Even though the sixth-gen Mustang is scheduled to hit U.S. dealerships this November, the Blue Oval has a new automatic transmission in the works at the present moment, set to replace the outgoing six-speed unit. The new gearbox will take on General Motors' all-new eight-speed 8L90, fitted to the 2015 Corvette Stingray and other LT1/LT4-engined models.
As it happens, Ford has approached General Motors and said "Hey, if you want to use our new 10-speed auto, then could you return the favor with a nine-speed automatic for front-wheel drive vehicles?" This bit of info comes from AutomotiveNews, which also tells that the Blue Oval is considering an efficient turbo diesel engine for the 2015 Ford F-150 pickup.
Think about it: in terms of transmission technology, Ford is a little bit behind Chrysler and General Motors. Both the Ram 1500 and GM's light-duty pickup truck range use eight-speed autos for improved fuel economy and enhanced towing capabilities, while the 2015 Ford F-150 has only six speeds.
A ZF-developed nine-speed automatic is standard on the 2015 Chrysler 200 mid-size luxury sedan and Jeep Cherokee, while the 2015 Dodge Charger and Challenger use an eight-speed. General Motors' halo sports car – the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, gets the previously mentioned Hydra-Matic 8L90 eight-speed auto on the 2015 MY. This unit is likely to equip the 2016 Camaro with the 6.2-liter V8 as well. The Ford Mustang? Just six speeds. Yeah, the Blue Oval needs more cogs to swap in order to remain competitve.
Think about it: in terms of transmission technology, Ford is a little bit behind Chrysler and General Motors. Both the Ram 1500 and GM's light-duty pickup truck range use eight-speed autos for improved fuel economy and enhanced towing capabilities, while the 2015 Ford F-150 has only six speeds.
A ZF-developed nine-speed automatic is standard on the 2015 Chrysler 200 mid-size luxury sedan and Jeep Cherokee, while the 2015 Dodge Charger and Challenger use an eight-speed. General Motors' halo sports car – the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, gets the previously mentioned Hydra-Matic 8L90 eight-speed auto on the 2015 MY. This unit is likely to equip the 2016 Camaro with the 6.2-liter V8 as well. The Ford Mustang? Just six speeds. Yeah, the Blue Oval needs more cogs to swap in order to remain competitve.