Ford Shows Off 2010 Mustang Details! PICS!

[TMN]

I noticed the armrest thing too. Time will tell on that one. As to the switches, dont know that either. Perhaps the traction control?

[chiefstang]

I know some people don't like an armrest in the way for spirited driving, but on a long trip it sure is nice to have. I sure hope it has one. I was thinking about the switches, and can't tell if this is a convertible, but if so those are probibly the up/down switches. If not, my next guess is maybe the message center buttons. Part of me is hoping it's something cooler like maybe an adjustable stabilty control, or sport/normal mode. It definately looks almost like a rocker switch.

[TMN]

More interior detail came in this week's trickle from Ford...........



Ford Says.............

Welcome to your reserved seat in the new 2010 Mustang. A fresh and modern cockpit amplifies the high-performance driving experience with upgraded, luxurious materials and driver-focused ergonomics. “The console is a key element to the new interior design,” says Mustang Senior Designer Robert Gelardi. “It’s defined by a single dramatic arc sweeping from the IP up to the padded armrest. Besides creating a clean appearance, it also gives you unobstructed arm movement when shifting gears.”


“It’s a clean, modern evolution of the classic Mustang console that is also very functional,” adds Mustang Chief Designer Doug Gaffka. “You’ll definitely see the heritage connection in the shapes and surfaces,” says Gelardi. “Every element on the console was re-thought and upgraded in design and materials.” For example, the cupholders and armrest have a few surprise features. “Dual cup holders, concealed beneath a flip door, are deeper for increased capacity,” said Design Manager Gary Morales. “The console stowage bin under the armrest features a discrete key lock.”


“The door armrest shape is the same arc as the console,” continued Morales. “It underscores the cockpit design and also improves ergonomics - your desk chair has the same armrest shape on both sides, so it made sense to do the same thing in your car.” The cupholders and door panels are also part of the available Ambient Lighting option, which coordinates with the MyColor cluster in the new Mustang.


The seats also have received special design attention for 2010, with upgraded leather and contrasting stitching for the Premier and Color Accent Packages. “We worked to create the perfect combination of form, material and detail,” says Mustang Color & Materials Designer Jennifer Atanasovski Schultz. “It’s not only about the kinds of materials we used, but how we used them in conjunction with the sculpted forms that completes the Mustang experience.”


“This was a CAD–led design process,” says Gelardi. “Defining and confirming shapes and surfaces early allowed plenty of time to engineer robust construction and locate sound insulation so the signature Mustang exhaust roar is the primary sound you’ll hear.”

[chiefstang]

I guess that sort of answers our questions about the armrest. I just hope the console sits up high enough to cofotably hit your elbow. The cockpit on the new car definately looks great, though, and I think even in the teaser pics you can see a huge jump in materials and fit and finish. Teaser photos are one thing, and production versions are another though. I just hope with the new higher center console it doesn't get that cramped Camaro cockpit feel. The Mustang was always nice and open feeling from the drivers seat. Looks great overall, though!