2024 Ford Mustang 5.0 GT: We ride the next-generation wild horse

Ford Philippines invited us to test out the all-new Ford Mustang at the Clark International Speedway. 

Who were we to say no to testing an American muscle car and at a race track at that? It also helped that we also got to test the all-new Ford Bronco on the side as well just to satisfy our horsepower cravings both on-road and off-road.

The track testing started off with a quick briefing of what we would be doing with the new Mustang GT on track. 

Our first lap was to get familiar with the track and to test out what the new muscle car could do. At the time I was still getting used to the car so I didn’t push it too hard but I did put the hammer down when I could and did test the brakes. Happy to say the brakes were strong and the muscle was there.

However, part way through the first lap we did have to stop and line up at the drag strip to test out what the new Mustang could do in a straight line. What I can say is that the new Mustang is still fast on its feet living up to its claimed 0 to 100 km/h time in under five seconds. The mighty 5.0-liter Coyote V8 roared to life quickly shifting through the gears of the 10-speed automatic gearbox. Despite its relatively heavy weight, the muscle car was quick to move forward thanks to 493 horsepower and 567 Nm of torque on tap.

As we finished our run on the drag strip, we quickly entered turn one of CIS again to finish our last lap with the car and really give it the beans. Unlike what the memes would suggest this version of the muscle is a bit more tame.

It’s still a wild horse at heart, but this newer generation seems a bit more broken in, it’s a little bit more in tune with being an agile animal instead of just being a straight line beast. It also helps that despite being relatively heavy, the 19×9 wheels at the front and the 19×9.5 wheels and sticky tires helped keep the car in line and maintain grip.

However, we have to disclose that we were not able to try the car with traction control off for safety reasons. Despite this, it goes to show that even with all the electronic aids on the car is still very much responsive and is still quick on its feet. Try as I might with all the electric safety equipment activated, I could not get the rear to step out which was a good thing. Even when the pros took us out for a hot lap the muscle car simply didn’t budge and took it all in stride. 

Out of the six driving modes available in the new Mustang, I really enjoyed Sport and Track mode as they let the active exhaust open up to let the symphony of the V8 motor roar while on the track. It was music to my ears hearing the small pops and bangs coming from the exhaust really driving home the power you had under your right foot.

With the track experience finished, it does beg the question, is the new Ford Mustang worth it? Priced at Php 3,999,000 for the GT variant we tested, yes it has a competitive price point, it undercuts some of its competitors both muscle cars and non-muscle cars making it a great deal for those looking for some RWD power. It also helps that the muscle car has plenty of technology to go around with its massive 13-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and 12-speaker B&O sound system which we unfortunately were unable to test. 

But all in all the Ford Mustang hits the right spot for those looking to get a fun RWD that has big on power, but refined enough to be your daily. It may be a wild horse that has been tamed over the years, but it has a kick to it. 

As one of the few V8’s muscle cars being sold in the Philippines, it’s hard to not see its value as its other rivals are slowly disappearing. We hope to give you a more insightful review of the Ford Mustang GT once we get our hands on a unit.