Since the introduction of the first-generation Mustang in 1965, the California Edition has been a part of the Mustang collection. For the 2022 model year, Ford is bringing it back, but with a few tweaks from prior iterations. It will be offered with the GT Performance Package for the first time, and it will have a new, distinctive look to celebrate the 1968 California.
The 2022 Ford Mustang California Special is aimed to integrate high-performance characteristics with stylish designs to make it even more appealing. The 2022 edition will be available in fastback and convertible bodies, and plenty of color choices will be available for the customers. The price range starts at around $67,000, and other extra options can cost up to $2,750 a piece. Also, the California Special will be available in Europe for the first time.
Now, let’s take a more detailed look at what precisely the Blue Oval has provided with the introduction of the all-new 2022 Ford Mustang California Special.
It’s Not A Mustang If It Doesn’t Deliver
Developed from the Mustang GT Premium fastback and convertible variants, the 2022 Mustang California Edition uses Ford's new GT Performance Package. This package focuses on enhancing the car's performance and riding characteristics.
The distinctive cues of the California Special have all been attempted before, if not all. However, for the first time, this aesthetic-driven special-edition Mustang has some major engineering to go along with its swanky looks. The 2022 GT/CS, which is primarily based on the 5.0-liter V8-powered GT, can be equipped with the standard Mustang GT's Performance package, which adds heavy-duty front springs, a more extensive back anti-roll bar, Brembo-sourced six-piston front brake calipers, a lowered riding level, extra underbody bracing, special stability control algorithms, a Torsen limited-slip differential, and 19-inch Pirelli summer tires. The GT Performance Package adds a high-performance rear wing to the fastback model, while the convertible is devoid of a spoiler.
With the help of this performance package, the Ford Mustang California Special is able to put out 460 HP and 420 lb-ft of torque with a max speed of 155 MPH.
A Design That Celebrates Its Ancestors
When the Mustang California Special was first introduced, the Shelby-style taillights were among a slew of distinctive aesthetic elements drawn from around the Mustang range, a legacy that will continue with the new 2022 Mustang GT/CS. A dynamic front bumper, coupled with a honeycomb grille, substantial side intake scoops, and side stripes containing the classic GT/CS branding, has been added as part of the GT Performance Pack.
Supple suede-trimmed seats with the engraved "GT/CS" emblem and red contrast stitching are part of the California interior package, as are black Miko suede-trimmed door inlays and customized "GT/CS" floor mats. The instrument panel is made of carbon hex aluminum and has a trademark California Special script insignia on the passenger side.
There are a variety of color choices available, including Atlas Blue, Carbonized Gray, Cyber Orange, Dark Matter, Grabber Blue Metallic, Iconic Silver, Shadow Black, Rapid Red, and Oxford White.
A Car Exuding Pure Craftsmanship
The California Special has been a cornerstone of the Ford Mustang range for quite some time, and the 2022 model year saw a few changes to this extra package as well as some new features. The California Special is a significant part of the Mustang's history, and it represents so much of what the Mustang embodies, the liberty of the road and the thrill of driving.
The 2022 model of the Mustang California Special introduces some new styling features and nuances alongside a GT-based performance package to help the vehicle in the performing department. However, despite the newly added features, the 2022 Ford Mustang California Special continues to be offered in only fastback and convertible bodies.
With the aid of the GT Performance package, this year’s model will be able to put out more significant numbers and be bold on the road.
Ford has a tendency to introduce new members to its lineups occasionally, and the Mustang California Special has been one of the more exciting ones over the course of time. It might be unusual for some to pay extra tens of thousands of dollars for a couple of additional features. Still, many diehard devotees of the brand would pay the extra buck to experience the essence of an iconic name like the California Special.