The 2010 Mustang GT is better than ever because it had to be. But competition for the V-6 Stang is also intensifying, so we set out to determine if the V-6 similarly leads the herd.
Entry-level Mustangs start at $21,845, which undercuts the V-6 rear-drive coupes from Chevrolet, Dodge, and Hyundai, as well as comparable front-drive two-doors such as the Honda Accord and Nissan Altima. But we upgraded to the V-6 Premium steed, which adds $3000 to the sticker and 17-inch wheels, leather seating and steering wheel, aluminum pedals, and upgraded audio to the options sheet. Mix in $300 for the Red Candy metallic paint and $395 for the Security package—wheel locks and an alarm—and our Mustang V-6 rang up at $25,540.
Around town, the Mustang’s tall gearing minimizes shifting, which is good because the five-speed manual is as satisfying as a lukewarm pile of Kraft Easy Mac. If you’re buying a V-6 Mustang, get the auto. At even 30 mph, anything higher than third lugs the engine. We’d guess the reason is fuel economy—the EPA rates it at 18 city/26 highway, and our observed 19 mpg matches our comparo Camaro and trails the Genesis by 1 mpg.
