2016 Ford Mustang

By Mauricio Lezcano / carsntravel.com / Photos Ford Media Center

For 2016, the Ford Mustang offers high performance with a sleek design and innovative technologies.

Performance
The way Mustang looks, drives and sounds is key to the visceral experience that makes drivers just want to get in the driver’s seat and hit the road. The 2016 Mustang offers four, six, and eight-cylinder engines that each produce at least 300 horsepower.

With more powertrain options to choose from, there is a Mustang to fit any lifestyle. The 3.7-liter V6 and a 5.0-liter V8 are joined by a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine that brings state of the art technology to Mustang.

The Mustang’s EcoBoost engine uses direct injection, variable cam timing and turbocharging to deliver plenty of usable performance across a broad RPM range. A unique intake manifold and turbocharger housing enable it to deliver the performance Mustang drivers expect with 310 horsepower and 320 lb.-ft. of torque.

Mustang GT continues with the throaty 5.0-liter V8, now featuring an upgraded valve train and cylinder heads that help boost output to 435 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque. A new intake manifold features charge motion control valves to partially close off port flow at lower engine speeds. This increases the air charge tumble and swirl for improved air-fuel mixing resulting in improved efficiency and idle stability.

With 300 horsepower and 270 lb.-ft. of torque on tap from the standard 3.7-liter V6, even the most accessible Mustang delivers the performance customers expect. Drivers will appreciate smoother shifts from the manual gearbox, while an automatic transmission features steering wheel-mounted shift paddles for drivers who want the choice between convenience and control.

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Exterior and Interior
The clean-sheet design of the Mustang fastback evokes the essential character of the brand, retaining key design elements, including the long sculpted hood and short rear deck with contemporary execution.

Several key design features define the 2016 Mustang, including, a lower, wider stance with a reduction in roof height, wider rear fenders and track, three-dimensional, tri-bar tail-lamps with sequential turn signals and a contemporary execution of the signature shark-bite front fascia and trapezoidal grille.

The information and controls an active driver needs are all readily accessible in the aviation-inspired cockpit, which is executed with the highest degree of craftsmanship ever found in a Mustang. Large, clear instrumentation puts vehicle information right in front of the driver in the roomier cabin, while improved ergonomics and tactile switches and knobs provide better control.

The added width and a new rear suspension contribute to improved shoulder and hip room for rear-seat passengers, and a more usefully shaped trunk can accommodate two golf bags.

Carving up the curves
Mustang features outstanding front and rear suspension systems. At the front, a perimeter sub frame helps to stiffen the structure while reducing mass, providing a better foundation for more predictable wheel control that benefits handling, steering and ride.

The double-ball-joint front MacPherson strut system also enables the use of larger, more powerful brakes. The 2016 Mustang has the most capable brake lineup ever offered on a Mustang. The geometry, springs, dampers and bushings all have been specifically modified and tuned for this high-performance application. Aluminum rear knuckles help reduce un-sprung mass for improved ride and handling.

Smarter than your average pony
The Mustang features a significant amount of innovative technologies providing drivers with enhanced information, control and connectivity when they want it. From Intelligent Access with push-button start to SYNC and MyKey in every Mustang built, plus standard Track Apps, MyColor gauges and a Shaker Pro Audio System, drivers will be able to customize their time behind the wheel.

The feeling of freedom and confidence Mustang instills in its drivers is amplified when they can take control of how the car behaves. On a twisty back road or a weekend track day, the driver can tap the toggle switches on the console to quickly adjust steering effort, engine response, and transmission and electronic stability control settings using the available Selectable Drive Modes to create the perfect Mustang at any time.

The advanced new Ford-developed stability control system is tuned to maximize Mustang’s dynamic capabilities. When the time comes to turn up the wick at the track, Mustang GT includes standard launch control on manual-transmission models that enables drivers to achieve smooth, consistent starts every time.

When it’s time to back off and relax for the drive home, available advanced driver-assist features including Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert and adaptive cruise control can help ease the load, while SYNC AppLink lets drivers control their smartphone apps to listen to their favorite form of entertainment.

Summary
The 2016 Mustang is the most advanced version yet of the pony car. The sleek design of Mustang fastback backed up by world-class performance from a range of available engines, including a turbocharged EcoBoost 2.3-liter and a 5.0-liter V8 with more than 420 horsepower. In addition to state-of-the-art connectivity systems, Mustang makes advanced driver-assist systems available, including track apps, launch control and more.

The manufacturer’s suggested retail price starts at $32,540.00 for the 2016 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Premium, the EcoBoost’s 2.3-liter direct-injected and turbocharged engine produced 310 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque, and can be paired to a 6-speed manual or a 6 speed automatic transmission. The manual equipped I tested is EPA rated at 22 mpg city and 31 mpg highway.
mlezcano@carsntravel.com

Posted in CAR REVIEWS, Ford.

Emilio Lezcano

Journalist - Editor - Photographer
Professional Race Car Driver

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