Driven: Ford Mustang V8 Dark Horse
Verdict
Power figures and corresponding thunderous (active) exhaust note aside, the standout update to the Mustang package is newfound levels of poise and, dare I say, lightweight precision. This has been achieved via both a reconfigured steering rack that is around 3% quicker than before, but also by manipulation of the role that the brand’s otherwise impressive MagneRide adaptive dampers play.
As it was explained to me, the rear suspension on the Dark Horse has been granted a level of track-focused tautness that would otherwise have compromised the real-world ride quality of the car, were it not for the fact that the adaptive dampers could be re-engineered to compensate for this adjustment.
While I was also fortunate enough to sample the new US-only Handling Package that adds more downforce via a larger front spoiler and boot-mounted wing, together with semi-slick rubber for superior grip levels, even in its standard form, the Dark Horse felt almost nimble in the way it allowed me to manhandle my way around the infield section of the track (video to come).
Based on this experience, as well as an altogether more leisurely road section of our launch route later on in the day, I would suggest that at low speeds the Mustang retains a welcome level of boulevard cruising ability – with an accompanying, unmistakable sense of occasion – yet now offers the kind of dynamic ability that we’ve long been waiting for from this iconic nameplate.
At the home of NASCAR, Ian McLaren was given the keys to the all-new Ford Mustang Dark Horse. A model that will underpin the Blue Oval's newest racing ambitions.
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