Ford is to introduce the Mustang R-SPEC to dealerships across Australia from early 2020. The special-edition model, which will be restricted to just 500 units, is the result of a collaboration between Ford Australia and Herrod Performance and brings Australian customers a Ford dealer network-backed, supercharged Mustang for the first time.

Each Mustang R-SPEC will be individually numbered and badgedand the model is available for pre-order with a Recommended Manufacturer List Price (MLP) of $99,980.

Available exclusively in the Fastback body with a 6-speed manual, the Mustang R-SPEC uses a Ford Performance roots-type positive displacement supercharger.Ford says that with a 2.65-litre capacity and 12PSI of boost, it enables more power throughout the rev range with reduced noise and vibration. The system has an aluminium intercooler and full-face radiator, fed by the larger front air intake specific to R-SPEC.

A Herrod Performance exhaust has been fitted, ensuring the Mustang’s V8 soundtrack can be deployed through the Active Exhaust settings, with Quiet, Normal, Sport and Race Track modes selectable via the steering wheel mounted buttons.

Power from the third-generation Coyote V8 has increased beyond the standard Mustang GT’s 339kW, and will surpass the 345kW output of the Mustang BULLITT.

Ford says new firmer Ford Performance springs lower the R-SPEC by 20mm compared to the regular Mustang GT and are teamed with MagneRide suspension as standard. Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres are standard and provide three different compounds across the tread face for greater dry grip and reduced rolling resistance. Black 19-inch Ford Performance alloy wheels measure 9.5-inches at the front, and 10-inches at the rear.

All MY2020 Mustangs include SYNC 3 with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility as standard, including voice-activated sat-nav and climate control functions. In addition, the 8.0-inch full-colour touchscreen also hosts compatible smartphone apps such as Spotify, which enables owners to take full advantage of the B&O Play nine-speaker audio system.

Standard Driver Assist Technology on the Mustang R-SPEC includes Autonomous Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, as well as Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control and self-levelling headlights.

The Mustang R-SPEC will be available through Ford dealerships in early 2020.

Source: Motor Trader E-Magazine (Nov 2019)

9 Nov 2019