Overview

The Ford Mustang gets all-new engines for 2012, including a 305-horsepower V6 and a 412-hp V8. The new engines have been mated to new six-speed manual and automatic transmissions. The other changes include larger brakes, revised suspension tuning, added noise insulation, a switch to electric power steering (from hydraulic), additional body bracing for the GT convertible, blind-spot mirrors and Ford MyKey system. The 2012 Ford Mustang is available as a coupe or convertible in V6, V6 Premium, GT and GT Premium trims.

Power and performance

The Mustang V6 is equipped with a new 3.7-liter engine rated at 305 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. The Mustang GT comes with a new 5.0-liter V8 good for 412 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. Both engines have a standard six-speed manual transmission. A six-speed automatic transmission is optional. It delivers 19 mpg in city and 29 on highways highway with six-speed manual transmission, up from 18 mpg city and 26 on highways on the 2010 model with manual. The Mustang delivers 19 mpg in city and 31 on highways with six-speed automatic transmission, up from 16 mpg city and 24 on highways on the 2010 model with automatic, a 30 percent improvement. The coupe has a trunk capacity of 12.3 cubic feet and it drops down to 9.7 in the convertible.

Body and styling

The base Mustang V6 rolls on 17-inch alloy wheels with a limited-slip rear differential, keyless entry, side spotter mirrors, cruise control, air-conditioning, full power accessories and a CD audio system with an auxiliary audio jack. The V6 Premium is equipped with upgraded 17-inch wheels, Ford's Sync system, color-adjustable gauges, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather upholstery, a power driver seat, upgraded interior trim and a Shaker 500 stereo system. The V8-powered GT has the features of base V6 model plus 18-inch alloys, a rear spoiler and fog lamps. The GT Premium is essentially a GT with different 18-inch wheels and the V6 Premium's roster of features. The Mustang GT can be equipped with a Brembo Brake package, which includes more powerful brakes, 19-inch wheels, summer tires and the recalibrated stability control system.

Safety Features

AdvanceTrac Electronic Stability Control complements the all-speed traction control and standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and an exceptionally stiff structure helps protect the cabin from deformation and intrusion in an impact. The standard safety features of the 2012 Ford Mustang include antilock four-wheel disc brakes, front-seat side airbags and side spotter mirrors. Ford MyKey system which allows owners to set up driving restrictions for young drivers is also standard.