This is the best look yet at Ford’s next-generation Mustang, a car expected to replace the Falcon GT as the brand’s local performance car hero.

Digital illustrations purporting to be the new Mustang have been published by Mustang6G.com, a site devoted to the sixth generation platform for Ford’s muscle car hero.

Administrators for the internet forum say their illustrations were based on a combination of spy photography and Ford’s own 3D imagery.

“What you see here is a digitally accurate preview of the base 2015 Mustang,” says a site administrator. “We think it's quite a looker.”

The car is particularly important for Ford's local arm, as it will be the first Mustang sold locally for 10 years.

The brand put a toe in the water by converting a small number of 240kW V8-powered models into right-hand-drive in 2001.

The new car is expected to be available with a range of V6 and V8 motors, including high-performance versions with more than 400kW. It is also tipped to get Ford's turbocharged four-cylinder EcoBoost engine already seen in the Falcon and Focus ST.

The engines are expected to be paired with either a six-speed manual gearbox, which in keeping with tradition, will send power to the rear wheels. There is speculation that the automatic transmission will be an eight-speed unit being co-developed between Ford and General Motors.

As expected the new Mustang ditches the overt retro styling cues of the current model in favour of a more contemporary look, drawing inspiration from the Ford Evos concept revealed in 2011.

The illustrations show aggressively sculpted tail-lights and a fastback roof, while front end features Ford’s sharp new corporate face which is expected to be featured on the final Ford Falcon.

Underneath the Mustang is also expected to receive a major overhaul to better compete with the Holden Commodore-based Chevrolet Camaro. The new Mustang is expected to be smaller and lighter and get independent rear suspension to improve handling and reduce fuel consumption.

Ford is expected to officially unveil the new Mustang by the end of 2013.

source: smh.com.au