2022 Ford Mustang

2022 Ford Mustang Highlights

The 2022 Ford Mustang continues to evolve, offering new appearance packages and minor tweaks to its lineup. This iconic pony car maintains its position as a versatile sports car, catering to many enthusiasts, from daily drivers to track-day aficionados.

2022 Ford Mustang Specs/Key Details

• Coupe (fastback) and convertible body styles
• 2+2 seating
• Engine options include turbocharged four-cylinder EcoBoost and V8 powerplants
• Rear-wheel drive (RWD)
• Introduction of new appearance packages: Ice White Edition and Stealth Edition
• Return of the California Special package for GT models
• A slight decrease in power for V8 models (down 10 horsepower and 10 lb-ft of torque)
• High-performance Shelby GT500 continues as the range-topping model

Benefits

• A diverse range of models to suit various performance preferences and budgets
• Iconic styling with new appearance packages for further personalization
• Powerful engine options, including the high-output Shelby GT500
• Available advanced technology features for both infotainment and driver assistance
• Combination of modern performance with classic pony car heritage
• Choice of manual or automatic transmissions on most models

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2022 Ford Mustang Overview

Performance

The 2022 Ford Mustang offers a range of engines:

2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine:

• 310 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque (330 hp with High-Performance Package)
• Available with a six-speed manual or ten-speed automatic transmission

5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine (GT models):

• 450 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque (a slight decrease from the previous year)
• Available with a six-speed manual or ten-speed automatic transmission

5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine (Mach 1):

• 470 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque
• Available with a six-speed manual or ten-speed automatic transmission

5.2-liter supercharged V8 engine (Shelby GT500):

• 760 horsepower and 625 lb-ft of torque
• Paired exclusively with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission

Key performance features include:

• Available Performance Package for EcoBoost and GT models
• MagneRide adaptive suspension system (optional on most trims)
• Brembo brakes (standard on GT, Mach 1, and Shelby GT500)
• Available active valve performance exhaust
• Launch control and electronic line-lock features for optimized acceleration

The Mustang's performance capabilities range from the efficient yet potent EcoBoost models to the track-focused Shelby GT500, offering something for every level of driving enthusiast.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2022 Ford Mustang coupe a top five-star overall safety rating. The convertible wasn’t tested.

Standard safety features on all 2022 Ford Mustang trims include:

• Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of driver-assist technologies
  • Forward collision warning
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Lane-keeping system
  • Blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert
  • Auto high beams
• Rearview camera
• Dual-stage front airbags
• Front-seat side-impact airbags
• Driver and front passenger knee airbags
• Side-curtain airbags (fastback models)
• Stability control

Additional available technology features include:

• Adaptive cruise control

Driving

The 2022 Ford Mustang offers a driving experience that blends classic pony car character with modern performance and technology. The independent rear suspension, introduced with the S550 generation, provides a good balance of handling prowess and ride comfort.

EcoBoost models deliver surprisingly spirited performance with quick acceleration and responsive handling. The turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides ample low-end torque, making it well-suited for daily driving and occasional track use.

GT models, powered by the 5.0-liter Coyote V8, offer a more traditional muscle car experience with robust power delivery and an engaging exhaust note. Despite the slight decrease in power for 2022, the GT still provides exhilarating acceleration and strong passing power.

The Mach 1, a track-focused variant, enhances the GT's performance with additional cooling, aerodynamic improvements, and a more aggressive suspension setup. It strikes a balance between the standard GT and the high-performance Shelby GT500.

The Shelby GT500 represents the pinnacle of Mustang performance. Its supercharged V8 engine delivers blistering acceleration, while its sophisticated suspension and braking systems provide exceptional handling and stopping power.

Across the lineup, the available MagneRide adaptive suspension system significantly improves ride quality and handling precision. This system allows the Mustang to transition from a comfortable cruiser to a capable track car with the push of a button.

Interior

The 2022 Ford Mustang's interior balances retro-inspired design elements with modern technology and comfort features. The dashboard design, with its dual-cowl layout, pays homage to Mustangs of the past while incorporating contemporary materials and finishes.

Key interior features include:

• Available leather-trimmed seating surfaces
• Heated and cooled front seats (on Premium trims)
• Available RECARO sports seats
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel with tilt-and-telescoping adjustment
• Dual-zone automatic climate control (standard on Premium trims)

The Mustang's front seats offer good comfort and support, with the optional RECARO seats providing additional bolstering for performance driving. The driving position is generally good, and the seat and steering wheel can be adjusted to different settings.

Cargo space is reasonable for a sports car:

• Fastback: 13.5 cubic feet of trunk space
• Convertible: 11.4 cubic feet of trunk space

New for 2022, the Ice White Edition package adds unique white interior accents, while the Stealth Edition incorporates various black elements for a more subtle appearance.

