2018 Ford Mustang Review
2018 Ford Mustang Review





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Edmunds' Expert Review

byJason Kavanagh
Senior Vehicle Test Engineer
Jason joined Edmunds' testing team in 2006 as a vehicle testing engineer. Jason believes true appreciation of modern cars stems from owning really, really bad old ones.Pros
- Strong power from both the four-cylinder and V8 engines
- Civilized ride quality and low noise levels
- Cabin blends modern convenience with retro style
Cons
- Cramped back seat
- Long, heavy doors and mediocre cabin access
- Performance package ride quality can be bouncy
What's new
- Revised front- and rear-end styling
- The V6 engine has been discontinued
- Four-cylinder and V8 engines are more powerful
- Newly available adaptive suspension dampers
- Part of the sixth Mustang generation introduced for 2015
If you've been away from the pony car segment for a while, prepare yourself for a shock: The modern Mustang is refined, rapid and rewarding. This generation's road manners took a big leap forward when the entire 2015 Mustang lineup received — for the first time in 50 years — an independent rear suspension. This change facilitated the Mustang's transformation into a more sophisticated and comfortable car while its performance capabilities reached new heights.
For 2018, Ford gives this generation of Mustang a significant refresh. Some changes should help address prior complaints we had about the car (a retuned suspension plus newly available adaptive suspension dampers for a claimed improvement in ride quality), while others are proverbial icing on the cake (more power for the Mustang's 5.0-liter V8). The Mustang's new automatic transmission has an eyebrow-raising 10 speeds. It might seem like overkill, but we've found this transmission in other vehicles to be quick-shifting and very smooth.
These changes should keep the Mustang a highly desirable pick for a pony car. Of course, it still has some primary competition: the Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger. All three are genuinely great cars, especially considering the price. If you're looking for the most well-rounded one, though, the Mustang is the way to go.
What's it like to live with?
For more insight into the Ford Mustang, check out our extended test of a Mustang GT. We covered everything from fuel economy to infotainment technology and interior quality. Even though our time was spent in a GT convertible, most of our observations are applicable to all Mustangs regardless of body style or engine configuration.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
7.9 / 10Edging its chief rival in day-to-day usability, the 2018 Mustang has an array of enhancements that should broaden its appeal while expanding its performance. Base Mustangs are accessible, and V8 models deliver pulse-quickening performance yet maintain enough civility for daily use.
Trim tested
Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the 2015 Ford Mustang GT Premium Coupe (5.0L V8 | 6-speed manual | RWD).
NOTE: Since this test was conducted, the current Mustang has received some revisions for 2018, including a retuned suspension, a new 10-speed automatic transmission, a more powerful V8 and the deletion of the V6 model. Our findings remain broadly applicable to this year's Mustang, however.
Scorecard
Overall | 7.9 / 10 |
Driving | 8.5 |
Comfort | 8.0 |
Interior | 8.0 |
Utility | 6.5 |
Technology | 8.0 |
Driving
8.5The 5.0-liter V8 is a gem. It's powerful and remarkably docile. Maybe too much — the exhaust note is rather meek. Although the standard suspension feels less planted than the Performance Pack's, the car's limits are roughly the same. It's softer, but hardly dumbed down.
Acceleration
8.0Our test car lacked the Performance Pack's shorter 3.73 rear end, which helps explain its slower sprint to 60 mph (5.2 seconds vs. 4.7). The trap-speed gap (108.2 mph vs. 111.2) is notable. But in the real world, this V8 still hauls the mail. The 2018 Mustang should be quicker still.
Braking
7.0No Performance Pack means no ultra-touchy brake pedal, which is a relief in daily driving. This car actually stopped 2 feet shorter from 60 mph, needing just 106 feet, with its standard brakes. The pedal is firm yet easy to modulate.
Steering
9.0It feels a bit synthetic under normal conditions but quickly becomes an ally in fast corners. Responsive and surprisingly precise. Adjustable effort levels are more noticeable in parking lots than at speed.
Handling
8.0This car with summer tires posted very similar numbers in our handling tests to those from a Performance Pack GT we also tested. The latter feels more buttoned-down on the road, though. The 2018 model promises to further improve on its handling precision.
Drivability
9.0Clutch engagement isn't quite intuitive, and misses aren't readily forgiven. Still, the GT is super easy to drive. The gentle throttle tip-in keeps most of those 435 horses in the stable. The linear brake feel is most welcome.
Comfort
8.0The standard GT suspension is certainly more supple than the Performance Pack's firmed-up version, though the former amplifies the latter's bouncy feel on some surfaces. If you're drawn to this car for its performance, you'll likely find its everyday comfort more than adequate.
Seat comfort
8.0Our test car had the Recaro seats, which offer both excellent lateral support and remarkable long-distance comfort. But adjustability is limited. The rear seats are uninhabitable for most humans due to the low roof and rear glass.
Ride comfort
8.5There's a bounciness to this suspension and summer tire combo that can make the car feel unsettled on imperfect pavement. Harsh impacts are uncommon, and bump compliance is noticeably better than with the Performance Pack. The 2018 model's retuned suspension should ride better.
