2024 Ford Mustang GT Review: Australia's Last Affordable V8 Coupe?

content: The Lone V8 Warrior in Australia's Empty Arena

Australia's performance car landscape has transformed dramatically since 2016. Back then, the Ford Mustang faced fierce competition from the Falcon XR8, Holden Commodore SS, and premium options like the Lexus RCF. Today? The Mustang GT stands utterly alone as Australia's only accessible V8 coupe south of a $200k+ Corvette. This isolation raises critical questions: Has the absence of rivals made Ford complacent? Can a starting price of $81,990 (for the 2025 GT auto) still be justified? After analyzing extensive real-world testing, I believe the Mustang's survival hinges not just on its iconic engine, but on how it balances modern demands against its muscle car DNA. The stakes couldn't be higher for petrolheads.

Under the Hood: The Coyote V8’s Last Stand

At the Mustang's heart beats the 5.0L Coyote V8, producing 347kW and 550Nm. This naturally aspirated powerhouse isn't just about numbers; it's a visceral experience rapidly disappearing from new cars. Unlike turbocharged alternatives, the Coyote demands to be revved out to its 7,200rpm redline, delivering a linear power surge and an exhaust note that turns heads. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, it offers effortless highway cruising yet transforms when pushed. However, ownership requires commitment. Real-world testing shows consistent fuel consumption of 15.8L/100km in city driving, requiring 98-octane premium unleaded. At current prices, expect around $125 per 380km tank. This isn't a car for the cost-conscious, but rather for those valuing mechanical theatre over efficiency.

Practicality & Interior: Muscle Car Compromises

Space and Daily Usability

Think of the Mustang as a strict 2+2, not a true four-seater. At 185cm, I found the rear seats unusable for adults—headroom is critically lacking. While possible to squeeze in child seats (as demonstrated in testing), it's far from ideal. The boot holds 382L, sufficient for weekend bags or golf clubs, but not large families. Front occupants fare better with supportive seats (optional Recaros in our test car) and a low-slung driving position. Storage is limited to door pockets, a wireless charger, cupholders, and a shallow center console. This reflects the Mustang's grand touring focus: prioritize driver enjoyment, accept compromises elsewhere.

Tech & Cabin Quality: A Jekyll and Hyde Experience

Ford's 13.2-inch touchscreen and 12.4-inch digital cluster modernize the cabin, offering wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and nostalgic gauge themes (including classic '60s Mustang displays). However, during testing, the system exhibited occasional stutters and Bluetooth dropouts. Material quality is inconsistent. While the Recaro leather seats feel fantastic, hard plastics on the dash and doors detract from the premium price. The quirky electronic handbrake lever (styled like a traditional unit) reveals Ford's identity struggle—it's a nod to heritage but feels gimmicky next to simpler switchgear. The excellent 12-speaker B&O sound system somewhat redeems these flaws.

Driving Experience: Grand Tourer, Not Track Weapon

Performance Dynamics Explained

The Mustang GT accelerates from 0-100km/h in approximately 5 seconds, delivering thrilling straight-line speed. However, it's crucial to understand its grand touring (GT) nature. The front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout and 1,700kg+ curb weight create inertia. While the optional MagneRide adaptive suspension (highly recommended) improves body control, physics can bite. Over-enthusiastic throttle application mid-corner can induce oversteer, demanding respect. Compared to agile sports cars like the Toyota GR86 or Mazda MX-5, the Mustang feels less communicative at the limit. Its true brilliance emerges on open roads or drag strips, where the V8's torque and stability shine.

Drive Modes & Unique Features

Five drive modes tailor the experience:

• Normal/Sport: Ideal for daily driving (firmer suspension in Sport)
• Track: Optimizes cooling and damping for circuits
• Drag Strip: Maximizes launch performance
• Slippery: Softens responses for wet conditions
  Crucially, exhaust and steering settings can be customized independently in any mode. This allows a loud exhaust with soft suspension—perfect for spirited cruising without a harsh ride. The "Quiet Start" function also prevents early-morning exhaust blasts, a thoughtful touch for suburban living.

Final Verdict: An Emotional Purchase in a Dying Breed

Is It Worth the Premium?

The 2024 Mustang GT isn't flawless. Its interior lacks polish for an $80k+ car, the 10-speed gearbox occasionally hunts for gears, and practicality is limited. However, context is everything. With the Holden and Falcon V8s extinct, the Mustang represents Australia's final accessible V8 coupe. Ford hasn't reinvented the wheel; instead, it refined a proven formula. The 2025 model's price hike stings, but when compared to European V8 alternatives costing twice as much, the value argument holds. This car isn't about rational calculations—it's about the sensory thrill of a naturally aspirated V8 in an increasingly electrified world.

Essential Considerations Before Buying

1. Test Rear Seat Space: If regularly carrying adults, consider the convertible for extra headroom.
2. Budget for Fuel: Factor in $125+ per weekly tank if commuting daily.
3. Opt for MagneRide: The adaptive suspension ($2,500 approx.) transforms ride quality.
4. Prioritize Sound: Skip the base exhaust; the active system is core to the experience.
5. Research Dealership Support: Ensure local Ford service centers have Mustang expertise.

For deeper comparisons, consult Wheels Magazine's long-term ownership reports or MotoringBox's drag strip data. If the Mustang's compromises are too great, the Toyota GR Supra (3.0L turbo) offers a more focused sports car experience, though without the V8 soundtrack.

Ultimately, the Mustang GT survives not by being perfect, but by being passionately imperfect. It’s the last of a breed. Does that exclusivity justify its price for you? Share your biggest hesitation in the comments—we’ll address the most common concerns.