The hype and hysteria over the all-new 2015 Mustang’s reveal are still fresh in the air, as journalist and consumers alike scramble to learn every detail and fact about America’s newest pony car.

Ford->ke31’s launch of the Mustang can only be described as spectacular with reveals in multiple cities and countries around the world. The overriding fact that Ford->ke31 is going global with the 2015 Mustang is perhaps the biggest news about the Mustang->ke428 nameplate. It’s hard to imagine a bigger birthday present to an iconic car celebrating its 50th year in production.

We’ve already covered the nitty-gritty details concerning the Mustang’s updates here, but now we present the “Reader’s Digest” version – the “just the facts, Ma’am” edition with all the details nestled snugly into 10 categories. Jump on down for TopSpeed’s top-ten list of 2015 Mustang improvements.

Click past the jump for an overview of the 2015 Ford Mustang

1. All-new exterior design

The changes cosmetically are apparent. The new fastback design and cab-rearward stance sets the 2015 Mustang apart from its predecessors. The entire car looks more planted and is accented by a longer, lower hood and deck lid. The grille is more rounded, yet more aggressive than the current model, and the fog lights have been relocated to the lower bumper on the GT trim. The Mustang is shorter by one-fifth of an inch, but is wider by 1.5 inches overall. It still retains the current Mustang’s 107.1-inch wheelbase.

The exterior design is a respectable step forward for the Mustang. It is definitely categorized as evolutionary rather than revolutionary in terms of changes, but that is perhaps the whole idea of the Mustang.

2. All-New cockpit

Changes abound inside the 2015 Mustang. Materials are more premium while fit-and finish seem industry-leading. The dashboard design still retains the double hunch design, but now features a more athletic look. A placard sits left-justified on the passenger hunch and reads, “Mustang – Since 1964” -- Heritage is clearly important in the 2015 car.

Ford says much of the inspiration for the updated dashboard came from aviation. Cockpit-style toggle switches, military-style font, and yards of aluminum trim make the cabin a place of important business. Updated infotainment options grace the center stack (more on that below) as does the standard push-button starter.

3. New 2.3-liter I4

The new 2.3-liter EcoBoost in-line four is big news. It represents the first four-cylinder Mustang since the 1980’s and will not be the base engine. Rather it’s slotted between the 3.7-liter, naturally aspirated V-6 and the 5.0-liter, naturally aspirated V-8. The EcoBoost is said to produce 305 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque, while producing the best fuel economy numbers ever seen in a Mustang. A twin-scroll turbocharger is responsible for the extra gusto, while direct injection and variable valve timing keep up the efficiency.

The EcoBoost also features an integrated exhaust manifold that separates the inner and outer pairs of cylinders into each inlet passage to the turbo. The result is a cleaner-burning engine that maximizes the exhaust’s pulse energy flowing to the turbine wheel.

4. Revised Carryover Engines and Transmissions

The 3.7-liter V-6 and 5.0-liter V-8 are returning for 2015, although not unchanged. Ford has retrofitted the 5.0 with new cylinder heads with high-flow ports. A new set of larger intake and exhaust valves aid in breathing, while a rebalanced crankshaft and forged connecting rods will likely push the engine redline further north. Ford says the 5.0’s output won’t change over the 2014’s 420 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, but we have a hard time believing that.

The 3.7-liter V-6 is again the base engine option. But just because it’s the base engine doesn’t mean it’s no fun. Still making 305 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, the 3.7-liter V-6 will outrun a Mustang GT from a decade ago.

Two transmission options are available: a six-speed manual from Getrag and a six-speed automatic. The manual enjoys shorter, crisper shifts thanks to a new linkage and the automatic finally gets big-boy paddle shifters – replacing the dinky toggle button dangling off the 2014’s gear selector. The actual transmission hardware is carryover.

5. Independent Rear Suspension

The Mustang will now feature independent rear suspension – a first even after 50 years (save for that low-volume SVT Cobra between 1999 and 2004). Ford’s engineers deserve a medal for all the work poured into making the live rear axle handle well in the previous generation car, but limit-handling and axle hop were always issues. The new independent rear end will help the Mustang compete with its cross-town rivals the Camaro and Challenger, not to mention increase its skid pad and figure-eight times.

6 New Front Suspension setup

Ford planed on leaving the front suspension alone for 2015, but testing revealed the setup didn’t work well with the new independent rear end. So they swapped it for a double-ball-joint independent setup with MacPherson struts attached to a new perimeter subframe that’s stiffer and lighter.

7. Soft-top convertible

We were quite surprised when Ford revealed both the coupe and convertible models the same day. Manufacturers usually save the drop-top for a few months after the initial design debut for an interest pick-me-up before the model goes on sale. Either way, the convertible is here.

Despite the rumors of a hard top, the Mustang’s drop-top uses fabric and features an electronic motor for operation. It folds nicely into the rear deck lid leaving a smooth area seemingly designed for parade queens.

8. Infotainment and User Interfaces

Changes for the 2015 Mustang are apparent the moment you start it up. Intelligent Access with push-button start comes standard across the board as does SYNC and MyKey. Optional is Ford’s Track Apps and MyColor gauges, along with a new Shaker Pro audio system.

Toggle switches mounted low on the center stack control the adjustable steering, along with Ford’s Selectable Drive Modes that change engine response, transmission shift points, and ESC nannies.

Blind Spot monitoring, cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control are also available.

9. First Global Mustang

The 2015 Mustang will be the first global Mustang Ford has ever produced. Right-hand-drive models will be sold in Europe, Asia, and Australia. This means big business for Ford. The profitability of a popular global platform like the Mustang will pay for its development and production many times over, so we suspect Ford is looking forward to roaring revenue.

Even more exciting is that all Mustangs will continue being built in Ford’s Flat Rock Assembly Plant in Michigan. Real American jobs and a product made for export is news the U.S. doesn’t often hear of anymore. Kudos to Ford for waving the Red, White, and Blue!

10. Price and Availability

Of course, the official word on pricing hasn’t been released. However considering the current Mustang starts at $22,200 for the base 3.7-liter V-6 – and the same engine will power the base 2015 Mustang – pricing shouldn’t increase more than a few hundred dollars. Even with the inclusion of high-cost parts like aluminum finders and its independent rear suspension, we suspect Ford will keep the cost obtainable for the average consumer. After all, the Mustang is the American workin’ man’s sports car.

Ford says the 2015 Mustang will arrive in dealer show rooms Fall 2014.