2018 Ford Mustang update scores styling, tech and drivetrain upgrades

Ford has detailed the Mustang's mid-life update – featuring styling changes, drivetrain upgrades and new technology – ahead of its 2018 release in Australia.

Debuting in California last night, the revised exterior styling includes new-look LED headlights, redesigned LED tail-lights, fresh lower bonnet and grille design, blacked out rear diffuser, quad-tip exhaust for V8 GT models and an optional performance spoiler.

Orange Fury debuts as a new exterior paint colour option, as well as a dozen unique alloy wheel designs for customers to choose from.

Powertrain updates include an increase of torque for the 2.3-litre four-cylinder EcoBoost engine, according to Ford, but output figures for the "thoroughly reworked" 5.0-litre V8 have not been divulged as yet.

The V8 engine will have a higher rev limit and offer more power courtesy of new dual-fuel, high-pressure direct injection and low-pressure port fuel injection, which also increases fuel efficiency and low-end torque, says the manufacturer.

Prior to the facelift the V8 GT churned out 303kW of power and 525Nm of torque, whereas EcoBoost variants had 233kW/432Nm.

Ford has confirmed a new 10-speed automatic transmission will replace the old six-speed unit and have faster shift times, offer higher average power for quicker acceleration, lower frictional losses and various unique driving modes.

The six-speed manual gearbox also receives an update for both engine options, with V8 versions receiving a dual-mass flywheel and twin-disc clutch that improves torque capability and clutch modulation.

All Mustang variants have suspension improvements extending to new shock absorbers, upgraded anti-roll bars and a new cross-axis joint in the rear suspension.

A magnetic damper system dubbed 'MagneRide' will be offered by Ford as an option, as well as an active valve exhaust system for GT owners that allows the exhaust note and volume to be altered.

The Mustang will be the first Ford model in Australia to offer an all-LED digital instrument cluster that recently debuted in the Ford GT supercar.

A 12.0-inch display allows the driver to customise their instrument panel by selecting between track, sport and normal modes.

Interior changes also extend to updated seat upholstery colours and patterns, an optional heated steering wheel, a hand-stitched wrap for the centre console with contrasting stitching, padded knee bolsters and aluminium finishes for the door handles, rings and bezels.

Customers already on the Mustang waiting list were not expected to delay their orders for the upgraded model.

The 2018 model debuts a range of new driver safety aids, including lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, distance alert, driver alerts and pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection.

Ford's 'SYNC3' multimedia system carries over from the previous model, but now features Mustang 'MyMode' memory function where drivers can input their favourite preferences for suspension and steering settings.

The Australian Mustang range will continue with V8 and EcoBoost engines in the coupe and convertible bodystyles, but a hybrid variant with EcoBoost power will likely arrive at some stage in this model's lifecycle.

Since the arrival of the current model, three quarters of Australian buyers have opted for the GT, with current waiting lists stretching to six months, compared with three to four months for the EcoBoost range.

Ford Australia product communications manager Damion Smy said customers already on the Mustang waiting list were not expected to delay their orders for the upgraded model.

"The inherent design and style of the Mustang is still there," he said. "I think the people who have been waiting for the chance to have their Mustang experience will still absolutely want to have that experience, especially with these waiting lists – they'll be keen to get their Mustang and put it in their driveway as soon as they can."

2016 was the first full year on sale for the Mustang range in Australia, which posted 6208 sales, becoming the hottest-selling sportscar under $80,000, followed some distance behind by the Hyundai Veloster with 2232 and BMW 2 Series with 2159.

Last year it was also the fourth-best overall seller for Ford in Australia, behind the Ranger ute (36,934), Territory (6928) and Focus (6783).

Are you already on the waiting list for a Mustang and will this update affect your purchase? Let us know in the comments below.