Unbelievable Performance & Style: The All-New Ford Mustang Exceeds Expectations
With over ten million units sold in a lineage spanning more than six decades, the Ford Mustang is an American cultural icon. This latest iteration, the S650 generation, pushes the boundaries of what a muscle car can achieve both technologically and dynamically.
Design & Styling: Muscle with a Modern Twist
Ford meticulously addressed the flaws of the previous generation to make the seventh-gen Mustang a showstopper. It’s longer and lower but maintains its imposing width, outclassing rivals like the BMW M2 and Porsche Cayman GTS. Designed by Chris Stevens, the Mustang now features a wider grille, aggressive LED headlamps, and an aerodynamic rear diffuser. Calling it pretty would be a stretch; it’s an unvarnished, brutal masterpiece that’s menacing yet charming.
Interior: Digital Innovation Meets Classic Comfort
Inside, the Mustang has gone digital. The classic double-cowled analog instrumentation is replaced by a sleek, dashboard-wide digital display running SYNC4 software. This includes a 12.3-inch instrument cluster paired with a 13.2-inch infotainment screen, offering over-the-air updates. Feeling nostalgic? You can switch the modern graphics for a 1970s retro look. Despite these updates, traditional elements like the double-brow dashboard and body-hugging sports seats remain, ensuring a familiar yet cutting-edge experience.
Engines & Performance: Raw Power Under the Hood
The range of driving modes—Normal, Sport, Slippery, Track, Drag Strip, and Custom—allows for various driving experiences, but even in the Normal mode, the V8’s 440bhp impresses. The Mustang GT truly comes alive above 4500rpm, offering a thrilling driving experience with a 5.3sec 0-62mph time and a 155mph top speed. While the Dark Horse variant boasts additional performance and track-focused features, it's the standard GT that provides the best bang for your buck.
Ride & Handling: Excellence on Every Road
Equipped with Pirelli P Zero tires and 19-inch alloys, the Mustang’s MagneRide adaptive dampers ensure a ride quality on par with premium German rivals. It offers ample grip and playfulness, making it a joy to drive on diverse terrains. Despite its 1836kg weight, the Mustang maneuvers with a refined, predictable nature, excelling at a comfortable cruising pace while still delivering a dynamic driving experience.
MPG & Running Costs: Performance Has Its Price
No car in this segment delivers more cylinders or speed for less money. Starting at £55,725 for the GT and £67,995 for the Dark Horse, the Mustang is the most affordable new V8 you can buy in the UK. However, fuel costs are significant, with our test showing 14.9mpg. Still, the Mustang’s raw performance and value-for-money make it an enticing prospect.
Verdict: A Perfect Blend of Tradition and Innovation
This Mustang combines traditional V8 muscle with modern tech, offering a compelling alternative to pricier German rivals. While a BMW or Porsche might be a more sensible choice in terms of long-term costs and comfort, the Mustang's character and performance make it a standout option. The manual GT model, in particular, strikes the perfect balance of power and affordability, making it the best Mustang yet.