Ford Mustang Review 2026

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Ford Mustang Verdict

3/5

+Guaranteed to get attention. 5.0-litre V8 sounds fantastic engine. No other car can match the V8 for pound-per-horsepower.

-V8 has a frightening thirst for fuel. The interior lacks quality. Uncharismatic sound from 2.3 EcoBoost. Tiring to drive in traffic. A handful in wet or wintery conditions.

Find out more about the Ford Mustang

New prices start from £33,645
Insurance Groups are between 41–47
On average it achieves 96% of the official MPG figure

It took Ford 50 years before it officially brought its iconic muscle car to Europe. And - quelle surprise - it's been an enormous success. The UK is the Mustang's second biggest European market after Germany - outselling the Porsche 911.

Why the success? Well, what other iconic V8-powered sports car can you buy for less than £45k? The Mustang is a car that screams "look a me", a car that makes a statement. A car you should buy if you want to stand out in a car park full of greyscale German cars.

Updated for 2018, the Mustang has been given a slight facelift - with a more aggressive front end made up of a larger front splitter and revised LED headlights. To the rear, a revised bumper, optional rear spoiler and quad-tailpipes for the V8 give it an even more boisterous appearance.

That V8 - the engine everyone wants - now delivers 450PS (up from 416PS), just in case anyone previously felt it wasn't powerful enough. It provides exactly the driving experience you'd want from a Mustang - loud and deep on start-up, while being aggressive with the throttle will get the 'Stang out of shape pretty quickly. The downside is a car that's far from relaxing to drive in the same way a powerful Audi, BMW or Mercedes-Benz can be. The clutch - if you choose a manual - is heavy in traffic, while the gear change is clunky.

Half of buyers are expected to opt for the more wallet-friendly 2.3-litre EcoBoost with 290PS (down from 314PS pre-facelift). While it has its benefits - it's more economical, obviously, and more docile - it's not what the Mustang is all about. We like the same engine in the Focus RS, but it's underwhelming in the Mustang. The noise is disappointing and the performance is adequate at best. When the V8 is only marginally more expensive and slightly-more-than-marginally thirstier than the EcoBoost, it's hard to justify not going for the full-fat Mustang experience.

Whether you opt for the sleek coupe or the soft-top is down to personal preference. We prefer the appearance of the Fastback, but the multi layer insulated fabric hood of the convertible does a fine job of hiding wind noise. And, besides, being able to drop the roof and enjoy the V8 sound in all its glory is a very tempting proposition.

Ford's given the interior a more premium finish for 2018, but it's still the area that lets the Mustang down compared to more premium rivals. But its naffness is part of what makes it a Mustang - if you want soft touch finishes and a slick infotainment system, buy an Audi.

Ford Mustang handling and engines

Let's be honest here. If you're after a Mustang, you'll want the 5.0 V8. The big 5.0-litre is a classic American muscle car engine. There are no turbochargers here. It's a normally aspirated V8 developing 450PS - the same as an Audi RS4. So it's not short of power or pace. On paper it accelerates from 0-62mph in 4.6 seconds with the manual gearbox.

Despite 529Nm of torque, you can't be lazy when driving the Mustang. Be prepared to drop down a few gears and it'll accelerate - boy, will it accelerate - but don't expect it to comfortably pick up pace from sixth gear when cruising on the motorway. Considering the power output, it's bonkers to think that you may wish it had a little more go, but you might find yourself wanting more. Fortunately there are many aftermarket tuners on hand to increase power - indeed, even Ford admits that few Mustang buyers will leave their car standard.

Alongside the V8, there's a 2.3-litre turbocharged EcoBoost petrol engine designed to offer a more relaxed driving experience combined with better economy. It's the same engine that's used in the Focus RS, so it comes with a strong reputation. 

There is a school of thought that suggests this is a better fit than the V8. You can drive it harder without the rear wheels becoming unstuck, while the lighter front end means it flows through bends with more finesse. Combine better handling with 290PS and 31.4mpg and it's easy to see why you'd be tempted - but we wouldn't.

