I was 'assigned' a white one, which makes it seem like my car (which is also white) transformed into something else.
Stepping inside felt 'foreign' for a while. This is was not the interior quality I was expecting. It was very nice. Granted, this model had the premium package, so it has the leather seats (powered seats for driver), nicer interior trim, and a decent sound system with satellite radio, multi-cd (MP3 capable), USB and auxiliary inputs, and steering wheel mounted controls.
Ford retained the 'retro' styling for the gauges, which is a good move in my opinion.
The dash gauges still sported the retro styling that I believe fits very well with the vehicle. Power windows have both auto up/down (the auto up might be a little safety concern there).
We had a nice drive planned out, and the weather cooperated nicely. Perfect to test the Stang in both highway and city driving.
The Stang's engine response is way better, compared to the previous generations (which should be the case), with the new aluminum 305hp V6 engine, mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Of course I was craving a for the 6-speed manual unit, but then again they don't rent those, oh well.
At first glance you won't see much of a difference from the 2010 model - until you look under the hood and actually drive it.
The 305 horses made their presence felt as I floored the skinny pedal at one point, albeit it took a second or two before that light push back feeling. Which just made me miss having the 6-speed manual transmission more. I can image already how much 'kick' the GT model (5.0L engine with 412hp) would deliver - can't wait to figure a way to test drive one!
Driving within city limits felt ok too. The electronic-assisted power steering felt a bit light, but still transmitted enough feedback and didn't feel numb specially when making turns. The 'road feel' is still there.
The AC works well, and pumps in the cool air nicely. One nitpick with the climate control though - it sat too low on the console and the transmission handle blocks the view from the driver side, so you would have to reach over or around the transmission handle to adjust the temps.
I'd say Ford did a good job with the Mustang. Good enough that I am considering getting one again...soon perhaps?
The speakers on the stereo system were so-so, but I did like the USB interface that recognized my iPod and allowed full control via the stereo's interfaces. Yes, the unit had the Microsoft Sync on it, but I didn't fiddle with it (for fear the system might reboot or something...hehehe).
Another little gripe is the positioning of the cigarette lighter adaptor. I don't know why the positioned it up high in between the main A/C vents. If you would be sticking only one device on it, I guess it would be fine. But if you have more than one device and use an extension, it'll look a bit weird sticking out in the middle.
Trunk space is surprisingly generous too. I was able to fit my medium sized cooler in it, together with some other stuff (pastries, Jollibee stuff, Dasio goodies...).
Overall, the Mustang was solid and felt sure on the road. Of course, better tires and wheels (and suspension) would've added to a more exciting drive feel.
The 5.0 GT with a 6-speed manual and in Kona Blue would fit nicely in the garage...
Having a 6-speed manual would've added to the driving experience immensely, but the auto tranny ain't that bad. Boring, but not that bad... but nevertheless, zzzz...
Kudos to Ford for the updates introduced into the iconic Mustang. And with the return of the 5.0 engine, they just upped the ante a bit in new era for the muscle cars of this century.
Yes, even Rin 'approves' of the new model Mustang...
Now... to figure out how I get to test drive a 5.0 GT.
Or a Shelby perhaps? Doesn't hurt to dream ;-)
Drive safe folks!
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