2012 Mustang Overview
06/22/2011
Ford
For 2012, Ford Mustang's American style is combined with powerful engines delivering outstanding fuel economy across the lineup. It also puts the driving experience in the customer's hands with new selectable steering.
"Mustang made a statement last year with the new engines and improved fuel economy," said Jim Owens, Mustang marketing manager. "This year, we are giving our customers features that put them more in control of their driving experience and expand their storage options in the visor."
The 2012 Mustang offers customers selectable steering that tailors the driving experience to fit their needs. With a choice of three settings, the feature allows the customer to select the steering effort, depending on his or her style of driving.
Sport mode provides the most road force felt through the steering wheel and requires the highest level of steering effort, allowing the driver to be more in tune with how the vehicle reacts to the road. Comfort mode provides the least amount of road force felt through the steering wheel and requires the least amount of steering effort, which is ideal for long, relaxing drives.
A standard mode also is available and is a balance between the comfort and sport settings. The settings are accessed and programmed through the message center.
Also new for 2012 are illuminated dual visor vanity mirrors, a universal garage door opener and multipurpose sun visor storage. A new color, Lava Red Metallic, also is available in limited quantities. It comes with a unique Lava Red with black interior and Lava Red color-keyed door and seat inserts.
Two new optional packages, the Reverse Sensing System and Security Package and HID Headlamps and Security Package, also debut for 2012.
Powerful and fuel-efficient
The Mustang V6 is not only the most fuel-efficient Mustang ever, but also the first production car in history to produce 305 horsepower and 31 mpg on the highway, a combination no other car can match. Fuel economy figures for the Mustang V6 are:
19 mpg city and 31 mpg highway with six-speed automatic transmission, a 30 percent improvement from the 2010 model on the highway
19 mpg city and 29 mpg highway with six-speed manual transmission
Refinements throughout Mustang's body, powertrain and chassis design contribute to the improved fuel economy numbers. Examples include:
The new EPAS system, which eliminates the drag of an engine-operated hydraulic power steering pump
Six-speed transmissions that allow lower cruising revs without sacrificing off-the-line performance
Aerodynamic improvements such as a new front fascia, a taller air dam and added rear decklid seal
The 2012 Ford Mustang GT, powered by a 412-horsepower 5.0-liter V8 engine, achieves an EPA rating of 26 mpg on the highway when equipped with the six-speed manual transmission, giving it the best fuel economy in its class.
With the six-speed manual, the Mustang GT coupe is rated at 17 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, while models with the available six-speed automatic achieve 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.
Mustang GT is powered by an all-new 5.0-liter DOHC V8 with a host of advanced features to deliver the combination of power and class-leading fuel economy.
Twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) adjusts the valvetrain in microseconds depending on driver inputs. A carefully tuned intake and exhaust system ensures free breathing at all engine speeds. And all-aluminum construction results in a lightweight yet durable engine.
Quality fit and structure
Additional lightweight soundproofing helps filter unpleasant noises, while a tuned intake and dual exhaust add the sounds Mustang buyers relish. Occupants also benefit from new door seals and a rear wheel arch liner that reduce road noise for a quieter, more enjoyable drive.
A one-piece instrument panel is designed to further improve interior sound quality.
The convertible model features enhanced structural rigidity, with lateral stiffness improved by 12 percent versus the 2010 model.
Taking convenience and safety one step further
State-of-the-art technology adds to the convenience and safety of the 2012 Mustang, from the availability of Ford SYNC(R), with applications such as Traffic, Directions and Information, 911 Assist(TM) and Vehicle Health Report, to standard AdvanceTrac(R) electronic stability control, which complements the all-speed traction control and standard ABS.
Additional standard safety equipment includes the Personal Safety System(TM), which features dual-stage driver and front passenger airbags, seat belt pretensioners and Belt-Minder(R).
Ford's MyKey(R) system, designed to encourage safer teen driving and safety belt use, also is available on Mustang. MyKey allows owners to program the vehicle key using the driver's message center to incorporate features such as limited top vehicle speed and audio volume, a traction control system that cannot be deactivated, persistent Belt-Minder and various speed alert chimes.
Production location
The 2012 Ford Mustang is built at the AutoAlliance International Plant in Flat Rock, Mich.