The iconic Ford Mustang->ke428 has officially entered a new era, as production of the brand-new, sixth-generation model has commenced at the company's Flat Rock Assembly Plant in Michigan. Shown to the world in early December 2013, the sixth-generation Mustang is the first ever pony car to be sold globally in more than 120 countries around the world. Additionally, the 2015 iteration is also the first Mustang to feature an independent rear suspension. You can see why this is a big day for the Blue Oval->ke31 and the automotive industry alike.

Another premiere that comes with the sixth-gen pony is the creation of the first ever, factory-built Mustang with right-hand-drive. These vehicles will be sold in more than 25 markets, including the United Kingdom->ke176, Australia, and South Africa. "Mustang is and will continue to be an automotive icon," said Joe Hinrichs, Ford president of The Americas.

The 2015 Ford Mustang will reach most global dealerships in the fourth quarter of 2014. U.S. pricing starts from $23,600 for the fastback and $29,100 for the convertible->ke144.

Click past the jump to read more about the Ford Mustang

Why It Matters

The 2015 Mustang is arguably one of the most anticipated vehicles of the year. And not just because of its redesigned body. No, the 2015 Mustang boasts so many changes that it attracted more attention than ever before. The independent rear suspension will finally enable the pony to give the BMW 4 Series->ke3834 a run for its money, while the 2.3-liter, EcoBoost engine will increase its popularity in Europe and other markets subjected to huge taxes based on CO2 emissions and/or engine displacement.

Ford Mustang

Redesigned from the ground up for the 2015 model year, the sixth-generation Mustang boasts a brand new exterior, a reworked cabin, and numerous technological updates inside and out, including an independent rear suspension. Three engines are available, starting with the proven 3.7-liter V-6 unit. The six-banger loses five horses for the sixth-generation, being rated at 300 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque.

The mid-range Mustang is motivated by a brand-new, 2.3-liter, EcoBoost engine that marks the return of the turbo inline-four for the first time since the Fox-body Mustang. The four-pot makes 310 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of twist. At the top of the range sits the 5.0-liter, Coyote V-8, which cranks out 435 ponies and 400 pound-feet of torque. The 2015 update adds an extra 15 horsepower and 10 pound-feet to last year’s rating.

Pricing for the 2015 Mustang begins from $23,600 for the V-6 model and from $25,170 for the EcoBoost. The GT model fetches at least $32,100. The new Mustang will be sold in more than 120 countries, including at least 25 right-hand-drive markets.