2009 Ford Mustang [ 2008 , 2007 ]
Ford Mustang - What the Auto Press Says
Test drivers favor the Mustang for its powerful engine, retro design, and stellar crash test results. The Mustang proves to be a smart buy for anyone wanting a car powerful enough to back its bad boy looks.
First introduced in 1964, the Ford Mustang has become a true American icon. "Having weathered oil crises, ugly styling crises, increasing emissions standards, corporate turmoil and unending penny-pinching over the years, the Mustang is a true survivor," writes Edmunds. "While rival pony cars have been sent to the glue factory, the original has only grown stronger and more popular." World-renowned for its brawny presence and threatening snarl, the Mustang receives accolades for its muscle-car street performance, but loses points in overall refinement. Still, it earns awards for both quality and ownership cost.
Though 2009 marks the 45th anniversary of the Mustang, this year's model is largely a carryover from 2008. In addition to an anniversary badge, V6 and GT models now offer an optional glass roof. Little else has changed. A redesign, however, is expected for 2010 -- which is good news for Mustang enthusiasts, as the reemergence of other muscle cars, like the Dodge Charger and Chevy Camaro, threaten to put the Pony's popularity at risk.
The 2009 Ford Mustang is available as a V6 and GT in both Deluxe and Premium trims. Also available are the Bullitt and Shelby GT 500 models. The Mustang comes as a coupe and convertible.
- "Yes, yes, a thousand times yes! This car is one big hoot, and it's instructive to get into a rear-drive, V8-powered bad-ass every once in a while. It's a good reminder of how fun driving can be." -- AutoWeek
- "Few cars embody all-American rugged individualism like the Ford Mustang." -- Forbes
- "The current-generation Mustang came out for the 2005 model year, and Ford is keeping it fresh in 2008 with new paint colors, additional safety and convenience features and yet another two versions that trade on the name of legendary racer and car developer Carroll Shelby: the Shelby GT convertible and, in the spring, the Shelby GT500KR." -- Cars.com
- "The Ford Mustang looks and feels like an all-American car, and that's a good thing. It's quick and fun to drive and offers combination of style, performance, and handling that's hard to beat for the money." -- Automotive.com
Mustang Performance - 8.2 (Very Good)
Whether test-driving the V6, GT or Bullitt, auto writers are impressed with the 2009 Ford Mustang's road-ripping muscle car abilities. "It's everything a pony car is supposed to be, without the teeth-rattling stiffness of the muscle cars of another era," writes Automotive.com. In fact, its performance capabilities rank near the top of its class. Continue with our full Mustang Performance Review to learn why auto critics are impressed with its suspension configuration. continue
Mustang Exterior - 8.9 (Very Good)
In addition to its compelling iconic design, the 2009 Mustang features a "Warriors in Pink" edition and low-profile Bullitt trim. AutoWeek adds, "The 2009 Mustang will get a snazzy new badge, a galloping pony set in a horseshoe with a 45th anniversary logo, to mark the car's milestone." The new badge, however, won't adorn the Bullitt or Shelby. Continue with our full Mustang Exterior Review to learn what's so special about the Bullitt trim's 18-inch wheels, or go to the 2009 Mustang Photo Gallery to browse pictures of this American street machine. continue
Mustang Interior - 7.1 (Good)
Despite its classic style and large cargo hold, reviewers criticize the Mustang's interior because of its inferior materials and cramped backseat. According to Automotive.com, "The back seat...isn't much more accommodating than in the old fastback 2+2 variant of 1965-68. It's not a place adults will want to spend any time." Continue with our full Mustang Interior Review to read about its color-changing illumination display system, or see the 2009 Mustang Photo Gallery for pictures of its retro design. continue
Mustang Safety - 9.7 (Excellent)
The 2009 Ford Mustang earns exceptionally high marks in federal government crash tests. "For additional safety, all Mustangs come with ABS and front side airbags designed for front and torso protection," writes Road & Travel Magazine. "Side airbags are available as an option, and we highly recommend you get them." Continue with our full Mustang Safety Review to learn how traction control can help protect drivers in wet and icy conditions. continue
Mustang Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2009 Ford Mustang reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2009 Ford Mustang comes with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Continue with our full Mustang Reliability Review to learn which renowned auto critics award it for its impressive build quality. continue
