With the coming of the S550 platform Mustang is the arrival of the EcoBoost variation, the turbocharged four-cylinder unit that is slotted above the V6 and is hovering in the power territory that not ten years ago was considered performance V8 range. Coupled with the new independent rear suspension, the potential for the four-cylinder Mustang to be an interesting ride is there, especially when you look at Ford’s last honest take at a turbo-four Mustang, the SVO editions of 1984-85. But certain cues have us doubting the car’s ability: we know that the interior soundtrack is essentially a V8 soundtrack played through the speakers as if you were playing Forza while you were actually driving and the weight of the car is something to be concerned with as well. Enter Carlos Lago and the team from Ignition, another show from the same group that brings you Roadkill and Hot Rod Garage. Lago takes an up-close look at an EcoBoost Mustang and is honest about what he sees. He then tosses the keys to Motor Trend resident pro driver Randy Probst, who puts the Mustang through it’s paces on the Streets of Willow Springs course. How did it do? Hit play and find out.
Waiting for a SVO type modle to hit the shelves….This will be an interesting car to watch develop.
While I don’t think I would purchase one of these over a 5.0 GT, I do really like the car. I was able to drive one at a dealership in town and was impressed. I think that these cars have a lot of potential, and will do great things for Ford.
The comment about the cornering performance numbers matching the old live axle stats does seem to reinforce Fords stance on Mustang not needing IRS.
I know smooth track………
but for the cost the average buyer aint going to know the difference.
As much as I am a fan of Mustang, this 4 cylinder just sounds like a sewing machine. I’d take a normally aspirated V6 before this overworked turbo 4 in the long run. But the reality is they should all be 5.0’s baby!
ah…nup. not my cuppa…honestly, if you want a hot turbo 4 just go buy an import. hard to see who this is going to appeal to…and I think if it needs a V8 tape in the deck to help people be able to even consider it then it pretty much fails before it gets out the dealership….
Not too impressed with the new Mustangs in general. In spite of Ford’s earlier claims, it gained weight. And when Motor Trend put the GT Track Pack against the Camaro SS 1LE, the Mustang barely won in straight line acceleration and lost in handling numbers, braking (despite larger brakes than the Camaro) and was almost 2 seconds slower around Streets of Willow.
meh. Agreed this car is still too big and too heavy. It should be no bigger or heavier than the Fox body Mustang was. Have a car of that size and weight with IRS and this power train and now we’re talking.