The 2024 Ford Mustang EcoBoost with the premium performance package stands out for its updated looks and improved driving experience. The latest Mustang offers a quieter ride, a more refined feel, and better sound insulation compared to earlier models. Its daily usability, combined with supportive seats and a quality audio system, makes it more comfortable for everyday driving. However, some issues remain, such as the challenging handling when stability controls are off and occasional glitches with the infotainment system.
Inside, the Mustang feels more upscale than before, with soft-touch materials throughout the cabin. The new digital displays look modern, although some long-time features like toggle switches are now gone. The car also offers practical solutions, like fold-down rear seats and a spacious trunk. The EcoBoost engine provides strong performance and decent fuel economy, but the transmission can feel abrupt at low speeds.
Key Takeaways
- The Mustang’s updated design and features improve comfort and daily use.
- Interior upgrades and technology add value, though some legacy features are missed.
- Performance is strong, but certain handling and transmission issues remain.
Exterior Styling and Curb Presence
The 2024 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Premium Performance Package stands out with the latest S650 design. The headlights and tail lights have a sharp, modern look that gives the car strong road presence. Many fans appreciate the bold styling, but opinions on the design can be personal.
Key Features:
- Sleek, aggressive front end
- Distinctive rear lighting
- 19-inch wheels with 255-width tires on all four corners
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Modern, angular design |
| Taillights | Signature Mustang style |
| Wheels | 19-inch, sporty appearance |
| Tire Size | 255-wide, all four corners |
The doors feel solid and heavy, helping the car feel like a high-quality product. Even at everyday speeds or on the highway, the Mustang attracts attention without being too flashy. The car’s size is noticeable—it’s nearly as long as a midsize sedan—which gives it a bold look when seen from the side or front.
With the Performance Package, features like the Brembo brakes and MagneRide dampers not only support driving performance, but also add to the car’s visual appeal. The Mustang’s styling makes it feel unique and easy to spot on the road.
Everyday Driving Feel
Comfort on Longer Drives
On the highway, the 2024 Ford Mustang EcoBoost with the Premium Performance Package stands out for its quiet ride. Wind and tire noise are both well kept in check. There is just enough outside sound to keep drivers aware of their surroundings, but it never gets loud enough to be annoying. This makes both short and long trips more comfortable, no matter the speed.
Smoothness and Drive Settings
The ride quality benefits from the 19-inch wheels and wide 255 tires on each corner. Most bumps are handled well, offering a smooth drive in both Normal and Sport settings. However, sharper bumps are a bit more noticeable, especially in Sport. The Track setting makes the suspension much firmer, so the drive becomes stiffer. Thanks to the Performance Package, drivers also get magneride dampers and strong Brembo brakes, which add to control and comfort.
| Driving Mode | Ride Feel |
|---|---|
| Normal/Sport | Mostly smooth |
| Track | Much stiffer |
Keeping Outside Sounds in Check
Noise insulation in this Mustang is improved compared to past models. Heavier doors and more sound-deadening materials keep unwanted sounds outside, helping the cabin stay calm even on busy roads. The car still lets in just enough noise to stay enjoyable without becoming tiring or loud. This balance helps make it a pleasant car to drive every day.
On-Road Capability and Driving Experience
Adaptive Suspension and Stopping Power
The 2024 Mustang EcoBoost Performance Package features adaptive dampers and upgraded brakes. These dampers automatically adjust to the road, making the ride smoother in normal and sport modes. Most bumps and rough spots get absorbed, though sharper jolts might be more noticeable.
The Brembo brake system delivers firm and quick stopping power. Even at higher speeds, the brakes respond fast and feel solid under pressure. The 19-inch wheels with wide tires also help with grip, keeping the car steady and secure in most conditions.
Stiff Ride in Sportier Settings
When the car’s most aggressive drive mode is engaged, the suspension becomes very stiff. Drivers might feel more of the bumps and roughness in the road. This mode is meant for more spirited driving but can be uncomfortable for daily use over uneven surfaces or longer trips.
| Driving Mode | Ride Quality | Suspension Feel |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | Comfortable | Smooth, absorbs most bumps |
| Sport | Firm | Sharper bumps are more noticeable |
| Track | Very Stiff | Most road imperfections felt |
Safety Controls: Traction and Stability Features
With stability and traction systems active, the Mustang remains easy to drive during spirited runs. These features keep the car in check and help avoid losing control, even when driving more aggressively.
