For years now, rumors have suggested that the next-generation S650 Ford Mustang may be available with all-wheel drive. Such an offering would certainly make sense given the immense popularity of four-wheel-driven vehicles in recent years, as well as the fact that the pony car’s rival – the Dodge Challenger – already offers AWD as an option, while its other rival – the Chevy Camaro – does not, though both are reportedly facing discontinuation over the next couple of years. However, sources have now told Ford Authority that the S650 Mustang will not offer any type of all-wheel drive system.
This is a somewhat surprising development, but completely understandable as the S650 Mustang isn’t expected to represent a massive departure from the current, S550-generation pony car. Of course, Ford’s plans can always change, but for now, we do know a few things about the forthcoming S650. Previously expected to launch for the 2023 model year, the S650 will reportedly enter production next year for the 2024 model year, a detail that was recently confirmed by Ford’s vehicle director for icons and Ford Performance, Ali Jammoul.
While the next-gen Mustang won’t be available with all-wheel drive, two hybrid powertrain options could possibly be in the works – electrified versions of Ford’s 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 and 5.0L Coyote V8. As Ford Authority exclusively reported last month, the next-gen Mustang will feature a flat-bottom steering wheel, too.
Ford Authority spies have spotted a number of next-gen Mustang prototypes out driving around in recent months, including a likely base model, a GT variant making some rumbly V8 noises, and a possible Mach 1 or higher-performance variant. The S650 Mustang will continue to be built at the Ford Flat Rock Assembly Plant and is expected to have an eight-year life cycle, as Ford Authority reported last August.
We’ll have more on the S650 Ford Mustang soon, so be sure and subscribe to Ford Authority for more Ford Mustang news and 24/7 Ford news coverage.
Comments
I believe the S650 test mules are showing very little of the new body outlines, but are testing drive trains, possibly coolers and other mechanical parts. Ford is extremely tight lipped about the S650 and I’m guessing body and interior designs are still being developed, thus the potential delayed introduction. Looking at the test mules interior. It appears that a Bullet or at least a bullet steering wheel was being used under that camo. There may be some front end design elements like new headlights or new grill opening for appearance and cooling. but otherwise. I think Ford is baiting those following the camo covered Mustangs. One thing Ford cannot do is screw up their only car in the US and what I consider their Hallo vehicle. Remember that using the Explorer frame. Ford should have the ability to increase the Mustang’s size even making a 4-door version.
The delay is somewhat surprising, and disappointing, given that Ford is not making any real improvements! How long does it take to install a flat bottom steering wheel rather than a round one?!
Ford needs to add the v6 ecoboost to the mustang. Dont just stop at a 4 cylinder and 8 cylinder throw in the v6 ecoboost.
No. Not needed at all.
No problem at all with this. I think AWD is wanted by those who live in cold winter climates where it really is useful perhaps? I’m in Australia, it never snows. Mustang has always been a RWD performance car and should remain so until it goes EV IMO.
I’d want it more for street traction with High Horsepower. No winter driving ever.
I’ve got to say that I’m disappointed by this report. Sure the interior will be updated to conform to the expectations of casual Mustang fans, and the body will probably see some tweaks here and there. Engines are news worthy to me ONLY if they help to produce more bhp and torque. But for me, the most disheartening news is that there will not be an AWD option. The reason the Charger is failing with their AWD version because it is only offered in their V6 models. Camaros are not selling because they never created a niche for it within the market. That’s why Ford needs to look at the 2024 model year as an opportunity to take the street cred to the next level and improve not only the power, but the handling as well. The GT 500 gets beat off the line of any drag I see where it is not on a formatted drag strip, and even then it loses to AWD vehicles off the line. I just don’t get why Ford is so set on giving Mustang fans the “same ol’ same ol’” with just a few tweaks. This is why Mustang numbers dropped prior to 2005 and again prior to 2015. You would think Ford would’ve learned their lesson by now. But alas, I am left with dreams of what could’ve been. [Soapbox OFF]
Sucks…I’d love a mustang but living in a snowy climate state, I’d never even consider a rwd vehicle,.