- What Was the 2017 Mustang California Special Package?
- California Special vs. Standard Mustang GT
- Finding and Owning in 2025
- Why the Hype Lasts
- FAQ
Are you looking for a car that blends classic American muscle with modern style? The 2017 California Special Mustang is a rare gem. Learn what makes this special edition S550 generation pony car truly unique.
What Was the 2017 Mustang California Special Package?
The California Special (CS) package was a unique trim level for the Ford Mustang built in 2017. It was part of the S550 generation. This special package was created to honor the classic GT/CS Mustangs from 1968. It added many unique style updates to the car. These changes made the car look different from a standard Mustang GT. However, it did not include major engine changes or performance upgrades.
Key Visual Features That Set It Apart
The 2017 California Special Mustang stands out with several distinct design elements. These features give it a unique look on the road:
Front End:The front of the car features a special blacked-out grille. It comes with a unique running horse emblem in the upper corner. There are also functional fog lights built into the grille, which adds to its aggressive stance. This heritage grille design harks back to classic Mustangs.
Side Details:Look for the eye-catching 19-inch machined-aluminum wheels. These wheels have black pockets and special "CS" center caps. The side of the car also features black side stripe decals. They run low on the body, just above the rocker panels.
Rear Styling:At the back, the California Special includes a black pedestal spoiler. Below that, you'll find a lower diffuser. This diffuser has dual exhausts that come through the bumper. These details give the car a sportier and more aggressive look from behind.
Badges:Special badges are key to identifying a true California Special. You'll see a unique "GT/CS" logo on the trunk lid. This logo confirms its special edition status. There are also unique strut tower brace badging under the hood and special badges inside the car.
Color and Trim Options Available
The 2017 California Special package was offered in a selection of popular exterior colors. These colors were chosen to highlight the CS styling elements. Inside, the car received exclusive touches to match its special exterior.
Exterior Color | Interior Options |
|---|---|
Black | Black leather with red contrast stitching and Miko suede inserts |
Magnetic | Black leather with red contrast stitching and Miko suede inserts |
Oxford White | Black leather with red contrast stitching and Miko suede inserts |
Ruby Red | Black leather with red contrast stitching and Miko suede inserts |
Lightning Blue | Black leather with red contrast stitching and Miko suede inserts |
Ingot Silver | Black leather with red contrast stitching and Miko suede inserts |
Grabber Blue | Black leather with red contrast stitching and Miko suede inserts |
All models featured special badging on the dashboard and floor mats.
California Special vs. Standard Mustang GT
All 2017 California Special models were built upon the Mustang GT Premium trim. This means they came with the powerful 5.0-liter V8 engine and many comfort features. The main differences were in the styling, making the CS truly unique.
Exterior Differences
The CS package changed the appearance of the Mustang GT in several key ways. These differences helped it stand out from a regular GT:
Unique Front Bumper and Grille:The CS has a distinct black front grille with a pony emblem offset to the left. The lower fascia is also unique. It features round fog lights that are different from the standard GT's setup. This look connects back to the original California Special cars.
Special Side Stripes:Along the lower sides of the car, you'll find black racing stripes. These stripes have a thin red outline and feature "California Special" lettering. They are a clear sign that you are looking at a limited edition model.
CS-Specific Wheels:As mentioned, the 19-inch machined-aluminum wheels with black pockets and "CS" center caps are exclusive to this model. They are a subtle but key detail that separates it from standard Mustang GT models.
Interior Touches
Inside, the 2017 California Special Mustang also received unique upgrades. These details provided a premium and exclusive feel for the driver and passengers:
Leather Seats with Special Stitching:The seats are upholstered in luxurious black leather. They feature Miko Suede inserts for added comfort and grip. Red contrast stitching is used throughout the seats, door panels, and center console. This stitching adds a sporty and custom feel.
Unique Dashboard Serial Plate:Each California Special comes with a special aluminum dashboard plaque. This plaque often includes a unique serial number or the "California Special" logo. It highlights the limited production of the vehicle.
Floor Mats with "California Special" Logo:Even the floor mats are special. They feature embroidered "California Special" logos, matching the overall theme of the car. These small details show the attention given to creating a distinct model.
Finding and Owning in 2025
The 2017 California Special Mustang was a limited production run. These collector cars do not appear for sale very often. However, if you are patient, you might find one on the used car market today. They are highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors.
What to Check When Buying Now
When looking to buy a used 2017 California Special Mustang, it's important to be careful. Here are some key things to check to make sure you are getting an authentic and well-maintained car:
Validate Authenticity via VIN:Always cross-reference the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) with a reliable Ford database. This will help confirm that the car is a true California Special from the factory. You can also look for specific option codes related to the CS package.
Look for Signs of Stripe Replacements:The special side stripes are unique. Check if they appear original or if they have been replaced. Poorly installed or incorrect replacement stripes can lower the car's value and signal past body work.
Inspect Wheels for Damage:The 19-inch CS-specific wheels can be expensive to replace. Check them carefully for curb rash, bends, or other signs of damage. Original wheels in good condition add significant value.
Request Full Service Records:Always ask for complete maintenance and service history. This shows how well the car was cared for. Look for regular oil changes, transmission fluid services, and any recall work that might have been done. A well-documented history is very important for a special edition vehicle.
Estimated Current Pricing
Good-condition 2017 California Special models can be found in the range of AED 110,000 - AED 165,000 or SAR 112,500 - SAR 168,750 today. Please note that prices can vary greatly. The final price depends on factors like mileage, overall condition, service history, and location. Cars with very low mileage or rare optional features might command higher prices.
Why the Hype Lasts
The 2017 California Special package successfully blended true American heritage cues with modern Mustang GT performance. It remains respected by enthusiasts and collectors for several reasons:
Limited Production Numbers:The CS was not mass-produced like standard Mustangs. Its limited availability makes it more desirable and keeps its value strong over time. This rarity adds to its appeal as a collector's item.
Nostalgic Design Elements:The car’s design elements directly connect to the iconic 1968 GT/CS. This strong link to Mustang history appeals to fans of classic American cars. It offers a sense of nostalgia while still providing modern driving dynamics.
Enhanced Street Presence Over Base Models:While not a performance upgrade, the unique styling makes the California Special stand out visually. Its special grille, stripes, and wheels give it a more distinctive and aggressive look compared to a standard Mustang GT.
FAQ
Q:Is the California Special faster than a regular Mustang GT?
A:No, the 2017 California Special Mustang has the same powerful 5.0-liter V8 engine and performance specifications as a standard Mustang GT. The California Special package focused entirely on giving the car a unique and special look, not on increasing engine power or speed. Its performance is exactly what you would expect from a 2017 Mustang GT Premium.
Q:What's the easiest way to spot a real 2017 California Special?
A:The easiest way to identify an authentic 2017 California Special is by looking for specific visual cues. Check for the official "GT/CS" trunk badge on the rear. Look for the distinct black side stripes with "California Special" lettering. Also, the unique front grille with offset pony emblem and round fog lights is a key indicator. Always cross-check the vehicle's VIN to confirm its authenticity from the factory.
Q:Are replacement parts for the unique California Special features hard to find?
A:Some specific body and interior parts that are unique to the California Special package can be harder to source. Items like the unique grille trims, original 19-inch CS wheels, and specific interior trim pieces might require searching through specialist suppliers. Sometimes, aftermarket options are available if original parts are too difficult or expensive to find. However, most mechanical parts are shared with the standard Mustang GT, so general maintenance items are readily available.
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