DEARBORN, Mich. – Cruising season has arrived in Metro Detroit as many people get nostalgic for high horsepower.
Ford is helping residents meet that demand with its new Mustang.
Business editor Rod Meloni got a firsthand look at a retro feature that might not be for everybody, but it sure is fun.
Rod took a trip to the Dearborn testing track and got a chance to check out the 2018 Ford Mustang's ability to...burn out!
The burnout is frivolous, costly and smoky. But it provides side-splitting fun!
Rod found himself engulfed in a cloud of white smoke, and he laughed so hard he could barely breathe. Here's proof:
You can watch Rod's full video on the testing track above.
Mustang engineering manager Tom Barnes said the burnout isn't for regular street use, but for customers who crave a high-horsepower feel from a low-horsepower eco-boost engine, so having the computer hold down the front brakes and spin the tires makes a world of sense.
"Some of the guys in our brake controls area were, like, 'You know what? We could do this electronically,'" Barnes said. "When they did it and (demonstrated) it, everyone loves it. It's 15 seconds of fun."
Come this fall, the new 2018 V6 Mustang will have the option, as well. When done right, you get 15 seconds of burnout timed to allow you to peel out.
"It is not dangerous at all," Barnes said.
Rod enjoyed the Mustang's new feature, and although it's not for everyday use on the roadway, Ford believes customers will enjoy it too.
