It's the coupe emanating movie star charisma.
Ford's highly recognizable Mustang balances and blends nostalgic tweaks with modern nuances and a whole lot a horsepower packed under hood.
Mustang continues aging gracefully with etched Hollywood-good looks 55 years strong. Few rivals boast this staying power as Mustang serves as one of Ford Motor Company's top rolling ambassadors. Last August, the 10-millionth Mustang drove off its assembly line in Michigan.
The 2019 model year marks the third time the Blue Oval folks spotlighted a Bullitt edition (2001 and 2008 representing the first two). All pay homage to the iconic 1968 feature film of the same name with actor Steve McQueen behind the wheel in his most memorable, stomach-churning car chase scene.
However, unlike the theatrical release, no motorcycles or rival Dodge Chargers were injured during the penning of this review.
Taking a slightly deeper dive, the 2019 limited-edition Bullitt reveals itself as 5.0-liter V-8 Mustang GT with optional performance package kicked in and Bullitt-specific nuances. Dark Highland Green is the exterior color of choice, a similar hue highlighting McQueen's driving scenes. Black is also available, but why not simply Go Green.
In 2018 as part of a mid-cycle refresh, Mustang discontinued a V-6 engine option so for 2019, folks choose between an in-line four or naturally-aspirated V-8. Bullitt opts solely for the highly recommended V-8 generating tons of fast and furious fun.
Bullitt horsepower gets goosed, adding twenty more thanks to a larger throttle body and software tweaks. Bullitt enjoys 480 horsepower compared with GT's 460. When fueling, a self-sealing design eliminates the need for a twist cap. Bullitt offers a nice assortment of available transmissions as long as it's a six-speed manual. Moving this 3,850 beast from a standing start requires some know-how with delicate left foot lift working the floor clutch to engage first gear and reverse.
Performance-inspired Brembo-branded disc-brake rotors adorn all wheels in bright-red housings. Bullitt includes a higher top speed (163) than a conventional V-8 Mustang.
Four cylinder Mustangs (marketed as Mustang EcoBoost) suffice with a 2.3-liter turbocharged four cylinder generating 310 horsepower. Expect horsepower upgrades the 2020 model year.
The current 2019 Mustang crop (including Bullitt) is based on the sixth-generation platform introduced in the 2015 model year. Performance inspired rear-wheel drive adds better balance and a comparatively civil ride. Updates and changes from 2018 remain minimal, save for two special editions: Bullitt and a California special edition. Unlike the four-cylinder or V-8 GT, Limited edition Bullitts offer no convertible top.
Mustang's formula for success combines exuberant driving, affordability and plenty of horsepower wrapped in a tidy tiny package. The long hood (aluminum these days) contrasts with a stout deck lid and roof reaching its apex at the top of a curving 'A' pillar. Bullitt's quad exhaust works into the equation, providing deep, aggressive growls. Side windows frame with chrome accents as does the front grille.
Rather than speeding through hill-and-valley streets of downtown San Francisco a-la Mr. McQueen, this 2019 Bullitt took a uniquely Midwestern spin through rather flat stretches connecting suburban Chicago with the Wisconsin Dells.
Unsolicited feedback came forth from three individuals (skewing all male) during three days in the Dells, all delighted with Bullitt's visual and sound effects. Age ranges varied from a high-school teen to a forty something bearded enthusiast.
Duchess the bravely aging Schnauzer, with a touch of arthritis, found back seats comforting. As with all previous generations of Mustang, the two-passenger back remains better suited for K-9s, not humans.
The spacious (when compared to Chevrolet's Corvette or Dodge Challenger) 13.5-cubic-foot trunk absorbed a set of much-maligned golf clubs, bag of kibble, two luggage rollers, camera bag and assorted human food staples. Split second-row backrests fold forward, increasing cargo-carrying capacity and making better use of the inhumane second row.
Red tri-bar tail lights, a Mustang embodiment, blink in syncretic 1-2-3 harmony when summoning turn signals. Front headlight housing also includes three bars. Another night-time picture show includes flood lights emanating from both side-view mirrors projecting Ford's white 'Mustang on the Run' logo to the ground below.
Other than tiny imprints found on the five-spoke 19-inch heritage wheel hubs, the galloping horse logo is noticeably absent from the Bullitt edition's exterior. No equine adorning the front grille and a circular faux gas cap adorns the trunk lid with the round Bullitt logo.
Diminutive, static second row triangular windows and small side-view mirrors contribute to notable blind spots. Unlike the 1968 movie Mustang, 2019 editions offer BLIS, Ford's acronym answer to viewing hidden areas (BLIS=Blind spot Information System) as an option. This highly recommended technology harnesses radar sensors on both sides of the coupe. When a vehicle gets detected in this vulnerable spot, an amber icon illuminates within the side-view mirror. BLIS teams up with rear cross traffic alert, detecting vehicles approaching at a perpendicular direction, especially useful when backing out of Mall parking lots. Not sure if BLIS would hurt or help Mr. McQueen's chase footage.
