The Pony Car Meets the Exped: All-New Ford Mustang and Expedition Debut at MIAS 2018

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April 5, 2018

The company’s largest Sport Utility Vehicle and its most iconic model took center stage at the Manila International Auto show 2018. We refer to Ford Philippines, which today unveiled the latest-generation Expedition and the new Mustang, respectively at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

The all-new Mustang arrives in the country with a mix of heritage and technology. The heritage part comes from the design, which is unmistakably Mustang—from the overall profile to the light signatures, especially the tri-bar LEDS taillights. The front end gets LED headlamps and foglights.

Then there are the rear diffuser that acts like a wake modifier, along with the front spoiler. Both help improve the Mustang’s aerodynamic efficiency and provide greater stability and efficiency.

Just like the exterior, the cabin gets a load of tech such as acoustic windshield, as awelll as a large 12-inch LCD display. The latter allows drivers to manipulate various vehicle functions at the press of a touchscreen.

At the heart of the new Mustang is an updated 5.0-liter V8 or a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder turbocharged mil. The former delivers 460hp and 569Nm of torque. It can be mated to either a class-leading 10-speed automatic with paddle shifters or a 6-speed manual gearbox.

The latter, on the other hand, is still a potent lump with 310 horses and 475Nm. it is paired exclusively with the 10-speed clutchless gearbox.

Speaking of heritage meeting tech, Ford is bringing back the Mustang Convertible—a icon of sorts for the Pony Car faithful. This allows owners the open-air freedom while still being able to enjoy all the Mustang goodness.

Either way, one will get goodies like Magneride Damping system, and the Active Valve Performance Exhaust that allows one to choose between four exhaust notes—Quiet, Normal, Sport, or Track. Both technologies, taken straight from the Shelby GT350, blend nicely with stuff like the latest in safety tech (Blind Spot Information System, Lane Keep Assist), and the TrackApp that lets one record and review one’s performance on track.

The Ford Mustang will be available in four variants:

  • 2.3L EcoBoost 10AT Fastback: P2,798,000
  • 5.0L GT 10AT Fastback: P3,478,000
  • 5.0L GT 6MT Convertible: P3,578,000
  • 5.0L GT 10AT Convertible: P3,678,000

As if the Mustang wasn’t enough, Ford also took the wraps off the all-new Expedition. The latest-gen full-size SUV now sports a fully-redesigned all-aluminum body that gives it a more premium feel. It likewise boasts of a more lightweight yet robust frame.

Inside, eight passengers can ride in comfort and luxury with upscale features that keep them entertained and connected while on the move. Ford has even thrown in the SYNC3 infotainment system with navigation that allows everyone to sync their devices to stay “wired” while on the go. There is even wireless phone charging to help top up when running on empty.

The new Expedition is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 with EcoBoost turbo tech. It packs 375hp and 637Nm of torque. Mated to a 10-speed SelectShift automatic, the new engine boasts Auto Start/Stop to aid in fuel efficiency. Apart from this, drivers can choose from various drive settings using the Driver-Selectable Terrain Management System. This one lets them toggle between Normal, Sport, Tow/Haul, and EcoSelect. There is even a 4WD option that can go between seven preset modes: Normal, Sport, Tow.Haul, EcoSelect, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Sand, and Mud/Rut.

The all-new Ford Expedition is priced between P4,258,000 and P4,358,000

Photos: Paolo Lesaca

About the Author

Mr. Gerard Jude Castillo
Gerard has been a self-confessed car nut ever since he was a little boy. As a grown-up, he indulges in his passion by collecting toy cars (which he started since childhood) and reading up on the latest cars out there.  As Associate Editor, he will ensure that you get your fill of the latest cars in the market, as well as a load of automotive features.