Ford Mustang Pre-LCI vs LCI 2018: Full Comparison of Design, Interior, Performance & Tech Upgrades
The Ford Mustang is one of the most iconic performance cars on the road, and when the 2018 facelift (LCI) arrived, it completely reshaped the Mustang’s character. Whether you're a current owner, a prospective buyer, or upgrading your interior with premium materials like Alcantara-wrapped trim sets, understanding the differences between the pre-LCI (2015–2017) and the LCI 2018+ Mustang is essential.
This article breaks down every major change — exterior, interior, engine, transmission, and technology — to help you decide which Mustang suits your style and upgrade plans.
1. Exterior Differences: Pre-LCI vs LCI Mustang
Ford took a bold approach with the 2018 facelift, giving the Mustang a sharper, more athletic look.
Front-End Changes
The front end is where you’ll find the biggest transformation.
• Hood sits 20 mm lower for a sleeker, more aggressive profile
• Redesigned hood vents improve cooling and visual flow
• Wider, larger grille for a more assertive face
• Completely redesigned headlights: now slim LED units across all trims
• LED indicators and fog lamps with a modern rectangular shape
• Sharper front bumper and new chin spoiler
The pre-LCI Mustang carries a bulkier, more classic muscle car look, while the LCI front end moves toward a contemporary sports-car aesthetic.
Rear-End Changes
While less dramatic, the rear updates refine the Mustang’s stance:
• Updated LED taillights with a more technical, modern design
• New lower rear diffuser
• Revised rear bumper
• EcoBoost models now get dual exhaust tips
• GT models receive quad exhaust tips as standard
• Optional rear spoiler on Performance Pack models
New Colours & Wheels
Ford also introduced stylish options to freshen the lineup:
• New colours:
Kona Blue,
Royal Crimson,
Orange Fury
• New 19-inch alloy wheel designs in multiple finishes
2. Interior Upgrades: A Huge Step Forward in the 2018 Mustang
Digital Instrument Cluster
The LCI introduces one of the Mustang’s most desirable features:
• 12-inch fully digital LCD cluster
• Customisable layouts (Normal, Sport, Track Mode)
• Adjustable colours, gauges, and displayed information
This replaces the pre-LCI’s analog gauges and brings the Mustang into the modern era.
Material & Trim Enhancements
Ford improved overall cabin quality with:
• Softer touchpoints on the centre console and doors
• Aluminium-finish door handles and bezels
• Updated seat upholstery patterns
• New Mustang dashboard badge
• Newly designed key fob
These upgrades create a far more refined cabin — an ideal base for Alcantara interior trim upgrades.
Technology & Safety
The LCI added significant modern safety features:
• Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection
• Lane Keep Assist
• Lane Departure Warning
• Driver Alert System
• Distance Alert
• MyMode — saves your steering, suspension, and exhaust preferences
3. Engine & Performance: What Changed in the LCI Mustang?
The pre-LCI Mustang had three engine options (including the popular 3.7L V6). The LCI lineup brought major changes.
V6 Discontinued
Ford dropped the 3.7L V6, leaving:
• 2.3L EcoBoost
• 5.0L Coyote V8
5.0 V8 Improvements
The Coyote V8 receives major updates:
• Now uses dual-fuel injection (direct + port)
• Higher redline
• More top-end power
• Improved efficiency
• In Europe: power increased from 410 to 444 bhp
2.3 EcoBoost Changes
• EU versions drop from 313 to 286 bhp due to emissions hardware
• Overboost maintains performance feel
• Gains Line Lock functionality in some markets
Transmission Upgrades
One of the biggest performance changes:
• All-new 10-speed automatic replaces the 6-speed auto
- Faster shifts
- Less friction
- Better low-speed response
- Adaptive shift scheduling
• Manual gearbox updated with:
- Twin-disc clutch
- Dual-mass flywheel
- Better torque delivery
Suspension & Handling Improvements
The 2018 Mustang handles noticeably better:
• MagneRide suspension now optional
• New shocks all around
• New cross-axis rear suspension joint
• Updated stabiliser bars
4. Driving Modes: New Features for Performance & Comfort
The updated Mustang includes several new modes:
• Drag Strip Mode — maximises straight-line acceleration
• Good Neighbour Mode — quiets exhaust for late-night drives
• MyMode — saves your custom settings
These modes were unavailable in the pre-LCI Mustang and significantly boost daily usability.
5. Which Mustang Should You Choose — Pre-LCI or LCI?
Choose Pre-LCI if you want:
• Classic Mustang styling
• Analog gauges
• Lower purchase price
• A great platform for exterior modifications
Choose LCI (2018+) if you want:
• Sleeker, more aggressive design
• Full LED lighting
• Digital instrument cluster
• Better interior quality
• More powerful and efficient engines
• New 10-speed automatic
• Enhanced handling & new drive modes
• Advanced safety features
From a customisation standpoint, the LCI is the more refined and modern platform — especially for interior upgrades like alcantara-wrapped trims, steering wheels, and dashboard enhancements.
Conclusion: The 2018 Mustang LCI Is a True Modern Muscle Car
The pre-LCI Mustang delivers classic muscle appeal, while the 2018 LCI brings sharper styling, better tech, and a far more refined driving experience. But no matter which model you own, the interior is where you can make the biggest visual and tactile upgrade.
Factory plastics and standard trims can feel basic — especially on older models. That’s why many Mustang owners choose Alcantara interior wrapping to add a premium, customised feel. From dash trims to door panels and consoles, Alcantara instantly elevates the cabin with a motorsport-inspired finish that complements both pre-LCI and LCI models.
If you’re looking to transform your Mustang’s interior with high-quality alcantara trim sets, our custom-wrapped solutions can give your cabin the sleek, premium look it deserves.
