Vehicle: 2011 Ford Mustang V6 Coupe Pony Pkg with Interior Upgrade Pkg
Price as tested: CDN$25961

Performance: Although the updated Mustang V6 doesn’t come with Ford’s impressive Ecoboost twin-turbo V6, its power delivery didn’t disappointed us for one single bit. In fact, its a delightful surprise that even without Ecoboost. The Mustang V6 is able to deliver such a stunning performance in base trim. As with the upgraded V8 GT, both of these engines receive Ford’s advanced Ti-VCT or what Ford called Twin Independent Variable Camshart timing. That is able to improve the engine output while improving the fuel economy. In V6 guise, the Mustang delivers 305 ponies and 280 lb/ft of torque. That means plenty of low-end grunt when driven off-the-line, both the mid and upper ranges are equally impressive. In terms of acceleration, this V6 equals last year’s V8. The seat-of-the-pants feel suggests the same story. This V6 is not only powerful, its also extremely refined and smooth. At the same time, delivering superb engine note that is music to every driving enthuisast’s ears. No wonder Ford has to upgrade the V8 with the same Ti-VCT technology in order to produce 415hp and 309 lb/ft of torque, or those die-hard V8 Mustang fans would feel very pissed off. On top of that, the 6-speed manual has perfect gear ratios. That’s despite it still suffers from Mustang’s low throw and slight rubbery gates. The clutch, however, its light and progressive.

Handling: With the introduction of the new Mustang, Ford has proved itself that muscle car doesn’t mean only going straight line. Thanks to a stiff chassis and a superb calibrated suspension, the Mustang V6 hangs itself like a magnet on the road. The suspension is comfortably compliant which means it rides firmly without being harsh on all the rough pavements. Its European firm but far from being harsh. The body motions are well-controlled. When pushed the Mustang into a corner, the suspension takes a set and begin to settle itself in nicely. Steering provides good feel and feedback with enough precision. Just like its rear-wheel-drive 50/50 perfect weight distribution, the entire car feels very balanced and agile when hustled around corners. When mated to Ford’s AdvanceTrac with ESC, which is an uninstrusive type that doesn’t step in unnecessarily. It all wraps up Mustang’s sophiscated dynamic package.

Brakes: With 4-wheel discs and standard ABS, the new Mustang no longer has the spongy pedal feel as the Mustang of a decade or so ago. The stopping distance is short, while pedal always feels reassuring and confidence-inspiring. Add to the ABS which only acts necessarily. The Mustang is as good as it gets.

Interior: Just like the rest of the vehicle, Mustang’s inside feels as sophiscated as its driving experience. Previous Mustang interiors were cheap and nasty, the new Mustang feels classy and sophiscated. Thanks to the use of quality plastic and leather materials in the cabin. Those leather seats provide decent thigh and back support, although we would prefer more side support when cornering.

Conclusion: A drive in the Mustang V6 has proved why Ford is the only American carmaker without getting any government bailout. When they launched the Mustang last year, its already acclaimed as the best muscle car in the business. With the introduction of two upgraded powertrains, its able to use Mustang’s chassis more wisely. As for the V6, its so powerful and refined that one could possibly make those who bought a V8 last year as the most regretful event in his or her lives.

OVERALL VERDICT FOR 2011 Ford Mustang V6
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Performance: 4.5/5
Handling and ride/fun-to-drive: 4.5/5
Interior/ergonomics/user-friendliness: 4.5/5
Fit-and-finish/build quality: 4.5/5
Cargo/accessibility/layout: 3/5
Value-for-money: 5/5

Overall rating: 4.5/5