Geneva Motor Show 2015: Ford GT to make comeback in 2016

Ford has confirmed a 2016 return for its iconic GT supercar. The new GT, which made its European debut at the Geneva Motor Show, will be built from carbonfibre and be powered by a twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6, producing more than 600PS.

The chassis will be one of the most advanced to emerge from Ford, consisting of a carbonfibre passenger cell coupled to lightweight aluminium subframes. Ford claims the GT will be one of the lightest supercars on the market, while the use of carbonfibre will give it an unparalleled power-to-weight ratio.

The all-new GT will be rear-wheel drive and feature a mid-mounted 3.5-litre engine, paired to a seven-speed dual clutch gearbox. The 20-inch wheels will be shod in specially designed Michelin Piolet Super Sport Cup 2 tyres, while ceramic brake discs will be standard fitment.

Ford hasn’t released any performance figures for the car, but industry insiders claim it will be capable of exceeding 200mph and be a chief rival to the likes of Ferrari and Audi. 

The 2016 launch will mark the 50th anniversary of the original GT40 scoring a 1-2-3 at the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans. As a result, the new car will echo the original’s muscular design, with a tear-drop body and a large curved windscreen, which will be flanked by bulbous shoulders.

The supercar will also get an active rear spoiler, which will rise automatically and adjust its height and pitch to suit the conditions of the road. 

The two-seat cockpit is accessed by upward-swinging doors and the cabin will also get an F1-style steering wheel, with paddle shifters to access the seven-speed ‘box.

The new GT will spearhead Ford’s drive to launch 12 high performance cars by 2020 and join the Focus RS, and Shelby GT350R.