Now with a 10-speed automatic, revised styling, more power and a nastier exhaust note, the new Ford Mustang is tougher than it was.
Louder, prouder – Ford has updated their V8 Mustang, introducing a host of changes for 2018 that improve the appeal of its coveted muscle car. Already the most popular sports vehicle on sale in Australia, the midlife facelift uncovers more speed, dynamics, tech and safety.
First up, appearance. The new model boasts a reshaped bonnet and has gained some air vents. There’s a 60mm broader grille, plus countersunk ‘eagle eye’ all-LED headlights. The remodelling in the rear is subtler: techier-looking LED taillights and quad exhaust tips. Less muscle car, more motorsport effect, then, but from the rear this is a tougher looking car.
The interior of the Mustang has never been built to high-street opulence, it’s materialistically modest and has been built-to-cost since the 1960s. This helped it retain its nice level of American-tinged kitsch, rather than a premium Euro-look. One noticeable upgrade is the all-digital 12-inch digital instrument cluster with countless personalisation menus. The modest 8-inch centre touchscreen has been upgraded to Sync3 software with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while a reversing camera and sat-nav are both standard.
This new GT absolutely roars because, according to Ford, customer feedback made it clear the outgoing V8 was way too quiet. But quiet can be cool. The adaptive exhaust’s Good Neighbour mode allows you to electronically preselect time-of-day parameters for the Mustang so it starts up in Quiet mode rather than the already-bellowing Normal setting.
GT fastback features
Limited Edition Ford Mustang Bullitt
Ford Australia has confirmed that 700 units of the limited-edition Mustang Bullitt will be coming to Australia in October.
Built to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Steve McQueen film Bullitt (famed for its epic 10min car chase that stars a 1968 Mustang GT 390 fastback tearing up the streets of San Francisco), the Bullitt Special Edition will be offered in a new one-off colour; a Dark Highland Green that matches the tone of the movie car.
The new version is distinguished by Bullitt badging, a darkened front grille, gloss-black 19-inch ‘Torq Thrust’ wheels and a beefed-up version of the Mustang’s 5.0-litre V8 engine. While in the cabin, Recaro seats, a badge bearing your unique chassis number and a new B&O 1000-watt sound system with 12 speakers also join the standard features list.=
Time for a new set of wheels?
If you are interested in learning more about the new 2018 Ford Mustang, or any other vehicles, the team at Melbourne Finance have extensive experience in negotiating, procuring vehicles across Australia.
Speak to one of Melbourne Finance’s expert Consultants for an obligation-free quote.
A new lease on life for Australia’s best-selling vehicle range
A favourite of tradies, families and fleet buyers alike, the revamped Toyota HiLux range is ready to hit the streets. With 10 new auto variants available, here are just some of the reasons it might be high time to consider a HiLux.
10 new variants
Sales records have proven the HiLux a reliable best-seller for years now and with the removal of V6 petrol variants and the addition of 10 new ones to fill the gap, Toyota is hoping to continue the trend. According to Toyota Australia’s Executive Director of Sales and Marketing, Tony Cramb, the changes are designed to strengthen the sales potential of HiLux and are “the result of detailed analysis of buyer trends and feedback from dealers over the past two years”.
Autos and two-wheel-drive
According to Toyota, HiLux drivers want three things – diesel, auto transmission and two-wheel drive. So they’re giving the people what they want. To meet demand, the new range includes 17 self-shifters, up from 12 previously, along with 2 new two-wheel-drive Hi-Riders, growing the range from 3 models to 5. An affordable option for buyers who don’t need full-on off-road capability but want the looks and superior ground clearance of a HiLux 4×4, they’re sure to be top-sellers.
SR changes
SR buyers have also been vocal about what they want in a set of wheels, and it doesn’t include carpet. Hard wearing, durable PVC floor coverings are now standard in all models, and the SR extra cab-chassis in manual also makes a reappearance, along with a newly added automatic version.
There’s something for everyone
All in all, there are still 31 HiLux variants on the market, including 23 genuine one-tonners. Fuel economy varies from 7.1 to 7.7 litres per 100 kilometres for manuals and 8.3 to 8.5 per 100 kilometres for 6 speed autos. And a further benefit for the budget conscious, the entire new range is covered by Toyota Service Advantage capped-price servicing, ensuring a flat $180 per service for petrol and $240 per service for diesel.