Noise & vibration
8.0The Mustang keeps wind noise in check nicely, and despite the big 20-inch summer tires, road noise remains modest on most surfaces. The mild V8 burble through the firewall is a constant but welcome companion. Plenty quiet for a pleasant road trip.
Interior
8.0The Mustang's interior is an impressive effort, featuring good quality materials and fun pony-car flourishes without going over the top. The dual-cowl dashboard looks cool.
Ease of use
8.0Most buttons and levers are straightforward in operation and feel well built, though the faux-metal toggle switches are flimsier than they look.
Getting in/getting out
7.0The Mustang's long doors are awkward in tight spots, but the front seats aren't as low as you might think, so you don't plop way down. The Recaro side bolsters can require extra contortions to get around. Rear-seat access is a chore.
Roominess
7.0The Mustang is less likely to trigger claustrophobia than certain rivals. The high beltline still creates a bunkerlike feel, though. The front seats accommodate all shapes and sizes, unlike the rears.
Visibility
8.0Despite the high beltline, the Mustang's visibility is above average for the segment, aided by windshield pillars that aren't too wide and expansive rear glass that gives a decent rearward view. It's still nice to have the backup camera.
Quality
8.0Nicest Mustang cabin in modern memory, but you'll find some cheap-feeling plastics if you poke around. Zero squeaks and rattles.
Utility
6.5The Mustang's a notably more practical car than its chief rival, the Camaro. Easier trunk access, more cargo volume and a friendlier cabin. Still, any decent compact hatchback will at least match the Mustang's utility.
Small-item storage
6.0The interior storage is adequate, but the door pockets don't hold much and the console bin is on the shallow side.
Cargo space
7.0The Mustang's trunk checks in at a decent 13.5 cubic feet, but the optional Shaker stereo includes a trunk-mounted subwoofer that makes two golf bags a pretty tight fit.
Which Mustang does Edmunds recommend?
The Mustang's V8 is irresistible, so go for the gusto and get the GT model. Be an American hero and stick with the standard six-speed manual. Add useful day-to-day civility at a reasonable cost by choosing the optional active valve exhaust and dual-zone automatic climate control. The Performance package is totally livable on a day-to-day basis and sharpens up the Mustang's responses, so go ahead and tick that box, too. Make sure to get it in a wild color such as Orange Fury because you only live once.
2018 Ford Mustang models
The 2018 Ford Mustang is available in EcoBoost, EcoBoost Premium, GT and GT Premium trim levels for coupe (fastback) body styles. Convertibles are available in all but the GT trim (the GT Premium is offered). Say goodbye to the V6-powered Mustang — it has been dropped for 2018 — while a new 10-speed automatic transmission is optional on all models and includes a remote-start function.
The Mustang EcoBoost is the new entry-level variant now. It is powered by a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine that gains 20 pound-feet of torque this year for a total of 310 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and a new 10-speed automatic is optional.
Despite representing the bottom rung of Mustangdom, EcoBoost models are equipped with a surprising amount of racy hardware as standard: a limited-slip rear differential, launch control (only with the manual gearbox) and an electronic line-lock to facilitate burnouts (at the track only, of course). Standard creature comforts are more pedestrian and include 17-inch wheels, manual cloth seats, keyless entry and ignition, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a 4.2-inch center display screen, Bluetooth, two USB ports and a six-speaker sound system.
Notable options packages include the Performance package, a unique version of which is available for EcoBoost and GT models. This includes larger brakes, 19-inch wheels and summer tires, a shorter differential ratio, a bigger radiator, stiffer front springs and a larger rear stabilizer bar. This package additionally allows access to new-for-2018 MagneRide adaptive suspension dampers.
The EcoBoost Premium keeps all the same hardware but adds 18-inch wheels, leather upholstery, revised cabin trim, power front seats, a nine-speaker audio system, dual-zone automatic climate control, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an 8-inch touchscreen with the Sync 3 infotainment system.
GT models really step up the Mustang's performance game. They come with a 5.0-liter V8 (460 hp, 420 lb-ft) that has been revised for 2018 with the implementation of direct and port injection and a host of other changes. The GT's six-speed manual gearbox gets revised gearing this year, too. The 10-speed automatic is optional. The GT Premium adds the creature comforts of the EcoBoost Premium trim.
Notable optional features for the Mustang include a digital gauge cluster, a heated steering wheel, a navigation system, various exterior and interior styling packages, Recaro front sport seats, a 12-speaker sound system, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking.

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Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2018 Ford Mustang.
Most helpful consumer reviews
4 out of 5 stars
Mid-life crisis car
Michael,07/25/2018
EcoBoost 2dr Coupe (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
Always liked and wanted a Mustang. Kids are grown and wife said if you really want one let’s look. Found a magnetic gray one with ecoboost and 101A package. It gave me SYNC 3 with the big screen radio without having to get the premium package since I did not want leather. Drove home 6 hours after getting it and got 33-34 mpg going 70-75, not bad for a 310 hp Mustang.
