By Clive Funizwe

Is silence golden? Maybe in an S-Class but not in something that carries a name full of heritage like the Mustang. Enter the soft top 2.3 litre EcoBoost Ford Mustang with 213 kW and 441 Nm. R791, 300 gets you the fast back and the soft-top comes in at R856, 200. What you don’t get from either derivative are the theatrics that you hear in your head when you see the word Mustang. This didn’t stop the Mustang from selling like hot cakes. In 2018, the Mustang was the best-selling sports car in South Africa. The reasons can be numerous, but one thing is certain, the Mustang is a sports car that is loved in South Africa and globally too. Admittedly, times have moved on, but the question is whether this new lean muscle is enough to convince the potential buyer that the package is enough.

Interior

Even though there is no faulting the ergonomics of the interior design, it doesn’t come without fault. Execution and sense of purpose are well presented even though we feel the textiles and final finish can be better, all things considered. What doesn’t necessarily require improvement is the Sync-2 system. This is because we value superior functionality over a flashy user interface. We love the digital dials and the various modes which change the layout of the instrument cluster. Either than the change in layout, you can also alter the characteristics of the driving modes from normal all the way up to race. In between all that is also a mode we did not try out in the name of avoiding rubber wastage – the Drag Strip – mode. No prices for guessing what this does, but we raise a glass to the Ford engineers for featuring something so original.

Other features include an 8-inch touch screen, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, keyless-entry, reverse camera with PDC, dual-zone climate control and cruise control. Taking care of safety is ABS with EBD, stability control, traction control, 4 airbags and an electronic brake assist.

Exterior and drive

When you’re done looking at the spec sheet, you are reminded again of how the Mustang is a looker and how it turns heads. It is even better with the roof down. We will say this again, you do miss the growl that will always be in your head – but you will soon get over it and realize that the lean muscle is the new way and one that works like a charm. The engine has a deep throaty sound and packs a punch. Often you won’t realize the sheer pace because of the exhaust note restrain – but it does get the fuel in your veins going. Handling is adequate but does have a bit of a roll around corners. This can perhaps be attributed to the adjustments in making this car a convertible. The Mustang is however a joy to drive and you will look forward to driving it all the time.

Final word

It does not come without its faults though. Comparatively speaking, the cabin noise is several decibels higher than the competition, despite the acoustically treated windshield. In 2020, the manual latch is bit one step too much. When you consider the car’s stature, the rear seats are a bit on the small side – even by children standards, not to mention how the front seats are adjusted both manually and electronically.

Overall, the Mustang has a heart as big as its turning circle. And this is what made it a best seller and it ticks the boxes that car enthusiasts are after.

All Ford Mustangs come with a 4-year/120,000km warranty and a 6-year/90,000 km service plan.