What’s Hot: Besides this much-anticipated addition to the Mustang family and after all of the major changes last year, there are just a few updates for the 2016 model year. The big news is that the Shelby GT350, which pumps out a whopping 526-horsepower, returns to the lineup, after a short break in fastback form only. Trims now come with secondary turn signals integrated into the hood vents and there is an all-new easy-to-use SYNC infotainment system with voice recognition, a smartphone-like touchscreen and an intuitive graphical interface.
Just like with the fastback hardtop, the rear-wheel drive, classic convertible, with its modern interior design is the best Pony ever. What makes it an even bigger splash is that the convertible is drop dead gorgeous, too. Yes, this close to fully automated, easy-to-operate, cloth top convertible is available with a 4-cylinder turbo, a 6-cylinder or one of two eight-cylinder engines that can be powered by a manual or an automatic transmission.
We were fortunate to get our hands on a GT trim, which was outfitted with an automatic transmission. The curb weight of the sports coupe/convertible was approximately 3,700 lbs. With the electric power assist system, the GT, which we reviewed, has a 16:1 steering ratio and a 37.8 ft. turning circle, curb-to-curb, when outfitted with the stout-looking 19-inch wheels. And the GT rides on a double-ball joint independent MacPherson front suspension system and a rear integral-link independent suspension with coil springs and a solid stabilizer bar.
And in order to ensure that the driver’s experience behind the wheel is optimized, through the mere touch of a button, the steering capabilities and the suspension system can be adjusted independently. That option makes the Mustang ride great as a daily driver or a road trip cruiser, especially on windy back roads or cross-country trips. But if you yearn to burn up the pavement the spirited manual transmission is your best bet. Driving enthusiasts can also use the in-car track apps to measure lap times and the like.
The current generation Mustang can be steered by the latest optional advanced safety driving features, too. Some of those features include an adaptive radar-activated cruise system, which is paired with a collision mitigation system and a rain-sensing wiper system. The economical dream cruiser can also be outfitted with an optional audible reverse sensing system to compliment the rear camera. With these two safety components, there is no way the ride should ever get banged up when backing up.
Lastly, the convertible we reviewed has been transformed on the inside too, bringing with it a more polished and premium look, while maintaining its classic appeal. The head-turning Mustang convertible is now available with an easy-to-use 8-inch infotainment screen, which offers smartphone-like capabilities. And surprisingly, its the most fuel-efficient Mustang ever and only requires regular fuel.
What’s Not: On the last day we had to drive this hot rod, the smartphone-like radio screen froze and stopped working. One of the major concerns with Ford’s vehicles is that the infotainment system may not always perform as expected. The Mustang, while fun to drive, can’t be viewed as a family vehicle. Driving a drop-top will remind you that the cargo space, the rear shoulder room and the hip room are tight, when compared to the fastback. It’s great for the front occupants, but not so much for those unlucky enough to sit in the back.
Drive or Drive By?: While convertible sales overall are at an all-time low, it hasn’t stopped true fans of open air vehicles from keeping the segment afloat. Ford got it right with the current generation Mustang, both inside and out. It’s affordable. It offers great fuel economy. It’s stylish. It offers the latest high-tech features. And it continues to offer the thrill of being behind the wheel of a Pony with all of the engine options. This current redesign has left the Camaro coupe and the Camaro convertible in the dust in terms of new-vehicle sales.
Competition: 2016 Camaro Convertible
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Jeff Fortson is an auto analyst and editor of a car-buying website for women and minorities. To learn more about his popular car-buying workshop and/or to price a new-vehicle, drive on over to www.JeffCars.com. Follow him on Twitter/JeffCars.
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