By: Jeffrey Ross
Autotropolis.com
The best part of auto show season is by far the concept cars. Ford has already grabbed the attention of the public with the Giugiaro Mustang. Unfortunately, concept car designs stay about as fresh as computer technology. Give it a week and there’s something else better.
With that in mind, Ford released pictures of a new concept it plans to unveil at the North American International Auto Show on January 7: the Ford Interceptor. Rumors began to circulate in late December of a four-door Mustang being planned by Ford which left enthusiasts outraged. Well the rumors turned out to be somewhat true as the Interceptor rides on a modified version of the Mustang’s chassis but shares no design cues or sheet metal with the iconic pony car.
The Interceptor has an overall length of 201.6 inches and a 120.8 inch wheelbase, putting it at about the same size as a standard wheelbase Ford Expedition. Power is fed to the massive 22-inch wheels and solid rear axle through a six-speed manual transmission mated to a 400-horsepower, 5.0-liter V8. Ford Racing’s Cammer modular engine rests comfortably underneath the long, tall shaker hood.
Ford gave the Interceptor a high beltline and a low, sloping roofline to go with its long, squared-off stance giving the sedan a fast, muscular appearance. With a blunt front end inspired the F-250 Super Chief concept truck, there is no doubt this car means business. Ford’s standard issue three-bar grille almost begs to take on anything sporting a crosshair grille or wearing a large, gold bowtie head-to-head. With the Dodge Challenger and Chevrolet Camaro set to take on the Mustang within the next couple years, the Interceptor would be positioned against the current Hemi-powered Dodge Charger and Chevrolet’s upcoming Camaro-inspired Impala.
A long rear overhang and short decklid are accentuated by gently sloping C-pillars. Mustang-shaped taillights and integrated exhaust outlets finish off the back of the Interceptor. The overall look of the car is strong, yet sports gentle lines, and suggests performance and speed even while the car at a standstill.