Ford continues to refine its legendary Mustang lineup with the debut of the updated 2013 model range at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show. While an all-new generation looms on the horizon ahead of the Mustang’s 50th anniversary, Ford proves there’s still plenty of excitement left in the current pony car.
According to Mustang chief engineer Dave Pericak, the goal for 2013 was to build upon the strengths of the existing platform by improving refinement, styling, and performance across the lineup.
The 2013 Mustang receives a noticeably more aggressive appearance, highlighted by a larger grille, revised front splitter, and body-colored rocker panels. At the rear, a gloss-black trim panel now links the taillights, which also gain a smoked finish for a more modern look.
Lighting technology has been upgraded as well, with HID headlights now standard on both V6 and GT models. LED accents have also been added front and rear to give the Mustang a sharper visual signature. Wheel choices range from 17 inches on base V6 trims up to 19-inch performance wheels on upgraded models.
One of the more unique additions is a new pony projection feature integrated into the side mirrors. When the vehicle is unlocked, the Mustang emblem is projected onto the ground beside the car. Ford also expands the color palette with two fresh paint options: Deep Impact Blue and the bold Gotta Have It Green.
Inside the cabin, buyers can now equip the Mustang with Recaro sport seats borrowed from the Boss 302 and Shelby GT500. A new 4.2-inch LCD screen in the instrument cluster introduces Ford’s Track Apps system, which provides factory-integrated performance data including acceleration times, braking measurements, and g-force readings.
Under the hood, the standard 3.7-liter V6 continues to produce 305 horsepower, while the Mustang GT’s 5.0-liter V8 receives a bump to 420 horsepower.
Ford also adds SelectShift capability to all automatic Mustangs, giving drivers manual-style gear control. Manual transmission models gain hill start assist technology, which temporarily holds brake pressure on inclines to prevent rollback during launches.
Performance enthusiasts can opt for the new GT Track Package available on manual-transmission Mustang GT models equipped with a 3.73 rear axle. The package adds an engine oil cooler, upgraded radiator, high-performance brake pads, and the same Torsen differential found in the Boss 302. It also includes Brembo brakes with 14-inch vented front rotors, unique 19-inch wheels, and summer performance tires.
The refreshed 2013 Mustang lineup, including the high-performance Boss 302 and Shelby GT500 variants, officially makes its public debut at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show before arriving in dealerships the following spring.
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