Much has been made of how the upcoming 2015 Ford Mustang was designed for global tastes. It's got a potent and apparently fuel-sipping turbocharged four-cylinder engine, an independent rear suspension for your handling pleasure, and it's added a more global style. But could it go even further with a diesel or a hybrid?
That's the speculation raised on the heels of an interview with Mustang powertrain chief Bob Fascetti on the Australian website GoAuto. Here's what he said:
Speaking to GoAuto at the global unveiling of the sixth all-new iteration in 49 years, global powertrain boss Bob Fascetti revealed that Ford is exploring a number of alternatives for the iconic Pony Car.
“We’re not looking at diesel at the moment, but given where we need to go with fuel consumption we are looking at all our options,” he revealed.
“And diesel is one of those options, along with hybrids and electric.”
So Fascetti says a diesel (or whatever) Mustang isn't in the pipeline right now, but it's something they're considering moving forward. Honestly, this sounds to me more like your standard issue car executive "Well, anything is possible" response rather than a definitive product plan.
At the same time, Fascetti had good news for enthusiasts, saying that the Mustang's 5.0-liter V8 should be sticking around for some time.
Asked if the V8 will be able to comply with pollution reduction requirements in the future, Mr Fascetti said the current engine family has been future-proofed to a large extent.
“We can meet emissions with the 5.0 – that’s not an issue. As long as we can meet the demands of what every new Mustang requires, the V8 will be around for a while.
“We never thought we’d be getting the numbers we’re getting out of this engine now, even three years ago, so we think the 5.0 still has some life in it yet. And we won’t need to (provide forced-induction versions) while we’re still providing the kind of numbers (that the V8 is achieving).”
But I have to wonder if anyone would want to buy a diesel or hybrid or electric Mustang. All of those options seem counter to the car's spirit and heritage — even a high performance, Porsche 918-style hybrid system feels inappropriate on Ford's pony car to me. Who is the customer supposed to be here, anyway?
Hey, I like my Mustangs green too, but usually only when they're driven by a guy named Frank Bullitt. Do you think a diesel or hybrid Mustang is a good idea?
Would Anyone Buy A Diesel Or Hybrid Mustang?