However, in performance-oriented track settings, traction and stability systems automatically turn off. This makes the car much harder to control, especially during slides or quick maneuvers. Some drivers may find it difficult to sense what the front or rear is doing, making corrections tricky. Compared to other rear-wheel drive cars, the Mustang can be unpredictable when these systems are off. Keeping the safety systems on is recommended for anyone who is not highly experienced.
Interior Details and Comfort
Cabin Material Selection
The 2024 Mustang EcoBoost Premium features softer touch materials in many areas of the cabin. The doors have a solid, sturdy feel, which gives the car a more upscale feeling than past models. The cabin design is more refined and does not feel low quality, showing a clear improvement over previous generations.
Seating and Everyday Comfort
The seats in this Mustang remain very supportive and comfortable, maintaining a reputation from earlier models. Whether driving in the city or on longer trips, the seats provide good support. Rear seats work best for children or as extra storage. Space is practical, with rear seats able to fold down for more cargo room when needed.
Technology and In-Cabin Features
A major upgrade is the audio system, now featuring a Bang & Olufsen setup that offers strong bass and clear sound. The digital displays are large and modern, with a 12.4-inch digital gauge cluster and a 13.2-inch infotainment screen.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included.
- All climate controls are inside the touchscreen, which can be frustrating if the system glitches.
- The infotainment screen sometimes fails to load at startup or becomes slow to respond.
A change in this generation is the removal of physical toggle switches, which used to add a unique touch to the interior.
Infotainment Experience and Everyday Usability
Digital Driver Display
The Mustang’s 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster stands out for its clarity and ease of use. Drivers get key information at a glance. The display feels modern and high-quality, contributing to the car’s refreshed interior look.
Main Touchscreen Responsiveness
A 13.2-inch center touchscreen controls the bulk of the car’s features. It is straightforward to use and offers a premium feel. However, lag and software hiccups have appeared during startup, causing the system not to load at times. This can be an annoyance, especially since so many controls rely on the screen.
Climate Control Challenges
The heating and cooling functions are only accessible through the main touchscreen. When the screen does not function, there is no way to adjust the temperature or airflow. This setup creates added frustration during those rare software glitches. Much-missed physical toggle switches from previous models are no longer available.
Smartphone and Device Compatibility
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, making it easy to connect most smartphones. Audio streaming, navigation, and hands-free controls work as expected. The upgraded Bang & Olufsen sound system delivers clear audio and strong bass for a more enjoyable driving experience.
| Feature | Availability | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Yes | Quick, reliable connection |
| Bang & Olufsen audio | Available (upgrade) | Clear sound, strong bass |
| Bluetooth | Standard | Supports hands-free calling |
Listening Quality
Bang & Olufsen Speaker Setup
The latest Mustang features a Bang & Olufsen sound system that stands out for its strong performance. It offers deep bass and clear sound, making music, podcasts, or calls easy to enjoy. The system does not just add a brand badge; it brings real improvement in the way audio is delivered.
Highlights:
- Dynamic sound range
- Balanced bass and clarity
- Enhances everyday driving
This audio upgrade is especially noticeable during daily drives or long trips, where the system’s punchy output and rich detail make a difference.
Comparison with Past Audio
In the previous models, the audio quality was much lower. The old systems sometimes made music sound thin and metallic, as if coming from a tin can. Now, with the new setup, the stereo is much more enjoyable and adds another layer to the comfort of the interior.
Key Differences:
| Feature | New System (B&O) | Previous System |
|---|---|---|
| Bass | Strong, pronounced | Weak, flat |
| Clarity | High, clear | Muffled, tinny |
| Overall enjoyment | Much improved | Often disappointing |
This change means drivers and passengers can now appreciate their favorite audio with much more depth and satisfaction than before.
Everyday Usefulness and Storage
Trunk Access and Back Seat Versatility
The 2024 Mustang provides a spacious trunk, which makes it useful for daily tasks like shopping or carrying luggage. The rear seats are best suited for children or small items, but they can be folded down to expand storage space. This folding feature allows longer cargo, like sports equipment or large boxes, to fit in the car more easily.
Key Points:
- Good-sized trunk for the class
- Rear seats can be folded flat
- Back seats work well as extra shelf space
| Storage Area | Use |
|---|---|
| Trunk | Groceries, luggage |
| Rear seats (folded) | Long or bulky items |
Car Size and City Driving
This Mustang feels wide and substantial from behind the wheel. At nearly 189 inches long, it matches the size of some midsize sedans. Its width and length make it feel large on the road, which some drivers may notice when parking or navigating tight spaces. Even though it’s not a small car, many drivers appreciate the secure feeling that comes from its size.
