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| The 2025 Ford Mustang Driver’s Review: The Evolution of an Icon | Photo: Ford |
Overview
The American pony car is not ready to ride off into the
sunset just yet. With the arrival of the 2025 Ford Mustang, the legacy of
performance, style, and attitude continues into a bold new chapter. Building on
the complete redesign that debuted in 2024, the seventh-generation Mustang—internally
designated as the S650—continues to blend heritage muscle with contemporary
design and technology.
While the core lineup remains familiar, the standout
addition for 2025 is the Mustang GTD, a track-focused, street-legal monster
developed to meet GT3 racing homologation requirements. It marks the most
aggressive performance leap in the Mustang’s storied history and positions
Ford's pony car squarely in the conversation with high-performance imports like
the Nissan Z and Toyota GR Supra.
What’s New for 2025
The most significant update to the Mustang range is
undoubtedly the GTD variant, an engineering showcase directly inspired by the
Mustang GT3 race car. Beyond this headlining addition, the rest of the Mustang
lineup receives only minor refinements for 2025. Dual-zone climate control is
now standard across all trims, and the Mustang GT offers its 10-speed automatic
transmission at no additional cost. However, Ford has discontinued the 2.3L
High Performance Package on EcoBoost models and implemented price increases for
GT and Dark Horse trims.
Design and Dynamics
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| Photo: Ford |
On the road, the Mustang delivers balanced, responsive
handling, making it a joy to drive in nearly any configuration. That said, the
10-speed automatic transmission still struggles with unpredictable shift logic in
spirited driving. Enthusiasts will be happy to know that Ford continues to
offer a six-speed manual transmission on V8-powered models, preserving the
tactile joy of shifting gears manually.
One of the most enjoyable driving experiences comes from the
Mustang GT Convertible. While its thunderous exhaust note and wind-in-your-hair
appeal are undeniable, the drop-top does exhibit reduced chassis rigidity
compared to the coupe, especially over uneven pavement.
Performance and Powertrains
A diverse selection of performance options remains available
in the 2025 Mustang. Returning engines include the turbocharged 2.3-liter
EcoBoost four-cylinder and the naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 found in the GT
and Dark Horse trims. But the new GTD variant catapults Mustang performance
into another realm entirely.
At its heart is a 5.2-liter supercharged V8 that produces a
staggering 815 horsepower and 664 lb.-ft of torque—figures that surpass even
the ferocious Shelby GT500. Ford claims a top speed of around 202 mph. This power is
channeled through an eight-speed dual-clutch transaxle, paired with a
rear-mounted gearbox for better weight distribution.
To complement its formidable output, the GTD features
motorsport-derived hardware including a pushrod rear suspension, spool-valve
dampers with hydraulic actuation, and an active aerodynamics package that
incorporates a drag reduction system similar to those used in Formula 1. It is
not just a Mustang—it is a track weapon wrapped in street-legal clothing.
Technology and Connectivity
Inside, the 2025 Mustang reflects Ford’s push toward digital
integration and driver personalization. A 13.2-inch infotainment touchscreen,
running Ford’s SYNC 4 software, is standard across the lineup. It includes
built-in navigation, voice controls, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
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| 2024-2025 Ford Mustang Screen Protector, 12.4" Instrument+13.2" Touchscreen |
Drivers also get a customizable 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster, with one particularly nostalgic feature: a Fox Body-inspired layout for retro flair. Other thoughtful touches include ambient lighting, overhead USB ports (for coupes), animated welcome lighting, and standard LED headlamps.
The base sound system features six speakers, while a
nine-speaker setup is standard on higher trims and all convertibles.
Audiophiles will appreciate the optional 12-speaker B&O premium system,
available across much of the lineup.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety performance remains in line with the 2024 model, as
full testing for 2025 has yet to be completed. The 2024 coupe and convertible
earned top “Good” ratings in the moderate front overlap and side impact crash
tests by the IIHS. However, the small overlap front driver-side test returned
an “Acceptable” rating, and child seat anchor usability scored “Marginal.”
Standard safety features for 2025 include Ford’s Co-Pilot360
suite. This comprehensive package bundles adaptive cruise control, lane keeping
assist, reverse automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and traffic
sign recognition. These features bolster the Mustang’s credentials as not just
a performance car, but a daily-drivable, safety-conscious vehicle.
Conclusion
With its powerful blend of tradition and innovation, the
2025 Ford Mustang is more than just a continuation of a classic—it is a bold
reimagining of what a modern muscle car can be. Whether you are drawn to the
all-American roar of the GT, the razor-sharp focus of the GTD, or the stylish
flair of the convertible, the Mustang offers a compelling package that
continues to evolve without forgetting its roots.