The 2024 Ford Mustang GT Premium brings strong performance and an updated look to the classic muscle car scene. This model comes with a 5.0L V8 engine, delivering plenty of horsepower and a memorable exhaust note. Its automatic transmission, unique paint options, and several added features make it stand out, even though the price can reach high levels with top packages.
Inside, the Mustang GT Premium offers a blend of comfort and high-tech features. The seat design and digital displays bring a modern touch, though some controls and materials could be improved. Overall, this car keeps the Mustang legacy alive and gives drivers plenty of ways to customize their ride.
Key Takeaways
- The 2024 Mustang GT Premium offers strong V8 performance and noticeable road presence.
- Interior features include modern tech and customizable digital displays.
- Price can be high, especially with added options and packages.
2024 Mustang GT Premium Highlights
Looks, Paint, and Features Outside
The 2024 Mustang GT Premium shows off a style that doesn’t drift far from the earlier S550 version. It stands out with quad exhaust tips, strong wheels, and a wide range of custom choices made possible through Ford’s build configurator.
The car in focus wears the Yellow Splash Metallic paint, which was available for 2024 models but is not offered anymore for 2025. This paint color adds an extra $1,000. Bright blue Brembo brake calipers, notable on all four corners, cost $495 more. The Mustang Night Pony Package brings black trim and black wheels, costing $1,300.
Other exterior options include a raised rear spoiler and summer tires that come with the optional GT Performance Package. The trunk holds similar space to earlier models, and the seats fold down for added room.
Engine, Transmission, and Driving Stats
Under the hood, there’s a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine. This motor produces 480 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, putting it just 20 horsepower behind the Mustang Dark Horse.
Here’s a quick breakdown of specs:
| Engine | Transmission | Horsepower | Torque | 0-60 mph* | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.0L V8 | 10-speed auto | 480 hp | 415 lb-ft | N/A | RWD |
*No official 0-60 mph time was given.
The GT Performance Package ($5,300) adds the Brembo brakes, summer tires, a 3.55 rear axle, and other features. Also included is the MagnaRide damping system for $1,750, making the ride feel firm even in the standard mode. The car’s exhaust can be adjusted for sound level with modes like Normal, Quiet, Sport, and Track.
Fuel economy is rated at 16 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. The Mustang GT Premium is currently the only muscle car with a V8 available new.
Cost and Extra Choices
The starting price for the 2024 Mustang GT Premium sits at $47,380. The car shown has about $14,815 in added options, bringing the final price up to almost $64,000.
Key Optional Features and Prices:
- Yellow Splash Metallic paint: $1,000
- 10-speed automatic transmission: $1,600
- GT Performance Package: $5,300
- Night Pony Package: $1,300
- Brembo calipers (blue): $495
- Active exhaust: $1,225
- Recaro seats: $2,000
- MagnaRide suspension: $1,750
The Mustang GT Premium can be built with a wide range of features, making it easy to customize but adding up fast in cost. Some features, like the Recaro seats, are not heated or cooled. There is no 360-degree camera, but the car includes many standard and optional tech features through its digital displays and infotainment system.
Power and On-Road Feel
5.0-Liter V8 Output
The 2024 Mustang GT uses a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine. It produces 480 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. This power output is just 20 horsepower less than the Mustang Dark Horse.
This engine is not covered in plastic parts, so when the hood is open, the engine bay looks clean and impressive. The Mustang is currently the only modern muscle car in its class that still offers a V8 engine.
Fuel economy is rated by the window sticker at 16 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 5.0-Liter V8 |
| Horsepower | 480 hp |
| Torque | 415 lb-ft |
| Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 16 / 24 mpg |
Gearbox and Driving Dynamics
This car is equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Shifting is smooth, and the car feels responsive during daily use and while cruising on longer road trips.
It has the GT Performance Package, which includes Brembo brakes and summer tires. There’s also a MagnaRide adjustable suspension system, noted for being quite firm even in normal mode.
The ride can be changed using drive modes, but the suspension firmness links to the base drive mode selected. For example, sportier settings will make the ride even firmer, while normal softens it up a bit.
