Last summer, Ford announced the all-new 2025 Mustang GTD, a track-inspired version of the popular muscle car that boasts over 800 horsepower and a top speed of more than 190 miles per hour. The GTD was produced with a target sub-7-minute Nürburgring time in mind, aiming to merge road performance with track capabilities. To achieve this, Ford revolutionized the car’s suspension, resulting in the creation of the Mustang GTD’s inboard suspension system.
The foundation of this state-of-the-art suspension system is the Multimatic Adaptive Spool Valve (ASV) dampers on the rear shocks. Inspired by racing, ASV technology allows for precise control and real-time adjustments, ensuring optimal contact with the road surface under any driving condition.
The ASV dampers can react and adjust from their softest to firmest settings in just 15 milliseconds, balancing race car performance with road comfort. This rapid adjustment capability ensures that the Mustang GTD remains stable and responsive whether it’s being pushed to its limits on the track or cruising down the highway.
A standout feature of the suspension system is the driver-selectable Track mode, which hydraulically compresses one of the two springs in each damper. This effectively doubles the spring rate and lowers the Mustang by about 1.6 inches. The result is a stiffer suspension that works with the GTD’s aerodynamics and downforce to maintain optimal tire contact on the track or road. This provides enhanced cornering stability and improved handling, crucial for achieving faster lap times.
As a racing enthusiast who knows the importance of dialed-in suspension, I find the GTD’s inboard suspension system intriguing and impressive, but don’t just take my word for it. Ford was so proud of it that the company decided to showcase this innovation with a suspension viewing window in the rear of the Mustang GTD. This 24-inch wide by 10-inch tall polycarbonate window allows passengers and onlookers to see the blue and gold suspension in action, highlighting how quickly it makes precise adjustments for peak performance.
The Ford Mustang GTD will demonstrate its suspension system at the 24 Hours of Le Mans this week, followed by a couple of other events throughout the summer. These races will provide Ford with vital data on the suspension system and the GTD’s overall performance, culminating with the goal of completing a lap at Nürburgring Nordschleife in less than seven minutes later this year.
