“2020 Ford Mustang Ecoboost Coupe Premium”
A V-8 Not Necessary for Fun
OVERVIEW
It’s not a secret that the Ford Mustang has been extremely popular since that first pony car made its debut in the mid-60s. (I’ve always thought of the first model as being a ’65, but in reality, the first ‘Stang was really a ’64 and a half.) I’ve never owned one, and really felt moved to own one. My perception and perhaps that of many others will undoubtedly get a rude awakening by test driving the 2020 Ford Mustang 2.3-liter Ecoboost Premium Coupe.
The Ecoboost Mustang coupe is a 2-door fastback model that seats four in a 2+2 RWD configuration.
DRIVING FORCE
There is no longer a V-6 engine in the mix, but rather a transversely front mounted 2.3-liter Ecoboost inline 4-cylinder twin scroll turbocharged engine with Direct Injection that delivers 330 horsepower at 6,000 rpm, while developing 350 pound feet of torque at 3,000 rpm. The potent four-banger gears its motive force through a ten-speed automatic transmission (with adjustable modes: Normal, Sport+, Track, Drag Strip, and Snow/Wet ) with paddle shifters, to the rear wheels. The 2.3L Performance Package comes with a $4,995 price tag, while the ten-speed auto gearbox runs an extra $1,595.
AGGRESSIVE STYLING
The 2020 Ford Ecoboost Mustang sports a sleek fastback design, with advanced technology and improved performance, featuring a lower, restyled hood and grille, and new hood vents that provide a bolder, more athletic image. The entire lineup features all-LED front lights, plus there are revised LED taillamps, an aggressive bumper, fascia and an available performance spoiler. Dual-tip exhaust is standard for Mustang Ecoboost® models. Yes there is still V-8 power for other Mustang models in the iconic pony car stable.
TECHNOLOGICAL FEATURES
Ford’s MyMode allows customers to save drive settings with the 12-inch cluster.
Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, distance alert, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist and Driver Alert System are available driver-assist technologies. SYNC® Connect with FordPass™ is available, and an improved ride on all Series is provided by MagneRide dampers that come with the Performance Package.
AS TESTED
My test 2020 Ford Mustang was the 2.3-liter Ecoboost four-banger powered model fastback coupe, in Premium trim. The exterior wore an Iconic Silver metallic finish with metallic grey appliqué trim accents, while the interior was executed in Ebony leather. The base price was set at $31,85., with the as tested price totaling $39,370. after factoring in the optional fare, which included: the 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission; the Ecoboost Performance Package; and Destination and Delivery Charge. The list of standard features and equipment is impressive, but too lengthy to include here.
PERFORMANCE
The 2020 Ford Mustang Ecoboost Premium Coupe that we were afforded the opportunity to pilot rose above expectations, while serving up a high level performance with an aerodynamic, clean sheet design along with innovative, state-of-the-art technology.
The Ecoboost ‘Stang looks, drives and sounds like it should, with an authoritative rumble that is pleasing but not really up to the V-8 pleasure level, but the four-cylinder does everything else well. Acceleration is more than adequate with the 2.3-liter motor. In terms of handling, the four-banger comes across as more civilized with a lighter and more agile feeling due to its lighter nose weight. Steering delivers a positive feedback and responds quickly to driver input. The ride quality is vastly improved with the tuned suspension setup. The Performance Pack ups the ante to a higher degree than stock in both ride and handling attributes.
The Selectable Drive Mode feature tunes in changes in steering effort, engine response as well as transmission and electronic stability control settings to suit the driving scenario at hand at any given time utilizing console mounted toggle switch.
Shifting is responsive and smooth, and. Automatic paddle shifter response is both rapid and seamless. Connectivity and safety elements and enhancements showcase the latest industry advancements, further increasing the new Mustang’s value.
Lounging comfortably in the back seat of the Coupe on a long trip is out of the question for tall individuals due to its cramped nature.
THE FINAL TAKE
Bottom line, the 2020 Ford Mustang Ecoboost Premium fastback Coupe represents superiority over that first Mustang in every way. It’s safe to say that I’ve now come closer to being converted to becoming a Mustang fan.
SPECIFICATIONS: 2020 Ford Mustang Ecoboost Premium High Performance Coupe
Base Price: $31,685.
Price as Tested: $39,370.
Engine Type and Size: 2.3-liter, DOHC, 16-valve TI-VCT direct injection twin scroll turbocharged with overboost inline four-cylinder
Horsepower (bhp): 330 @ 6,000 rpm
Torque (ft./ lbs.): 350 @ 3,000 rpm
Transmission: Ten-speed automatic with adjustable modes: Normal, Sport+, Track, Drag Strip, and Snow/Wet.
Drive Train: Longitudinally front mounted engine / Rear Wheel Drive
Suspension: Front -Double-ball-joint independent MacPherson strut and tubular stabilizer bar (optional MagneRide damping system)
Rear – Integral-link independent with coil springs, solid stabilizer bar and mono-tube dampers, optional MagneRide damping system
Brakes: Power-assisted four-wheel discs with four sensor, four-channel ABS and AdvanceTrac ESC.
Tires: Pirelli P-Zero 255/40 ZR19 96Y mounted on 5-“Y”-spoke machine face alloy wheels with black painted inners.
Wheelbase: 107.1 inches
Length Overall: 188.5 inches
Width: 81.9 inches w/mirrors
Height: 54.3 inches
Curb Weight: 3,671 lbs.
Turning Circle: 36.5 ft.
Fuel Capacity: 15.5 gallons
EPA Mileage Estimates: 20 mpg city /28-mpg highway
Drag Coefficient: Not listed
0 – 60 mph: Not tested – Top speed=155 mph.
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