Ford recently confirmed that the carmaker will build its upcoming 7th-generation Mustang at its Flat Rock Assembly Plant in Michigan. Interestingly, Ford also gave us a small teaser at the time of the announcement. The American carmaker published an interesting image. The image shows the Mustang logo and ‘7th Generation’. However, Ford replaced the ‘O’ with a 6-speed shift pattern. Hence, Ford could be suggesting that the 7th-generation of its famous pony car could come with a manual transmission.
Although, the teaser must be taken with a pinch of salt as there is still no confirmation from Ford regarding the same. However, the teaser does hint at the availability of the transmission option. There are a number of manufacturers switching completely to automatic transmissions. Despite this, there are still some that also offer a manual transmission. Automakers such as Nissan and Toyota offer a manual gearbox with the latest Z and Supra.
7th Generation Ford Mustang – What Do We Know So Far?
Firstly, the 7th generation Mustang will mark the end of the pure ICE-powered Mustang. This is because the new Mustang will reportedly get a hybrid powertrain. Hence, a manual transmission will also be a relief to enthusiasts even if it gets a hybrid powertrain. Sources suggest Ford will get hybrid versions of its 2.3-litre 4-cylinder EcoBoost and 5.0-litre V8. Back in 2018, Ford also said the Mustang Hybrid would deliver a V8-like performance. Additionally, Ford also said the Mustang Hybrid would deliver more bottom-end torque than the V8.
Currently, the 2.3-litre 4-cylinder EcoBoost in the Mustang makes 310 HP and 475 Nm of torque. At the same time, the High-Performance Pack boosts the power to 330 HP. Torque remains the same. As for the larger 5.0-litre V8, it makes 450 HP and 570 Nm of torque. The same engine in the Mach 1 makes 20 HP more but 15 Nm less torque.
It remains to be seen if Ford decides to offer a manual gearbox for certain models or with a hybrid version. However, the wait won’t be short, as Ford won’t be unveiling the new Mustang before spring 2023.
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