The 2023 Ford Mustang, an icon of American automotive culture, enters 2023 with fresh appeal. Understanding its various trim levels is crucial for potential buyers to find the perfect match for their style and needs.
Pros and Cons of the 2023 Ford Mustang
Pros
- Variety of Trim Levels:
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- The EcoBoost and EcoBoost Premium trims cater to different preferences and budgets, offering versatility in choices.
- Performance:
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- The base model’s 2.3L turbocharged engine delivers robust performance, with 310 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque.
- The High-Performance Package boosts this to 330 hp, enhancing the driving experience.
- Customization Options:
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- Numerous packages like the Stealth, Coastal Limited, and Ice White Appearance Package allow extensive customization.
- Optional packages like the EcoBoost Handling and High-Performance Package enhance driving dynamics and aesthetics.
- Infotainment and Interior Features:
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- The Premium model includes advanced features like the SYNC 3 system, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a more luxurious interior.
- Safety Ratings:
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- High safety ratings from NHTSA and a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Ford Co-Pilot360 technologies.
Cons
- Base Model Infotainment and Interior:
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- Compared to the Premium variant, the base model’s interior and 4.2-inch LCD for infotainment need to be updated.
- Engine Sound:
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- The 2.3L engine, while powerful, lacks the growl and rasp of a traditional V8, which might be a downside for some enthusiasts.
- Rear Seat Comfort:
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- The 2+2 seating arrangement is cramped in the back, making it less suitable for carrying adults comfortably on longer trips.
- Limited Top Speed:
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- The top speed is electronically limited, which might be a downside for those seeking extreme performance capabilities.
- Fuel Efficiency:
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- While relatively efficient for a sports car, the Mustang might still be less fuel-efficient than other non-sports car alternatives.
Overview of 2023 Ford Mustang Trim Levels
2023 brings exciting variations to the Mustang lineup. From the base model, ideal for those who cherish the Mustang legacy in its purest form, to the high-end models packed with advanced features, there’s something for every enthusiast.
2023 Ford Mustang Exterior Features
Each trim of the 2023 Mustang Coupe brings its unique flair to the iconic design:
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Base Model Features:
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- 17-inch Sparkle Silver-painted alloy wheels
- LED headlamps, signature lighting, and front park turn lamps
- Hood vents
- LED taillights
- Dual bright exhaust with rolled polished tips
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Eco boost Premium Additions:
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- Heated side mirrors
- Blade decklid spoiler
- 18-inch machined-face aluminum wheels with high-gloss Ebony Black-painted pockets
Additionally, Ford offers customization options like various wheel designs, hood/side stripes, and a performance rear wing.
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Special Packages:
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- Stealth Package (Premium model): Blacked-out exterior trim, 19-inch alloy wheels, clear LED tail lamps
- Coastal Limited Package: Side scoops, pedestal rear spoiler, high gloss black grille
- Ice White Appearance Package: 19-inch wheels with white-painted pockets, clear tail lamps, white door trim, instrument panel, and performance rear wing; unique black grille with Ice White front and rear Pony badging
2023 Ford Mustang Dimensions and Weight
The 2023 Mustang Coupe is compact yet robust:
- Length: 188.5 inches
- Wheelbase: 107.1 inches
- Height: 54.3 inches
- Width: 81.9 inches (75.4 inches excluding wing mirrors)
- Weight: Varies from 3,491 pounds (manual) to 3,752 pounds (automatic with High-Performance Package)
2023 Ford Mustang Exterior Colors
Ford offers a spectrum of 12 exterior paint colors for the 2023 Mustang Coupe:
- Shadow Black
- Iconic Silver Metallic
- Oxford White
- Race Red
- Rapid Red Metallic
- Atlas Blue
- Grabber Blue
- Dark Matter Gray
- Carbonized Gray
- Mischievous Purple
- Eruption Green
- Fighter Jet Gray
The 2023 Ford Mustang Coupe stands out with its timeless design, modern features, and various customization options. Its compact dimensions make it a more maneuverable option in the sports car segment. At the same time, the variety of color choices allows owners to personalize their Mustang to their tastes. The array of special packages further enhances its appeal, ensuring a Mustang to suit every preference.
2023 Ford Mustang Interior Design and Features
The 2023 Mustang Coupe combines classic Mustang elements with contemporary design:
- Design Aesthetics: The interior features a chunky style with a functional layout, balancing modernity and Mustang heritage.
- Material Quality: While some cheaper plastics are present, the overall build quality is solid, reflecting significant strides in interior design over previous generations.
Seating and Interior Space
The Mustang’s interior is designed with a clear focus on the front-seat occupants:
- Seating Arrangement: Classic 2+2 seating, prioritizing front passenger comfort.
- Base Model: Four-way manually adjustable driver’s seat and a two-way passenger seat in cloth fabric.
