The 2.3 Ecoboost model
We’ve already sampled the Ford Mustang V8 GT Fastback coupé so can the convertible version with the smaller 2.3-litre four-cylinder petrol engine be just as much fun asks Suzanne Keane
What is it? When it comes to iconic muscle cars the Ford Mustang has to be top of the list – this year it became available in right hand drive and along with the usual V8 engine a more “practical” 2.3L Ecoboost version is available.
Styling? If attracting attention is your goal you can’t go too far wrong with a bright red Ford Mustang convertible. Everyone will stop and stare as you pass and just a knowledgeable few will ever know that it’s not the V8 model with only very subtle differences between them on the outside – The V8 version has “5.0” badges on the wings and a GT badge on the tail while the 2.3 Mustang has a pony logo instead!
Under the Bonnet? While it may be the “slow” and “green” Mustang a 2.3L EcoBoost engine is not to be sniffed at! It may be a heavy car but with 300+ bhp and a 0-100kmph time of under 6 seconds you won’t be left standing at the traffic lights.
What about inside? Slide yourself into the driver’s seat and you’ll find some retro looking toggle switches an old style steering wheel mixed with familiar Ford controls and touchscreen Sync system. It may be a 4 seater but anyone sitting in the back won’t have much legroom. Bootspace is adequate and I did manage to fit a Maxi-Cosi buggy in there at one point – plenty of room for your road trip luggage in this one. However, with the roof down it can be uncomfortable at any kind of speed and you may be better off with a hardtop version!
On the Road? On the road it’s impossible to forget that the Mustang is a big, wide and heavy car but as the suspension has been set up for European conditions it’s much more predictable on bends than previous versions – although it did feel a little twitchy at the bank on wet roads. There are 4 driving modes available and you can also select steering modes independently of this. Unsurprisingly the new Mustang is rear wheel drive and is available as either a 6 speed manual or automatic.
And Safety? All the safety boxes are ticked with a wide range of airbags including an inflatable airbag restraint design and a host of active and passive safety features.
Will it break the bank? The Mustang is available from €55,500 and a convertible version will cost from €61,500. The car tested had an optional custom back which brings the price up to €64,300 but gets you silver painted 19” alloys, Climate front seats, rear parking sensors, Sat Nav and a premium audio system.
Verdict? The Mustang is certainly an attention grabber and if you’re longing to fulfil those childhood muscle car dreams it may be ideal – however you might always be wishing you had bought the V8 version.
Why you’ll buy one? Styling; Iconic;
Why you won’t? It’s not a V8
Rivals
BMW 4 series Convertible
Audi A3 Cabriolet
Ford Mustang EcoBoost Convertible
Engine: 2261cc, 317bhp@5500rpm, 432Nm/3000 rpm
Max speed: 233km/h
0-100 kph: 5.8 seconds
Emissions (Motor Tax) : 184g/km (Band E €750)
Model price range: €49,000 (Test Car €64,300)
No of Doors: 3 doors
Euro NCAP : Not tested
Fuel type: Petrol
Fuel Economy (combined cycle): 8.0 l/100km, 35.3mpg
Boot Capacity Seats up: 408 litres
Car Seats: 2 Isofix fittings in the rear
Length: 4784mm
Width: 1916mm
Height: 1381mm
Wheelbase: 2720mm
For more information on the new Ford Mustang check out Ford.ie, the Ford Ireland Facebook page or follow them on twitter here
Suzanne Keane
11th October, 2016
