Mustang-like Sedan? Concept car may have a chance for production
Just some interesting stories I wanted you guys to see
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Mainstream Mustangs
Sedan and wagon models to join coupe as Ford builds on pony car’s strong brand
By GREG KABLE AND BOB GRITZINGER
AutoWeek | Published 12/13/06, 3:12 pm et
Ford’s iconic Mustang is poised to play a crucial role in Ford’s future by expanding beyond its traditional role as a single performance figurehead into a complete range of global models. And the company’s Australian arm looks like the source for all the necessary hardware.
In a secret product planning meeting last fall, key Ford executives discussed a bold strategy to take the legendary Mustang mainstream. Ideas include both sedan and wagon variants of America’s original muscle car, with those cars joining the traditional coupe when the sixth-generation Mustang arrives in U.S. showrooms in 2011, AutoWeek sources say.
Ford quashes AutoWeek’s ’Stang sedan report, announces Mustang-based sedan concept for Detroit
By BOB GRITZINGER
AutoWeek | Published 12/15/06, 3:32 pm et
Ford officials have “categorically” denied plans to build a sedan or wagon version of the iconic Mustang, but at the same time confirmed that the Dearborn automaker will show a Mustang-based, rear-drive, four-door concept at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January.
AutoWeek reported in its Dec. 18 issue and on autoweek.com that Ford product planners last fall met to discuss ways to take the Mustang mainstream and global, possibly by expanding the lineup to include sedan or wagon variants.
In a release issued Dec. 15, Ford said the company has no plans to expand the Mustang line. The release stated:
“Ford Motor Company today made clear that recent media speculation concerning an expanded Mustang line—including a sedan and wagon model to be sold in global markets—is not true. Mustang is an icon and will continue in its current form: a unique, two-door, rear-wheel drive, 2+2 performance car.
“At the 2007 North American International Auto Show, Ford will unveil a four-door, rear-wheel-drive concept car. The concept, known as ‘The Interceptor,’ is based on the Mustang’s rear-wheel-drive architecture but it is not a Mustang and no production plans have been announced. Additional information on the Ford rear-drive concept will be available Dec. 31, 2006.”
AutoWeek stands by its sources who say Ford is developing various models from the sixth-generation Mustang platform, due in 2011. Those sources suggest a four-door Mustang would be a strong option, especially in the global marketplace. Other options include a four-door Lincoln with independent rear suspension and a twin-turbo V6, which is rumored for a debut at the Detroit show along with the Interceptor