Key Points:
- 10-speed automatic gearbox
- MagnaRide suspension, firm in default settings
- Brembo brakes at all four corners
- Multiple drive modes for custom performance feel
Exhaust Note and Sound Options
The Mustang GT includes a quad-tip active exhaust system with several sound settings: Normal, Quiet, Sport, and Track.
Quiet mode helps keep the noise down on early starts, while track mode is the loudest. However, the difference between normal, sport, and track isn’t very noticeable. Quiet mode stands out for tone and volume reduction. There are dedicated buttons to quickly change the exhaust note, and they add to the car’s driving engagement.
Exhaust Modes Table:
| Mode | Description |
|---|---|
| Quiet | Lowest volume, friendly for early mornings |
| Normal | Standard sound, balanced |
| Sport | Slightly louder, more aggressive |
| Track | Loudest, for spirited driving |
Cabin Comfort and Amenities
Seats and Driving Position
The 2024 Mustang GT Premium comes with available Ricaro seats, which offer strong side support and a snug fit. The seats have a higher sitting position that may not suit everyone. They are not heated or ventilated, even with the upgraded option. While the seats feel secure for most body types, some drivers might wish for more adjustments. Seat belt holders could do a better job of keeping belts accessible.
Materials and Interior Touches
Inside, the Mustang uses a mix of materials. The seats and armrests feel soft and pleasant to touch, giving some comfort on longer drives. However, the cabin also features plastic trim designed to look like carbon fiber, which lacks a real premium feel. The steering wheel has well-made buttons that are easy to use, but the plastic trim can seem cheap compared to the rest of the interior.
Space and Everyday Use
Storage spots are available for daily needs, including a center armrest and other soft-touch areas for arms. The trunk space is about average for the class, and the rear seats can be folded down for carrying larger items. Access to seat belts is not ideal, as they are hard to reach, and there is no 360-degree camera system included. The controls for adjusting climate and car settings are mixed between the touchscreen and physical buttons, providing basic convenience for daily drives.
Tech Features and Entertainment
Touchscreen Experience and Media Functions
The touchscreen responds quickly and is faster than in previous Mustang models. Wireless Apple CarPlay connects without issues. The climate controls have both on-screen menus and always-visible icons for fan speed and temperature.
A side screen shows trip details and fuel economy. Below, physical buttons allow access to features like traction control and sport exhaust. There is also a custom drive mode, but the settings for suspension and dampers can only be changed based on a base drive mode.
Key Points:
- Wireless CarPlay
- Quick physical controls for key functions
- No 360° camera, only a reverse camera
Instrument Display Modes
The digital gauge cluster offers several themes to choose from. There are looks inspired by older Mustangs like the SVT Cobra (1999-2001), Fox Body (1987-1993), and Classic (1967-1968). Track-oriented displays provide extra features, such as timer apps and auxiliary gauges.
Colors and themes can be matched to drive modes or set to always display a preferred look.
Selectable Themes:
- SVT Cobra (1999–2001)
- Fox Body (1987–1993)
- Classic (1967–1968)
- Sport, Calm, Normal, Track
Connections and Easy Use
Wireless Apple CarPlay pairs smoothly on the first try. The physical buttons for main functions are easy to find and use. Some owners feel there should be more ways to customize the gauge cluster and interior settings.
The seat belt keepers do not work well, making belts hard to grab. While most buttons feel high quality, the fake carbon fiber trim looks cheap. Still, all key driving controls are placed in reach.
Interface Highlights:
- Simple button layout
- Long load time for accessory mode on start-up
- Custom mode offers some, but limited, personalization
Steering Feel and Mode Selection
Adaptive Suspension Performance
The adaptive suspension, also called Magnaride, gives the Mustang a firmer feel even when set to standard. Drivers may notice the ride is on the stiff side, especially over bumps or rough roads. Those who value precise control in corners will likely appreciate how the suspension keeps the car steady.
