First Drive: Redesigned 2024 Ford Mustangs Gallop Around Our Track
The turbocharged Mustang proves rambunctious, the GT expands the legend, and the high-performance Dark Horse is a thoroughbred
Video review of the 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse
Update: Since this first drive was originally published in October, 2023, we finished testing the Ford Mustang. Read the complete Ford Mustang road test.
The new Mustang represents the American muscle car tradition well based on our initial time flogging three examples: the turbocharged four-cylinder, V8-powered GT, and Dark Horse—a fresh trim that is a notch above the GT.
The redesigned, seventh-generation Mustang has bold new styling, with dramatic bodywork accented with familiar cues, more advanced technology, and increased power. It’s fitting that the pony car that started a performance revolution back in 1964 could be the last V8 to ride into the sunset as the auto industry turns its efforts toward electric models.
Photo: John Powers/Consumer Reports Photo: John Powers/Consumer Reports
What we rented: 2024 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Premium
Powertrain: 315-hp, 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine; 10-speed automatic transmission; rear-wheel drive
MSRP: $36,445
Options: 2.3L High-Performance Package with axle ratio, wheel, brake, and other upgrades, $3,750; Equipment Group 201A with Co-Pilot Assist+, $3,000; Magneride active damping suspension, $1,750; Recaro leather seats, $1,650; Active valve exhaust, $1,225; red brake calipers, $495; all-weather and carpet mats, $200
Destination fee: $1,595
Total cost: $50,110
We also rented: 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse Premium
Powertrain: 500-hp, 5.0-liter V8 engine; 10-speed automatic transmission; rear-wheel drive
MSRP: $63,265
Options: Recaro leather seats, $1,650; 10-speed automatic transmission, $1,595; all-weather and carpet mats, $200
Destination fee: $1,595
Total cost: $68,305
