2015 Ford Mustang - General Discussion

[buickgnx88]

I see nothing wrong with keeping the V8 as an option for the regular Mustang. The current Mustang V8 gets approximately 17 city and 26 highway, which isn't bad. They could have the Ecoboost 4 as the basic engine, N/A and Ecoboost V6 engines, and a V8 as an option on the GT. The V8 is part of the Mustang's heritage. Ford tried selling the Mustang without a V8 when they introduced the Mustang II, but brought it back the next year. Fans were upset when they were talking about selling the Probe as the Mustang, partly because there was no V8. If they are going for a global car, the V8 may not sell as well in Europe and Japan, hence the smaller engines available, but it would still sell well here.

Oh, and I don't get why Ford has such a hardon for making their vehicles look like Astons. Is it because they had to sell them off?

 

[Dennisch]

I'm all for dropping the V8 too, it's just not necessary anymore, especially with the EcoBoost technology. Focus on making the Mustang a lighter vehicle and Ford will achieve greater performance without having to increase the engine size. The 3.5L V6 EcoBoost out of the F-150 is a good start. I know Ford wouldn't drop the V8 due to marketing reasons because for whatever reason people think that it's sacrilegious not to have a V8 in the Mustang (the horror!).

Actually. If you buy a V6 Mustang in the Netherlands people will ask you if you were sick the day you bought it. American vehicle>> V8.

 

[Slash]

nice! What did it get on the v8? Oh yeah that's right...

(yes i know it came a year later and there was that thing with mexico)

20+, I had a '94 van that did 22 on a 6cyl so....


And as far as dropping the V8, if you do that then you can get rid of the Mustang. It's not a Mustang if a V8 isn't in the lineup. I feel VERY strongly about that.

 

[Dennisch]

I must concur with you on that one, Slashfan.

 

[Joey D]

And as far as dropping the V8, if you do that then you can get rid of the Mustang. It's not a Mustang if a V8 isn't in the lineup. I feel VERY strongly about that.

It will be a Mustang as long as Ford calls it a Mustang. I really wish people wouldn't have that attitude that certain engines need to be in certain cars. This is a 2014MY we've reached the point where a massive engine isn't needed for good output numbers.

If they are going to keep the V8 it better get better mileage than 17mpg's in the city. The way of the future with sports cars and they only way they'll still be around, is only if the automakers start putting engines in them that can be clean and efficient. 17mpg is pitiful, the Fox Body 5.0L Mustang got 17mpg in the city and that was 25 years ago.

 

[xNEVER-ONEx]

I'm sure they could bring the Ecoboost technology to V8s. Either way, they won't drop the V8 from the Mustang. Fuel efficiency is almost irrelevant for the demographic that buys that sort of car. You want fuel efficiency and a Mustang, than get the V6 version.

 

[Slash]

It will be a Mustang as long as Ford calls it a Mustang. I really wish people wouldn't have that attitude that certain engines need to be in certain cars. This is a 2014MY we've reached the point where a massive engine isn't needed for good output numbers.

If they are going to keep the V8 it better get better mileage than 17mpg's in the city. The way of the future with sports cars and they only way they'll still be around, is only if the automakers start putting engines in them that can be clean and efficient. 17mpg is pitiful, the Fox Body 5.0L Mustang got 17mpg in the city and that was 25 years ago.

Sure they can call it what they want but to me and a lot of other Americans it won't be a true Mustang.

They have the ability to get great mpg if Ford wouldn't limit it. At the same time you can have the 6cyl as well with good output. But as long as their are 2 more cylinders most of us will be fine.

I'm sure they could bring the Ecoboost technology to V8s. Either way, they won't drop the V8 from the Mustang. Fuel efficiency is almost irrelevant for the demographic that buys that sort of car. You want fuel efficiency and a Mustang, than get the V6 version.

Couldn't agree more. Keep the V8 and if you want fuel efficiency get the V6 or don't buy one. That simple.

 

[Tornado]

It will be a Mustang as long as Ford calls it a Mustang.

How pragmatic of you. Too bad Ford tried that before and were forced to back down.

I really wish people wouldn't have that attitude that certain engines need to be in certain cars.

I really wish people wouldn't have that attitude that eco-weenie mindsets have to come first for all cars, to the extent that they shouldn't even be allowed the option.

If they are going to keep the V8 it better get better mileage than 17mpg's in the city

Or what? You won't buy one?

