2024 Ford Mustang

Nearly 60 years after its initial debut, the Mustang rolls into 2024 with a fresh exterior, all-new interior, and two new powertrains.  Mustang continues to be offered both as a two-door fastback or as a two-door convertible. There are currently nine different versions you build off starting with the base EcoBoost Fastback that starts at $31,920 and topping out with the Dark Horse Premium starting out at $64,630... most will fall somewhere in between. Unless you've lived under a rock, most people know the Ford Mustang. As one of only a few traditional sports cars left, it must keep up with the times to remain relevant. It's a completely different driving experience from all the SUVs and crossovers out there and I'm glad it still exists. As a bonus in my household, my 16-year-old was able to attend Ford's Driving School for Life teen driving program in which she spent time behind the wheel of a new Mustang. In doing so, she learned how to handle a rear-wheel-drive vehicle, maneuver out of a skid and learn to feel what it's like to pull on a parking brake. I commend Ford for that program and for giving teens the opportunity to drive cars like the Mustang in a controlled environment.

For 2024, there are two powertrain choices that include an EcoBoost 4-cylinder turbocharged 2.3L engine that delivers 310 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. EcoBoost models are the more efficient option with EPA fuel economy estimates up to 33 MPG on the highway. Also still offered is the popular 5.0 V8, this advanced Coyote V8 is the fourth generation delivers the most naturally aspirated horsepower of any Mustang GT thanks to a dual air intake and dual throttle body design. GT models will push out 480 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque while Dark Horse models get a boost up to 500 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. All Mustangs are rear-wheel drive and pair with a six-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic.

Competition is dwindling as this past year we bid farewell to its primary competitors in the Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger. Buyers may also cross shop the upcoming Dodge Charger Daytona EV,  Toyota GR86 / GR Supra, Subaru BRZ, Nissan Z, or the Mazda MX-5 Miata as some of the only remaining mainstream two-door coupes. I spent a week in a Mustang GT Premium Fastback that checked in at $61,620 and here's what stood out.

Exterior (+)
The Mustang is one car that has (almost) always stayed true to its styling routes and evolved slowly over time and the latest seventh generation is no different. For 2024, the Mustang gets more chiseled with similar proportions as the previous model.  Its low, horizontal brow across the front emphasizes the width, while the upper grille design shape is influenced by the original 1960s design. The Tri-Bar LED headlamps continue a classic lighting signature. Each model in the lineup gets its own unique front end to further identify them. Its sleek roofline, broad stance and shortened rear overhang are also true to the authentic proportions of the first generation. Around the back, the Mustang's silhouette changes with sharper angles that point in along with updated tri-bar sequential taillights. There are 11 exterior colors to choose from including two new ones, Vapor Blue and Yellow Splash.  Further personalization can be done by adding stripes in new colors, three Brembo brake caliper colors, and wheel designs ranging in size from 17" up to 20" is a variety of finishes.

New for the 2024 model year is the Mustang Design Series, providing further customization options straight from the factory. The Bronze Design Series Appearance Package adds Sinister Bronze alloy wheels with bronze badges, and is available on both EcoBoost and GT models, with or without the optional Performance Pack.

Performance (+)
The new Mustang is available with two new engines, a 2.3-liter EcoBoost and the Mustang GT's most powerful 5.0-liter Coyote V8 ever. There's also a new Remote Rev feature that provides the ability to rev the car's engine remotely using the key fob, and an available new Electronic Drift Brake that can quickly turn a novice into a drifting pro. I spent time in the V8 paired with a standard six-speed manual transmission. Also available is an advanced 10-speed automatic. The V8 pushes out 480 horsepower and 410-pound feet of torque in the GT and bumps up to 500 horsepower with 415-pound feet of torque in the Dark Horse. The GT is good for a 0-60 MPH time of around 4.8 seconds in the manual and 4.3 seconds in the automatic. This car is engaging and fun all around. The V8 delivers a throaty exhaust tone as soon as it starts up. The naturally aspirated V8 is smooth, all you must do is shift into gear and you're ready to make some noise. The manual transmission includes standard rev-matching that helps hold engine RPM when the clutch is engaged. This retains peak torque between manual gear changes, delivering even more precision, thrill and better refinement.  

Mustang GT and EcoBoost models are both available with an optional Performance Pack, which adds a host of track-focused features, including a front Tower Brace, Torsen Limited Slip differential and optional MagneRide active suspension, wider rear wheels and tires, and larger, 390-millimeter front and 355-millimeter rear Brembo brakes. The GT Performance Pack adds brake ducts for even more enhanced cooling and a standard auxiliary engine oil cooler. Performance Pack also offers optional Recaro seats and active exhaust.

This car handles the roads with direct steering that takes corners with ease. It's heavy enough to feel confident on both city and highway roads. The Brembo brakes are on point and halt the Mustang just as they should, with quick precision. Overall, the new Mustang is well-balanced, smooth, and powerful. It's one of the few V8s left for sports enthusiasts to both feel and hear the sounds of a weekend cruise.