Quick Facts:
- Nearly as long as a midsize sedan
- Feels wide when driving and parking
- May require extra care in narrow spots
Tip: Drivers who often face crowded city streets or small parking spaces might want to plan ahead due to the car’s size.
Power and Driving Feel
Turbo Four-Cylinder Highlights
The 2024 Mustang EcoBoost features a turbocharged engine that produces 315 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. This engine gives quick acceleration and strong power delivery, especially when passing other cars. Power builds smoothly even at higher speeds, and the engine always feels responsive at part throttle.
With 19-inch wheels and 255-wide tires on every corner, the car maintains good grip. The Performance Package adds adaptive dampers and upgraded brakes for improved control and stopping power. Shifts at lower speeds can feel abrupt, and when using paddle shifters in sport or track modes, gear changes may feel slower than expected.
Comparing Turbo to the 5.0L V8
Choosing the EcoBoost engine means missing out on the well-known sound of the 5.0L Coyote V8. The V8 is popular for its strong exhaust note and high-revving character. The EcoBoost, while still quick in real-world driving, will not deliver the same engine sound or sense of excitement as the V8.
The Mustang EcoBoost is a good option for those who want a lower price point and do not need the signature V8 experience. The car remains practical and easy to drive every day, even though enthusiasts may prefer the V8’s more predictable handling with traction settings off.
| Feature | EcoBoost Turbo | 5.0L Coyote V8 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 315 hp | Higher |
| Torque | 350 lb-ft | Higher |
| Engine Sound | Quiet | Loud, sporty |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
| Daily Comfort Focused | Yes | Varies |
Gas Mileage and Everyday Use
The turbocharged four-cylinder delivers good fuel efficiency compared to the V8. Drivers can expect lower fuel costs thanks to the EcoBoost’s performance in real-world conditions. The car handles daily routes well with less engine and wind noise, especially on highways.
While the strong performance remains, the transmission can make commuting less smooth due to sharp gear changes at low speeds. Still, for drivers looking for a mix of speed and savings at the pump, the EcoBoost is a practical choice.
Gear Changes and On-Road Feel
Smoothness of Low-Speed Shifting
At lower speeds, the Mustang’s transmission can shift quite suddenly. Abrupt gear changes may be noticed when pulling away from a stop or moving slowly in traffic. This can make city driving feel less smooth than expected, taking away from the comfort of daily commutes.
- Noticeable at slow speeds
- May affect driving comfort
- Less refined compared to some rivals
Paddle Shift Engagement
When using the paddle shifters for manual gear changes, the response isn’t as quick as some might hope. Even in Sport or Track mode, gear swaps can feel a bit delayed. Drivers who want instant shifts while pushing the car hard may find this frustrating.
Key Points:
| Mode | Paddle Response |
|---|---|
| Normal | Slower than expected |
| Sport/Track | Still slightly slow |
This makes spirited driving less engaging, especially for those used to quicker transmission responses in other performance cars.
Interior Trade-Offs and Legacy Features
The cabin feels much higher in quality than before, offering more soft-touch materials and a better overall design. The seats stand out for comfort and support, something that has been consistent in Mustangs. The new Bang & Olufsen audio system is a major improvement, delivering solid bass and clarity that makes music and podcasts more enjoyable.
Interior Features Table
| Feature | Experience | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Bang & Olufsen Audio | Clear, punchy sound | Worth considering as an upgrade |
| Digital Gauge Cluster (12.4″) | Works well, easy to read | Standard on higher trims |
| Infotainment Screen (13.2″) | Looks premium, mostly user-friendly | Occasional lag and software glitches |
| HVAC Controls | Embedded in touchscreen | Can be inaccessible if system glitches |
| Interior Materials | More soft-touch surfaces | Feels more upscale than before |
| Toggle Switches | Removed from this generation | Loss of character from S550 |
There are some trade-offs. HVAC settings are now built into the touchscreen, which poses a problem if the screen fails to load—leaving climate controls out of reach. The removal of traditional toggle switches from the last generation takes away a bit of the car’s classic personality.
Back seats offer practicality for children or extra cargo space, and the trunk is a good size with fold-down rear seats for more utility. However, the increased car width and length make the Mustang feel large on the road, similar to a midsize sedan.
While technology brings added convenience, a few software hiccups with the infotainment screen can be frustrating. Still, daily use benefits from features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The updates modernize the Mustang but also mean accepting some of the old challenges and trading away unique touches from previous models.
