What’s new on the 2019 Shelby GT350?
Today, June 11th, 2018, the 2019 Shelby GT350 was spotted at the M1 Concourse in Pontiac, MI. At first glance, the appearance hasn’t changed much on the upcoming ’19 GT350. Ford Performance has assured us it will deliver faster lap times around the track and better performance on the street.
Refinements on the GT350 include:
- Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, with a Shelby GT350, specific tread pattern and different compound for better performance. Front tire size: 295/35/19 Rear tire size: 305/35/19
- All new 19-inch aluminum wheels
- New rear spoiler with optional Gurney flap
- Optimized grille closeout for improved aerodynamic efficiency
- Upgraded MagneRide suspension
- Recalibrated springs and revised dampening
- Enhancements to the electric assisted power steering and three-mode electronic stability control settings
As far as we know, the power plant remains the same 5.2-liter V8, producing 526 horsepower and the almighty 8,250 rpm redline.
New colors, interior and technology
On the inside, a machined aluminum instrument panel comes standard, while an exposed carbon fiber version is available. The door panels see a revision with dark slate Miko suede inserts and accent stitching. This may be a first for a Mustang, a wrapped center console. We aren’t sure what it will be wrapped with but throughout the years the consoles have just been hard plastic. Finishing off the interior, power adjustable Recaro race seats are now standard.
For all you Technology Package fans, a new custom tuned B&O Play audio system is available along with mirror mounted Shelby Cobra Projection Lamps. The 8-inch SYNC 3 touch screen and dual-zone automatic climate control is now standard.
We have two new color options for the 2019 Shelby GT350. Ford Performance Blue and Velocity Blue. Optional factory painted racing stripes are available in Shadow Black, Oxford White or Kona Blue. We prefer the stripe-less look any day of the week!
2019 Mustang Shelby GT350 will be available early 2019. An exclusive, complimentary Track Attack driving program from Ford Performance is included with each new vehicle purchase.
Billy Johnson, FIA World Endurance GT and IMSA Mustang GT4 Driver
Billy Johnson put in a lot of seat time behind the wheel of the Shelby GT350 to help Ford Performance refine it for 2019. We follow Billy on Instagram (@billyjracing) and decided to reach out to him through direct message and get his first hand experience with the new GT350. We would like to thank Billy for taking a few moments out of his day to chat with us.
Upcoming GT500 technology trickled down to the GT350?
With the remark from Ford Performance above, we could very well see some of the technology that was just released on the ’19 GT350 show up on the new Shelby GT500 when it releases next year. If you remember, the 2011 – 2014 Shelby GT500 spoilers came with a non-adjustable gurney flap. With a gurney flap, appearing on the 2019 GT350, we think history may repeat itself ;).
Photo credits: Ford Performance
