Ford plots full family of Mustang models (UPDATED)
Newswheel staff :: 13 December 2006 :: Filed under Estate/Wagon, Saloon, Ford, Ford Mustang, Europe & UK, US
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Muscle car goes global?
The Mustang muscle car is one of the very few upbeat plot threads to come out of the woeful overall story arc of Ford Motor Company’s recent performance. What therefore to make of a new report detailing Ford’s plans to launch a whole family of Mustang models in an attempt to cash in on the model’s iconic image?
Specifically, UK rag Autocar Magazine reckons the Blue Oval is prepping a fleet of Mustangs, including four-door saloon and estate variants. The new models will come on stream when the sixth-gen Mustang coupe is wheeled out around 2011. The expansion of the Mustang range would also coincide with the brand’s promotion to true global status - the new 'Stangs would be sold as mainstream models in all major markets.
A new rear-drive platform developed by Ford Australia is the most likely candidate for providing the new Mustang family’s underpinnings. In a move that mirrors the development of GM’s Zeta platform by Australian subsidiary Holden, that new Aus-designed platform will also form the basis of several other Ford models including several Lincoln barges, to boot.
Of course, it’s a remarkable monument to the dilapidation of Ford and GM’s domestic operations that both companies have decided to outsource the development of core rear-drive platforms to relatively tiny Australian subsidiaries. Whatever, time will tell whether Autocar’s story is on the money – and if the Mustang brand can cope with the strain of being stretched outside its coupe/convertible comfort zone.
UPDATE:
Ford has made a public announcement denying plans for a full family of Mustangs following reports in both Autocar in the UK and Autoweek, Stateside. “Mustang is an icon and will continue in its current form: a unique, two-door, rear-wheel drive, 2+2 performance car,” quothe a Ford press release. The source of the story is now thought to be the Lincoln Interceptor four-door concept, due to be shown at the upcoming Detroit show and based on Mustang oily bits. You win some, you lose some.
Linkage:
Autocar