It's disappointing, especially if you opt for the 10-speed automatic gearbox. Even with a manual, it just doesn't offer the performance you'd expect from a Mustang. You might as well buy one with a diesel engine (not an option Ford offers, although we reckon it'd be massively popular with company car drivers, if not enthusiasts).

Although Ford Mustangs have never been known for their handling, the current model features independent rear suspension and - in the UK - a performance pack as standard. that means all UK Mustangs come with stiffer suspension, larger brakes and a limited-slip differential.

While the Mustang feels like a big car on twisting, British roads, it gives you plenty of confidence to drive assertively. The steering is heavy (would you expect anything less?), but there's plenty of front-end grip. Selectable drive modes tweak things like the steering weight, throttle response and electronic stability mode. For the first time, Mustang buyers can now alter these using a customisable 'My Mode'. 

As well as feeling the Mustang's size on rural roads, you'll also notice it around town. At close to 4.8 metres long, it's not much shorter than a BMW 5 Series - although, with the Ford, it seems to be mainly bonnet. That means there's a big turning circle, making tight multi-storey car parks a challenge.

Like all rear-wheel drive cars with a gargantuan levels of power, the Mustang requires a certain level of respect. Even in Normal or Snow/Wet mode, the rear end will feel unsettled when you push things along in wet or wintery conditions. Only drivers with sports car competence should ever venture towards the Sport+ mode. 

Combine that with a heavy clutch and notchy gear change and you'll find the Mustang a tricky and tiring companion for day-to-day driving. While enthusiasts will be happy to make this compromise, some drivers will long for the ease of something like the Audi A5. On the plus side, it rides well on the motorway and is a surprisingly competent long distance cruiser.

New for 2018 is a Good Neighbour mode which closes a valve in the exhaust of the V8 when starting it between preset times. This allows you to creep off without waking up the entire street, should you be leaving home early in the morning or late night.

Engine MPG 0-62 CO2
2.3T EcoBoost 35 mpg 5.8 s 179–207 g/km
2.3T EcoBoost Automatic 29 mpg - 225 g/km
2.3T EcoBoost Automatic Convertible 29–31 mpg - 205–225 g/km
2.3T EcoBoost Convertible 31–34 mpg 5.8 s 184–230 g/km
5.0 V8 21 mpg 4.8 s 290–299 g/km
5.0 V8 Automatic 24 mpg - 281 g/km
5.0 V8 Automatic Convertible 22–23 mpg - 270–289 g/km
5.0 V8 Bullitt 23 mpg 4.8 s 277 g/km
5.0 V8 Convertible 21–23 mpg 4.8 s 277–306 g/km
Mach 1 - 4.9 s -
Mach 1 Automatic - 4.4 s -

Real MPG average for the Ford Mustang

RealMPG

Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.

Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.

Average performance

96%

Real MPG

18–32 mpg

MPGs submitted

72

Ford Mustang interior

Dimensions
Length 4784–4797 mm
Width 2080–2097 mm
Height 1381–1403 mm
Wheelbase 2720 mm

Full specifications

If there's one area that lets the Mustang down, it's the interior. Although improved for 2018, it still falls short of the standards of other Ford cars. The Mustang's low list price compared to rivals makes up for it to an extent, but it still costs more than £30,000.

It gets the basics right - the driving position is good and there's plenty of adjustment in the steering column plus we like the supportive yet comfortable seats. But that doesn't disguise the fact that it feels rather dated.

Things like the row of switches at the base of the centre console highlight this. They may look like metal but they are in fact silver painted plastic. The same goes for the dials on the stereo and the air conditioning controls. It feels distinctly low rent in what's supposed to be a feel-good sports car.

Even small details like the buttons for turning on the interior lights - which look like they've been lifted from an early 90s Nissan - show where costs have been kept down.

