2019 Ford Mustang

Overview

The Mustang founded the pony-car phenomenon back in the 1960s with trademarks that continue today: attractive styling, affordable performance, and ample opportunities for personalization. The modern-day Stang is more sophisticated and powerful (read: better) than ever. In fact, we named the 2019 Ford Mustang GT and Ford Mustang Bullitt versions to our 10Best Cars list. In addition to a fantastic chassis, it has a standard 310-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine (which Ford calls EcoBoost); a rip-roaring V-8 and 10-speed automatic transmission are optional. High-performance add-ons include an active exhaust system, an adaptive suspension, and Brembo brakes. Whether cruising the coast in a droptop model or roasting the rear tires in a souped-up coupe, the Mustang has an expressive personality and exceptional performance.

What's New for 2019?

Despite a slew of updates to last year's Mustang lineup, Ford continues to improve its popular pony. The biggest news is the return of the legendary Bullitt model, which was inspired by the one Steve McQueen drove in the film of that same name. Along with its signature appearance, the V-8 coupe has more horsepower and extra performance equipment. Likewise, the limited-edition California Special package returns with styling that imitates the 1968 original. Enthusiasts will appreciate the new rev-matching feature on V-8 Mustangs with the manual transmission, and four-cylinder versions have an optional variable exhaust system. A new B&O PLAY audio system along with three new paint colors and over-the-top-stripes round out the changes to the 2019 Ford Mustang. A new High Performance package for the base 2.3-liter four-cylinder Mustang will join the lineup, but not until the 2020 model year.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Don't be fooled by its cylinder count—the standard turbocharged inline-four has enough punch to embarrass V-8 Mustangs of old. The GT models are motivated by a 460-hp V-8 with an optional active exhaust that trumpets a thunderous roar. Both of these compelling engines pair with a standard six-speed manual transmission or a 10-speed automatic that makes the Mustang quicker than before. The pony car is also available with a transformative package—called Performance Pack Level 2—that adds track-ready equipment courtesy of the Shelby GT350. Still, the special-edition Bullitt model may be the best all-around Mustang for sale today. Its enhanced V-8 engine makes an extra 20 horsepower (480 total), and it includes all the top-shelf performance parts available.

This latest Mustang generation brought with it a much-needed independent rear suspension, which replaced the archaic solid rear axle. The switch-up improves its handling and takes its ride quality into the 21st century. Even with the less powerful engines, the Mustang's modernized chassis delivers a comfortable and controlled driving experience. For added sportiness, there is an optional Performance package for EcoBoost and GT models. The electrically assisted steering on our test car featured selectable modes (Normal, Sport, and Comfort). It's appropriately light in Comfort mode and nicely weighted in the other two. The Mustang's brake pedal had a firm feel that was touchy in stop-and-go traffic; it's easier to apply smoothly at higher speeds.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The days of gas-guzzling muscle cars are gone. The Mustang and its competitors even have (gasp!) fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines. While the Ford V-8 has competitive EPA estimates and real-world fuel economy, the Mustang's four-cylinder woefully underperformed in our highway test. In our testing, the four-cylinder with the six-speed manual returned 24 mpg, a whopping 7 mpg fewer than its EPA rating. The V-8 with the 10-speed automatic saw 24 mpg in our hands, just 1 mpg off of its EPA number.

Interior, Infotainment, and Cargo

The Mustang interior is better than ever, with an evolutionary design that harks back to Mustangs of old while managing to be fully functional and livable. While it's available with premium features such as heated and cooled front seats, its mediocre plastics and cozy Headless Horseman–only back-seat area are demerits.

Ford's optional Sync 3 infotainment system has a clean design and a simple interface. While it's not as responsive or robust as some rivals, it does come with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a kickin' stereo. The Mustang is available with a 4G LTE mobile Wi-Fi hotspot and Ford Sync Connect, which allows users to control and monitor their vehicle through a smartphone app.

Stellar performance combined with impressive cargo space makes the Mustang a high-performance daily driver. It held the second-most carry-ons and has the most interior storage space among rivals. The back seat stows by pulling a strap and folds up by hand. Should you need to transport up to 12 carry-on bags, the Mustang can do so. The Ford wins with the biggest center-console bin among competitors we tested.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The Mustang earned a five-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, but its ratings are average from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The Stang is also available with the most driver-assistance equipment of any pony car, so you can go faster and feel safer. That's how driver assists work, right? Key safety features include:

• Available forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
• Available lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
• Available blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The Mustang has a solid but average warranty. However, unlike BMW and Chevy, Ford doesn't provide any complimentary scheduled maintenance.

• Limited warranty covers 3 years or 36,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles
• No complimentary scheduled maintenance