2020 Ford Mustang EcoBoost High Performance Package Review

Even though it uses the engine from the Focus RS and the brakes from a V8 Mustang, the 2020 Ford Mustang EcoBoost with the new High Performance pack is much more than just a performance parts bin mashup. The optional Handling package's unique Pirelli Corsa4 tire and retuned MagneRide shocks work with the stability control and ABS systems and the new engine's lighter weight to give this Mustang the most engaging handling this side of the Shelby GT350. If you prefer canyon carving and autocrossing to straight-line power, this might be the Mustang for you.

About the Mustang EcoBoost:

The 2020 Ford Mustang provides ample amounts of style and performance. It also makes the appropriate nods to the Mustang's heritage while staying current with the latest technology features. Among today's muscle cars, the Mustang is hard to beat.

The Ford Mustang EcoBoost is powered by a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 310 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and a 10-speed automatic is optional. Other mechanical equipment includes a limited-slip rear differential, launch control (only with the manual gearbox), and an electronic line lock to facilitate burnouts (at the track only, of course).

Standard feature highlights include 17-inch wheels, keyless entry and ignition, a 4.2-inch center display screen, and a six-speaker sound system. Also standard is FordPass Connect, which includes remote start, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, and remote services that allow you to check on the vehicle from a smartphone app.

The EcoBoost Premium keeps all the same hardware but adds 18-inch wheels, leather upholstery, revised cabin trim, power-adjustable front seats, a nine-speaker audio system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an 8-inch touchscreen with the Sync 3 infotainment system.

For both EcoBoost and EcoBoost Premium models, an available High Performance package adds a high-performance version of the 2.3-liter engine with a 20-hp boost (up to 330 hp but with the same torque rating), larger brakes with four-piston calipers, 19-inch wheels and summer tires, a shorter differential ratio, a bigger radiator, active exhaust, stiffer front springs, a special front air splitter, a larger rear spoiler, and specialized track-oriented suspension tuning. The High Performance package also allows access to the EcoBoost Handling package (coupe only), which equips the Mustang with adaptive MagneRide suspension dampers and wider wheels (19 inches x 9.5 inches) with Pirelli Corsa4 tires.

Muscle cars don't exactly scream "high tech," but the Ford Mustang gets high marks for the availability of newer features. Ford's Sync interface has top-notch voice controls, an 8-inch touchscreen, and Apple CarPlay or Android Auto smartphone integration. The optional digital instrument panel not only looks cool, but it is functional and is a great secondary control screen.

The advanced safety features (blind-spot monitor, lane keeping assist, etc.) are well-tuned to avoid false alarms. The forward collision warning is appropriately startling. The adaptive cruise control executes with smooth inputs and maintains the set speeds on steep downhills.

Inside, the Mustang's interior is much the same as it has been for the past few years. Highlights include a pleasing retro design fitted with the latest technology options such as Ford's Sync infotainment system and adaptive cruise control. The drawbacks are predictable. These include limited rear-seat and trunk space and a stiff ride when you opt for the high-performance suspension. Overall, though, we thoroughly enjoyed the 2020 Ford Mustang. It's modern, fast, easy to drive, and available with just enough options to make it your own.

Read more about the 2020 Ford Mustang EcoBoost: https://www.edmunds.com/ford/mustang/2020/

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