2009 Ford Mustang

The 2009 Ford Mustang is getting a lot of competition from the likes of Camaro and Challenger. Adding options is a great way to put some distance between the original pony car and the rest, and Mustang has added a glass roof option that now gives Mustang buyers three roof (coupe, glass, or convertible) choices. It probably won't be long for Chevy or Dodge to catch up, but watching it all is half the fun.

In the 'pony car' war, the Ford Mustang has reigned supreme. In fact, it's been the best-selling sports car for 22 consecutive years and one of the industry's most successful nameplates ever.

Mustang will need that momentum, and then some, to maintain market share in this segment with the return of the Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger. Competition is something Mustang hasn't had to deal with for some time.

It should be fun watching how this current rivalry plays out. I like the competitors' chances. Let's see if Mustang is up to the challenge.

I was glad when Ford went retro for this current generation Mustang. I've always been a fan of early Mustang styling, especially those from the late 1960s and early 1970s.

When Ford unveiled the retro-themed Mustang for the 2005 model year, some criticized them for not taking a fresh, contemporary approach.

But not everyone agrees with those critics. I like Mustang's signature long hood and short rear deck. I also like its daunting front end and muscular stance. Ford wrapped it up with a stout-looking tail, one that you're likely to have a good view of.

Speaking of view, for 2009, Ford has added an available glass roof option that now gives Mustang buyers three roof (coupe, glass, or convertible) choices.

The glass roof Mustang is built like the coupe and features a special tinted, reflective glass and manually operated roller blind to block the light when desired.

The V-6 powered Mustangs feature a 210-horsepower 4.0-liter backed by a standard 5-speed manual transmission or optional 5-speed automatic.

Mustang GT models are fitted with a 300-horsepower 4.6-liter V-8 mated to a standard 5-speed manual gearbox or optional 5-speed automatic.

My tester was a 2009 Ford Mustang GT with the 5-speed manual. The strong V-8 and manual gearbox make the Mustang fun to drive.

However, the Mustang GT isn't as powerful or economical as the new Challenger R/T. Mustang is significantly smaller and lighter, though.

Many obviously are loyal to the "blue oval" and size of Mustang. It's a four-seater with a fair amount of cargo space.

I liked the comfortable and supportive perforated leather seats that my GT tester came fitted with.

I also enjoyed the Shaker 500 audio system and configurable ambient interior lighting. Color choices included blue, red, orange, pink, purple, aqua, and a mixture that you can save.

Overall the cabin was comfortable, but there was a bit of cheap-looking plastic on the doors, dash, and console.

The Mustang GT delivers a nice taut ride without being too harsh when driving over pothole-ridden sections of pavement.

My tester felt most refined when cruising at highway speeds on the interstate. But it's most fun taking the cloverleaf on and off ramps at high speeds or carving up twisty sections of road with little body roll.

Mustang provides good bang for the buck and an all-around sporty feel. Take one for a spin yourself and you'll see why they're so popular.

2009 Ford Mustang GT Premium

Engine: 4.6-liter (300 hp) V-8

Transmission: 5-speed manual

Drive type: RWD

Fuel economy: 15 city/23 highway

Base price: $28,725

As tested: $34,215 (including $795 for destination)

Web site: www.ford.com