2015 Ford Mustang GT Premium
2015 Ford Mustang GT Premium Review
Part wild horse, part WWII fighter plane, and 100-percent Mustang.
Web2Carz Contributing Writer
Published: July 16th, 2015
Even after 50 years on the road, the name origin of Ford's famous pony car is still up for debate. Was the Mustang paying tribute to the free-roaming horse of the American West, or the World War II P-51 fighter plane? Even Ford is admittedly unsure. But, for Mustang fans, the answer doesn't really matter, because the all-new 2015 model is a little bit of both.
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Interior
The all-new Mustang has a refined interior, with optional leather Recaro seats that hold you tight, with a six-way power adjustment for the perfect fit, and heating and cooling options for the perfect temperature. Leg room is ample for the driver and whoever is riding shotgun - in the backseat not so much. Sliding into the Mustang you might actually think for a moment you're in a cockpit, with toggle switches to flip through various driving and steering modes, and a "ground speed" label over the speedometer. A powerful 390-watt Shaker Pro Audio System with 12 speakers will make sure you have crystal clear reception, whether you're listening to the radio or taking calls.
While GT fans are buying a Mustang for its performance and character, it also has an impressive array of advanced technology features. Equipped with Ford's Sync with MYFord Touch, drivers can use voice-activated commands to make calls and listen to music, all while keeping your hands on the road. Safety features like Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert notify you of approaching traffic, vehicles in your blind spot, and cars behind you as you back up.
Plus, a new Track App features Electronic Line-Lock and launch control to help you warm the rear tires and have a smooth, consistent start - this is a GT after all. -
Exterior
Now in its sixth generation, the Mustang continues to draw wide appeal with its attractive, classic-car look, and muscle-car performance. While the Mustang has come a long way over the past 50 years, some notable changes have occurred. Ford has continually updated the styling of its Mustang to keep it fresh and competitive with its rivals. The new Mustang is nearly 200 pounds lighter than previous models, employing an aluminum hood and front fenders. A new overhaul leaves a long, more aggressive front hood, with the classic fastback roofline, and fierce jaw lines.
Of course, the Mustang emblem nicely decorates the front grille, with a solid GT label on the rear spoiler. Another neat little feature is the so-called "puddle lights" which project a vibrant Mustang logo on the ground as you open your car door. It adds to the tenacious look of the car, illuminating the ground below, just in front of the 19-inch wheels and Pirelli P Zero Nero tires that come with the GT Performance package. -
On The Road
The 2015 Mustang has one minor tweak from all other Mustang models that has changed it forever - independent rear suspension. Since its birth, the Mustang has always used a solid, single axle at the rear. There have been heated debates among enthusiasts over Ford's decision to keep the Mustang this way, until this past year, when they finally decided to convert to independent rear suspension.
With the new independent rear suspension, each wheel on the same axle can move vertically independently of each other. This makes for better traction, giving a smoother ride, whether you're out racing on the track, or cruising potholed city streets. Nimble and agile handling make for smooth steering going around tight corners.
I had the opportunity to really open the Mustang up on a 5,000-foot stretch of pavement and it has some incredible acceleration. Power builds nicely as you shift gears, with significant muscle once you get out of third. While it's a lot of car to handle, it also is equipped with one of the most precise braking systems, with six-piston Brembo front calipers biting down on 15-inch vented rotors. -
Conclusion
The performance this vehicle exudes reaffirmed why the Mustang still excites its passionate fan base. When Ford says this is their fastest GT ever, they're not lying. The vehicle will protect itself against red-lining if you're really punching it, but once you get out of third gear, it's game over as the Mustang delivers an incredibly receptive pickup. While the vehicle is certified on 93-octane unleaded, you can still fill up using 87 octane, and sacrifice just one percent of your horsepower. Very doubtful you'll notice! Ford's famous pony car may have celebrated its 50th birthday last year, but the Mustang is far from a mid-life crisis.
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Specs and Price
Engine: 5.0-liter naturally-aspirated V-8
Transmission: Six-speed manual
Drivetrain Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive
Power Output: 435 hp / 400 lb-ft
Fuel Economy (mpg): 15 city / 25 highway
Base Price: $36,100
As Tested: $45,885 (including $825 destination)
Available Features:
Equipment Group 401A: Shaker premium sound system, driver's seat memory, blind-spot monitor
GT Performance Package: Strut-tower brace, larger radiator, larger rear sway bar, heavy-duty front springs, k-brace, Brembo six-pistol front calipers with larger rotors, 19-inch gloss black aluminum alloy wheels, 3.73 Torsen rear axle, oil pressure and vacuum gauges, spoiler delete
Individual Options: Backup camera, spare wheel and tire, spoiler delete, wheel locks, 3.55 limited-slip rear axle, 3.73 limited-slip rear axle, adaptive cruise control with rain-sensing wipers, navigation, Recaro leather sport seats
• For more information such as specs, prices, and photos of the 2015 Ford Mustang, click here: 2015 Ford Mustang.