Ford’s sixth-generation Mustang with the 2015 model commemorating the 50th year of this superb affordable sports car. And as has been the case for all these many years, the 2015 Mustang is available in both fastback and convertible variants. The new styling keeps the iconic profile with a sharply raked windshield and new front and rear fascia’s, and a new interior. The car also has a lower, wider stance with a reduced roof height and wider rear fenders and track. All in all, it’s a great looking car. A key change for 2015 is the new independent rear suspension along with a new McPherson strut setup in front.
Mustang aficionados will be impressed with the restyled interior. Materials have been upgraded considerably and the cabin look is more modern and up-to-date. There are three engine choices: the base 3.7-litre V6, a 2.3-litre turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder or the 435 horsepower 5.0-litre V8 featured in our GT Convertible. The convertible top is simple to operate. One simply turns a center-mounted latch, press a button and the top disappears behind the rear seats in under 10 seconds.
Our tester was the 2.3L Ecoboost model with special Mustang 50TH Anniversary package and badges, hooked to the six speed auto tranny. Also included was the Ecoboost performance package ($3,000) comprising of: 3.55 Limited Slip rear axle, 255/40 R19 performance tires on 19 – inch painted rims. Options included Adaptive speed control, ($1,600.), Reverse park Assist, Navigation system and the 50th Anniversary package comprising special floor mats, rear spoiler delete option and a few other cosmetic goodies. Interior wise, there are four seats, and a decent, vastly improved cabin with a combination of soft touch materials and grained plastic, complemented by metallic accents.
The Raven black Leather upholstery looks very classy. Controls are good, with a tilt/telescopic with audio and cruise controls and decent sized HVAC and audio controls. Chrome trim around all instruments, vents, center cupholders and shifter give the new Mustang a more premium look than the previous model and the red push-button engine start feature is a cool touch. nice touch. Headroom and legroom is good up front, although its still a squeeze in the rear in all department for two full-sized adults.
On the road, 2015 Ford Mustang Ecoboost’s Its 2.3-litre direct-injected and turbocharged four cylinder engine delivers 310 hp and 320 lb/ft of torque. It proves to be a powerhouse and delight of an engine with enough mid low-end torque to provide fast acceleration and a smooth wide spaced torque range.
There’s minimal turbo lag, and with a 3.55 rear axle ratio (also part of the performance package), Electric steering is standard with Comfort, Normal and Sport settings.
With all optional equipment, the as-tested base price ($39,399) came in at a final tally of $50,999 plus the $1,650 destination and delivery charge.
The Mustang GT Convertible is still an icon among red-blooded American muscle cars and will keep hearts beating whichever model you decide to buy.
2015 Ford Mustang Ecoboost Convertible Base price: $39,39. Price as tested including options and $1,650 destination and delivery charge – $52,649.