New Mustang to go four-wheel drive with hybrid V8

This means such a model would have four-wheel drive, with electric-only power heading to the front axle and, in performance driving, stepping into play when the car’s rear wheels lose traction. The system could offer torque vectoring, too.

In more eco-minded modes, that same set-up would allow the engine to be shut off in situations with low power demand and high battery charge, boosting efficiency. A similar powertrain concept is used in the recently launched Ford Explorer Hybrid in the US.

A likely factor in the decision to go hybrid is Ford’s intention to base the next Mustang on the same CD6 platform as the Explorer SUV and its sibling, the Lincoln Aviator. In 2018, the company announced it was streamlining its platform line-up with five highly modular underpinnings, including one to cover all rear-wheel-drive/ four-wheel-drive unibody-construction cars (such as the new Explorer and next Mustang, among others).

However, it remains to be seen whether Ford will offer alongside the hybrid a cheaper, non-hybrid V8 option and a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, as are available today.

Ford recently dropped automatic versions of the four-pot Ecoboost Mustang in the UK due to their low efficiency. It’s also unlikely that a traditional V8 without some form of electrification would continue in Europe, given the need to meet stringent fleet average emissions targets.

As for the new Mustang’s design, we’re expecting it to stray not too far from the formula so well loved by its customer base. The muscle car’s shape has gently evolved over the decades and, given the Mach-E takes inspiration from today’s Mustang and will be on sale alongside the new car, it should be recognisable, albeit with a more modernist approach to the detailing. However, we’ve yet to see any disguised test mules to give us a clear indication of its shape.

It’s likely that a convertible version will again appear, despite some makers moving away from that market, because the drop-top still makes up a significant proportion of Mustang sales.

Inside, expect the Mustang to be more driver-focused than the tech-heavy and space-maximised Mach-E.

The infotainment and driver assistance systems on that car are expected to be moderated for their introduction in the Mustang.

The four-seat layout should continue largely as it is today, with engineering developments ensuring the hybrid system has a minimal effect on interior space.

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