The BLIS option package also includes Magna-Ride dampers perfecting the pony car's ride and handling balance.
Bullitt Mustang starts at $46,495. Our tester ended at $52,980 factoring in performance package and destination charge.
Inside, Bullitt's door trim, instrument panel, seats and center console include green accent stitching. Open the two side doors, and bottom scuff plates display BULLITT prominently.
Mustangs sit lower to the ground than conventional sedans with large, comparatively heavy side doors. Duchess was not the only aging mammal participating in this weekend getaway, as my 50-something-year-old frame found maneuvering in and out rather effortless.
A new-age electric push-button circle comes standard. To the right, a nostalgic row of four chrome push tabs activating hazard lights, deactivating traction control, selecting one of three steering wheel feedback choices (normal sport, comfort) and drive mode selections. The 12-inch animated instrument panel changes design depending upon the drive mode selected.
The manual transmission includes a dome-like white cue-ball atop the gear shifter. Five selectable drive modes include: normal, snow, track, sport and of course drag strip.
Bullitt circa 2019 includes SYNC 3, with a mid-size in-dash eight-inch screen promoting popular Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility allowing Smartphone interaction within the touch-and-swipe screen. Our tester's system includes improved voice recognition and two USB plug ports.
Ambient mood lighting is accessible via the steering wheel's right-side buttons with results displayed inside the instrument panel's digital, scrollable center screen. Choose from seven interior lighting selections after dusk (ice, orange, blue, red, green, navy or purple) spotlighting cup holders, door releases and foot wells.
Leather-trimmed heated and ventilated front buckets seats remain supportive with no negative feedback from occupants. Some earlier-generation Mustangs had 'back-friendly' issues.
2019 Mustang Bullitt
Starting price: $52,980
Engine: 5.0-liter V-8
Horsepower: 480
Wheelbase: 107.1 inches
Overall Length: 188.5 inches
Overall Height: 54.3 inches
Overall Width: 75.4 inches
Fuel economy: 15 mpg city, 24 mpg highway
Curb weight: 3,850 pounds
Powertrain warranty: Five years/60,000 miles
Assembly: Flat Rock, Michigan
It's the coupe emanating movie star charisma.
Ford's highly recognizable Mustang balances and blends nostalgic tweaks with modern nuances and a whole lot a horsepower packed under hood.
Mustang continues aging gracefully with etched Hollywood-good looks 55 years strong. Few rivals boast this staying power as Mustang serves as one of Ford Motor Company's top rolling ambassadors. Last August, the 10-millionth Mustang drove off its assembly line in Michigan.
The 2019 model year marks the third time the Blue Oval folks spotlighted a Bullitt edition (2001 and 2008 representing the first two). All pay homage to the iconic 1968 feature film of the same name with actor Steve McQueen behind the wheel in his most memorable, stomach-churning car chase scene.
However, unlike the theatrical release, no motorcycles or rival Dodge Chargers were injured during the penning of this review.
Taking a slightly deeper dive, the 2019 limited-edition Bullitt reveals itself as 5.0-liter V-8 Mustang GT with optional performance package kicked in and Bullitt-specific nuances. Dark Highland Green is the exterior color of choice, a similar hue highlighting McQueen's driving scenes. Black is also available, but why not simply Go Green.
In 2018 as part of a mid-cycle refresh, Mustang discontinued a V-6 engine option so for 2019, folks choose between an in-line four or naturally-aspirated V-8. Bullitt opts solely for the highly recommended V-8 generating tons of fast and furious fun.
Bullitt horsepower gets goosed, adding twenty more thanks to a larger throttle body and software tweaks. Bullitt enjoys 480 horsepower compared with GT's 460. When fueling, a self-sealing design eliminates the need for a twist cap. Bullitt offers a nice assortment of available transmissions as long as it's a six-speed manual. Moving this 3,850 beast from a standing start requires some know-how with delicate left foot lift working the floor clutch to engage first gear and reverse.
Performance-inspired Brembo-branded disc-brake rotors adorn all wheels in bright-red housings. Bullitt includes a higher top speed (163) than a conventional V-8 Mustang.
Four cylinder Mustangs (marketed as Mustang EcoBoost) suffice with a 2.3-liter turbocharged four cylinder generating 310 horsepower. Expect horsepower upgrades the 2020 model year.
The current 2019 Mustang crop (including Bullitt) is based on the sixth-generation platform introduced in the 2015 model year. Performance inspired rear-wheel drive adds better balance and a comparatively civil ride. Updates and changes from 2018 remain minimal, save for two special editions: Bullitt and a California special edition. Unlike the four-cylinder or V-8 GT, Limited edition Bullitts offer no convertible top.