MagnaRide Features:
- Firm ride in normal mode
- Enhanced stability on twisty roads
- Automatic adjustment based on drive mode
Driving Modes and Personal Settings
There are multiple driving settings. Owners switch between these using a special button with a Mustang logo. Each mode changes how the car drives, from engine sound to how firm the dampers feel. For exhaust, there are choices like Quiet, Normal, Sport, and Track. Quiet mode is best for early mornings, while Track gives you the loudest sound.
Available Drive Settings:
| Mode | Key Changes |
|---|---|
| Quiet | Softer exhaust, lower noise |
| Normal | Balanced for daily driving |
| Sport | Sharper response, louder exhaust |
| Track | Most aggressive sound and feel |
Customization notes:
- Custom mode: Lets you tweak steering, traction, and exhaust settings.
- Dampers Link: You cannot mix and match damping; it stays matched to the base drive mode. For example, sport dampers are only active if you are in a sport drive mode.
Performance Tracking and Driver Tools
Performance tracking features are built in. The performance apps menu has timers for acceleration, tools to measure brake performance, and lap timing features. An electronic drift brake is included for those interested in track days.
Performance App Features:
- Acceleration timer
- Brake performance test
- Lap timer
- Drift brake for controlled slides
- Auxiliary gauges show engine and car status
All of these tools display right in the digital gauge cluster, which can also be customized with different themes and vintage Mustang designs. This gives the driver direct feedback and helps track performance during spirited or track use.
Security and Everyday Usage
Stopping Power and Built-In Protections
The 2024 Mustang GT Premium includes Brembo brakes at all four corners. These high-performance brakes are included with the GT performance package. They are easy to spot by their bright blue calipers, which are an extra-cost option.
Other features for enhanced safety are the hand-operated parking brake and several drive mode options. Drive modes allow the driver to control settings like exhaust volume and traction. There is also a drift brake for track use.
A table summarizing main features:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Brembo at all four wheels, blue calipers option |
| Parking Brake | Hand-operated, easy to engage/release |
| Drive Modes | Normal, Quiet, Sport, Track, Custom |
| Safety Apps | Acceleration timer, brake performance, lap timer |
Mileage and Driving Costs
The 5.0L V8 engine in the Mustang GT Premium is rated for 16 miles per gallon in the city and 24 miles per gallon on the highway. These numbers are typical for a V8 muscle car, and drivers should expect higher fuel costs compared to smaller engines.
- Key fuel economy numbers:
- City: 16 mpg
- Highway: 24 mpg
These fuel numbers mean more stops at the pump, especially on road trips. The actual cost will depend on driving style and road conditions.
Thoughts and Reactions
Driving the 2024 Mustang GT Premium has sparked a lot of mixed feelings. The car looks sharp, especially in the yellow splash metallic, even though that color is now discontinued. People notice it, and it does get attention out on the road.
The power from the 5-liter V8 feels strong and responsive. The 10-speed automatic shifts smoothly. However, the price feels high, especially considering some features are still missing for the money. For example, the Ricaro seats are supportive but not heated or cooled, and the seating position sits higher than expected.
Some standout features include:
- Custom digital gauge layouts (like classic Mustang styles)
- Brembo brakes with bright blue calipers
- Adjustable drive and exhaust modes
Features I find less impressive:
- Lots of fake carbon fiber trim inside
- No surround-view camera at this price
- The infotainment, while improved, can still be slow at times
Below is a quick breakdown of key impressions:
| Feature | Impression |
|---|---|
| Engine Power | Responsive, enjoyable |
| Interior Materials | Mixed, some feel cheap |
| Infotainment | Better, but not perfect |
| Seating Comfort | Supportive, sits high |
| Price and Value | Feels expensive |
There are some fun customization options and neat digital features. The exhaust is tunable but the differences between modes are slight. The car’s ergonomics don’t quite feel as user-friendly as hoped, especially for everyday comfort and easy access to settings.
In the first days of driving, it was surprising how often other drivers cut it off, possibly because the bright yellow color doesn’t stand out as expected. Even with a few drawbacks, the Mustang GT Premium remains a unique choice with a V8 and provides a real driving experience.