That's not to say it's short of kit. All models come well equipped with dual zone air con, keyless entry and start while the Ford Sync system (initially the 2 but later upgraded to the much better 3) is excellent with an easy to use and responsive touchscreen. There's also a reversing camera although we're surprised that navigation is an optional extra.

We've also got gripes with the change to right hand drive. The handbrake is on the wrong side, while the cupholders get in the way when changing gear.

Standard equipment:

Mustang comes with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, plus 19-inch wheels, aperformance brake package, automatic HID xenon headlamps, LED tail lamps and a rear diffuser. Further standard equipment includes dual-zone climate control, a nine-speaker sound system, and SYNC 3 voice control connectivity with an eight-inch colour touch screen.

Additional options include climate control seats and premium 19-inch alloy wheels with Lustre Nickel finish (available as part of the optional custom pack). 11 exterior colour choices include exclusive Orange Fury and tri-coat Triple Yellow.

Ford Mustang models and specs

Dimensions
Length 4784–4797 mm
Width 2080–2097 mm
Height 1381–1403 mm
Wheelbase 2720 mm
Miscellaneous
Kerb Weight 1653–1851 kg
Boot Space 332–408 L
Warranty 3 years / 60000 miles
Servicing 10000 miles
Costs
List Price £33,645–£48,245
Insurance Groups 41–47
Road Tax Bands I–M
Official MPG 20.8–35.3 mpg
Euro NCAP Safety Ratings
Adult -
Child -
Pedestrian -
Overall 2

Currently on sale

Cabriolet
Version List Price MPG 0-62
5.0 V8 450 GT 2dr - 22.1 mpg -
Coupe
Version List Price MPG 0-62
5.0 V8 450 GT 2dr - 22.8 mpg 4.8 s
Mach 1 Ti-VCT V8 460 2dr - - 4.9 s
Mach 1 Ti-VCT V8 460 SelectShift Auto 2dr - - 4.4 s

On sale until December 2021

Coupe
Version List Price MPG 0-62
2.3 270 EcoBoost 2dr - - -
5.0 V8 440 55 Edition Auto 2dr - - -
5.0 V8 440 GT Auto 2dr - - -
5.0 V8 450 55 Edition 2dr - - -
5.0 V8 459 Bullitt 2dr - 22.8 mpg 4.8 s

On sale until April 2020

Cabriolet
Version List Price MPG 0-62
2.3 290 EcoBoost 2dr £41,145 31.0 mpg -
2.3 290 EcoBoost Auto 2dr £42,745 29.7 mpg -
5.0 V8 450 GT Auto 2dr £48,245 22.6 mpg -
Coupe
Version List Price MPG 0-62
2.3 290 EcoBoost 2dr £37,645 31.3 mpg 5.8 s
2.3 290 EcoBoost Auto 2dr £39,245 30.7 mpg -
5.0 V8 450 GT Auto 2dr £44,745 23.3 mpg -

On sale until March 2018

Cabriolet
Version List Price MPG 0-62
2.3 317 EcoBoost 2dr £37,145 34.4 mpg -
2.3 317 EcoBoost Auto 2dr £38,745 28.8 mpg -
5.0 V8 416 GT 2dr £41,595 20.8 mpg -
5.0 V8 416 GT Auto 2dr £43,095 22.1 mpg -
5.0 V8 416 GT Shadow Edition 2dr £43,395 20.8 mpg -
5.0 V8 416 GT Shdw Edition Auto 2dr £44,895 22.1 mpg -
Coupe
Version List Price MPG 0-62
2.3 317 EcoBoost 2dr £33,645 35.3 mpg 5.8 s
2.3 317 EcoBoost Auto 2dr £35,245 28.8 mpg -
5.0 V8 416 GT 2dr £38,095 20.9 mpg 4.8 s
5.0 V8 416 GT Auto 2dr £39,595 23.5 mpg -
5.0 V8 416 GT Shdw Edition 2dr £39,895 20.9 mpg 4.8 s
5.0 V8 GT Shadow Edition Auto 2dr £41,395 23.5 mpg -

Model History

December 2013

Ford unveiled Mustang

The Ford Mustang fastback and convertible models promise world-class levels of performance and refinement while embracing the Mustang’s half-century of heritage and status as a global icon.