 

[sumbrownkid]

Dang Toronodo, why so serious? Man is just stating his opinion on the matter.

Even if it comes across as green hugger, the fact remains that 17 mpg is pitiful, and V8s will eventually have to take backstage in sports cars. Unless there is a lot more engineering left in the good old v8.

Gas ain't cheap, and it's not gonna get cheaper. Why introduce Ecoboost to begin with if everyone loved a v8 right?

 

[Tornado]

Dang Toronodo, why so serious? Man is just stating his opinion on the matter.

And I'm stating mine in response. Problem?


It also seems to me like he's doing quite a bit more than that, though I suppose he can expand on that better than I can.

 

[Dennisch]

Pony cars, Muscle car, etc. etc. need a V8 rumble out of the exhaust. Simple.

 

[sumbrownkid]

Pony cars, Muscle car, etc. etc. need a V8 rumble out of the exhaust. Simple.

Agreed.

 

[Zenith]

Or what? You won't buy one?

Isn't that the point he's making with the V8 issue? The idea of "If you don't want it, don't buy it."

 

[Dan_]

Hmm... not to be that guy, but different engine choices can coexist. I don't see any problem with a turbo'd four pot in it, as long as there is always the option of a excellent V8. After all, the V8 sound is 90% of the appeal for mustang buyers over here.

As for the styling, it's hard to imagine something Fusion'ish passing as a Mustang so I'd take these news with a grain of salt, however, Ford is certainly aiming for more global acceptance of the Stang, and to do that they'll need less nostalgia and more modern lines.

Personally, I'd say base the new car on the aerodynamic ethos of the Mach 1 and give it a low, slung appearance with sharp creases, contemporary interior and forget about that fishmouth grille. That's too delicate to fit a muscle ( or pony, if you will ) car.

 

[Tornado]

Isn't that the point he's making with the V8 issue? The idea of "If you don't want it, don't buy it."

No, he pretty clearly said:

I'm all for dropping the V8 too, it's just not necessary anymore, especially with the EcoBoost technology.

Meaning not even as an option if you want it, short of dropping 50 large on a Shelby as he later said.

 

[Slash]

Agreed.

Same. Although I'm not big on the newer technology in newer vehicles and engines, I'd still rather look at this:

As far as a V8 in it, when you sit there and rev it up it just SCREEEMS power!

 

[carracerptp]

Really, if they made a mustang without a V8 I think ford should just kill the name and try a new car.

Nothing wrong with making the Mustang modern, lighter, and over all more of a "sports" car. But it still has to be a "Mustang".
Look at the last time Ford tried an ECO/ CEO numbers Mustang.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Mustang_II

Now, if ford was to try that again I will be waiting for the next gen.

All ford needs to do is look at the 911, Porsche figured it out.

Dropping the Mustang look from a Mustang is like putting a and front mounted inline 6 in 911.

 

[Joey D]

How pragmatic of you. Too bad Ford tried that before and were forced to back down.

Times have changed, along with the economy, government regulations and mindsets.

I really wish people wouldn't have that attitude that eco-weenie mindsets have to come first for all cars, to the extent that they shouldn't even be allowed the option.

It has nothing to do with the environment, it has to do with sustainability. Say in 2014 fuel prices top $6 a gallon, which isn't unrealistic, a 17mpg car probably won't be exactly popular among consumers purchasing new cars. You saw what happened to SUV sales when the price of fuel bloomed, my guess is the next thing to take a hit would be affordable sports car.

And if Ford provides the option for a V8 than they provide an option. It's not like I'm the mean person that's going to deny people their precious V8's.

Or what? You won't buy one?

Nope, I probably wouldn't buy one if they haven't raised the fuel economy numbers on them, it's one of the big reasons I got a Focus over a Mustang despite being the same price. I drove the V6 Mustang and really liked it, but with the amount of driving I do it didn't make sense to buy a vehicle that only gets 19mpg in the city. I get around 35mpg with the Focus which makes way more sense even though I don't think it's exactly stellar. I'd love an affordable. semi-practical sports car like the Mustang that gave me pretty good fuel economy and was still fun to drive.

It also seems to me like he's doing quite a bit more than that, though I suppose he can expand on that better than I can.

I don't know how you read an ulterior motive into my statement, but I can assure you there isn't. It pretty much stops with I favour a high powered V6 over a V8.