- Premium Model: Heated and cooled ActiveX-upholstered seats with six-way power adjustability, lumbar support for the driver, and four-way power adjustment for the passenger.
Interior space varies significantly between the front and back seats:
- Legroom: 45.1 inches in the front and 29 inches in the rear.
- Headroom: Ample for front-seat passengers but limited in the end.
2023 Ford Mustang Interior Dimensions
The dimensions provide a clear picture of the interior space:
- Headroom: 37.6 inches (front), 34.8 inches (back)
- Legroom: 44.5 inches (front), 30.6 inches (rear)
- Shoulder Room: 56.3 inches (front), 52.2 inches (bottom)
- Hip Room: 54.9 inches (front), 47.4 inches (bottom)
Interior Colors and Materials
The Mustang Coupe offers a variety of interior color options and materials:
- Base Model: Cloth upholstery in Ebony or Dark Ceramic.
- Premium Model: ActiveX seating in multiple color options, including Ebony, Dark Ceramic, Tan, Showstopper Red, Midnight Blue with Grabber Blue stitching, and White.
The optional leather Ricardo bucket seats add a sportier feel and aesthetic.
Trunk and Cargo Space
The Mustang Coupe combines sports car thrill with practical cargo space:
- Trunk Space: 13.5 cubic feet, more than the Camaro’s 9.1 cubic feet but less than the Challenger’s 16+ cubic feet.
- Additional Storage: The rear seats fold in a 50/50 split for extra space, complemented by storage options like a glove box, cup holders, center armrest storage bin, and door pockets.
Standard and Premium Features
The Mustang Coupe balances driver-focused aspects with convenient features:
- Base Model Features:
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- Climate Control: Manual air conditioning.
- Convenience: Auto-dimming rearview mirror, intelligent access with push-button start.
- Driver Assistance: Pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, a rearview camera, and blind-spot monitoring.
- Seating: Basic, manually adjustable seats.
- Premium Model Enhancements:
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- Climate Control: Dual-zone automatic climate control.
- Lighting: Ambient interior lighting.
- Parking: Rear parking sensors.
- Seating: Power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation.
Infotainment System
The Mustang Coupe’s infotainment system varies significantly between the base and Premium trims:
- Base Model:
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- Display: 4.2-inch LCD with SYNC operating system.
- Connectivity: Two smart-charging USB ports, Bluetooth streaming.
- Sound System: Six-speaker sound system with AM/FM radio and voice recognition.
- Internet: 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot accommodating up to ten devices.
- Premium Trim:
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- Display: Eight-inch touchscreen with SYNC 3.
- Connectivity: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto.
- Sound System: Nine-speaker system with an amplifier, SiriusXM satellite radio. Option to upgrade to a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen system.
- SYNC 3: Offers decent responsiveness and functionality.
Which 2023 Ford Mustang Trim Level Suits You Best? Specifications & Price
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EcoBoost
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- Starting Price (MSRP): $27,770
- Engine: 2.3L Turbo Inline-4 Gas
- Transmission: 6-speed Manual or 10-speed Automatic
- Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
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Key Features:
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- 2.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine (310 hp/350 lb-ft)
- Six-speed manual gearbox or optional 10-speed automatic
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Basic 4.2-inch center LCD
- Six-speaker sound system
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EcoBoost Premium
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- Starting Price (MSRP): $32,795
- Engine: 2.3L Turbo Inline-4 Gas
- Transmission: 6-speed Manual or 10-speed Automatic
- Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
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Key Features:
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- Upgraded 18-inch alloy wheels
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation
- SYNC 3 infotainment system with an eight-inch touchscreen
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Additional Packages
- EcoBoost High 101A Equipment Group ($2,600): Adds rear parking sensors, SYNC 3, dual-zone auto climate control, nine-speaker sound system to the base model.
- Handling Package ($1,995): 19-inch alloy wheels, summer tires, 3.55 Torsen limited-slip rear axle, MagneRide dampers, large Brembo brakes.
- 2.3L High-Performance Package ($6,150): Limited-slip differential, 19-inch wheels, summer tires, active valve exhaust system, heavy-duty front springs, large radiator, and big brake rotors.
- Stealth Package ($1,995): Black exterior trim, 19-inch black wheels, clear LED taillamps.
- Coastal Limited Package ($1,995): 19-inch Tarnished Dark-painted wheels, pedestal rear spoiler, side scoops, unique vinyl wrap.
- Ice White Appearance Package ($1,995): 19-inch white-painted wheels, clear LED taillamps, white interior trim, Oxford White exterior paint job.
- Security Package ($500): Electronic-locking centre console, Wheel Locking Kit, Active Anti-Theft System.
- Ford Safe & Smart Package ($725): Voice-Activated Touchscreen Navigation System, Adaptive Cruise Control.
