Ford will build a 2019 model of its fast and popular Shelby GT350 Mustang with a number of upgrades to raise the 526-horsepower pony car's performance to an even higher level.
The 2019 GT350 will go on sale early in 2019 with prices starting at $61,340, including destination charge.
"We increased grip for better handling thanks to new tires, wheels and aerodynamic tweaks," Mustang brand manager Mark Schaller said at a race track just outside Detroit Monday.
The fact that the Mustang's image and engineering can support everything from a $25,680 base model to near-$60k sports cars-and higher when the 700-horsepower-plus Shelby GT500 debuts sometime next year-is the reason Ford decided to keep the legendary car in production when it shifts the rest of its lineup to SUV-type vehicles.
The Shelby GT350 became an immediate sensation when Ford unveiled it for the 2015 model year.
In addition to chassis and suspension upgrades, it comes with a unique 5.2-liter V8 engine that features a flat-plane crankshaft, a part normally only seen on exotic sports cars costing hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Ford had not previously confirmed production of the 2019 model.
Engineers from Ford's performance group worked with tire maker Michelin to develop new Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires with a unique tread pattern and compound for the '19 GT350.
New 19-inch aluminum tires, new springs and retuned MagneRide adaptive shocks also contribute to better acceleration, road holding and braking, Ford said.
The main aerodynamic changes are a new splitter below the front bumper and a big new rear wing. The aero tweaks increase the amount of downforce generated to keep the car securely on the road at extremely high speeds,