No, he pretty clearly said:

Meaning not even as an option if you want it, short of dropping 50 large on a Shelby as he later said.

I don't think it should be an option, but I'm not an engineer at Ford so all I can do is state my opinion on the vehicle. I'm not sure why you are throwing so much hostility at me, I'm advocating a different engine for a car, not a policy to kick puppies. Just chill man, it's only a car and I don't mind having a discussion about it.

 

[Slash]

Times have changed, along with the economy, government regulations and mindsets.



It has nothing to do with the environment, it has to do with sustainability. Say in 2014 fuel prices top $6 a gallon, which isn't unrealistic, a 17mpg car probably won't be exactly popular among consumers purchasing new cars. You saw what happened to SUV sales when the price of fuel bloomed, my guess is the next thing to take a hit would be affordable sports car.

And if Ford provides the option for a V8 than they provide an option. It's not like I'm the mean person that's going to deny people their precious V8's.



Nope, I probably wouldn't buy one if they haven't raised the fuel economy numbers on them, it's one of the big reasons I got a Focus over a Mustang despite being the same price. I drove the V6 Mustang and really liked it, but with the amount of driving I do it didn't make sense to buy a vehicle that only gets 19mpg in the city. I get around 35mpg with the Focus which makes way more sense even though I don't think it's exactly stellar. I'd love an affordable. semi-practical sports car like the Mustang that gave me pretty good fuel economy and was still fun to drive.



I don't know how you read an ulterior motive into my statement, but I can assure you there isn't. It pretty much stops with I favour a high powered V6 over a V8.



I don't think it should be an option, but I'm not an engineer at Ford so all I can do is state my opinion on the vehicle. I'm not sure why you are throwing so much hostility at me, I'm advocating a different engine for a car, not a policy to kick puppies. Just chill man, it's only a car and I don't mind having a discussion about it.

Everyone is entitled to their own opinion. I don't agree with it however it is your right and I respect that.

 

[Dennisch]

Surely, if they can get 180hp with ease out of a 1.4 turbo engine and still get proper mpg, downsizing a V8 to let's say 3-3.5 liter with a turbo would do the same trick?

And I know for a fact small V8 like that sound exactly like a V8. Only the turbo sound would be an added bonus/sore.

 

[Tornado]

Times have changed, along with the economy, government regulations and mindsets.

Obviously mindsets haven't changed that much if you are complaining that mindsets need to change more to suit your ideals.

And if Ford provides the option for a V8 than they provide an option. It's not like I'm the mean person that's going to deny people their precious V8's.

I don't know how you read an ulterior motive into my statement, but I can assure you there isn't. It pretty much stops with I favour a high powered V6 over a V8.

Except immediately after you said:

I don't think it should be an option, but I'm not an engineer at Ford so all I can do is state my opinion on the vehicle.

Meaning that not only would you not want it, but you don't think others should be able to have it if they do. You can't say something like that (or the condescending "I wish people would stop thinking the way that they do" bit) and then act surprised when people react strongly to it. Especially when this isn't the first time it's happened.

 

[Joey D]

Surely, if they can get 180hp with ease out of a 1.4 turbo engine and still get proper mpg, downsizing a V8 to let's say 3-3.5 liter with a turbo would do the same trick?

I think a smaller V8 with EcoBoost on it would be an excellent idea, but the one reason I didn't suggest that was because I don't believe Ford has a small V8 in their family of engines. However, if they were to develop one it could replace the 5.0L V8 in the F-150's as well which would probably make it a more financially sound prospect to develop. Or if they could co develop it with another automaker that would probably help out a lot too.

Obviously mindsets haven't changed that much if you are complaining that mindsets need to change more to suit your ideals.

Except immediately after you said:

Meaning that not only would you not want it, but you don't think others should be able to have it if they do. You can't say something like that (or the condescending "I wish people would stop thinking the way that they do" bit) and then act surprised when people react strongly to it. Especially when this isn't the first time it's happened.

I really don't know what you're getting at and I really have no idea why you have so much aggression over it. If you feel it's being condescending then I can't change your mind, but I legitimately don't like the mindset that we should choose tradition over progress. It's not just with cars either, it's everything.

Mindsets haven't changed yet because fuel prices are still fairly low. Numerous studies have been thrown around over the past few months suggesting American won't start worrying about fuel priced till it hits somewhere between $5-$6 per gallon. In 2014 fuel prices could be that high and if an automaker is trying to design for the future it's something that they probably need to think about.