- Wheel & Stripe Package ($895), Mustang Nite Pony Package ($1,195), Ecoboost Handling Package ($1,995).
The 2023 Ford Mustang Coupe offers a versatile range of trims and additional packages, allowing for high customization. From the more affordable EcoBoost to the feature-rich EcoBoost Premium, each frame provides a unique driving experience. The different packages enhance performance, style, and safety, catering to various preferences and needs. Whether you’re looking for a sports car with essential features or one with all the bells and whistles, the Mustang Coupe’s diverse configurations offer something for every car enthusiast.
2023 Mustang Coupe Performance
The 2023 Ford Mustang Coupe demonstrates that performance and efficiency can coexist in a modern sports car. Let’s break down the performance aspects, including the engine, transmission, and fuel efficiency.
Engine and Transmission
The heart of the 2023 Mustang Coupe’s performance is its engine and transmission:
- Engine: A 2.3L Turbo Inline-4 Gas engine, originally from the Ford Focus RS. The Mustang is tuned to deliver 310 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque.
- Transmission Options: A six-speed manual gearbox or an optional ten-speed automatic transmission.
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive (RWD).
- High-Performance Option: An upgraded version of the same engine, boosting power to 330 hp with an adjusted torque curve for improved responsiveness.
- Axle Ratios: The ten-speed auto uses a 3.15 limited-slip rear axle. In comparison, the six-speed manual has a 3.55 limited-slip axle.
Performance Dynamics
- Acceleration: Capable of reaching 0-60 mph in about five seconds.
- Top Speed: Limited to 121 mph, increased to 145 mph with the EcoBoost Performance Package, and 155 mph with the High-Performance Package.
Fuel Efficiency
The Mustang EcoBoost models boast impressive fuel efficiency for a sports car:
- EcoBoost and EcoBoost Premium MPG achieve approximately 24 MPG in combined city/highway driving.
- Fuel Consumption: The 2023 Mustang EcoBoost Fastback achieves 22/32/25 mpg (city/highway/combined) with automatic transmission. The six-speed manual is slightly less efficient but still manages 21/29/24 mpg. The high-output engine sees a slight decrease in efficiency.
- Fuel Capacity and Range: With a 15.5-gallon fuel tank, the Mustang offers a maximum range of up to 388 miles in its most efficient configuration.
The 2023 Ford Mustang Coupe balances exhilarating performance and practical fuel efficiency. Whether equipped with the standard or high-performance engine, it delivers an engaging driving experience characteristic of the Mustang legacy. The choice between manual and automatic transmissions caters to different driving preferences, each offering unique appeal. With commendable fuel efficiency figures for its class, the Mustang Coupe remains a compelling choice for those seeking a performance-oriented yet practical sports car.
2023 Mustang Coupe Safety
The 2023 Ford Mustang Coupe demonstrates a strong commitment to safety, earning high ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and performing well in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) tests.
Crash Test Results
- NHTSA: The 2023 Mustang Coupe received a full five out of five stars.
- IIHS: Good ratings in most crashworthiness categories, except for an Acceptable rating in the small overlap front driver-side test.
Key Safety Features
The Mustang Coupe comes equipped with several safety features:
- Airbags: Includes a driver’s knee airbag, dual front airbags, and front-seat side-impact airbags.
- Stability Control: AdvanceTrac stability control system.
- Driver Assistance: Auto high-beam headlights, pre-collision assist with emergency braking, and lane-keep assist.
- Ford Co-Pilot360 Suite: Blind-spot information system with cross-traffic alert and a rearview camera.
- Additional Features in Premium Models: Rear parking sensors.
- Optional Safety Features: Adaptive cruise control is available.
Safety Specifications
- Back-Up Camera: Standard in all trims.
- Blind Spot Monitor: Standard.
- Lane Departure Warning & Lane Keeping Assist: Standard.
- ABS, Brake Assist, Stability Control, Traction Control: Optional.
- Tire Pressure Monitor: Standard.
Reliability and Recalls
- Recall History: The 2023 model had a recall related to a loose bolt in the transmission in automatic models. Previous model years had memories of transmission issues, misaligned cameras, and airbag deployment concerns.
- Warranty Coverage:
- Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles
- Corrosion Warranty: 5 years, unlimited miles
- Roadside Assistance: 5 years / 60,000 miles
The 2023 Ford Mustang Coupe stands out for its comprehensive safety features and commendable crash test results, reflecting Ford’s emphasis on safety alongside performance. The standard safety features and advanced driver assistance technologies provide a secure driving experience. Although there have been some recalls, Ford’s warranty coverage offers additional peace of mind. Overall, the Mustang Coupe combines its sports car appeal with a strong safety profile, making it a compelling choice for those seeking performance without compromising safety.