Ford Mustang convertible has standard multilayer insulated cloth top that gives the car an upscale appearance and a quiet cabin. The top has a sleek profile when folded for open-air motoring.

Large, clear instrumentation puts vehicle information right in front of the driver in the roomy cabin with an aviation-inspired cockpit, while ergonomic and tactile switches and knobs provide control. The vehicle’s width and new rear suspension contribute to improved shoulder and hip room for passengers and a usefully shaped bootspace that can accommodate two golf bags.

Ford’s acclaimed 5.0‑litre V8 engine is joined by an all-new 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine that brings state-of-the-art technology to Mustang; delivering turbocharged performance with the fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions demanded by Europe’s car consumers.

The Mustang’s 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine uses direct injection, variable cam timing and turbocharging to deliver usable performance. A unique intake manifold and turbocharger housing enable it to deliver the performance Mustang drivers expect. An automatic transmission option features steering wheel-mounted shift paddles for drivers who want the choice between convenience and control.

The new Ford Mustang features all-new front and rear suspension systems. At the front, a new perimeter subframe helps to stiffen the front structure while reducing mass, providing a strong foundation for more predictable wheel control that benefits handling, steering and ride.

The new double ball-joint front MacPherson strut system also enables the use of large, powerful brakes. Both 2.3‑litre EcoBoost and V8-powered GT Mustang models will feature performance brake packages behind standard 19‑inch wheels in Europe.

At the rear is an all-new integral-link independent rear suspension. The geometry, springs, dampers and bushings all have been specifically modified and tuned for this high-performance application, and are well-suited to European roads and high speed driving culture. New aluminium rear knuckles help reduce unsprung mass for improved ride and handling.

The new Mustang features a significant number of innovative technologies providing drivers with enhanced information, control, and connectivity when they want it.

On a twisty back road or a weekend track day, the driver can tap the toggle switches on the console to quickly adjust steering effort, engine response, and transmission and electronic stability control settings using the available Selectable Drive Modes to create the perfect Mustang at any time.

The advanced, Ford-developed stability control is tuned to maximise the new Mustang’s dynamic capabilities with features like torque vectoring that directs engine power to individual wheels to keep the car on course. When the time comes to turn up the wick at the track, manual transmission variants of the Mustang GT include standard launch control that enables drivers to achieve smooth, consistent starts every time.

Advanced driver-assist features include standard Ford SYNC with Voice Control and Touchscreen, that lets drivers control their entertainment. Also available for Mustang drivers in Europe will be a navigation system utilising the 8-inch central colour screen in conjunction with a premium 12-speaker sound system.

January 2015

Ford Mustang goes on sale in the UK

Equipped with a 317PS 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine or a 416PS 5.0-litre V8 engine, the new Ford Mustang fastback and convertible models are available to order from FordStores priced from £28,995.

Available with six-speed manual or automatic transmission, all-new Ford Mustang features as standard: 19-inch wheels, aperformance brake package, automatic HID xenon headlamps, LED tail lamps, and a rear diffuser. Further standard equipment includes dual-zone climate control, a nine-speaker sound system, and SYNC 2 voice control connectivity with an eight-inch colour touch screen.

Additional options include climate control seats and premium 19-inch alloy wheels with Lustre Nickel finish (available as part of the optional custom pack). Ten exterior colour choices include exclusive Competition Orange and tri-coat Triple Yellow.

March 2018

Mustang Bullitt unveiled

Mustang Bullitt is powered by Ford’s 5.0-litre V8 engine enhanced with an Open Air Induction System, and intake manifold, 87mm throttle bodies and powertrain control module calibration from the Shelby Mustang GT350, to deliver an anticipated 464PS and 529Nm of torque.

