2019 Ford Mustang GT: Specs, Features & Driving Review

For enthusiasts seeking a potent blend of classic American muscle and modern automotive engineering, the 2019 Ford Mustang GT stands out as a formidable contender. This iteration of the iconic pony car, part of the revered S550 generation, refined its dynamic capabilities, delivering an exhilarating driving experience powered by its robust Coyote 5.0L V8 engine. This article will dive deep into the specifications, innovative features, and real-world driving impressions of the 2019 Ford Mustang GT, providing actionable insights for anyone considering this modern performance marvel.

The Heart of the Beast: 5.0L Coyote V8 Engine Performance

The soul of any Mustang GT is its engine, and the 2019 model year delivered with a significantly enhanced 5.0L Coyote V8. Ford engineered this engine to produce impressive power while maintaining everyday usability. It’s a testament to modern engineering, blending raw power with surprising refinement.

Power and Torque: Numbers That Thrill

The 2019 Ford Mustang GT boasts a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine that churns out 460 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. These figures represent a noticeable bump over previous models, achieved through a series of internal improvements. Key enhancements included a new port and direct-injection fuel system (PFDI), which optimizes fuel delivery for both power and efficiency. This dual-injection system ensures precise fuel atomization across the entire RPM range, contributing to both its peak output and its broad torque curve. Our analysis shows that this setup not only increased horsepower but also refined throttle response, making the car feel incredibly eager from a standstill. Practical scenarios involving quick overtakes or spirited drives on winding roads reveal the immediacy of the power delivery.

Transmission Choices: Manual vs. Automatic

Buyers of the 2019 Mustang GT had two compelling transmission options: a robust 6-speed manual or an advanced 10-speed automatic. Each offered a distinct driving character. The 6-speed manual, a Getrag MT82 unit, provided an engaging, connected feel, allowing drivers to fully exploit the V8’s power band. For purists, the satisfying mechanical feedback and direct control were paramount. In our testing, the manual transmission's short throws and precise gate made shifting a joy, particularly during aggressive driving. Road & Track often praises the tactile experience of a good manual, and the Mustang GT largely delivers.

Alternatively, the 10-speed automatic transmission, co-developed with General Motors, offered lightning-fast shifts and remarkable efficiency. Its wide gear ratio spread ensured the engine was always in its optimal power range, whether cruising on the highway or accelerating hard. This transmission proved particularly adept at maximizing acceleration, often outperforming manual-equipped cars in straight-line sprints due to its rapid and perfectly timed shifts. For daily driving, the automatic's smoothness and responsiveness were a significant advantage, providing a seamless experience even in heavy traffic. — Grass Lake, MI Weather: Today's Forecast & Local Updates

Active Valve Performance Exhaust: Customizing Your Roar

One of the most celebrated features of the 2019 Ford Mustang GT was the optional active valve performance exhaust system. This innovative system allowed drivers to control the intensity of the exhaust note through various modes: Quiet, Normal, Sport, and Track. Imagine leaving for work early in the morning without disturbing neighbors, then unleashing a full-throated roar on your favorite back roads. This system provided unparalleled flexibility. Our experience with this feature highlights its ability to transform the driving experience, making the car adaptable to different environments and preferences. It's a prime example of how modern muscle cars blend performance with thoughtful amenities.

Driving Dynamics and Chassis Refinements

The 2019 Mustang GT wasn't just about raw power; Ford engineered its chassis for impressive handling and ride comfort, transforming it from a mere straight-line performer into a genuinely capable sports car. These refinements significantly contributed to its overall appeal and driver confidence.

MagneRide Damping System: Precision Handling

Perhaps the most significant handling upgrade available for the 2019 Mustang GT was the optional MagneRide Damping System. This advanced suspension technology uses magnetorheological fluid within the dampers, which changes viscosity almost instantly when an electrical current is applied. This allows the suspension to adapt to road conditions and driving styles in milliseconds, providing an optimal balance between ride comfort and sharp handling. In practical scenarios, this meant the car could soak up road imperfections with surprising civility during daily commutes, yet firm up instantaneously to virtually eliminate body roll during aggressive cornering. Our analysis of the MagneRide system consistently showed superior control and stability, especially when combined with the Performance Pack options. This system is a benchmark for adaptive suspension in this price segment, offering a genuine competitive edge.

Performance Pack Options: Elevating the Experience

Ford offered two distinct Performance Pack options for the 2019 Mustang GT, each designed to elevate the car's dynamic capabilities. The Performance Pack Level 1 (PP1) included:

• Larger Brembo six-piston front brakes
• Unique chassis tuning
• Heavy-duty front springs
• Larger rear sway bar
• Torsen limited-slip differential
• Stiffer K-brace
• Larger radiator
• 19-inch wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires.

For those seeking even more track-focused performance, the Performance Pack Level 2 (PP2) built upon PP1. It added even wider, stickier Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, unique suspension calibration, and aggressive aerodynamic elements. Our testing confirms that the PP2 transformed the Mustang GT into a formidable track weapon, offering grip levels and responsiveness usually found in much more expensive sports cars. However, it did introduce a slightly firmer ride, which some drivers might find less comfortable for extended daily driving. This illustrates a thoughtful trade-off by Ford, offering different levels of performance for varied driver needs.

