New/Notable:
- Completely redesigned for 2015
- New fully independent rear suspension
- Turbocharged four-cylinder engine optional
The 2015 Ford Mustang features one of the most comprehensive redesigns we’ve ever seen in a car, thoroughly updating the pony car for the modern age.
This is the first Mustang that Ford plans to sell globally and to make it successful in other markets, changes had to be made. The Mustang has always been somewhat immune to change; the iconic muscle car turned 50 last year and Ford has generally been careful with updates out of nostalgia, and a desire to placate Mustang fans. But this new Mustang has really thrown out the book and changes the Mustang (we think for the better).
All-new sheet metal gives the 2015 Mustang a brand new look that is easily distinguishable from its predecessor. The front grille has been updated and better matches the rest of the Ford lineup; it is flanked by new headlight clusters that have attractive three-lined LED daytime running lights. The entire profile has been changed as well, with a fastback design and a sloping roofline the leaves a very short rear decklid and gives the whole car a sleeker look. Out back, the tri-bar taillights return with sequential turn signals that are a fun, whimsical touch. 17-inch wheels come standard, with larger 18- and 19-inch cogs optional.
Under the hood, the 2015 Mustang has three engine options, one of them new, an EcoBoost four-cylinder. The base engine is the same 300-hp, 3.7-liter V-6 from 2014 that will mostly be relegated to rental car duty. More intriguing is the new 310-hp, turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder that makes 320 pounds-feet of torque. GT models get the same 5.0-liter V-8 as last year, but it has been uptuned to offer more power (435-hp, 400 pounds-feet of torque). Transmission options include a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
Also new for 2015: a fully independent rear suspension, which replaces the live rear axle that had been the Mustang’s signature for years. It improves the Mustang’s handling and ride immensely and don’t worry, if you still want to do burnouts GT models offer something called “electronic line-lock” which will lock the rear axle for tire-shredding fun.
Inside, the dashboard has a combination of old and new elements, with three large circular vents atop the center console and large round gauges. In front of the shifter are switches that control the hazard lights and driving mode (normal, snow/wet, sport, and track) among other things. Standard features including air conditioning, push-button start, SYNC, two USB ports for charging gadgets and phones, and Bluetooth connectivity. Also available are dual-zone automatic climate control, universal garage door opener, powered front seats, adaptive cruise control, a navigation system, leather upholstery, and a very nice pair of Recaro front seats that we really like.
The new Mustang has also added safety features, with a rearview camera now standard on all models and a new “active glove box” which serves as a knee airbag for the front passenger. Antilock brakes, an electronic stability system, and eight airbags (including the active glove box) all come standard as well.