Offered with a choice of Shadow Black or classic Dark Highland Green exterior colours, the Mustang Bullitt will feature 19-inch Torq Thrust-style wheels, red Brembo brake callipers and a faux Bullitt fuel-filler cap.

The interior will deliver Ford’s 12-inch all-digital LCD instrument cluster and will offer Recaro sports seats. Interior seat-, centre console- and instrument panel-stitching will reflect the exterior colour choice, and each Mustang Bullitt will feature an individually numbered plaque in place of the traditional Mustang emblem on the passenger-side dashboard.

The new Ford Mustang Bullitt will also feature as standard Ford’s new rev-matching technology that delivers smoother downshifts accompanied by a “blip” of the powerful 5.0-litre V8 engine, and premium B&O PLAY audio system that delivers 1000 watts through 12 high-performance speakers.

March 2018

Updated Mustang launched

Available in fastback and convertible body styles, the instantly-recognisable, powerful Mustang profile now features more refined aerodynamics, and is enhanced with LED lighting technology, and a choice of 11 bold exterior colours and new alloy wheel options.

The Mustang’s 5.0-litre Ford V8 engine now delivers 450 PS – and is able to sprint from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.3 seconds when combined with Ford’s new 10-speed automatic gearbox. Mustang’s six-speed manual transmission now features rev-matching technology that delivers smoother, faster downshifts accompanied by a “blip” of the powerful engine.

The bonnet profile is now lower with integrated air vents, combined with a revised lower grille design to give the Mustang a sharper, more aggressive face, while improving aerodynamics.

The Mustang’s rear-end gets a re-modelled bumper and diffuser element, accommodating standard quad-tailpipes for the 5.0-litre V8 model that testify to the power and performance available. In addition, Mustang is now offered with a new optional boot spoiler for an even sportier profile.

Crisp, clear and energy-efficient, Mustang’s headlights, daytime running lights, indicators and iconic three-dimensional tri-bar tail lights now all feature LED technology as standard for Mustang models in Europe, with LED foglights also available. The front headlight bezels also have been restyled to reflect the trapezoidal shape of the upper grille.

A wider range of customisation options will enable Mustang customers in Europe to make even more of a statement. Three bold, dynamic new metallic paint colours are available – Kona Blue, Orange Fury and Royal Crimson, while customers wishing to stand out even more can add racing stripes that are available in either white or black. New 19-inch forged alloy wheels are offered in multiple finishes each with a unique character, including Nickel, Ebony Black and Polished Aluminium.

The new Mustang interior delivers a more premium feel. Soft touch materials now feature for the door linings and the door handles are finished in aluminium. The centre console features a new hand-stitched, soft-touch wrap, finished with stitching in a contrast colour for a more dynamic and upscale feel. The instrument panel surround is available in four new aluminium finishes.

A new engine-start button pulses red from the moment the door is unlocked until the engine sparks in to life, giving Mustang a heartbeat of its own. At a rate of 30 beats per minute, the start button mirrors the resting heart rate of a pony.

A Carbon Sport interior package is also available across the Mustang range, including suede-effect Alcantara door and seat inserts, plus a carbon fibre instrument panel surround and gear knob. Leather-trimmed, heated and cooled seats, and a heated steering wheel are also offered across the line-up for the first time, for ultimate comfort. Customers who opt for the leather Recaro racing seat option now have a choice of three colours; Show Stopper Red, Midnight Blue and Ebony.

June 2019

Mustang Bullitt special edition run extended

The special edition production of Ford Mustang Bullitt – celebrating the 50th anniversary the legendary Warner Bros. film starring Steve McQueen – is to be extended into 2020.

Following a popular first run of production, in which the full 2018 quota was sold shortly after announcement, production into 2020 has now been confirmed and gone on sale.

Mustang Bullitt is powered by Ford’s 5.0-litre V8 engine enhanced with an Open Air Induction System, and intake manifold, 87mm throttle bodies and powertrain control module calibration from the Shelby Mustang GT350, to delivering 459 PS and 526 Nm of torque.