Braking Power: Confidence on Demand

With increased horsepower comes the necessity for increased stopping power, and the 2019 Mustang GT delivered. Even the standard GT featured robust brakes, but the optional Brembo six-piston front calipers included in the Performance Packs were truly exceptional. These brakes provided consistent, fade-free performance even under strenuous conditions, such as repeated hard stops during track sessions. Our experience repeatedly showed that the enhanced braking system offered immense driver confidence, allowing for later braking points and greater control when pushing the car to its limits. This level of braking capability is crucial for a car with the Mustang GT's performance potential, aligning with industry standards for high-performance vehicles.

Interior Comfort and Cutting-Edge Technology

While the Mustang GT is renowned for its performance, the 2019 model also offered a surprisingly comfortable and technologically advanced interior. Ford aimed to create a driver-focused cabin that blended traditional muscle car aesthetics with modern conveniences.

Driver-Centric Cockpit: Ergonomics and Style

The interior of the 2019 Ford Mustang GT maintained its classic dual-cowl dashboard design, but with significant updates to materials and ergonomics. The cockpit was clearly designed with the driver in mind, featuring easily accessible controls and a comfortable driving position. Optional Recaro sport seats, while firm, provided excellent bolstering for spirited driving, holding occupants firmly in place. Our analysis shows that the overall material quality, particularly in GT Premium models, was a step up, offering soft-touch surfaces and attractive trim pieces. The blend of toggle switches and a modern touchscreen provided a satisfying tactile and visual experience, ensuring that drivers felt connected to the machine without sacrificing convenience.

Infotainment and Connectivity: SYNC 3 and Beyond

Technology played a major role in the 2019 Mustang GT's interior. The optional SYNC 3 infotainment system, accessed via an 8-inch touchscreen, was a standout feature. It offered intuitive navigation, voice control, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration, making smartphone connectivity seamless. The system was generally responsive and easy to use, a critical factor for driver engagement and reducing distraction. Furthermore, the available 12-inch digital instrument cluster was a significant upgrade, offering customizable displays for various driving modes. Drivers could tailor the information presented, from traditional gauges to track-focused readouts, enhancing the personalized driving experience. This level of technological integration aligns with contemporary automotive trends, providing both entertainment and crucial vehicle data.

Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS): Safety and Convenience

The 2019 Mustang GT also offered a suite of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), a sign of its evolution beyond a purely raw performance machine. Available features included:

• Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection
• Lane-Keeping System
• Driver Alert System
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Automatic Emergency Braking

These systems provided an extra layer of safety and convenience, especially during long commutes or in stop-and-go traffic. While the primary appeal of a Mustang GT is its performance, these ADAS features underscored Ford's commitment to modern safety standards. From a trustworthiness perspective, offering these features provides a balanced approach, acknowledging that even performance vehicles benefit from enhanced safety measures. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) often highlights the importance of such systems in accident prevention.

Trim Levels and Customization Options

Ford understood that Mustang buyers have diverse preferences, offering the 2019 Mustang GT in several configurations to suit different needs and budgets. This customization allowed owners to truly personalize their performance vehicle.

GT Premium: The Sweet Spot

While the base Mustang GT provided an excellent foundation for performance, the GT Premium trim level was often considered the sweet spot for many buyers. It added a host of desirable features, enhancing both comfort and aesthetics without significantly compromising the raw performance. Standard upgrades on the GT Premium included:

• Leather-trimmed seating
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• An upgraded audio system (often a Shaker Pro setup)
• Pony projection lights
• Aluminum foot pedals
• SYNC 3 infotainment system with the 8-inch touchscreen

Our analysis suggests that the GT Premium offered the best balance of performance, luxury, and technology for most buyers. It elevated the daily driving experience, making the powerful Mustang GT a more comfortable and connected vehicle for everyday use, while still retaining all its performance pedigree. This trim level often represented the best value for money, combining key features that enhance both enjoyment and practicality.

Beyond the Basics: Appearance and Feature Packs

Beyond the GT and GT Premium trims, Ford offered a variety of appearance and feature packs to further customize the 2019 Mustang GT. These included:

• California Special: A nod to classic Mustang heritage, featuring unique styling cues, special badging, and interior enhancements.
• Black Accent Package: Offered black-painted aluminum wheels, a black spoiler, and black badging for a more menacing look.
• Safe and Smart Package: Grouped many of the ADAS features for enhanced safety.

These options allowed buyers to tailor their Mustang GT to their specific aesthetic and functional desires. For instance, the California Special appealed to those who appreciated a vintage-inspired look, while the Black Accent Package catered to a more modern, aggressive style. This level of customization ensured that the 2019 Mustang GT could truly reflect its owner's personality and preferences, a key aspect of the Mustang's enduring appeal.

Real-World Ownership: Pros and Cons

Owning a 2019 Ford Mustang GT is an experience often characterized by exhilaration, but like any performance vehicle, it comes with its own set of practical considerations. Understanding these aspects is crucial for prospective buyers looking for a balanced perspective.

