Auto Review by Veeno Dewan
“The V8-powered GT is the one to get if you can make the financial reach. Fitted with the Performance Package, the GT delivers a thunderous engine and exhaust note. When hooked to the 10-speed auto, the car offers blinding shifts and acceleration.”
New for 2024, the Ford Mustang is now in its seventh generation and returns with some tweaking to the styling but is still instantly recognizable as a ‘Stang.” The subtle look contrasts the first-generation model’s new grille design and the rear signature tri-bar lighting. The Ecoboost and V8-powered GT models have unique front ends—with a more aggressive unit and increased airflow cooling. The car also has new hood vents and redesigned front splitters. There is a new range of alloy wheels from 17-inch in a standard size to 19-inch for the GT, with optional 20-inch wheels. Interior-wise, a “fighter-jet-inspired” cockpit offers two curved displays that can be driver-customized. The new 2024 Mustang is available in fastback and convertible form.
Regarding engine choice, the top dog motor is the fourth-generation 5.0-litre Coyote V8 gasoline unit with 480-486 horsepower. Changes include an active valve exhaust, a new dual air intake box, and a dual-throttle body design, which helps minimize engine induction loss. Buyers who want greater fuel efficiency can still opt for the EcoBoost model, powered by a new 315-hp turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine mated to the 10-speed automatic transmission.
Talking about transmissions – the 5.0 V8 GT version has an optional manual transmission—a standard six-speed
rev-matching feature that helps hold engine rpm when the clutch is engaged, offering peak torque between gear changes. The 10-speed automatic gearbox is also available with configurable drive modes. Meanwhile, the high-performance Mustang Dark Horse version has 500 hp and 418 lb-ft of torque.
New interior highlights include the Jet fighter style dashboard with twin digital instrument clusters that can be optionally configured to flow into a 13.2-inch Sync 4 center stack behind a single integrated glass panel. Physical hard touch buttons and knobs for such features as radio and climate controls have been deleted. The 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster is customizable to display different animated designs and new drive-mode visuals with video game-like graphics.
Regarding safety, the Mustang comes equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360 and the full roster of active and passive safety aids.
Standard equipment levels are high, and various options and upgrades exist. Mustang GT and EcoBoost models have an optional Performance Pack, adding features such as a front tower brace, Torsen limited-slip differential, optional MagneRide active suspension, and wider rear wheels. Larger front and rear Brembo brakes are also added. The GT Performance Pack also adds brake ducts for better cooling and a standard auxiliary engine oil cooler. Recaro seats and active exhaust are also offered. The all-new Mustang is priced at $37,000 for the Fastback with the 2.3L EcoBoost engine. It is $54,400 for the V8-powered GT Premium. Convertible models start at $43,900 – $60,000.
Whatever model you drive, be assured of total fun on the road. The Mustang is a comfortable urban cruiser, while adjustable drive modes can offer quicker steering, more engine response, and faster transmission shifts. There are electronic stability control settings and six available drive modes—Normal, Sport, Slippery, Drag, Track, and a customizable setting with up to six driver profiles. A hoot to drive, the Four-cylinder EcoBoost version has a tight balanced engine and transmission combo. Handling is precise and light. If you can make the financial reach, the V8-powered GT is the one to get. Fitted with the Performance Package, the GT delivers a thunderous engine and exhaust note. When hooked to the 10-speed auto, the car offers blinding shifts and acceleration. Suspension and handling upgrades elevate the performance driving aspect. One new feature is the Active Pothole Mitigation, included with the Performance Package, which monitors suspension, body, steering, and braking input and adjusts suspension responses. Meanwhile, the larger upgraded Brembo brakes offer superb stopping. In terms of bang for your buck, the 2024 Mustang is one of the most affordable and best-value money sports cars on the market.
2024 Ford Mustang priced from $37,000 – $60,000.