While the Mustang is technically a four-seater, the rear seats are quite cramped and best suited for occasional use or as additional storage space. This is a common compromise in the sports car segment and is unlikely to be a significant issue for most buyers.

Technology

The 2022 Ford Mustang comes equipped with a range of technology features designed to enhance convenience, connectivity, and performance:

• SYNC 3 infotainment system with 8-inch touchscreen
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Available 12-inch digital instrument cluster
• FordPass Connect with 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capability
• Available B&O premium audio system
• Track Apps for performance data logging

Additional available technology features include:

• Voice-Activated Navigation
• Active Valve Performance Exhaust with quad tips
• Selectable Drive Modes (Normal, Sport+, Track, Drag Strip, Snow/Wet)

Fuel Economy

The 2022 Ford Mustang's fuel economy varies significantly depending on the engine and transmission combination. According to the EPA, the Mustang achieves the following fuel economy estimates:

2.3-liter turbocharged (EcoBoost) four-cylinder:

• RWD/Automatic (mpg): 22 city / 32 highway / 25 combined
• RWD/Manual (mpg): 21 city / 29 highway / 24 combined

5.0-liter V8 (GT):

• RWD/Automatic (mpg): 16 city / 25 highway / 19 combined
• RWD/Manual (mpg): 15 city / 24 highway / 18 combined

5.2-liter supercharged V8 (Shelby GT500):

• RWD/Automatic (mpg): 12 city / 18 highway / 14 combined

2022 Ford Mustang Reviews

Consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book for the 2022 Ford Mustang are overwhelmingly positive, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5. Owners praise the vehicle for its performance, styling, reliability, and value.

Reasons to Buy It

• Iconic styling with modern performance capabilities
• Wide range of models to suit different preferences and budgets
• Powerful engine options, from the efficient EcoBoost to the track-ready Shelby GT500
• Available manual transmission for driving enthusiasts
• Good balance of daily drivability and performance potential
• Advanced technology features for both infotainment and performance
• Strong safety ratings for a sports car
• It is relatively practical for a performance coupe with usable trunk space

Problems

• Cramped rear seats with limited usability
• Interior materials in lower trims may not feel as premium as some competitors
• Fuel economy in V8 models can be low, especially with spirited driving
• Some advanced safety features are only available on higher trims
• Convertible models have reduced trunk space

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CoPilot's Take

The 2022 Ford Mustang continues to uphold its status as an iconic American sports car while offering a range of modern features and performance capabilities. Its diverse lineup, from the efficient EcoBoost to the track-focused Shelby GT500, ensures a Mustang for almost every type of enthusiast and budget.

The Mustang's strengths lie in its combination of classic pony car styling, strong performance across all models, and a balance of daily usability with sports car excitement.

Performance is a key selling point, with even the base EcoBoost models offering spirited acceleration and handling. The GT and higher performance variants provide exhilarating experiences that can satisfy even the most demanding driving enthusiasts. The availability of a manual transmission in most models is a bonus for those who prefer a more engaging driving experience.

However, potential buyers should be aware of a few shortcomings. The rear seats are anything but spacious and best suited for occasional use or as additional storage. Fuel economy, particularly in V8 models, can be low, especially with spirited driving. Additionally, while the interior is generally well-designed, some may find the materials in lower trims to be less premium than those in some competitors.

2022 Ford Mustang FAQs

How much should I pay for a 2022 Ford Mustang?

According to CoPilot national listings, a 2022 Ford Mustang costs $19,000 to $130,000, depending on condition, mileage, equipment, and marketplace conditions.

Is the 2022 Ford Mustang a muscle car?

Yes, the 2022 Ford Mustang is generally considered a muscle car, though it has also evolved to incorporate many sports car characteristics. Traditionally, muscle cars were defined by their powerful V8 engines in a rear-wheel-drive coupe body style, which the Mustang GT and higher trims certainly embody.

However, the modern Mustang, especially since the introduction of the independent rear suspension in the S550 generation, has become more sophisticated in its handling and overall performance. This has led some to classify it as a sports car or a blend of muscle and sports cars.

The EcoBoost editions, with turbocharged four-cylinder engines, further blur the line between traditional muscle cars and modern sports cars.

Is Ford discontinuing the Mustang?

No, Ford is not discontinuing the Mustang. Ford launched the next-generation Mustang (S650) for the 2024 model year, demonstrating their commitment to the nameplate.

The confusion might stem from Ford's decision to discontinue most of its car models in North America, focusing instead on SUVs, crossovers, and trucks. However, the Mustang has been spared from this shift in strategy due to its iconic status and continued popularity.

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