The Ford Mustang needs no introduction. It already has quite the reputation.
I have to preface this story by saying that it is my first time ever driving a modern Mustang, and the experience was truly an exhilarating blend of raw power and refined handling. It was something I did not quite expect, what with all the Cars-and-Coffee infamy of the car. Much to my surprise, the tech and engineering in the new car made it one of the most well-mannered, high-horsepower rear wheel drive cars I’ve sat in.
Ford Philippines allowed us to get close and comfy with their two new hero cars: The 2024 Mustang GT and the 2024 Bronco Outer Banks Edition. In this article, I’ll be talking about my track experience in the Mustang GT, followed by part 2 where I talk about speeding through the rough stuff in the Bronco. But first, let’s dive into the new Mustang GT.
Design and exterior
The 2024 Mustang is the seventh-generation model, also known as the S650. It features subtle yet impactful design updates which are immediately noticeable up front. The new car features narrow LED headlights that flank a prominent grille. Gone are the three-strip DRLs and the angled headlamp unit of the old model. In its stead, the new car features three smaller, dashed DRLs atop three chrome U-shaped slots, in a flatter and more horizontal headlamp cluster. The Mustang’s traditional long-hood, short-deck silhouette remains, evoking a sense of nostalgia with a modern twist.
The aggressive rear styling is highlighted by the inward-bent three-bar LED tail lights and four large exhaust pipes peeking out of the rear diffuser. Ford has dropped the black section between the taillights, giving the rear a cleaner and more contemporary look. Nestled under the wide fenders are 19-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Pirelli P-Zero high-performance tires, with Brembo brakes clearly visible through the new mesh wheels.
Engine and transmission
To talk about the Mustang GT is to talk about V8s. The S650 Mustang's 5.0L Coyote V8 is a completely redesigned and upgraded engine from the S550 unit. It features dual intakes, enhanced sound, improved fuel economy, and a slight power boost compared to its predecessor. The engine delivers a robust 486-Ps and a whopping 567-Nm of torque. Although the Mustang GT comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission in most markets, our version gets the 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission with paddle shifters, offering quick and precise gear changes. This transmission enhances the car's versatility, providing both manual control and the convenience of an automatic.
Interior and technology
Inside, the 2024 Mustang GT features a modern and driver-focused interior. The cockpit includes a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster that displays performance metrics such as g-forces, lap times, and acceleration. The materials and finishes in the cabin, including optional leather upholstery and aluminum foot pedals, give the car a sporty yet refined nature. The cabin offers reasonable space for four passengers, enhanced by the supportive Recaro sports seats. The interior also boasts a 13-inch SYNC4 touchscreen infotainment system, ensuring that drivers and passengers remain connected and entertained.
Suspension system
The handling of the Mustang GT was remarkably precise, thanks to its advanced suspension system. The independent rear suspension and MagneRide damping system were particularly noteworthy. The MagneRide suspension system uses magnetorheological fluid and electromagnets to provide real-time adjustments to the damping force. This technology provides adjustable damper fluid viscosity and allows the suspension to adapt instantly to road conditions, offering a perfect balance between comfort and performance. Whether navigating tight corners or absorbing bumps on the track, the MagneRide system ensures that the Mustang GT remains composed and responsive. During the test drive, the suspension offered just enough compliance, even over man-made ruts laid out on the track, without compromising comfort or control.
Ramirez & Cutter, Inc., organizers of the track and off-road event, provided an exhilarating experience at the Clark International Speedway, showcasing the 2024 Mustang GT’s strengths. Starting with a proper briefing of the track conditions and capabilities of the car, each of us was provided one familiarization lap, before being let loose on the track with the sports car. The flying lap consisted of a full-on acceleration test from a standstill, before diving into the 18 corners of the almost 4.2 kilometer racetrack. The event highlighted the Mustang's impressive capabilities, demonstrating its performance and handling in a controlled environment, in a manner that non-professional race drivers like me could fully appreciate.
Driving experience
The Mustang roared down Clark’s drag strip, launching from a standstill with remarkable stability and speed, thanks to the coordinated efforts of the stability control system and MagneRide adaptive suspension. The Coyote V8 not only provides ample torque below 3,000-rpm but also sings beautifully as it approaches the 7,500-rpm redline. By the end of the main straight, the Mustang effortlessly crossed the 200-km/h mark, demonstrating its sheer power. The organizers put cones on the track to clearly set up racing lines and braking points. With these guides, all I had to do was throttle up and brake where I needed to, and just point the car. As I am the curious type, I floored the throttle coming out of a downhill right-hander just to see what the car would do. (Most would expect the tail to kick out). During my experiment, nothing. I was just served with gobs of grip and traction and it made me feel like I actually knew what I was doing. Going through the turns was an exercise in catching maximum speed, then braking and diving into turn after turn with ease. It’s a video game car built the right way for people to enjoy.
Another addition of note is the segment-first electronic parking brake that’s modeled after a standard mechanical-pull handbrake. According to Ford, it is designed specifically for novice drivers to learn and enhance their drifting skills, while also catering to expert drivers who seek a competition-ready system.
Trim levels
Ford Philippines offers two Mustang variants, the 5.0L GT Premium Fastback, starting at ₱3,999,000, and the 2.3L EcoBoost Premium Fastback, starting at ₱3,499,000. Customers will also receive a complimentary Peace of Mind service inspection package with their vehicle purchase for a worry-free ownership experience.
Previously exclusive to the GT Premium variant, both versions of the all-new Mustang now come with the MagneRide Damping System. Additional key features include durable Brembo brakes, a quad chrome tip exhaust with Active Valve Functionality that allows the driver to control the volume of the Mustang's engine growl, and 19-inch Aluminum Wheels with unique designs for each variant.
Verdict
Maybe when Ford lends one out for a longer review I can talk about the practical stuff, but the showcase at Clark International Speedway showed just why the Mustang remains an iconic sports car. Its blend of power, advanced technology, and refined handling makes it a formidable presence on both the track and the road.