Drift Brake (+)
While I didn't personally test this out, the Mustang is available with an electronic drift brake that takes new technology to the racetrack, unlocking the rear-wheel-drive drifting capability with the visual appeal and functionality of a traditional, mechanical hand brake. The Performance Electronic Parking Brake comes standard with the Performance Pack on all Mustang models, engineered for novice drivers to learn and improve their drift skills while also providing expert drivers with a competition-ready system.

Fuel Economy (+/-)
When it arrived with a full 16-gallon tank, it offered a driving range of around 350 miles. EPA estimates for the GT manual are 14 MPG city and 23 MPG highway. EcoBoost models are the most efficient with 22/33 MPH city/highway. At the end of my week of suburban travel, I averaged just under 15 MPG. It's not great, but it's also not terrible considering the V8 powertrain.

Interior (+)
Hopping inside you'll find an all new interior that is the most technical, driver-centric layout in a Mustang. Drivers will face a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster that can be customized to display different animated designs and new drive-mode dependent visuals. Mustang's default instrument gauge setting has shifted to an ultra-modern, copper appearance theme also shared with Mustang Mach-E. Based on the same Unreal Engine 3D creation tool used in modern video games, when choosing personalized drive mode settings, the car's current setup is displayed on the center stack as real-time graphical renderings. Settings can be adjusted by simply swiping the graphics to rotate the car virtually in true gamified style. In addition to the drive mode settings, there's even a throwback to the instrument cluster / color combination from the 80s-era fox-body design.

The digital instrument cluster seamlessly flows into a 13.2-inch SYNC 4 infotainment touchscreen. The majority of the vehicle's functions can be controlled within the touchscreen; however, Ford did give the Mustang a standard volume knob and a few other buttons. Ford's SYNC 4 system works well and is intuitive to operate. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are seamlessly integrated without a cord and there's an available wireless charging pad just in front of the shift knob. The Mustang has a flat bottom steering wheel with good gripping placement and additional function controls. There are two cupholders placed just behind the gear shifter, which are slightly behind the driver's reach.
There are also new overhead USB ports that are installed above the cockpit, conveniently placed for track cameras and other devices, helping prevent wires from draping across the cabin. The available B&O Sound System sounds crystal clear and fills the interior nicely. The set up will feel new, but also familiar to Mustang owners. Everything from the layout to the updated materials modernize the latest generation.

Seating (+/-)
The Mustang seats four people. Cloth upholstery and manually adjustable front seats come standard. A mix of cloth and vinyl upholstery, synthetic or genuine leather upholstery, and power-adjustable front seats are also available.  Other available features built into various packages include heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. My test model was equipped with the Performance Package ($4,995) which includes sporty Recaro seats with thicker bolsters. The Recaro seats are stiffer but keep the driver/passenger snug in their seats. These seats are great for track days but aren't ideal for longer road trips.  Another option on my test vehicle were red seat belts ($295) which add an extra touch of flair. Headroom is limited in the back, but reasonably up front. The rear seats are small, but kids can ride back there. Despite there being LATCH connectors for child safety seats, they are difficult to reach and not ideal.

Cargo (+/-)
Another key feature is Active Pothole Mitigation, included with the Performance Package, which continually monitors suspension, body, steering and braking input and adjusts suspension response accordingly.

Driver Assist Features (+)
The new Mustang comes equipped with Ford Co-Pilot 360 features, including Speed Sign Recognition, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Lane Centering Assist, Evasive Steer Assist and Reverse Brake Assist. Another key feature is Active Pothole Mitigation, included with the Performance Package, which continually monitors suspension, body, steering and braking input and adjusts suspension response accordingly.

Owners can stay connected with their car via the FordPass app in other ways, utilizing free remote features such as remote vehicle start and stop, door locking and unlocking, scheduling a start time, locating the vehicle, and vehicle health and status checks. The FordPass app provides important vehicle information available to users, including fuel and oil levels, service history and warranty information.

Final Statement
The Mustang enters a new generation with modern technology while still staying true to its heritage. An updated exterior keeps the Mustang fresh and available options such as the bronze package on my test GT model allow for some personalization. Inside is all new with intuitive technology but a simple layout. Under the hood is a powerhouse V8 that sounds as good as it feels. The standard 6-speed manual is smooth and engaging. Ford did a great job overall with the latest iteration and I truly enjoyed my time behind the wheel of the V8 GT. My 8-year-old son summed it up best with "I really like how the Mustang looks and sounds, everyone keeps checking it out. We should keep this one."

First Impression Summary:

Test Vehicle: 2024 Ford Mustang GT Coupe Premium
Exterior Color: Dark Matter Gray
Interior Color:  Space Gray Leather Trim Recaro
Notable Options: Equipment group 401A ($2,900), GT Performance Package ($4,995), Bronze Appearance Package ($995), Active Valve Exhaust ($1,225), Recaro Seats ($1,650), Red Seat Belts ($295), MagneRide Damping System ($1,750)
Price as tested: $61,620 (with destination charge)

Pros: Powerful engine, 6-speed manual, throaty exhaust, intuitive technology, variety of models, confident road manners
Cons: Tight second row, average fuel economy