2021 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 2021 Ford Mustang adds a new limited-edition Mach 1 model and drops Bullitt, Shelby GT350, and Shelby GT350R models. The Mach 1 has a 580-horsepower 5.0-liter V8 (20 hp more than GT models) and suspension and aerodynamic upgrades from the Shelby GT models. All models, except the Shelby GT500, have standard Ford CoPilot-360 suite of safety features that includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot alert, lane-keep assist, automatic high-beam headlights, and rain-sensing wipers. 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 and previously mentioned Mach 1 has a 480-hp version of the 5.0 V8, while the Shelby 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.