The 2024 Ford Mustang: A Muscle Car for the 21st Century
Since 1964, the Ford Mustang has provided muscle car thrills at a reasonable price. From the 289 V8-powered 1965 Fastback to the 5.0-liter “Coyote” engined 2012 Boss 302, this American hot rod offers track-ready performance without breaking the bank. Now, the 2024 iteration is even better.
Combining classic ‘Stang attributes with a large helping of modern tech, the redesigned 2024 Ford Mustang propels the nameplate into the 21st century. Additionally, with EVs set to take over, now is the time to get yours before the deep rumble of a V8 engine is a distant memory.
Let’s take a closer look at the new Mustang and what a future EV version might be like.
2024 Ford Mustang: What makes it great
While the new Ford Mustang is a sweet ride no matter the trim, the GT Fastback ($44,735) hits the sweet spot with V8 power and a strong street presence.
Under the hood sits a 5.0-liter DOHC “Coyote” V8 with 480 hp and 418 lb-ft of torque. Routed through a 6-speed manual and 3.55 limited-slip rear axle, this classic setup’s ready for traffic light takeoffs and long straightaways alike. Additionally, of course, there’s the unmatched engine note of a large displacement American eight-cylinder.
Then there’s the Mustang’s retro yet modern style. Chiseled lines give the new ‘Stang a muscular look. A prominent hood vent hints at the power beneath the surface. The narrow LED headlights and open mesh grille looked focused and ready for performance driving. Lastly, the tri-bar taillights are a tasteful carryover from models of yesteryear.
However, it’s inside where the 2024 Mustang looks toward the future.
According to Car and Driver, the updated interior uses a “fighter-jet-inspired” design. That includes a configurable 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster with selectable gauges and colors. The Track Apps feature lets drivers measure performance metrics like acceleration, braking, and lap times. A 13.2-inch centerstack touchscreen runs the Ford Sync 4 infotainment interface.
Also included is Ford Co-Pilot360, a suite of driver’s assistance tech for enhanced safety and semi-autonomous driving. Part of that is BlueCruise, which allows hands-free driving on more than 130,000 miles of American roads. Additional features include a lane-keeping system with lane-keeping alert, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, and lane-centering assist.
What a future Mustang EV might look like
The seventh-generation Mustang expertly blends the past and present. However, with ICE powertrains on the way out, an all-electric pony car is a good possibility. What might that look like?
With the Ford F-150 Lightning, the company combined a high-tech EV powertrain with traditional pickup styling. That resonated with consumers, making it a strong seller upon introduction. The company could take a similar path with a Mustang EV.
Certain elements define the Mustang’s style — like the front pony emblem, fastback roof, and tri-bar taillights — and adding subtle elements could take that into the future. Additional LED highlights — as found on the F-150 Lightning — could hint at the all-electric powertrain, yet let the ‘Stang’s retro spirit continue to run free.
Then there’s the powertrain. Ford already has experience with the Mach-E in both single-motor and dual-motor configurations. That would open the door to an all-wheel drive Mustang EV for new levels of performance and versatility. Additionally, range levels may increase by that time, making an electric Mustang even more appealing.
Inside, an all-electric Mustang could continue the blend of retro and modern. While metal trim, a thick steering wheel, and analog switchgear retain a classic vibe, adding more LED lighting and digital screens creates a more futuristic feel. Lastly, interior lines with a little less 1960s and a little more 2030s could set the tone for future versions.
Ford Mustang EV: What we know so far
The new S650 Mustang is set to continue in production until 2028. At that point, according to Autoweek, an all-electric ‘Stang will take the nameplate into the electric age.
Set for production at the same Flat Rock, MI facility as the ICE-powered Mustang, the EV version will draw heavily on the Mach-E’s platform and powertrain. However, the electric Mustang will continue to offer low-slung sports car styling, in contrast to the Mach-E’s upright SUV bodywork.
We can’t wait to see what Ford comes up with.
The 2024 Ford Mustang expertly mixes the classic and contemporary with a raucous V8 and the latest tech. That lets drivers enjoy muscle car thrills while having the comfort and convenience of a modern vehicle. It’s a sweet formula. As the EV age dawns, it looks like the S650 will be the last gasoline-powered Mustang. But while internal combustion ‘Stangs have had a storied run, all-electric versions could set an exciting course.
