What more can be said about the Ford Mustang that hasn’t been said before? Well, there is always something new or different, including for 2024 as Ford rolls out the seventh-generation Mustang. This quintessential pony car remains the signature ride for the Blue Oval, a model that transcends generations with its heritage, yet modern looks. We test drove the Mustang GT Convertible, the latest iteration on this trusted muscle car theme.
Model Highlights
Ford still offers the standard Mustang with its twin-turbocharged four-cylinder engine. That model starts at $31,920, but is limited to two grades with coupe and convertible choices. It should be noted you cannot find a manual transmission here. Instead, all models come with a 10-speed automatic transmission. For this article, we are covering the Mustang GT only.
As for the Mustang GT, this model comes with a V8 engine. It is paired with a standard 6-speed manual gearbox. Shoppers can opt for a 10-speed automatic, a $1,595 upgrade. Hardcore enthusiasts, though, will stick with the manual.
The Mustang GT starts at $42,860, but is available as a hardtop only. Move up to the Fastback Premium and you’ll find a convertible costing $52,880, which is a $5,500 premium over the coupe. There is also a Mustang Dark Horse model costing $60,635 and a Dark Horse Premium retailing from $64,630.
Exterior Characteristics
Any changes to the Mustang’s exterior that take away from the classical theme are bound to be frowned upon by enthusiasts. The new Mustang’s silhouette remains nearly identical, while certain exterior features were modernized.
The front of the car displays a broad grille with striking pillars and slim, horizontal headlights, each containing a three-part LED design.
The large, open grille emphasizes the Mustang’s aggressive look, while the new elements enhance its sporty aesthetic.
As for the remainder of the body, Ford’s chiselers were active, adding definition to the front, rear, and sides. The new model features 12 color choices, a range of wheel options, and appearance packages for customization.
Interior Attributes
The Ford Mustang continues to offer its 2+2 seating configuration, providing ample space and comfort in the front seats. However, the rear seats are still quite tight, making them less practical for adult passengers unless the front seats are adjusted forward.
The new Mustang has undergone a substantial interior redesign, featuring a cutting-edge, fully digital dashboard and infotainment system. The modern interior is dominated by a large glass display with customizable instrument gauges in front of the driver, giving it a futuristic feel.
Our test model came with leather front seats that included a combination of power adjustments for forward-backward movement, lumbar support, and heating and ventilation, along with manual reclining levers. These seats were comfortable and supportive, offering good stability during turns.
Ford has utilized a mix of leather, plastic, and aluminum in the Mustang’s interior, meeting the standards expected in this segment. Essential touchpoints such as the steering wheel, gear shifter, wiper and turn signal stalks, infotainment screen, switches, and door handles all have a solid, high-quality feel.
However, the Mustang’s interior storage options are somewhat limited. The center console features a small storage bin, and the glove compartment is average in size. The coupe version offers 13.3 cubic feet of trunk space, with the rear seats folding down for additional storage. The convertible model has slightly less trunk space, at 10.3 cubic feet.
Technology Features
Standard infotainment features include a 13.2-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. There’s also a nine-speaker audio system, a Wi-Fi hot spot, and a USB port. FordPass Connect lets you lock and unlock the car using your smartphone. Navigation, satellite radio, HD Radio, and wireless device charging are included. You can also opt for a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system and find additional USB ports.
Other standard GT features are a 12.4-inch digital gauge cluster and proximity keyless entry. These technologies enhance convenience and connectivity.
Driver Assist Safety
Standard driver-assistance features include a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, forward collision warning, and forward automatic emergency braking. There’s also pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Lane-departure warning and lane-keep assist are included too. Automatic high-beam headlights and MyKey, which lets you set speed and audio volume limits for secondary drivers, are part of the package as well.
Additional driver-assistance features are available. You can get adaptive cruise control and road-sign recognition. These features enhance safety and convenience while driving.
