It's finally here. Say hello to the all-new
2016 Ford Mustang GT350. The reborn Ford Mustang GT350 aims to be the most trackworthy Mustang ever. We wouldn't bet against it.
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| New Ford Mustang gt |
What's New for 2016 Ford Mustang GT350?!
The Mustang's optional MyFord Touch infotainment system has been replaced by the new Sync 3 system featuring a simplified interface, while the EcoBoost and GT coupes gain an available black-painted roof. The GT Performance package is now offered on the convertible also as the coupe, numerous GT models get standard secondary turn signals tend to be integrated into the hood vents. Newly offered bundles include the Black Accent and California Special packages (GT) and the Pony package (EcoBoost). The new Shelby GT350 is covered separately.
Following a dramatic redesign last year, the 2016 Ford Mustang continues to distinguish itself as a muscle car with genuine crossover appeal. Traditionally, muscle cars have come standard with a certain degree of crudeness, but today's Mustang is a global product with enough refinement to make even premium brands take notice. We're not saying the fun-loving Mustang has become a personal luxury car, exactly, but it's classy enough to make some Audi or BMW buyers think twice. At the same time, it retains the tire-smoking exuberance expected of an American performance icon.
Although the 2016 Mustang is mechanically unchanged, there's significant news on the technology front. The much-maligned MyFord Touch infotainment system, which was optional for 2015, has been replaced by the all-new Sync 3 touchscreen with its simplified interface and smartphone-like pinch and swipe finger commands. Will it be a game-changer for Ford? Time will tell, but early indications are that it's much quicker and easier to use than MyFord Touch was.
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| 2016 ford mustang shelby gt350 |
A 5.2-liter all-motor monster
The V8 engine skips forced induction entirely in favor of a sky-high redline—8200 RPM—and that fancy flat-plane crank, like you might find in a Ferrari. For those unfamiliar, a flat crankshaft design involves attaching the crank pins at 180-degree intervals rather than the usual 90; this allows for a firing order that bounces back and forth between the two cylinder banks with little to no overlap in exhaust pulses.
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The engine breathes better as a result, and Ford says that this 5.2 is the most powerful naturally aspirated engine the company has ever produced. Final output is still under wraps, but Ford says we should expect more than 500 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. For comparison, the Boss 302 made 444 horses and 380 lb-ft from a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8, and
the new Mustang GT gets 435 and 400 from its updated 5.0.
If there's anything flat-crank engines are known for beyond big revs and a bunch of power, it's their unique sound. On this point, Ford promises we won't be disappointed: "Make no mistake, this is an American interpretation of a flat-plane crankshaft V8, and the 5.2-liter produces a distinctive, throaty howl." The only transmission this engine can be paired with is a six-speed manual. Output is then routed to a standard-equipment Torsen limited-slip differential; a diff cooler can be ordered, and it feeds on airflow directed from the rear diffuser.
2016 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 Interior Design and Special Feature
The 2016 Ford Mustang's interior pays homage to Mustangs past with retro touches like a dual-cowl dashboard, but it also offers nearly all of the latest conveniences. Even the base Mustang comes standard with unexpected niceties like keyless entry and ignition, a rearview camera (a relief given the car's poor rear visibility) and Track Apps (for measuring lap times and such). Also standard is the Sync voice command system, which greatly simplifies the operation of audio and phone functions. The available Sync 3 touchscreen infotainment system is new to the market, but it shows promise relative to its controversial MyFord Touch predecessor, providing a simplified interface with smartphone-style pinching and swiping gestures.
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| 2016 ford mustang shelby gt350 interior |
No matter which specification you choose, you'll enjoy generally good-quality materials. The current Mustang has thankfully added a telescoping function to its steering wheel, so most drivers should have no problem getting comfortable. Although the optional Recaro sport seats provide excellent lateral support for aggressive driving, we've found that they aren't perfect for every body type. Thigh support is somewhat lacking due to a seat bottom that won't angle upward enough, while some longer-limbed drivers on our staff noted that their elbows bump against the thick side bolsters. The Recaros also can't be had with power adjustment, heating or cooling, so be warned.
Both coupe and convertible body styles are considered four-seaters, but the rear passengers will likely be cramped unless they're small children. If you plan to ferry around larger folks in the backseat, the Challenger would be a better choice. The Mustang coupe's trunk provides 13.5 cubic feet of cargo space -- fairly generous for a sport coupe -- while the convertible offers 11.4 cubes. Standard folding rear seatbacks on the coupe expand cargo capacity.
Ford Mustang GT350's Driving Impressions
The
2016 Ford Mustang is a well-behaved muscle car that loves the open road. Tire and wind noise are modest, making for a fairly peaceful cabin at highway speeds. The ride can get annoyingly bouncy on irregular pavement, but it's generally quite civilized unless you opt for the Performance package, which includes a stiffened suspension that's noticeably less supple. Of course, that package also tightens up the handling considerably, so if you want the most capable Mustang configuration, it's a no-brainer. But if you're not planning to attend any track days, the standard setup will likely suit you just fine with its compliant nature and still-respectable handling.
In the engine room, the base V6 is actually pretty strong for the price, but the two optional engines are tempting. While the EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder is chiefly distinguished by its superior EPA fuel economy, it also unlocks the Performance package, which is unavailable with the V6. The turbo-4 could be more refined, as it lacks the smooth and consistent power delivery of its German counterparts, but it's a serviceable engine that incidentally improves handling due to its lighter weight.
As for the GT's V8, it does add some pounds in the nose, but that's about the only drawback we can think of. This 5.0-liter mill is an absolute gem, putting down serious power and spinning effortlessly to redline with nary a vibration. We just wish it had a properly assertive exhaust note to match its capabilities; as of this writing, Ford doesn't offer a sport exhaust, so you'll have to take care of that part yourself.
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