The Ford Mach 4 Might Be the Brand’s First Sedan Since 2020

Ford Motor Company has created a buzz in the automotive world by trademarking a new name: “Mach 4.” On February 25th, Ford filed its application with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Many industry enthusiasts speculate that this name could be associated with a new four-door vehicle, possibly a return of a sedan since Ford discontinued the Fusion in 2020.

The trend among car manufacturers has been to phase out sedans as consumer preferences have shifted dramatically towards SUVs and trucks. For instance, models such as the Chevy Malibu, Buick Regal, and Volkswagen Passat have all been discontinued in recent years, following the path set by Ford with the Fusion. Currently, Ford’s lineup consists mostly of trucks and SUVs, alongside one electric vehicle, the Mustang Mach-E, and the classic Mustang pony car.

The trademark application for “Mach 4” is intriguing as it encompasses a variety of vehicle types, including gasoline and electric cars, pickups, and SUVs, according to Car & Driver. While there is no explicit mention of a Mustang sedan in the application, the use of the term “Mach” harkens back to the Mustang’s storied heritage. The original Mustang Mach 1 debuted in 1969, and the name plate was recently revived for the popular Mustang Mach-E model.

In 2018, Ford reportedly showcased a concept for a Mustang sedan to some dealers, but that plan didn’t materialize. Recently, Ford’s CEO Jim Farley hinted that the idea of a four-door Mustang could still be alive, provided it retains the performance characteristics that define the Mustang brand.

Renowned for its sports cars, the Mustang name carries significant weight and recognition, especially after the successful introduction of the Mustang Mach-E. The concept of a Mustang sedan aligns with the trend of automakers exploring sub-brands. Ford may be willing to push the boundaries of the Mustang name further by introducing a four-door model.

There’s also considerable speculation regarding what the “Mach 4” name might signify. Some insiders believe it could potentially represent a high-performance sports car or an off-road variant, similar to models like the Porsche 911 Safari. While such a model could attract enthusiasts, it might limit its appeal to the broader market and place the vehicle in a higher price range, potentially around the 2022 Ford GT’s $500,000 MSRP.

In line with its innovative spirit, Ford has hinted at developing a standalone Raptor supercar, which could also be named Mach 4. However, despite this conjecture, Ford has not yet confirmed any specific plans regarding the Mach 4 trademark or what kind of vehicle it will be associated with.

It’s interesting to note that while traditionalists might have reservations, Ford has shown that it’s open to evolving the Mustang brand. The initial skepticism surrounding the Mustang Mach-E has largely faded, especially after it received positive reviews from both critics and consumers.

As the automotive community eagerly awaits more information, the prospect of a new sedan bearing the Mustang name is certainly intriguing. The “Mach 4” could represent a significant move into uncharted territory for Ford, whether it evolves into a sedan, a performance-oriented sports car, or possibly a new type of vehicle altogether. Ford’s reputation for pushing the envelope could lead to an exciting addition to their lineup, filled with the same spirit and enthusiasm that has characterized the Mustang for decades.