Meet Ford Mustang Dark Horse, the track-focussed pony car

KUALA LUMPUR: Ford introduced the all-new seventh-generation Mustang in its full glory at the Detroit Auto Show last week. The highly-anticipated Pony car will soon hit the market in different road-going versions, including coupe, convertible, and GT as well as a special track-focussed trim, called the Ford Mustang Dark Horse.

That’s right, Ford really took us by surprise with the reveal of the Dark Horse edition i.e the first performance-edition Mustang introduced by the automaker in over 20 years. It will be offered in three forms - standard Dark Horse, Dark Horse S and Dark Horse R. 

Let’s know the key highlights of the 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse - 

• The car exclusively comes equipped with the naturally aspirated Coyote 5.0-litre V8 engine that has been improved by a dual throttle-body intake setup. Ford is yet to announce the specific output numbers but targeting the 500 PS mark. 
• The refreshed mill is tied with either Ford’s 10-speed automatic or a Tremec six-speed manual, depending on the trim. It sends the power to the rear axle with the help of a Torsen limited-slip differential 

• The Mustang Dark Horse boasts several track-only upgrades such as a full FIA-certified safety cage, racing seats with safety belts, safety nets, and a race steering wheel
• It also has a racing fuel cell for added range, welded seams for increased strength, Brembo brakes and MagneRide dampers
• In terms of design, the performance-edition model looks more sinister than the standard Mustang thanks to classically inspired, ultra-athletic exterior cues

• The car gives a dramatic vibe with a larger grille, smoked headlights, a prominent rear diffuser, a rear wing, and Dark Horse badging
• It rolls on 19-inch wheels wrapped with Pirelli P Zero PZ4 summer tyres; carbon-fibre rims tied with sticky Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS tyres are also available as an option

• Inside, the new breed of the pony car has a more tech-centric cabin with a 13.2-inch head unit and a 12.4-inch digital driver display
• The interior also looks intense with Deep Indigo Blue seats, Blue accents, and dark metallic gloss trims

“For decades, Mustang has competed against the most premium brands on the greatest world stages and won,” Ford chief executive Jim Farley described in a statement. “We surprised everyone, and we’re going to surprise them again with a track-capable Mustang that puts a new level of performance, styling and American engineering in the hands of everyday customers who still want the thrill and excitement of a V8 sports car.”

The 2024 Mustang Dark Horse pricing and availability details are yet to be revealed.

Also read: Should you wait for the 2022 Ford Everest or buy the Toyota Fortuner?