Mustang Review

See also the main fact sheets for the 2006 Ford Mustang.

High Points

• Aggressive Styling
• Performance
• Handling
• Well designed cabin ergonomics

Low Points

• No side curtain airbags
• No stability control
• Seats lack sufficient lateral support
• Low-grade interior plastics

Performance and Handling

The V6 Mustang comes with a 4.0-liter V6 that produces 210 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. Upgrade to the GT package and get a 4.6-liter V8 with 300 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. The Mustangs are rear wheel-drive with the option for a five-speed manual or a five-speed automatic transmission.

Gas Mileage

• Manual: 19 mpg / 28 mpg
• Automatic: : 19 mpg / 25 mpg

Safety: 4.5 Stars (out of 5)

All Mustang models come standard with four-wheel disc brakes. Traction control and antilock brakes are optional on the V6 models but are standard on the GT. Stability control is not offered at this time for either model. Side-impact airbags for front occupants are optional on all models, but full-length head curtain airbags are not available. The NHTSA rated the Ford Mustang a perfect five stars for front-impact and four stars for side-impact protection.

Reliability and Maintenance

• Standard maintenace schedule
• Reliability data not available

Interior and Comforts

Interior ergonomics are greatly improved over previous Mustangs, as the driver seat now puts you in a more upright position to manipulate the shifter and operate the controls. Switches and handles have a solid feel, and although many of the plastics are coarse in texture, fit and finish is generally good. The large round speedometer and tach (which feature an appropriate vintage font), dual-hooded dash and a cool steering wheel with a small round airbag hub and available metallic spokes. An eye catching color accent package features red leather seats, red door panel inserts and red floor mats all set against a dark charcoal interior.

Exterior

• Classic retro styling.

Styles and Options

The Ford Mustang, which is sold as a coupe or a convertible, comes in five major trim levels: V6 Standard, V6 Deluxe, V6 Premium, GT Deluxe and GT Premium. Standard equipment on the V6 Standard includes keyless entry; 16-inch wheels; air conditioning; power windows, locks and mirrors; cruise control; and a CD player. The V6 Deluxe adds alloy wheels. The V6 Premium adds a 500-watt Shaker 500 premium audio system with CD changer, upgraded wheels and a power driver seat. An optional Pony Package for V6 Mustangs includes firmer suspension tuning, 17-inch wheels, ABS, fog lamps and a unique grille. Step up to the V8-powered GT Deluxe and you'll get all the V6 Deluxe equipment, plus ABS, a rear spoiler, fog lamps, 17-inch alloys and sport seats. The GT Premium adds the Shaker 500 sound system and leather seats. A 1,000-watt Shaker 1000 sound system is optional.

Main Competitors

• Dodge Charger
• Mazda RX-8
• Nissan 350Z
• Pontiac G6

External Links

• www.ford.com

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