2020 Ford Mustang

Pros: Sporty handling; good interior quality, especially in higher-end models; invigorating performance of V8 models; surprisingly robust 4-cylinder engine option

Cons: Cramped, difficult-to-access back seat; some complicated controls; a bit heavy compared to some sporty/performance rivals; topline models get pricey

CG Says: The 2020 Ford Mustang adds a new high-performance Shelby GT500 model powered by a 760-horsepower supercharged V8 paired with a 7-speed automated-manual transmission. Ford says the Shelby GT500 is the “most powerful street-legal Ford in history” and that it has a top speed of 186 mph. The base EcoBoost Mustang now offers a High Performance Package that adds a 330-hp 2.3-liter turbo four that is 20 horses up on the Ecoboost’s standard 4-cylinder. There is also a new Handling Package offered on the base model. All Mustangs now have standard FordPass Connect that allows owners to interact with the car via smartphone. The Mustang is a sporty/performance car that is available in coupe and convertible bodystyles. Mustang’s base engine is a 310-hp EcoBoost turbocharged 2.3-liter 4-cylinder engine, the GT is powered by a 460-hp 5.0-liter V8, while the Shelby GT350 has a 526-hp 5.2-liter V8 and the previously mentioned GT500 gets a whopping 760-hp from its supercharged 5.2-liter V8. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard with all engines (except the Shelby GT500 that has a 7-speed automated-manual) and a 10-speed automatic is optional with 2.3-liter and 5.0-liter engines. Available features include autonomous emergency braking, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot alert, cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist, Wi-Fi hotspot, limited-slip differential, electronic line-lock, and an exhaust system with controllable volume. Mustang’s 2015 redesign brought some key improvements—such as an independent rear suspension and a peppy turbocharged 4-cylinder engine option—that brought it up to date with most other sporty/performance 2-doors. Mustang offers an excellent lineup of powertrain choices and optional performance, technology, and convenience equipment, so it can be tailored to a broad range of tastes and budgets. In whatever form it takes, the Mustang makes a fine case for itself against a wide variety of competitive vehicles.