I'm giving my opinion that I don't think a V8 should be in the next Mustang, I'm not denying anything to anyone since I can't control Ford's engine choice in the first place. It's an opinion, nothing more and it's not like I'm going to go to Dearborn and shout at Bill Ford's office till he listens to me or has security escort me away...which is probably the more likely of the two events.

I expected a discussion, I didn't expect someone thinking that I'm advocating the kicking of cute, fluffy things.

 

[Dennisch]

It will be the way to go. Look at all the European manufacturers, they are all downsizing like madmen.
And with this option, the V8 doesn't have to go. And for the richest people, gasguzzlers will be available for a long time.

 

[hawkeye122]

Ford had put tons of Sweat and Tears into the current 5.0 V8. Expect to see it on the next round of models. Naturally, I think there should be a couple Eco-Boost options, and dare i say.... an Electric Mustang? Wishful thinking, and it won't happen anytime soon. But I would be game for a reasonably quick Electric Car that isn't a Tesla.

 

[carracerptp]

Surely, if they can get 180hp with ease out of a 1.4 turbo engine and still get proper mpg, downsizing a V8 to let's say 3-3.5 liter with a turbo would do the same trick?

And I know for a fact small V8 like that sound exactly like a V8. Only the turbo sound would be an added bonus/sore.

That would make most people happy. Keeps the V8 and the gas mileage (And why on earth are we talking about gas milage and sports cars? Why don't we sit down and talk about fireworks and the smoke/C02 they make?)

Ford had put tons of Sweat and Tears into the current 5.0 V8. Expect to see it on the next round of models. Naturally, I think there should be a couple Eco-Boost options, and dare i say.... an Electric Mustang? Wishful thinking, and it won't happen anytime soon. But I would be game for a reasonably quick Electric Car that isn't a Tesla.

For some odd reason, an electric Mustang would work better in my head than a 4 pot turbo setup. If you must losses even the V6 might as well make it actually "NEW" and a "future car".
Sadly it would never happen, and not at any price point I could reach (Even an electric focus is 40K).

 

[niky]

The four-pot Mustang wasn't that well received when it first came out, but people like them now.

I'm betting people will accept a supercharged V6 Mustang... and perhaps a new turbo-four as the base car... maybe the 2.0 they share with Volvo putting out 300 horses or so.

Sure, it won't sound as good as a V8, but that's what exhaust tuning is for. Mustang can keep the V8 for the halo model, but it'll need to sell a lot of secretary models with the base engine to meet ever-more-stringent CAFE standards.

 

[Exorcet]

In 2014 fuel prices could be that high and if an automaker is trying to design for the future it's something that they probably need to think about.

Keep the V-8 ditch the weight.

But really, it's all about what people want. If they're willing to pay for V-8's and want V-8's, sell V-8's.

 

[homeforsummer]

The V8 is doable with modern tech anyway. EcoBoost, cylinder deactivation, ancillaries that only run off the throttle to reduce load, stop-start and all that sort of stuff would probably grab a fair few mpg here and there, and keep the symbolic V8 for another generation or so.

Quit with the stereotyping though. I'm one of those "Eco weenies", but I just happen to like V8s too. There's nothing wrong with what Joey is saying, nor the way he's saying it, but people have different opinions. He's right - Ford would be in a whole heap of trouble if they were selling an inefficient car in a market with $6/gallon gas. Or god forbid, $8+ - anyone surprised that Ford doesn't import the Mustang to the UK? It's not because they wouldn't want to if the option was there...

 

[Blackbird.]

Well I'm glad I bought mine when i did if the EVOS is anything to go by.

 

[niky]

I don't know... it doesn't look half bad.

Obviously, the headlights have to change. It's really the top that should have the strong horizontal line, not the other way around. But otherwise, it's not bad.

Until the current generation, there was no hard and fast rule stating that the Mustang had to be slavishly retro. I mean, sure, it had to have lots of useless wings, non-functional scoops, shaker-hood ornaments and the like, but it didn't have to be slavishly retro.

That said, I quite liked the design when it came out, but it's about time the Mustang evolved. If it can keep even a moderately aggressive face while ditching the barn-door aerodynamics (and the hood flapping shenanigans that causes), all the better!