Ford introduces factory approved Mustang performance packs

FORD Mustang owners and buyers looking to flex more muscle can now order factory approved performance packs through authorised Ford dealerships.

Ford Australia’s entry into the Mustang aftermarket means you can now roll a manual V8 GT Fastback straight out of the showroom complete with track-ready handling, lower ride, shorter shifting gearbox and performance exhaust system for a brassier soundtrack.

The FR3-M9 Track Handling Pack was developed by Ford Performance to take advantage of the fastback Mustang’s performance-focussed underpinnings using all-new bespoke parts to create a more formidable track-day performer without compromising daily drivability. The $4130 setup includes lower coil-springs, assembled front struts, upper strut mounts, rear shocks, sway bars, rear toe links and toe-to-knuckle bearings.

If you don’t want the full handling back but like your arse closer to the ground, you can choose street lowering springs that reduce ride height by a full inch for $1260. The coils are offered in striking blue or a gloss black finish, and you can add matching coloured spring covers for some extra engine bay bling for another $222.

Exclusive to the 5.0-litre V8 GT models, the ‘Cat-Back’ performance exhaust pack costs $3854 and features a mandrel-bent stainless steel 2.5-inch pipe integrated to the factory exhaust from the catalytic-converter back to add decibels to the 5.0-litre Coyote V8 bark. It’s also a treat for the eyes with a 4.0-inch exhaust tips finished in a choice of chrome, or ‘sinister black’ to match the Pony’s rear diffuser.

For another $805 you can add a short-throw shift-kit for the six-speed manual Mustang with Ford Performance gear knob that reduces throw distance by 19 percent for swifter gear changes.

When fitted to a new vehicle at an authorised Ford dealership, the packs and parts are covered by the Mustang’s three-year/100,000km warranty along with the car itself, while mods to existing cars are covered for 12-months/20,000km.

Ford Australia boss Graeme Whickman said the company has responded to “massive demand for factory-approved, fully-warranted performance parts for Australian Mustang owners”.

“This is the first time in Mustang’s five-decade history that an Australian consumer can take delivery of this iconic performance car with a full suite of upgrades straight off the showroom floor,” said Whickman.

“Even better, the benefit of these upgrades not only gives new Mustang buyers a chance to customize their own vehicle, but also extends to existing owners, who can have their local dealer fit any or all of these components to their own taste and desires.”

2