By: Peter Gregorian
August 20, 2024
The Ford Mustang has long been an emblem of American muscle and performance. Its claim to fame rose from its ability to deliver the trifecta of performance, styling, and value. Now, in its seventh generation, the 2024 Ford Mustang GT continues to carry this torch forward. After having the opportunity to experience it for a fun-filled week, thanks to Ford Canada, it has become clear what the standard is for a modern-day muscle car.
Keeping true to its roots, the exterior of the Mustang is instantly recognizable with its sloping, fastback roofline and flared hips. If the redesigned front and rear fascias with new LED headlights and taillights fail to turn heads, the striking Yellow Splash Metallic paint is sure to do so. In true GT fashion, a rear spoiler and quad-exhaust system further emphasize that this machine means business.
If we had to choose, the 19” Premier Polished Aluminum wheels would not be a first choice. Given the aggressive body styling and wide shoulders, the wheels appeared undersized relative to the rest of the body. Furthermore, the black-chrome finish of the wheels tarnished with water spots. Thankfully, there are a number of wheel options available from Ford Performance or with optional packages like the Mustang Nite Pony Package or GT Performance Package.
Much of the visual discontent immediately disappears once behind the wheel with the windows down and foot to the floor. The 5.0-liter V8 heart and soul of the 2024 Mustang GT not only produces a jaw-dropping 480 horsepower and 418 lb-ft of torque but also acts as an instrument worthy of a spot in the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. Emanating from the Active Valve Exhaust system is a harmonic and intoxicating growl—expected no less from the V8 powertrain—which makes tunnels an echo chamber of pure bliss.
Mated to a six-speed manual transmission, the driving experience and engagement with what lies under the hood is further elevated. The gearbox is notchy with a short throw, but the path to a 7500 RPM redline is long, making it easy to get in trouble without leaving second gear. The clutch is nicely weighted with a clear bite point, making the system feel engaging without being tedious in more day-to-day driving. The entire recipe comes together beautifully and, like an indulgent cake, serves as the ultimate test of self-control.
A number of drive modes allow options for interacting with this beast. We prefer dialing the car in with Custom Mode, but for those who want a turnkey experience, Ford has preset a number of modes to suit the desire and situation, including Track, Drag Strip, Normal, and Slippery modes.
The most notable differences between the modes, aside from the digital display’s varying cluster layouts, were the throttle mapping. Sport mode was observed to have more instantaneous delivery of power with a more playful exhaust note with extra backfires. In Track mode, power was delivered more linearly, allowing for better surefootedness and modularity. In any mode, the valved-exhaust system as well as steering settings could be manually configured.
Speaking of steering, in true muscle car fashion, the Mustang continues the tradition of being a straight-line monster. Alas, its Achilles’ heel remains. Although there are three steering settings—Comfort, Normal, and Sport—the weight is only marginally improved, and the steering remains numb and uncommunicative through corners. Paired with its playful and tail-happy rear end, it’s easy to get in trouble quickly. Despite this, the AdvanceTrac stability control does a good job at allowing just the right amount of rotation while keeping the vehicle in check.
Despite the shortfalls in steering, the suspension is smooth and compliant, helping the vehicle sail effortlessly over broken road without being jarring for occupants. This makes for a genuinely comfortable cruiser that lives up to its GT nameplate.
For folks who will see track use, Ford has implemented a number of track-oriented software systems. Along with built-in acceleration, braking, and lap timers, there is RPM-configurable launch control and Line Lock to help with tire warming on the drag strip. Bringing all this together in ideal conditions launches the 1736-kilogram (3827-pound) Mustang GT to 100 km/h in a respectable four seconds.
From behind the wheel, the driver-focused cockpit features a flat-bottomed steering wheel and supportive cloth bucket seats with lumbar support. There remains a fair share of plastics, including trim textured to appear as carbon fiber, but much of this can be overlooked. The 12-inch digital instrument cluster exudes crisp graphics and is highly customizable to provide crucial information at a glance. The SYNC infotainment system is lightweight with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility.
While the primary focus of the Mustang GT is performance, Ford has made efforts to improve fuel efficiency without sacrificing power. The 2024 Mustang GT is claimed to have a fuel economy rating of 16.6 L/100 km in the city and 10.2 L/100 km on the highway. Unfortunately, due to a combination of poor self-control and an effort to extract the most smiles-per-gallon from the 16-gallon (60-liter) fuel tank, real-world observed fuel economy figures hovered around 17.0 L/100 km.
As for pricing, the base 2024 Ford Mustang GT Fastback starts at around $50,295 but can reach upwards of $81,660 for the Dark Horse Premium. Additional packages and options are available, but the Mustang GT tested only featured Equipment Group 301A ($2,900) with Dual-Zone Climate Control, Premium Floor Liners ($250), Active Valve Exhaust system ($1,495), and the 19” Premier Polished Aluminum Wheels ($1,250).
There’s a lot of history behind the seventh-generation Ford Mustang GT. Despite some shortfalls, the 2024 Ford Mustang GT does its ancestors proud as it continues to capture the public’s attention through iconic design, powerful performance, and a rowdy aura. With its combination of raw power, refined handling, and a comfortable interior, the Mustang GT remains a desirable choice for those seeking an exhilarating driving experience with deep-seated roots. Whether on the open road or the racetrack, the 2024 Ford Mustang GT remains a force to be reckoned with.
