2015 Ford Mustang

• Performance: 3.7-liter, V6, 300 horsepower; turbocharged 2.3-liter, four cylinder, 310 horsepower;  5.0-liter, V8, 435 horsepower 
• Mileage estimate: 17-28 mpg; 21-32 mpg; 15-25 mpg
• Price:  $23,800 to $46,170
• Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles; drivetrain 5 years/60,000 miles; corrosion 5 years/unlimited; roadside assistance 5 years/60,000 

Ford introduced the Mustang in 1964 and it quickly became known as the first of the so-called “pony cars,” which were characterized by being compact, affordable, stylish, and possessing high performance. 

The Mustang developed a following instantaneously and has gathered many more admirers in its five decades of production, evidenced by the more than 9 million-plus in sales generated over that time span. 

It’s not surprising that the original Mustang concept sparked many imitators. The Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger are two of the most notable examples and remain the Mustang’s most formidable rivals.

One of America’s truly iconic cars, the Ford Mustang has been a cherished vehicle for 51 years. With a well thought out redesign for 2015, expect the Mustang to keep adding admirers. 

There has never been an issue of mistaken identity for the Mustang. Despite the considerable redesign this year, that quality remains. The Mustang retains its long hood, tri-bar taillights and sloping fastback, which all combine to give it an aggressive appeal.

That aggressive appeal carries over to the engine, another cherished Mustang quality since its inception. No matter what model is chosen, performance continues to be a huge selling point. 

The 2.3-liter, turbocharged four cylinder that produces 320 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque is new this year. While not as robust as the two other engine options, the turbo model goes 0-60 in 5.9 seconds and gets an estimated 22-31 mpg, easily the best of the three engines in terms of making a tank of gas go the furthest.

The standard Mustang engine is a 3.7-liter, V6 with 300 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. For excess performance, the 5.0-liter, V8 that generates 435 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque is the pick. It goes 0-60 in 4.7 seconds and gets an estimated 15-25 mpg.

The most significant change for the 2015 Mustang is adding an independent rear suspension, resulting in better ride comfort and handling. Ford says the 2015 Mustang offers additional stability and steers more precisely. The smaller, leather-wrapped steering wheel is a nice plus as well.

Another significant area of improvement is the interior. Overall the modernized cabin has added more high-quality materials, is roomier, and all models come standard with a back-up camera, a nice touch due to the Mustang’s narrow rearview makeup. Optional safety features like blind-spot monitoring and forward collision alert are available.

The Mustang interior has Ford’s “sync” voice activation system that can simplify working the audio, phone and navigation systems. Critics still don’t care for the MyFord Touch interface due to its complexity.

Although the front seat is relatively comfortable, that’s not the case for the other two passengers. The back seat is cramped in either the coupe or the convertible, and it’s difficult getting in and out of the back seat.

Fans of the Mustang will certainly like the new look that has been unveiled for 2015 because it’s superior to any previous model.

Jeffrey Weidel lives in Rocklin and can be reached at [email protected]. Ford Mustang photo courtesy of Ford Motor Co.