ford doesn't have the balls to put a more futuristic look forward.
And while we're on the subject: hearing that insurance companies had a say in the design of your car doesn't really do anything for your street cred, ya dig?
Sat Aug 16 2008 10:49 AM
Paul says
I agree with David. The article reads as if we don't have the Mustang right now. Had the Mustang left the game years ago we might not even have the Camaro and Challenger now.
Sat Aug 16 2008 10:23 PM
Turkle says
I thought I remember several weeks after the Giugiaro concept was released that one of the executives at Ford stated that the next Mustang would not go in the direction of the Giugiaro. I remember him saying that there were specific design cues that were true mustang heritage markers that would carry over. The car would not take such a dramatic departure from the current version... or something like that.
Also, this article makes it seem like there are thousands of muscle car fans sitting on stuffed mattresses, just waiting to throw down money on the first Mopar, Chevy, or Ford M-C that comes along.
Sun Aug 17 2008 4:22 AM
ZANDIT says
Love this car, just hope they have fixed the ancient rear suspension, any word on that?
Tue Aug 19 2008 11:47 AM
Chris says
zandit; i've seen spy pictures that suggest that the next mustang will have IRS.. either that or a ridiculously tiny differential..
the question is, whether you believe that ford will so a significant mechanical upgrade on what should be just a "facelift" or if you believe that ford is already testing the next generation mustang before they even get the current generation's mid-cycle refresh out...
Personally, I'd say don't hold your breath. this car is going to be a skin deep change, with some new power plants. But the next mustang could end up being very advanced considering there have been a lot of rumours from ford that the next mustang will be sharing platforms with the next falcon and possible full sized RWD sedans too.
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