Enrolled in Auto Mechanic College? Check Out Ford’s Exciting 2017 Shelby GT350 Mustang Updates
“Ford Performance is always listening to customer feedback,” said Dave Pericak, global director of Ford Performance. “At the end of last year we started offering a back seat option for Shelby GT350R due to customer demand. Now, we have adjusted the packages available to continue to provide more of what customers want on the Shelby GT350 Mustang.”
If you’re planning to pursue an automotive career, read on to learn more about the standard features and options that will be available on the 2017 Shelby GT350 Mustang when it’s released this June.
Auto Mechanic College Students Should know that Last Year’s Track Package is Now Standard
The 2016 Shelby GT350 had a few optional features that were included in the Track Package, which cost an additional $7,000 at the time. Ford decided that these features will now be added to the 2017 model’s standard options, and include:
- An aluminum strut tower brace to provide extra lightweight suspension stiffness
- A high-downforce deck lid spoiler for more drag
- Engine oil, transmission, and differential coolers
- The MagneRide damping system: an automotive suspension with a magnetorheological damper system for a highly adaptive ride
Making the Track Package features standard options will probably inflate the 2017 Shelby GT350’s base price, but customers can look forward to improved overall performance and handling in return.
Expect Different-Coloured Mustangs Once you Become a Mechanic
Students in auto mechanic college know that colour is one of the biggest factors that affect a customer’s decision to buy a particular car—and Ford announced that it will be retiring two colours for the Shelby GT350. “Deep Impact Blue” and “Competition Orange” will no longer be options for the 2017 model year. Instead, they’ll be replaced by “Ruby Red Metallic,” “Lightning Blue,” and “Grabber Blue.”
New Tech Packages Give the GT350 a more Comfortable Feel
Ford will also add two new packages for buyers who want a few interior add-ons. The Electronics Package will include Ford’s Sync 3 touchscreen infotainment system, along with navigation, and a 9-speaker audio system (the base model only has 7). The company will also offer a Convenience Package, which has everything the Electronics Package has, but also comes with electronically adjustable leather seats instead of the car’s standard manual ones.
If you get the chance to work on a 2017 Shelby GT350 Mustang once you become a mechanic, performance and tech features are the biggest changes you’ll see. Auto enthusiasts will be happy to know that Ford hasn’t made any mechanical changes under the hood of the Shelby GT350. The 5.2-litre V-8 engine has become somewhat of a novelty, because it can achieve 526 horsepower without the help of a turbo or supercharger.
Here’s a glimpse of the 2017 Shelby GT350 Mustang:
Visit ATC for detailed program information, or to speak with an advisor.