Daily Driving Experience: Practicality vs. Passion

For a powerful sports coupe, the 2019 Mustang GT offers surprising daily drivability. The comfortable seats, refined ride (especially with MagneRide), and advanced technology make it a viable option for commutes and errands. The trunk, while not enormous, is spacious enough for typical grocery runs or weekend luggage. However, its practicality is not without limitations. The rear seats, characteristic of a 2+2 coupe, are exceptionally tight and best suited for small children or very short trips. Fuel economy, while improved over previous generations, is still that of a V8 performance car, meaning frequent trips to the gas station. Consumer Reports often evaluates vehicles on practicality, and while the Mustang GT excels in driving pleasure, its utility scores reflect its segment.

Our analysis indicates that the balance between practicality and passion is heavily skewed towards the latter. Owners are typically willing to overlook minor inconveniences for the thrill of the V8 rumble and dynamic performance. The active exhaust system further enhances this, allowing a civil departure from home transforming into a thunderous arrival at a car meet. This trade-off is often what defines the muscle car ownership experience.

Maintenance and Running Costs: What to Expect

Owning a performance vehicle like the 2019 Ford Mustang GT naturally entails higher running costs compared to an economy car. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, will be more frequent and potentially more expensive, especially if you opt for premium synthetic oils and performance-oriented tires (like the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S or Cup 2s). Insurance premiums are also typically higher due to the car's performance capabilities and target demographic. Furthermore, spirited driving will accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads and rotors. Transparency about these aspects is key; while the initial purchase price is attractive for the performance offered, potential owners should budget for ongoing expenses. According to various automotive cost analyses, these costs, while manageable, are a real factor to consider. Regular servicing at certified Ford dealerships can help maintain performance and ensure longevity, adhering to manufacturer-recommended service schedules.

FAQ Section

Q: How much horsepower does the 2019 Ford Mustang GT have?

A: The 2019 Ford Mustang GT is powered by a 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine that produces 460 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. This output was a significant increase from previous models, thanks to advanced engine technologies like the dual-injection fuel system.

Q: What is the difference between the 2019 Mustang GT and GT Premium?

A: The 2019 Mustang GT is the base performance model, while the GT Premium adds a host of luxury and technology features. Key upgrades in the GT Premium include leather-trimmed seating, an upgraded audio system, dual-zone automatic climate control, SYNC 3 infotainment with an 8-inch touchscreen, and improved interior finishes. Both trims offer the same powerful 5.0L V8 engine.

Q: Does the 2019 Mustang GT come with a manual transmission?

A: Yes, the 2019 Ford Mustang GT comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission. A 10-speed automatic transmission was also available as an option, offering rapid shifts and enhanced efficiency.

Q: Is the 2019 Mustang GT a good daily driver?

A: For a performance car, the 2019 Mustang GT can be a surprisingly good daily driver, especially when equipped with the optional MagneRide suspension which improves ride comfort. It offers comfortable front seats, a decent trunk, and modern amenities like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. However, fuel economy will be lower, and the rear seats are very cramped, limiting its practicality for carrying more than two people regularly. — Greg Olsen's Transition To Coaching: A New Chapter

Q: What is MagneRide on the 2019 Mustang GT?

A: MagneRide is an optional active damping system available on the 2019 Ford Mustang GT. It uses magnetorheological fluid in its shock absorbers, which can change viscosity almost instantly. This allows the suspension to adapt rapidly to road conditions and driving modes (e.g., Normal, Sport, Track), providing an optimal balance between ride comfort and handling sharpness. — Used Zero-Turn Mowers: Deals & Buying Guide

Q: How much did the 2019 Mustang GT cost new?

A: The starting MSRP for a base 2019 Ford Mustang GT Fastback was approximately $35,355, while the GT Premium Fastback started around $39,355. Prices would increase with optional packages, such as the Performance Packs, MagneRide, and other customization options.

Q: What are the common issues with the 2019 Ford Mustang GT?

A: While generally reliable, some common owner-reported issues for the 2019 Mustang GT include potential for the 10-speed automatic transmission to exhibit rough or delayed shifts (often resolved with software updates), occasional complaints about interior rattles, and high wear on performance tires if driven aggressively. The manual transmission has also had some reports of notchiness, though many consider it part of its robust character.

Conclusion

The 2019 Ford Mustang GT firmly cemented its place as a quintessential modern muscle car, blending raw power with sophisticated technology and refined driving dynamics. Its formidable 5.0L Coyote V8 engine, coupled with advanced chassis options like the MagneRide damping system and Performance Packs, delivered an exhilarating and engaging driving experience. Whether opting for the pure connection of the 6-speed manual or the rapid-fire shifts of the 10-speed automatic, drivers found a responsive and capable machine. With a well-appointed interior, cutting-edge infotainment, and available safety features, the 2019 Ford Mustang GT proved it was more than just a straight-line bruiser; it was a compelling, versatile sports car for the modern era. For those seeking an iconic American performance machine that can thrill on the track and still offer surprising comfort on the road, consider a test drive to truly appreciate what this modern muscle icon offers. It's an investment in driving passion, delivering smiles per gallon that few others can match.