2016 Ford Mustang EcoBoost first drive review

We find out if the four-cylinder Mustang is the real deal.

David McCowen

23:2320 January 2016

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2016 Ford Mustang EcoBoost first drive review

This is not a muscle car.

While it might share its looks with the V8-powered Ford Mustang GT, the new four-cylinder EcoBoost model is a different car with a character of its own.

Ford's timeless coupe has long been divided into two camps – V8 and non-V8. Often perceived as a poor cousin to the hero models, the cost-conscious alternative has hit back with a new engine worthy of consideration.

The 2.3-litre Mustang EcoBoost has half the engine capacity of the 4.6-litre V8 Ford used when the Mustang was previously sold here in 2001, yet it has more torque and just a little less power than that $85,000 hero model. Capable of reaching 0-100kmh in less than six seconds, the EcoBoost Mustang is a little slower than the new 5.0-litre GT and it lacks the thumping character of its V8 sibling.

Priced from $45,990, it also costs $11,500 less than the GT, making it the undisputed bargain of the Mustang range. Like the GT it has 19-inch wheels, leather trim, satellite navigation and a reversing camera. Only the engine, wider rear wheels, bigger brakes and GT-specific badges separate the four and eight-cylinder Mustangs.

As with the V8 version, the EcoBoost's cabin is pleasing at a glance but a little sub-par under close inspection, with fake chrome, creaking plastic and hard surfaces that are less than ideal.

Driven in isolation, the EcoBoost is a good thing. The four-cylinder engine has plenty of torque, along with a pleasing – if synthetic – rumble under load. Matched sweetly to a six-speed manual transmission, the EcoBoost loses some of its appeal when you pay an additional $2500 for an optional six-speed automatic.

Naturally, the lesser Mustang feels overshadowed by its faster, character-laden V8 sibling.

But it's also significantly lighter in the front end, feeling nimbler and more precise when pushed on the road or track. It treads lightly on the road with a smaller footprint than the GT, and the turbo motor's elasticity encourages you to press on when the time is right.

While it's a good car in its own right, the problem is that the EcoBoost doesn't quite deliver the full Mustang experience.

While it is surprisingly punchy and arguably a better bet on twisty roads, it misses out on the rock and roll only a V8 can offer.

If you like the look and want to be seen in a new Mustang, the EcoBoost is a worthwhile bet. But if you want to buy into the car's iconic imagery, only the V8 will do.