2018 Ford Mustang Mid-Cycle Refresh: What’s New?

February 22nd, 2017 by
Orange Ford Mustang driving by the ocean

For 2018, the Ford Mustang received a major makeover under the hood and in styling. The new Coyote V8 engine and 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission system deliver superb performance. The Active Valve Performance Exhaust emphasizes the aggressive character of this powerful muscle car. Standard LED lights and a sculpted hood are some notable changes to the Mustang’s exterior profile. Replacing a traditional instrument cluster, a 12-inch LCD digital display is available in this Ford model.

2018 Ford Mustang Powertrain

The 2018 Ford Mustang is available with the 2.3 L EcoBoost I-4 engine. The twin-scroll turbo engine is capable of dishing out over 300 horsepower. Ford’s engineers decided to eliminate a V6 engine from the powertrain lineup. Nevertheless, the upgraded 5.0 L V8 Coyote engine makes a great addition to the Mustang. Using direct injection, this eight-cylinder engine gives you easy access to lots of torque and power for high-speed cruising. Both the Ecboost and V-8 engines will get a bump in torque for an even more athletic driving feel. If you want to make a loud statement while cruising on the road, then select the optional Active Valve Performance Exhaust on the V-8 that emits a rumbling sound.

Another new feature under the hood of this Ford muscle car is the 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission system. Featuring hydraulic controls, this sophisticated transmission makes it easy to execute progressive shifts in gears. By contrast, previous models were available with a six-speed manual transmission or the six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. The MagneRide Damping System, previously exclusive to the Mustang Shelby GT350, is now available on all trims with a performance package add-on. Linked to multiple sensors, this innovative suspension system can adjust all of the four wheels to improve cornering abilities on curved paths.

2018 Ford Mustang Interior

The most notable new addition to the Ford Mustang’s cockpit is the 12-inch display in the instrument cluster. Using LCD technology, this advanced digital monitor shows an array of parameters in crisp graphics. The speedometer and tachometer are illuminated with a cool blue glow. You can also easily customize the colors that appear on the virtual gauges. Additionally, the configuration of the gauges and other features can be moved around according to your personal preference. The racing-inspired digital display also shows unique data such as the last lap time and average speed.

Featuring a touch screen with a pinch-to-zoom function, the SYNC 3 infotainment system is installed in the Ford Mustang. Apple Car Play and Android Auto are some of the convenient connectivity options in this signature multimedia console. As in previous years, a voice-activated GPS navigation system is integrated into the SYNC 3 suite.

2018 Ford Mustang Exterior

The 2018 Ford Mustang comes with some subtle changes to its exterior design that was already quite stylish based on previous years. The tri-bar LED tail lamps enhance the vehicle’s overall rear appearance. In fact, LED technology is now standard in all of the car’s lighting systems. Additionally, the new quad exhaust system adds some extra aggressive appeal. The lowered hood comes with new sculpted patterns and contours that improve aerodynamic performance. When it comes to the paint options, the Mustang is available with flashy colors such as Kona Blue, Royal Crimson and Orange Fury.


Come to Five Star Automotive to explore all of the new features in the 2018 Ford Mustang. At our dealership, you will also have the chance to take a test drive in this iconic Ford sports car.
Posted in Model Review