Mustang's formula for success combines exuberant driving, affordability and plenty of horsepower wrapped in a tidy tiny package. The long hood (aluminum these days) contrasts with a stout deck lid and roof reaching its apex at the top of a curving 'A' pillar. Bullitt's quad exhaust works into the equation, providing deep, aggressive growls. Side windows frame with chrome accents as does the front grille.
Rather than speeding through hill-and-valley streets of downtown San Francisco a-la Mr. McQueen, this 2019 Bullitt took a uniquely Midwestern spin through rather flat stretches connecting suburban Chicago with the Wisconsin Dells.
Unsolicited feedback came forth from three individuals (skewing all male) during three days in the Dells, all delighted with Bullitt's visual and sound effects. Age ranges varied from a high-school teen to a forty something bearded enthusiast.
Duchess the bravely aging Schnauzer, with a touch of arthritis, found back seats comforting. As with all previous generations of Mustang, the two-passenger back remains better suited for K-9s, not humans.
The spacious (when compared to Chevrolet's Corvette or Dodge Challenger) 13.5-cubic-foot trunk absorbed a set of much-maligned golf clubs, bag of kibble, two luggage rollers, camera bag and assorted human food staples. Split second-row backrests fold forward, increasing cargo-carrying capacity and making better use of the inhumane second row.
Red tri-bar tail lights, a Mustang embodiment, blink in syncretic 1-2-3 harmony when summoning turn signals. Front headlight housing also includes three bars. Another night-time picture show includes flood lights emanating from both side-view mirrors projecting Ford's white 'Mustang on the Run' logo to the ground below.
Other than tiny imprints found on the five-spoke 19-inch heritage wheel hubs, the galloping horse logo is noticeably absent from the Bullitt edition's exterior. No equine adorning the front grille and a circular faux gas cap adorns the trunk lid with the round Bullitt logo.
Diminutive, static second row triangular windows and small side-view mirrors contribute to notable blind spots. Unlike the 1968 movie Mustang, 2019 editions offer BLIS, Ford's acronym answer to viewing hidden areas (BLIS=Blind spot Information System) as an option. This highly recommended technology harnesses radar sensors on both sides of the coupe. When a vehicle gets detected in this vulnerable spot, an amber icon illuminates within the side-view mirror. BLIS teams up with rear cross traffic alert, detecting vehicles approaching at a perpendicular direction, especially useful when backing out of Mall parking lots. Not sure if BLIS would hurt or help Mr. McQueen's chase footage.
The BLIS option package also includes Magna-Ride dampers perfecting the pony car's ride and handling balance.
Bullitt Mustang starts at $46,495. Our tester ended at $52,980 factoring in performance package and destination charge.
Inside, Bullitt's door trim, instrument panel, seats and center console include green accent stitching. Open the two side doors, and bottom scuff plates display BULLITT prominently.
Mustangs sit lower to the ground than conventional sedans with large, comparatively heavy side doors. Duchess was not the only aging mammal participating in this weekend getaway, as my 50-something-year-old frame found maneuvering in and out rather effortless.
A new-age electric push-button circle comes standard. To the right, a nostalgic row of four chrome push tabs activating hazard lights, deactivating traction control, selecting one of three steering wheel feedback choices (normal sport, comfort) and drive mode selections. The 12-inch animated instrument panel changes design depending upon the drive mode selected.
The manual transmission includes a dome-like white cue-ball atop the gear shifter. Five selectable drive modes include: normal, snow, track, sport and of course drag strip.
Bullitt circa 2019 includes SYNC 3, with a mid-size in-dash eight-inch screen promoting popular Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility allowing Smartphone interaction within the touch-and-swipe screen. Our tester's system includes improved voice recognition and two USB plug ports.
Ambient mood lighting is accessible via the steering wheel's right-side buttons with results displayed inside the instrument panel's digital, scrollable center screen. Choose from seven interior lighting selections after dusk (ice, orange, blue, red, green, navy or purple) spotlighting cup holders, door releases and foot wells.
Leather-trimmed heated and ventilated front buckets seats remain supportive with no negative feedback from occupants. Some earlier-generation Mustangs had 'back-friendly' issues.
2019 Mustang Bullitt
Starting price: $52,980
Engine: 5.0-liter V-8
Horsepower: 480
Wheelbase: 107.1 inches
Overall Length: 188.5 inches
Overall Height: 54.3 inches
Overall Width: 75.4 inches
Fuel economy: 15 mpg city, 24 mpg highway
Curb weight: 3,850 pounds
Powertrain warranty: Five years/60,000 miles
Assembly: Flat Rock, Michigan
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