Ford Mustang GT Premium (V8) Review
Ford Mustang GT Premium (V8)
The Best
The 2010 Ford Mustang GT Premium V8 has come a long way. Hop in, twist the key, and you are greeted by this Pony Car’s distinguishing feature: the all-new 5.0L V8 sitting under the hood. Previous Mustangs have been all engine and, at first, this car seems no different. The V8 has a pleasant but somewhat subtle burble. It is enough to remind you that the engine could only be a V8. With over 400 hp and nearly 400 lb ft of torque, the subtlety is short-lived. It is massively quick, especially when compared to previous generation models. Ford has placed great emphasis on handling for the more-recent Mustangs but that engine is still the star of the show. The suspension has been tweaked and improved over 2010 models but to be sure, the car’s forte is still straight-line motoring and boulevard cruising. Corners are no longer a reason to run off and hide, but nothing compares to the open (straight!) highway tackled in a ‘Stang.
The Worst
Terming anything the worst is a disservice to Ford’s newest addition to the Pony Car pantheon. Admittedly, Mustangs have never been about luxury or comfort. In this respect, the 2011 Mustang GT Premium is a step forward. The ride isn’t terrible. In fact, at a highway cruise, this car strikes you as a pretty pleasant place to be. It is clear the emphasis with this car is on the driver and performance, rather than creature comforts. Mechanically, Ford knocked this one out of the park. With respect to ergonomics and standard equipment, call it a sacrifice fly.
Performance 4.5 out of 5 stars
It is clear which aspect of the Mustang sat at the top of Ford’s list when allocating R & D hours. The Mustang V8 is a triumph. The V8 has bags of torque and pulls cleanly throughout the rev-range. The engine is the most willing and free-revving that Ford produces. The torque is available seemingly on demand after a flex of the right foot. The transmission (both auto and manual 6-speed variants are offered) seems geared to perfection, allowing the driver total control over whether to prioritize driving for economy or thrills. The suspension is excellent, allowing the driver to attack a corner with confidence. The standard brakes are a touch vague and are quick to fade. Be sure to spec the 19-inch wheels as these should involve a Brembo brake upgrade as standard.
Comfort 3.5 out of 5 stars
As previously stated, the 2011 Mustang Premium is a comfortable place to be, whether at a cruise or at full chat at your local track day. The seats could have a touch more lateral support, but they seem right for the $30k price point.
Design
The exterior design may divide opinion. Ford has gone a bit sleeker with the car which means the car loses some of the latent retro-chic of the last generation Mustang. That being said, the Mustang is a looker. Inside, the amount of kit you receive is a touch lacking for your $30k investment. The interior is functional albeit a bit bland.
Should I Buy It?
In a word, yes. If you are in the market for a functional, sleek, and impressively modern Pony Car, look no further.