Time for a new set of wheels?
With the new line now on sale, there’s never been a better time to consider a HiLux. Get in touch and our expert team can help you find the right deal at the right price, without the dramas of a dealership.
Want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city but don’t have the time or money to organise an expensive weekend away? Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered.
Here’s our list of top day trips on Australia’s east coast that will fulfil your sense of adventure without making you stray too far from home.
Take in the tranquility of the rolling hills and sleepy rural villages of the Macedon Ranges, less than an hour north-west of Melbourne. Drive down tree-lined streets, stopping in at one of the many art galleries in the area. The Convent Gallery in Daylesford houses a number of exhibitions year-round. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the spectacular view at iconic Hanging Rock, made famous by the film and novel Picnic at Hanging Rock.
Passing between Healesville and Marysville north-east of Melbourne, the Black Spur Drive twists and turns its way through lush rainforests. Wind down the windows and savour the fresh air of the Australian bush as you pass the towering trees and ferns around you. On your way home, hop on the historic Yarra Valley Railway or visit the Healesville Sanctuary wildlife park to cap off a fun-filled day.
Overlooking Louttit Bay on the Great Ocean Road, the town of Lorne is the perfect seaside destination for those looking for white sandy beaches and ocean views. Enjoy your day by the sea at the Pitstop Lorne, as you lunch while watching the waves crash against the beach before you. Fishing enthusiasts should head down to the Lorne Pier, a local favourite for catching trevally, barracuda, and whiting. If you have time, the bush trek to nearby Erskine Falls is a challenging but rewarding journey.
Just off Australia’s southern coast, Phillip Island is a favourite destination for those looking to get out of the busy city for the day. Spend the morning strolling The Nobbies boardwalk along the rugged coastline for some impressive ocean views. Then venture down to Seal Rocks for a chance to view one of Australia’s largest colonies of fur seals. Later, join the hundreds of visitors who flock each evening to watch the penguins as they return home at sunset.
Situated in the Southern Highlands, this quaint village is the perfect place for a stroll among historical buildings that are now home to charming galleries and shops. Explore the gardens of the commanding Harper’s Mansion and get lost in its impressive hedge maze. Later, treat yourself to dinner at the award-winning Eschalot. Or, for a more relaxed pub experience, Australia’s oldest continually licensed inn, the Surveyor General Inn, also offers a great feed.
A mecca for food and wine lovers, the Hunter Valley, north of Sydney, is a haven of vineyards, farmers’ markets, and gourmet restaurants. Hire a bicycle and tour the many cellar doors and wineries at your leisure or head over to Wollombi and take a guided tour of the area’s Indigenous rock paintings. At sunset, soar over the countryside in a hot-air balloon for a magical moment that you won’t soon forget.
For stunning coastal vistas, it’s hard to go past this gorgeous drive south of Sydney. Take in the stunning views as you weave your way down the coastline dotted with hidden beaches and picturesque seaside villages. One of the many highlights is the Sea Cliff Bridge that dramatically sweeps over the Pacific Ocean. End the day with sunset at Kiama’s famous blowhole for a truly memorable experience.
Enjoy a day full of adventuring, from kayaking to wine tasting, at Kangaroo Valley, only a two-hour drive from both Sydney and Canberra. Stop into the famous Kangaroo Valley Pie Shop for lunch (we love the steak and mushroom!) or, for something sweet, try the Kangaroo Valley Fudge House & Ice Creamery down the road. If you still have time to spare, venture north to visit the spectacular Fitzroy Falls.
If you’re a bit of an early bird, why not be one of the first to see the day’s sunrise at the top of Mount Warning, a two-hour drive south of Brisbane. The 8.8km return hike through the rainforest to the summit opens up to breathtaking views of the valley and coastline below. It’s a must for anyone who loves the outdoors. For a less strenuous affair, take the Lyrebird track through tropical surroundings and pack a lunch to enjoy at the Korrumbyn Creek Picnic Area.
Just north of Noosa Heads, this sunny stretch of sand along the Noosa River has been dubbed by locals ‘The Golden Mile’. With an abundance of grassy picnic areas, playgrounds, and eateries, it makes for a terrific family day trip. Bring your bikes and cycle along the foreshore or rent a paddleboard or kayak for some fun in the water. Later, grab some fish and chips, sit under a tree, and enjoy the peaceful river views before you.
