2013 Mustang GT: Revving Up the Pony Car Legacy with Modern Muscle

Ford’s Mustang has always been about evolution, refining its iconic blend of style and performance while staying true to its roots as America’s original pony car. The 2013 Mustang GT is a testament to this philosophy, delivering a comprehensive upgrade that enhances every facet of the driving experience. If you thought the 2012 Mustang was impressive, prepare to be amazed – the 2013 model year elevates the Mustang GT to a new level of automotive excellence.

The improvements to the 2013 Mustang GT are far-reaching, starting under the hood with a boost to the signature 5.0-liter V8 engine, now churning out even more horsepower. But the enhancements extend well beyond just power, encompassing visual upgrades both inside and out, and technological additions that make this Mustang smarter and more engaging than ever before.

On the exterior, the 2013 Mustang GT receives a more aggressive and contemporary look. The front fascia is redesigned with a bolder grille and a more pronounced front splitter, giving it a more menacing stance. Standard HID headlights and LED accent lighting are now featured across the entire Mustang range, adding a touch of modern sophistication. Body-colored side rocker panels are now standard, creating a cleaner, more cohesive profile. And for those looking to personalize their ride, Ford offers a staggering twelve wheel options, including three new designs for 2013. The rear of the Mustang also gets a refined touch with LED taillights incorporating sequential turn signals, framed by a sleek gloss black rear panel.

Stepping inside the 2013 Mustang GT reveals thoughtful upgrades focused on enhancing the driver experience. An optional LCD screen integrated into the gauge cluster introduces Track Apps, a performance data system that allows drivers to monitor key metrics such as acceleration times and G-forces, adding a new dimension of driver engagement. Drawing inspiration from the high-performance BOSS 302, Recaro seats are now available as an option across the Mustang lineup, in both cloth and leather trims. These seats provide exceptional support and comfort, proving to be a worthwhile upgrade for spirited driving and long hauls alike. Audiophiles will appreciate the new audio options, including the powerful Shaker Pro 550-watt sound system with nine speakers, delivering an immersive audio experience.

Performance enhancements are where the 2013 Mustang GT truly shines. Borrowing further from the Boss 302’s playbook, performance-enhancing components are now available as options, including a 3.73 Torsen limited-slip rear axle, optimizing traction and handling. The new GT Track Package combines several of the Boss 302’s performance features, including enhanced engine cooling and upgraded 14-inch Brembo brakes, delivering track-ready capability straight from the factory.

The heart of the Mustang GT remains its potent 5.0-liter V8, now producing 420 horsepower, an increase from the previous year. Torque remains a robust 390 lb-ft, providing ample low-end grunt and thrilling acceleration throughout the rev range. While our test car was equipped with an automatic transmission featuring manual-shift mode, purists will be pleased to know a traditional manual transmission remains available. Performance figures are impressive, with the Mustang GT reaching the quarter-mile mark in 13.5 seconds. While not quite as quick as a manual-equipped GT we previously tested, the automatic still delivers brisk acceleration, reaching 60 mph in around 5.1 seconds. For those craving ultimate speed, the monstrous 662-horsepower Shelby GT500 is also available. The standard 5.0 V8, however, is a gem, offering a fantastic soundtrack and eager responsiveness all the way to its 7,000 RPM redline.

Braking performance is also commendable. While perhaps not matching the outright stopping power of some European sports cars, the Mustang GT’s brakes are near the top of the pony car segment, requiring just 111 feet to stop from 60 mph. A touch more initial bite would be welcome, but overall, the braking is confident and effective. In terms of handling, the Mustang GT continues to impress. Despite not featuring an independent rear suspension like its rival, the Camaro SS, the Mustang GT often feels more agile in tight corners, thanks to its lighter weight and well-balanced chassis. A slight hint of understeer is present, but it’s minimal and doesn’t detract from the car’s quick and responsive turn-in. Drivers can also tailor the steering feel with variable assist, or opt for throttle-based steering adjustments for a more engaging driving experience.

Fuel economy for the 2013 Mustang GT, equipped with the automatic transmission, is rated at 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. In real-world driving, we achieved a respectable average of 21.4 mpg on regular gasoline. The Mustang GT offers a wide array of customization options, allowing buyers to create a truly personalized pony car directly through Ford’s website. Pricing for the V8-powered GT starts at $31,095, but optioning it up can easily push the price tag over $40,000. For budget-conscious buyers, the 305-horsepower V6 Mustang starts at a more accessible $22,995, with the V6 automatic now offering both manual-shift mode and an optional Performance Package, further blurring the lines between the V6 and GT models.

What remains truly remarkable about the 2013 Ford Mustang GT is its ability to retain the spirit of the original while incorporating modern enhancements. It still delivers that classic Mustang feel – light on its feet with power readily available. It remains a true American performance icon, offering exhilarating performance at a relatively accessible price point. The only potential downside to owning a 2013 Ford Mustang GT? Ford might just release an even better one next year, continuing the Mustang’s legacy of constant improvement.

2013 Ford Mustang GT Specifications