Ford Mustang – ‘Stang’ across the States

– Article/photos by Rod Fuller (on location in the US) –

The iconic Ford Mustang, arguably one of the most famous cars in motoring history, is today Australia’s most popular sports car. And I can see why, as the 2019 model not only lives up to its heritage, but also delivers a real classic GT drivers experience.

Recently on a trip to the USA, I took a Mustang on a 1,500 mile (2,400km) trip from Tucson Arizona across three states (Arizona, New Mexico and Texas) to Galveston on the Gulf coast of Texas. I drove the 2.3lt Ecoboost Premium convertible with the 10 speed auto-transmission. The direct injection 2.3lt four cylinder turbo is surprisingly powerful at 310HP (231kW) and 350lb/ft (475Nm) torque, giving the Mustang plenty of performance where it counts as well as a very satisfying engine note.

Economy is very good with fuel for the entire trip costing me about $80 USD. Ford lists mileage at 23mpg (10.2lt/100km) on the combined cycle. The 10 speed auto, with sports mode and paddle shifters, in no small part aids Mustang’s fuel economy and seamlessly selects the right gear for every driving situation.

Driving Mustang is both pleasurable and rewarding, just as a good sports car should be. Fitted with 235/55R17 Pirelli tyres it strikes the right balance between responsive, precise handling and performance, with a comfortable touring car that just effortlessly laps up the miles.

And let’s face it, Mustang is a car that you not only want to drive, but be seen in. It is an incredibly attractive car that just oozes appeal from every quarter. Stylish, sleek and downright sexy it’s a truly an iconic sports car.

It’s also a car that’s a really good daily drive, with all the creature comforts you’d expect. Dual Zone Climate control, heated/ventilated leather seats, Sync 3 infotainment system, Apple Car Play/Android Auto, keyless entry and push button start, approach lighting (loved the Mustang logo projected onto the ground beside the car at night). The Mustang I drove also had Sirius XM satellite radio, which gave access to 150+ radio stations and worked with perfect clarity for the entire trip, regardless of topography or weather, even though I travelled to some of the remotest parts of the USA including an isolated military range in New Mexico.

The convertible adds freedom ‘for wind in the hair’ motoring and is only a twist of a handle and push of a button away. The powered cycle to raise or lower the roof only takes a few seconds. Vision out of the car is excellent and aiding this, the wing mirrors feature a small convex mirror built into them virtually eliminating blind spots, making merging safely a breeze and negating the need for blind spot monitoring systems. Mustang also has a ‘cap less’ fuel filler, making it easier to refuel.

Ford offers a ‘Safe and Smart’ package on Mustang, which includes AEB, Radar cruise control, LKA, FCW and Pre-Collision assist with Pedestrian detection, but as with many things on Mustang it’s optional at extra cost.

Trunk (sorry, boot space) is limited at 11.4 cu.ft. (322 lt) but sufficient for a couple of suitcases or your golf clubs. A spare tyre and wheel is available as an option.

Mustang one of the most instantly recognisable motor cars globally, is an absolute pleasure to drive, either around town or out on the open road. Should you have the opportunity to own or even just drive one, don’t resist, just enjoy it. Go on, put the top down, you know you want too.

* All figures quoted in this article are based on the US model as driven.

All costs/arrangements for this review, were borne/made by the author, including all car hire and fuel costs. Ford either in the USA or Australia did not provide any assistance.

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This data is from the 2019 Novated Leasing Guide produced by Fleet Auto News.