Ford has given up on most (if not all) of their passenger cars (especially sedans), except for one—the Mustang. This pony car has managed to stay alive in the last five decades because of its good looks, great performance, and amazing value for money.

The current sixth-generation model may still be received well in markets where it is sold. However, the car is starting to show its age. And just when we thought that Ford had focused solely on crossovers and electrification, the American carmaker, out of nowhere, launched the latest Mustang.

The new car looks quite different yet very familiar. Ford has managed to keep most of the Mustang’s signature design cues. Yet simple mods like a restyle bumper, edgier tri-bar headlamps, and more aggressive-looking hood make the car look stylish and intimidating at the same time. Especially the EcoBoost models.

The same goes for the sides. Gone are the creases on the doors, while the wheel arches are more pronounced. Several 17- and 18-inch wheel designs are available, depending on the variant you are getting. At the back, the three-element taillamps, the bumper, and the diffuser have been modernized, which will age quite well.

There will still be coupe and top-down versions, and the car will be available in 11 colors. There is also a special Mustang Design Series, which provides customization options, while a Bronze Design Series appearance package comes with Sinister Bronze rims and badges.

The interior is the most futuristic-looking part. A D-shaped tiller looks good to touch. Behind that is a huge, 12.4-inch fully digital instrument cluster, which sits on a panel that it shares with the infotainment screen. This gives a seamless look to those two displays.

Additionally, with the use of the same Unreal Engine 3D creation tool, it seems like the screen is lifted straight off a video game. The choice of different materials with varying textures is tastefully done.

Engine choices remain the same, albeit tweaked for better performance. A 5.0-liter Coyote V8 has a dual air-intake box and dual throttle bodies, allowing for optimum airflow. This configuration can be had with a 10-speed automatic transmission. But those who like to row through the gears themselves can let out a sigh of relief as the six-speed manual with rev-matching tech is still available.

Purists might think that using a four-pot motor is sacrilege, but the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine still offers a lot of oomph with better fuel efficiency. If you want more power for your pony, a Performance pack is available. This includes a front tower brace, Torsen limited-slip differential, optional MagneRide active suspension, wider wheels and tires, and Brembo brakes.

Brake ducts and a standard auxiliary engine oil cooler are added when you get the GT Performance Pack. Finally, there are also available active exhaust systems and Recaro seats. The new Mustang has an electronic drift brake that lets you enjoy the convenience and aesthetic benefits of an electronic parking brake and the functionality of the mechanical type.

Completing the long list of standard equipment are driver aids like the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite. This includes speed-sign recognition, adaptive cruise control with a stop-and-go feature, lane-centering assist, evasive steer assist, and reverse brake assist. The Performance Package even comes with active pothole mitigation that adjusts the suspension response.

Customers in the US can get their hands on the new Mustang as early as the second half of 2023.