By Autoreviewman
The Ford Mustang is an icon that keeps getting reinvented, but does not lose its unique muscle car heritage. The 2018 model is a slight refresh of the 2015 model, it still retains the unique side profile, but there is an almost European look to the more rounded edges. There are new digital gauges, and the Mustang now features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and an optional 12” digital gauge display with customizable colours displays and formats. Overall the interior is a nice place to be. New active safety tech for the 2018 model year includes: distance alert, lane departure warning, pedestrian detection, and Pre-Collision Assist system that adds automatic emergency barking to the forward collision warning system.
Engine wise, the 2018 new Mustang comes with a choice between the 460-horsepower, 5.0-litre V-8 or 2.3-litre four-cylinder EcoBoost. There’s no more V-6, however the new Ecoboost offers an impressive 310-hp with a not too shabby 350 lbs.-ft. of torque, up 30 more than last year’s EcoBoost. There’s a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters to replace the previous six-speed tranny.
On the road, the 2.3 Liter Ecoboost is a revelation, with a meaty sound from the exhausts and rip roaring acceleration. Different drive modes (normal, snow/wet, sport, track or drag) change the shift parameters for more or less customizable performance options. It’s no slouch off the line with addition of the line lock feature to EcoBoost models that makes for “interesting” standing starts! However there is switchable stability control to keep you out of trouble. There are also Sport+ and Race driving modes that accentuate the throttle and steering for more experienced performance drivers. The 2.3L actually handles better than the V8, thanks to its lighter front weight. It carves corners better with its retuned dampers, stiffer anti-roll bars, and new rear suspension bracing. Let’s not forget better fuel economy too. The 2.3 four cylinder engine is rated at (litres/100 km): 2.3-litre manual: 11.0 city, 7.7 highway, 9.5 combined.
There is not a lot of compromise versus the GT V8 and it can hold its own very well in terms of performance. The Mustang 2.3 Ecoboost is good enough to pleasantly surprise, and priced very well. Above all, it is fast and efficient. Highly recommended.
2018 Ford Mustang 2.3L Ecoboost: base price $36,788. Price as tested with options $49,838 Plus destination and delivery $1,750. Total price of $51,588.
More info at www.ford.ca