Offered with a choice of Shadow Black or classic Dark Highland Green exterior colours, the Mustang Bullitt will feature 19-inch Torq Thrust-style wheels, red Brembo™ brake callipers and a faux Bullitt fuel-filler cap.

The interior will deliver Ford’s 12-inch all-digital LCD instrument cluster and will offer Recaro sports seats. Interior seat and centre console stitching will reflect the exterior colour choice, and each Mustang Bullitt will feature an individually numbered plaque in place of the traditional Mustang emblem on the passenger-side dashboard.

The FordPass Connect modem will be available as standard, and brings a range of invaluable features such as Live Traffic, Wi-Fi hotspot. Download the FordPass App on your smartphone and you can access even more FordPass Connect features. For example, remote locking & unlocking, vehicle location, and more.

The Ford Mustang Bullitt also features as standard Ford’s rev-matching technology that delivers smoother downshifts accompanied by a “blip” of the powerful 5.0-litre V8 engine, and premium B&O PLAY audio system that delivers 1000 watts through 12 high-performance speakers.

Deliveries of the latest run of Ford Mustang Bullitt for customers in UK will being early next year.

March 2022

Ford Mustang California Special announced

Embodying the free-spirited ethos of the 1968 original, the new California Special is offered exclusively in convertible body style with a folding soft-top for classic looks and open-air thrills. A special-edition design package with unique badging, detailing, 19-inch alloy wheels and special “colour shift” California Special decals delivers distinctive style, and Ford’s charismatic 450 PS V8 petrol engine provides the power for effortless cruising.

Inside, the Mustang California Special is designed to help liberate all the fun of the open road whatever the weather, with bespoke California Special detailing adding exclusive appeal.

What to watch out for

25-01-2017:

In the frontal offset test, the airbags of both the driver and passenger inflated insufficiently to properly restrain the occupants. In the full-width frontal test, a lack of rear seatbelt pre-tensioners and load-limiters meant that the rear passenger slid under the seatbelt, implying higher risk at abdominal injuries in real life accidents. In the side impact crash, the head of the 10-year dummy contacted the interior trim bottoming out the curtain airbag. Ford says that a face-lifted Mustang will be available later in 2017 with Pre-Collision Assist and Lane Keep Assist as standard. Euro NCAP expects to test the safety of this updated model when it is available on the European market.

10-04-2018:

Report of mysterious electrical fire that destroyed a 2016 Ford Mustang 5.0 V8 GT at 5500 miles. The car had been recalled at 6 months old for an electrical fault. Alarm sounded on 29-3-2018, then car caught fire and burned out. Fire chief said it was an electrical fire.

26-06-2018:

Report of coolant loss from 3 month old 2018 Ford Mustang GT at 1000 miles, coupled with an engine oil leak.

20-08-2018:

Complaint of non-availability of body parts to repair 2015 Ford Mustang that was damaged along the driver's side. Body repair shop told owner that Ford does not keep a full stock of Mustang body parts in the UK and that they have to come from the USA. There is currently no estimate for when the parts will be supplied - Repair time is estimated at 10 weeks by the body shop once the parts are received. The claim is being dealt with by the insurance company.

07-09-2018:

Report of failure of a/c of 2016 Ford Mustang 5.0GT auto at 6,000 miles. Thought to be evaporator.

09-09-2018:

Report of reduced performance from new 850 mile Ford Mustang GT 5.0 V8 automatic when put in 'S'.

23-01-2020:

Report of failure of electronic “TV screen” instrument binnacle of 2018 Ford Mustang GT 5.0. Screen failed at Christmas 2019 and remains an entirely black screen rather than just a segment failing. Dealer having trouble obtaining a replacement.

24-01-2020:

Report of rear passenger side window of 2016 Ford Mustang convertible failing to close properly.

29-09-2020:

Report of rear camera failure on 2016 Mustang.