New muscle in Bahrain

Muscle goes modern for 2010 as the Ford Mustang - described as America's favourite muscle car for 45 years straight - hits the streets of Bahrain.

Ford along with Almoayyed Motors, the Ford, Lincoln and Mercury importer-dealer in the kingdom, are celebrating the arrival of the 2010 Mustang boasting a new exterior design featuring well-crafted materials with updated technology and a V-8 engine with even more horsepower and an even throatier signature Mustang exhaust roar.

"Combine those elements with the new Mustang's improved handling characteristics, more standard safety and technology features and its already-strong safety and quality performance and reputation, and it's easy to see how the muscle car known around the world delivers on the promise of fast, fun and affordable performance for a whole new era," the company proclaims.

Theo Benson, Ford Middle East's marketing communications and product manager, said: "Mustang is a true legend and there are more than nine million customers across the world that can attest to this fact. The strength of this steed comes from its 45-year rich heritage, coupled with the passion that fuels Mustang lovers whatever background they came from.

"That spirit is even stronger this year as Ford's muscle car turns 45 with even more refinements and amazing looks that promise to drop a few jaws" he added.

Venkatesh Goud, general manager of Almoayyed Motors added: "We are thrilled about offering the latest version of the legendary Mustang here. It has always been a popular choice for drivers in Bahrain.

"The Mustang holds such a great heritage and following, and we are proud to add the latest version of the muscle car to our extensive line up."

In true Mustang tradition, there is a 'steed for every need'. Customers can choose from a choice of coupe, convertible or innovative glass roof, plus several new options and features delivering the opportunity for customers to personalise their Mustangs.

It starts with the more aggressive grille, punctuated with the first new Mustang emblem since the car's introduction in 1964.

The headlamps and turn indicators, now integrated into one unit, are modern interpretations inspired by the 1970 Mustang. The fog lamps on the GT are located in the upper grille but are smaller than the outgoing model, similar to the original lamps of the 1967-68 models that inspired them.

The exterior sheet metal, except for the fast-back roofline, is all new for 2010. At the front, the new headlamps, lower fascias, fenders and grille are capped by a power-dome hood that adds to the muscular appearance while functionally allowing for enhanced air cooling of the engine.

Front rear fenders feature taut, sculptured wheel flares, like a tight skin stretched over the wheels. A classic spear character line on the doors leads to a modern indication of "hip" rear fenders which helps give the car aggressive, forward direction.

The rear end design features aggressively angled rear corners, a sculptured decklid and prominent rear badge. A rear-view camera built into the spoiler is available on some models.

A notable new tail lamp design features three LED bulbs firing sequentially from the inside for turn indication.

"The new Mustang marks new levels of both power and refinement," said Paul Randle, Mustang chief engineer. "We've designed and engineered this to be the next classic Mustang that everyone talks about for years and years."

Cleverly combining modern technology with Mustang heritage is a signature of the 2010 model, in terms of both design and engineering.

The 2010 Mustang 4.6-liter V-8 benefits from innovations from the popular Bullitt model.

"All of the Bullitt elements are the base foundation of the GT," said Mr Randle, noting engine and chassis improvements.

"We also applied some improvements gained from Mustang racing. We're learning constantly and always giving that to the customer on the base car."