Ford Mustang 2023 Review, Price and Specifications

EcoBoost

$29,000 (approx.)

EcoBoost Premium

$34,000 (approx.)

GT

$40,000 (approx.)

GT Premium

$45,000 (approx.)

Mach 1

$58,000 (approx.)

The Mustang is best enjoyed with the loud 450-hp 5.0-liter V-8, which is only available in the GT or Mach 1. The latter has an additional 20 horsepower (470 total) over the regular GT model, and features equipment performance. drawn from the Shelby GT500 which makes it even more fun to drive. Unfortunately, we estimate that this puts the starting price near $58,000, so we’d recommend the regular GT coupe. Sticking to the standard manual transmission, we’ll opt for the GT Performance package which adds upgraded Brembo front brakes, a limited-slip differential, stickier summer tires, unique chassis tuning, and more.

Engine, Transmission and Performance

Don’t be fooled by the number of cylinders—standard 310-hp Turbocharged four-cylinder EcoBoost has enough punch to embarrass an old V-8 Mustang. Similarly, the optional 330-hp High-Performance package adds a more melodic and responsive EcoBoost engine derived from the defunct Ford Focus RS. The optional EcoBoost Handling package also brings track readiness to the four-cylinder coupe. The GT model is motivated by a 450-hp V-8 with an optional active exhaust emitting a thunderous roar. These two attractive engines are paired to a standard six-speed manual transmission or a 10 speed auto that makes the Mustang faster than before. With Performance Pack Level 2 (PPL2) focused on track and the brilliant Bullitt model both laid out on the prairie, the resurrected Mach 1 model has a bona fide best performance. With an upgraded 470-hp V-8 and chassis components shared with the Shelby Mustangit would terrorize the race track and make groceries—but The Mach 1 we rode has a grueling tendency to tramline. However, even with the underpowered engine, the Mustang chassis provides a comfortable and controlled driving experience. The electrically assisted steering is quite light in Comfort mode and weights well in the other two. The Mustang’s brake pedal feels strong so we found it sensitive in stop-and-go traffic, but easier to apply smoothly at higher speeds.

Real World Fuel Economy and MPG

The most efficient Mustang is the one powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder with a 10-speed automatic, which gets an EPA rating of 22 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. The V-8-powered Mustang earned 15 mpg city and 24 mpg highway ratings. In our tests, the four-banger with a manual transmission delivered 24 mpg—7 less than its EPA rating. The V-8 with a 24 mpg automatic saw in our hand, matches its EPA number. For more information on Mustang fuel economy, visit EPA website.

Interior, Comfort and Cargo

The Mustang’s interior is an evolutionary design that harks back to the old Mustang while remaining fully functional and livable. While it is available with premium features such as heated and cooled front seats, the mediocre plastic and the narrow Headless Horseman rear seat are its drawbacks. Outstanding performance combined with impressive cargo space make the Mustang a high-performance daily driver. In our tests, it held the second most carry-on luggage and had the most interior storage space among its competitors. The back seat can be stored by pulling on the straps and folded easily by hand. If you need to haul up to 12 carry-on bags, the Mustang can do it. Ford won with the biggest center console spot among the competitors we tested.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Ford’s optional Sync 3 infotainment system has a clean design and simple interface. While it’s not as responsive or powerful as some of its competitors, it comes with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and stereo kickin. The Mustang is available with a Wi-Fi hotspot. Ford Sync Connect, which allows users to control and monitor their vehicle via a smartphone app, is included as standard.

Safety Features and Driver Assistance

Mustang is also available with more driver assistance technology than rival pony cars, so you can go faster and feel safer. That’s how driver assistance works, right? For more information on Mustang crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) website. Key security features include:

• Front collision warning and automatic emergency braking available
• Departure lane warning and lane guard assistance available
• Blind-spot monitoring and rear traffic warning available

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The Mustang has a solid but average warranty. However, it’s not like PursuitFord does not provide free scheduled maintenance visits.

• Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
• No free scheduled maintenance

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