13000 miles and … 18 months later still love this car. No mechanical issues and averaging 29 mpg.
29000 miles and 3 years later, still as fun as the day I bought it and now averaging 33.5 mpg. Who needs an electric car? This looks way cooler.
5 out of 5 stars
First Time Mustang Owner
Gerald,08/03/2018
EcoBoost 2dr Coupe (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
I bought the 2018 Ford Mustang Ecoboost with 6 speed manual trannsmission. It comes well equipped even in the basic options (without the premium package) It handles exceedingly well and provides a comfortable ride. The four cylinder has get up and go when you need it. The exterior styling is fabulous. Sometimes I come into the garage at night just to look at the car. The trunk is … spacious. I rarely carry anyone in the back seat since the space is tight. The Ford Sync technology is very helpful especially since my State has a "hands free" law with regard to cell phone usage. I average about 26 MPG. Maintenance costs have been minimal since my Dealer provides the first three oil changes free of charge. I feel like I got a lot of car for my money. Over a year and a half later I am still a very pleased with this Pony!
5 out of 5 stars
10K miles, still loving this car!
Charles Greenwell,08/16/2018
EcoBoost Premium 2dr Convertible (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
I think I got the last Mustang convertible left in the state of Texas having the color I wanted [Royal Crimson], with the equipment [Ecoboost, auto trans., navigation] & packages [Pony, Smart & Safe] I wanted, & nothing that I did not want & wasn't willing to pay for. I was glad to have found it [Thanks, Edmunds!] & willing to drive to the dealership [Auto Nation Ford] in Arlington, TX, … to see it, drive it, & trade for it. I wasn't sure I'd be happy without the V-6 engine I had on my previous Mustangs, but I've no complaints with the Ecoboost 4. Plenty of power, 10-speed automatic, & good gas mileage.
5 out of 5 stars
I Can't believe this is a Mustang
Shawn,11/21/2018
GT Premium 2dr Coupe (5.0L 8cyl 6M)
It is been over 20 years since I've been inside of a mustang period since then, I've had numerous European, Asian as well as domestic sports cars. Never would have imagined a mustang be parked in my driveway. To say I'm impressed with this vehicle is an understatement, the fit and finish workmanship and performance are noteworthy to say the least. The V8 along with the active exhaust … performance package, and myriad of electronic safety features as well as limitless dashboard configuration and lighting options, it's absolutely fantastic. I much prefer manual transmissions so again I was completely surprised but I selected the 10 speed automatic or the manual, but this transmission is a game changer. He got ours completely loaded to include the lane keep assist as well as emergency braking along with every other feature offered. This vehicle is the complete package and is one of just a few of the almost 72 vehicles I have owned, that I look back at sometimes after I park it. Love the lines. Negative is a backseat room and trunk could be bigger, beyond that this is certainly a world-class sports car.
Safety
NHTSA Overall Rating
5 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover5 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover9.3%
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More about the 2018 Ford Mustang
Used 2018 Ford Mustang Overview
The Used 2018 Ford Mustang is offered in the following submodels: Mustang Coupe, Mustang Convertible. Available styles include EcoBoost 2dr Coupe (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6M), GT 2dr Coupe (5.0L 8cyl 6M), GT Premium 2dr Coupe (5.0L 8cyl 6M), EcoBoost Premium 2dr Coupe (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6M), EcoBoost Premium 2dr Convertible (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6M), GT Premium 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 6M), and EcoBoost 2dr Convertible (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6M). Pre-owned Ford Mustang models are available with a 2.3 L-liter gas engine or a 5.0 L-liter gas engine, with output up to 460 hp, depending on engine type. The Used 2018 Ford Mustang comes with rear wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed manual. The Used 2018 Ford Mustang comes with a 3 yr./ 36000 mi. basic warranty, a 5 yr./ 60000 mi. roadside warranty, and a 5 yr./ 60000 mi. powertrain warranty.
What's a good price on a Used 2018 Ford Mustang?
Price comparisons for Used 2018 Ford Mustang trim styles:
- The Used 2018 Ford Mustang EcoBoost is priced between $24,000 and$29,998 with odometer readings between 11940 and80920 miles.
- The Used 2018 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Premium is priced between $24,998 and$33,998 with odometer readings between 10595 and82978 miles.
- The Used 2018 Ford Mustang GT is priced between $30,966 and$54,950 with odometer readings between 6682 and57781 miles.
- The Used 2018 Ford Mustang GT Premium is priced between $28,998 and$46,998 with odometer readings between 1867 and89339 miles.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on used cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which used 2018 Ford Mustangs are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2018 Ford Mustang for sale near. There are currently 104 used and CPO 2018 Mustangs listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $24,000 and mileage as low as 1867 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a used car from our massive database to find cheap prew-owned vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the Used 2018 Ford Mustang.
Can't find a used 2018 Ford Mustangs you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
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Should I lease or buy a 2018 Ford Mustang?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Ford lease specials
Check out Ford Mustang lease specials
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