2024 Ford Mustang

The all-new 2024 Ford Mustang is hitting the streets and we’re just back from Southern California where we got plenty of saddle time to give you the low down.

Part of the Mustang’s appeal has always revolved around its everyday usability, not just muscle car performance. Which means you can buy anything from a base ‘stang to the ultimate GT and have crazy amounts of fun with it on back roads.

Yet still have plenty of comfort, space, not to mention tech, to make it great on date night, and even run a few errands.

So, as before, base models will come with a turbo-4, and GT’s pack a V8. We got to spend quality time in both.

GREG CARLOSS: “…this is the GT Coupe which is the V8; this is the Mustang that everybody thinks of, a V8 engine now up to 486-horsepower, still out of a 5.0-liter but Ford is saying it’s an all-new engine, they’re calling it an all-new engine and it’s naturally aspirated so it’s just beautifully linear…”

This new generation of Coyote V8 is still one of the best-sounding eight-cylinders out there, even if it is enhanced.

It now delivers up to 418 lb-ft. of torque with an active exhaust, thanks to increased airflow and upgraded dual throttle bodies.

The 2.3-liter EcoBoost returns as well, but is also updated, delivering 5-additional standard horsepower at 315, along with 350 lb-ft. of torque.

If like us, you still prefer the manual, good news, the rev-matching 6-speed returns, bad news, it’s now only available in the GT, the EcoBoost going 10-speed automatic only.

There are 6 drive modes that adjust power delivery, suspension settings, stability control, and steering response; along with shift times for the automatic.

Performance Pack is available with either engine, and includes a shock tower brace, limited slip rear, wider wheels, and bigger brakes, as well as a Performance Electronic Parking Brake.

JESSICA RAY: “…I had the EcoBoost to test out arguably with the coolest features new on the new Mustang, electronic drift brake. Ford had a small course set up for us to test it out; it’s super simple to use, no button, just pull up and hold to engage the brake and lock the rear wheel. It wasn’t long before I got the hang of things, and drifting was a breeze.”

While this is a new generation of Mustang, it rides on an updated version of the previous chassis; and the ride remains firm but far from abusive and seems just about right for a Mustang; but as we found out, this is surely not the same old ‘stang.

JESSICA RAY: “They’ve been very clear that this is a modern Mustang; I mean yes it pays homage to the past but with certain design cues and stuff, but what they really want is that this is a 21st century Mustang.”

The cockpit is supposedly inspired by jet fighters, but something tells me, American’s finest pilots don’t get this much screen time, with a highly configurable 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster flowing seamlessly into a 13.2-inch central screen.

A convertible remains available right from the get-go, and fans will find improved one-touch top activation, and more compact storage of the fabric top to maximize trunk space.

It all works well with the Mustang’s overall sharper demeanor and carved up look. More prominent hips are in place to further accentuate the wide stance. And of course front and rear lights, love ‘em or hate ‘em, come in the power of 3.

For this generation there’s a bit more distinction between base EcoBoost and GT models, with unique fascias and hood; wheel sizes ranging from 17 to 20-inches.

Government Fuel Economy Ratings for the EcoBoost 4 are 22-City, 33-Highway, and 26-Combined; the manual GT V8 at 14-City, 23-Highway, and 17-Combined.

Pricing starts with a base Coupe at $32,515, ranging to GT Premium at $48,610.

The Ford Mustang has existed for 60 years now, and for 2024, it’s the last actual car remaining in Ford’s lineup. Truth be told we weren’t sure exactly what we’d get, after Mustang went all-electric SUV with the Mach E. But it turns out we got a real deal rear-wheel-drive 2-door pony car packed with performance, muscle car style, and modern tech. It’s clear it is a better Mustang, and the best yet!