Lighter and sharper 2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350R debuts

Shelby GT350R loses weight, gains GT500 performance parts

As the baddest Ford Mustang, the Shelby GT500, hits the streets, the 2020 Shelby GT350R picks up new performance tech and colors from its stablemates to make it more fun to drive on the track and off.

Enhancing handling and steering responsiveness, the Ford Mustang Shelby GT350R refinements for 2020 include redesigned front suspension geometry with a redesigned high-trail steering knuckle leveraged from the Shelby GT500. To elevate driver confidence and steering precision, a new steering rack and recalibrated electric power steering control is also added.

“It’s always been our plan to take the latest innovations from the GT500 program and strategically apply them across the Mustang lineup,” said Ed Krenz, Ford Performance chief program engineer.

“These latest updates to the GT350R keep its performance competitive and on the top if its game, whether that’s on the track or on the street.”

The track-focused Shelby GT350R continues its aggressive targets for weight reduction with a rear seat delete and carbon fiber wheels. Exhaust resonators also have been removed for weight savings with the benefit of creating a sharper exhaust tone. Also standard are carbon fiber front splitter and rear wing.

Customers seeking more comfort in their Shelby GT350R can opt to option up the Technology Package which includes a 12-speaker B&O premium sound system, Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert, Cobra Puddle Lamps and voice-activated navigation.

Setting it apart from the lesser GT350, the GT350R features exclusive exterior touches including red painted brake calipers, red pin striping at the edges of the optional over-the-top racing stripes and Shelby GT350R badging.

Inside, the GT350R gains high-contrast red stitching, special badging and the D-shaped steering wheel fitted with a red center mark at the top.

Powering the GT350R is a high-revving 5.2-liter V8 engine delivering 392kW or 526 horsepower in old money. Peak torque is rated at 581Nm (429 lb.-ft.) at a blistering 8,250rpm redline. It’s mated to a track-focused Tremec 6-speed manual transmission.

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