2016 FORD MUSTANG GT (3)

In our book, a muscle car deserves a muscular motor. Admittedly, Ford’s 2.3-litre turbo doesn’t compromise too much on performance, and it drinks considerably less juice, but we weren’t prepared to forego the traditional V8 thunder.
The 5.0-litre belts out more than 300kW and flares up nicely with a throttle stab. But fully-fuelled, the V8 Fastback tips the scales at a ton and three-quarters. It’s not scalpel-sharp but rather lumbers along with a carefree and slightly menacing gait. It’s certainly carefree with the fuel consumption, especially if you indulge in the masses of mid-range torque. By Ford’s own figures, it gargles fuel by the gallon but it does so very eloquently (without an exhaust upgrade) and the soundtrack adds to the sense of occasion.
As you know, the current Mustang has already received a mild mid-life facelift. In styling terms, it’s added some aggression to the front end but the tweaks have largely just enhanced a successful design. Seeing the chunky profile of our car’s predecessor reminds us how successful was the generation change.
Three years on, the Fastback’s feelgood factor remains high. The way it looks, sounds and goes regularly put a smile on your face regardless of what else is in the Garage.

Got one yourself? Share your new Mustang experience: keepers@kiwigarage.co.nz