Fresh for the 2015 model year, Ford is establishing new and incredibly different variants of two popular customizable vehicles; the F-150 and Mustang. Ford has increased their coverage but for the 2015 SEMA show, they turned up the heat bringing a new stable of modifiable options and trims for their two breadwinners.
The Blue Oval has promised a “stampede” of modified Ford Mustangs that feature the crazy over-the-top performance modifications most commonly found at the SEMA show. And I think it’s fair to say that they succeeded on many different levels at this year’s SEMA show.
While it’s still relatively early to determine whether or not the completely redesigned 2015 Ford Mustang will win with the bean counters, but it’s definitely won over the hearts of enthusiasts everywhere. For the third consecutive year, Ford Wins SEMA as the Ford Mustang took home the “Hottest Car” honors at the annual SEMA show in Sin city, beating out it’s long time nemesis the Chevrolet Camaro.
The “Hottest Car” award is usually referred to as the SEMA Award, and it’s awarded to the vehicle or automotive make that the majority of available aftermarket tuners at the show. While there’s no official assessing involved, official tallies of parts exhibited by the more than 2, 500 tuners tells the tale of the tape at SEMA.
The SEMA Show this year headlined many Mustangs that were strapped to the teeth with a host of latest modifiable bits, all on display for Ford fans attending the show. Ford themselves unveiled a supercharger kit co-developed together with legendary tuner Roush in addition to the King Cobra drag-racing package. Leading the way was the huge Ford offering of Mustang’s that were highlighted by the Richard Petty show car that led to us saying “Ford Wins SEMA …. again”
Known as the RTR package, the sixth generation Ford Mustang was officially unveiled at the 2014 SEMA Show, along with the car’s subtle and aggressive styling that won over many show attendees. Developed throughout and using feedback provided by drifter Vaughn Gittin Jr., the RTR is offered with two distinct stages.
The Stage 1 Package includes the cosmetic modifications, much like the older Roush trims found in the mid 90s Ford Mustangs. These additional mods include downforce improving elements and wings, along with a rear diffuser with side splitters, and a custom front grille. Rim choices and special paint options along with pinstriping is also available in this basic Ford package.
Ford’s Stage 2 package is where the bang for your buck checks in, with upgrades like multi level adjustible rebound dampers, larger sway bars, and a lowered aggressive stance. RTR cold air intake, Magnaflow exhaust, and a supercharger turns up the performance wick.
Performance enhancements may be applied to help the V6 versions, which is a 2.3 liter EcoBoost although most Mustang fans will opt for the 5.0 liter V8. Performance packages using this supercharger unit can push horsepower well into the 800 horsepower range.
The trim we saw at the 2014 SEMA Show is the 600+ horsepower version that’s pretty darn close to the 662 claimed horsepower generated by the Shelby Mustang GT500. Ford reports that this kit is due for release later this calendar year at select dealerships, and licensed as retailers for Ford Racing and Roush.
Because it’s designed as a true turnkey solution, it takes a lot of the complication out of the equation for owners. That it comes with everything you need for proper install and tuning, Ford Racing ensures maximum performance and reliability because of the extensive calibration and testing done at Ford’s internal test facility.
Both the Mustang and F-150 won in the relative classes and categories last year, and nothing has changed for 2014. Ford continues to take an aggressive stance towards redesigning and rebranding their brand and image, although there has been a few speed bumps along the way.
Some of the more controversial features that have come under fire, include the downsizing of the Ecoboost engine, standard independent rear end suspension, just to name a few. But these speed bumps have been less a problem as the Ford Racing plan continues to march on.
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