The Ford Mustang is significantly updated for 2018 with revised front and rear styling, updated interior, revised powertrains, and new high-tech options. The V6 has been retired, leaving the turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder and 5.0-liter V8, each available with a new 10-speed automatic transmission. The V8 engine has been reworked to create more power and aid fuel economy. The rear suspension has been revised, and the Mustang will be available with active damping to dynamically adjust body motions.
Combined, these refinements promise more polish to this classic muscle car.
Coupe and convertible versions are available. We tested two coupes -- a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with an automatic and a GT V8 with a six-speed manual. The turbo is a stylish, mildly sporty boulevardier; the GT is a tire-smoking brute that will summon your inner teenager.
With a snappy 0-60 mph acceleration time of 6.4 seconds, the turbo version lives up to the image of its sheet metal. Power comes on quickly, but the engine sound is raspy and gritty. Fuel economy of 25 mpg overall is more akin to a midsized sedan than a performance car. As for handling, the turbo Mustang has an appropriately sporty demeanor while leaving your molars intact on bumpier roads.
With its throaty 5.0-liter V8, the GT is more of a high-strung thoroughbred than an easy-going mare. Our GT roared from 0-60 mph in just 4.9 seconds, just a half-second slower than a Chevrolet Corvette or Porsche 911. Since then, power increased from 435 hp to 460 hp for 2018. The six-speed manual has smooth, low-effort action, and the clutch is light enough to avoid left-leg fatigue in traffic. That's a rare feat in a car with this much torque.
With the optional Performance package, we got stiffer springs, Brembo brakes, and a Torsen limited-slip axle. So equipped, the GT felt ready to race. But be aware that the Pirelli P Zero tires take forever to heat up for optimum grip, so we recommend getting performance all-season tires for real-world driving.
The cabin features soft-touch materials offsetting some hard plastic surfaces here and there. A row of toggle switches in the center stack lends a cool, retro-racer flair.
Unlike many sporty cars and coupes, the Mustang can serve as a daily driver without severely compromising visibility, ease of access, or drivability. The front seats are superbly supportive, but they lack a power recline feature. As for the rear seats, there's room for groceries but little else. It is, after all, a coupe.
A standard rear camera is helpful, as is the optional easy-to-use Sync 3 touch screen infotainment system. We'd also select the optional blind-spot monitoring.