Ford Mustang California Special joins 2022 line-up

Vintage California Special badge joins revised Mustang line-up, including Line Lock as standard.

Ford has confirmed an updated Mustang line-up for next year, adding the specially equipped California Special edition and making the Line Lock (burnout mode) as standard.

Heading the models for 2022 is the California Special which revives the US-spec version available since the 1960s. Unlike the R-Spec, Bullitt, and Mach 1 which were all limited in numbers, the CS will not be.

California Specials will be offered as a pack on only the GT with the 5.0-litre naturally-aspirated V8 engine producing the same 339kW of power and 556Nm of torque. However, it gains a number of extras such as unique 19-inch wheels, black grille with red CS lettering, lower front splitter in black, air scoops behind the door on each side, CS side stripe, and CS badges for the rear. An optional performance rear wing can be added, while the convertible version does away with the spoiler.

Inside are seats and door cards finished in suede upholstery, CS embroidered on the seats and red stitching, carbon instrument panel and a special CS badge on the dashboard. All we have for now are these overseas (US-spec) images to go by.

GT CS editions are available in coupe fastback or convertible, with either a 10-speed auto or manual transmission. At the entry-point to the Mustang range is the High Performance with a 2.3-litre turbo four-cylinder engine producing 236kW and 448Nm; the GT remains the same, albeit now with Line Lock as standard (an across the range addition), which Ford maintains is “not to be used on public roads.”

Gone for 2022 are paint colours Twister Orange, Velocity Blue, Yellow Peel and Antimatter Blue, leaving Race Red, Oxford White, Carbonized Grey, Shadow Black, Rapid Red, Mischievous Purple, Eruption Green, Atlas Blue, Cyber Orange, Grabber Blue, and Dark Matter Grey.