Home Comparisons Trim Comparisons 2023 Ford Mustang: Choosing the Right Trim

2023 Ford Mustang: Choosing the Right Trim

The 2023 Ford Mustang is one of the last vestiges of America’s muscle car past. Along with rivals the Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger, the Mustang offers supercar-like horsepower at prices within the range of the average buyer.

Ford offers the Mustang in myriad flavors, starting with a spicy EcoBoost trim powered by a 310-horsepower 2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. The GT possesses a proper 5.0-liter V8 good for 450 hp, followed by the Mach 1 using the same motor but with 20 added horses. Regardless of engine, buyers can choose between a standard 6-speed manual or an optional 10-speed automatic transmission ($1,595).

A convertible is optional on all but the base GT and Mach 1 trims.

Besides dropping the Shelby GT500 trim, the 2023 Mustang carries over with little change.

2023 Ford Mustang EcoBoost: $27,770 (Fastback), $33,270 (Convertible)

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost passenger side

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost passenger side

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost front right in black

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost front right in black

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost grill

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost grill

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost close up of grill

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost close up of grill

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost headlight

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost headlight

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost hood scoop

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost hood scoop

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost rear in black

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost rear in black

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost rear in black

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost rear in black

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost spoiler rear left

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost spoiler rear left

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost engine

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost engine

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost front cabin

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost front cabin

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost shifter

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost shifter

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost front cabin passenger side

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost front cabin passenger side

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost front seats

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost front seats

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost head rest

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost head rest

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost rear seat

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost rear seat

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost door

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost door

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost instrument cluster

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost instrument cluster

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost infotainment

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost infotainment

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost branding

2023 Ford Mustang Eco Boost branding

While it doesn’t have a V8 engine, the entry-level EcoBoost trim is far from lethargic. Its 310-hp 2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine delivers plenty of giddy-up and can be highly entertaining when paired with the 6-speed manual.

The base Mustang gets a 3.31:1 limited-slip rear axle ratio and launch control when equipped with a manual transmission. The 10-speed automatic gets a 3.15:1 limited-slip rear axle ratio.

Standard equipment includes wiper-activated LED headlights, LED sequential turn signal taillamps, power side mirrors, 17-inch alloy wheels, and rain-sensing wipers.

Ford’s Intelligent Access keyless entry lets you unlock the doors without reaching for the key fob. The proximity key fob also enables the push-button start.

The convertible gets a power soft-top with a glass rear window and Active Noise Cancellation, which uses the car’s speakers to emit noise-canceling sound waves. In contrast, the coupe (Ford calls it a Fastback) gets electronic sound enhancement that pumps simulated engine noise into the cabin.

Moving to the interior, we find single-zone manual air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, cruise control, and manual bucket seats covered in durable cloth. The coupe includes a split-folding rear seat.

Standard amenities include a leather-wrapped tilt/telescoping steering wheel, leather-wrapped shift knob (manual only) and hand brake, a driver information display, Ford’s MyKey programable key fob, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

The standard audio system includes a 6-speaker AM/FM stereo, Bluetooth, the voice-activated SYNC system, and a 4.2-inch central display. FordPass Connect offers subscription-based services such as a Wi-Fi hot spot, remote start, emergency assistance, and vehicle service reminders.

TrackApps monitor acceleration times and brake performance and activate the launch control and line lock, which locks the front wheels so the rears can do tire-warming burnouts. There’s even a setting that displays a Christmas tree-style dragstrip start timer.

Lest you think Ford has forgotten about driver safety, the Mustang comes equipped with Co-Pilot360 technology, which brings forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist.

Also standard is a lane-departure warning, a rearview monitor, automatic high-beam headlights, hill start assist, and a tire pressure monitor.

Opt for the 101A Package, and you’ll get dual-zone automatic climate control, a 9-speaker audio system with a separate amplifier, a 6-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar support, SiriusXM satellite radio, and selectable drive modes toggle switches.

The package includes the SYNC 3 infotainment system featuring an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, 18-inch alloy wheels, and two smart-charging USB ports.

The High-Performance Package brings more power to the EcoBoost engine, adding 20 hp. Additional performance enhancements include a 3.55:1 limited-slip rear axle ratio, 19-inch alloy wheels, a gauge pack (oil pressure and boost), a sport suspension, raised decklid spoiler (coupe), an active valve performance exhaust, plus larger brakes and radiator.

Several visual upgrades accompany the package, including the GT Performance Package front splitter and belly pan.

The Mustang coupe offers the EcoBoost Performance Package that adds 19-inch wheels wrapped in Pirelli Corsa4 summer tires, a Torsen differential with a 3.55:1 axle ratio, adaptive magneto-rheological dampers, Brembo 6-piston front brake calipers, and larger brake rotors.

The Safe and Smart Package adds adaptive cruise control and voice-activated navigation.

Several exterior styling packages are available, including the Mustang Nite Pony Package, which adds 19-inch black alloy wheels, a black roof, black mirror caps, a black decklid spoiler, and a black grille.

With the $1,395 destination charge, the 2023 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Fastback costs $29,165. On a 60-month loan at 3% financing and zero down, the monthly payment comes to approximately $524. See 2023 Ford Mustang EcoBoost models for sale near you

2023 Mustang EcoBoost includes:

  • Rain-sensing wipers – These automatically activate when moisture hits the windshield.
  • Automatic high-beam headlights – These automatically activate in low-light situations or dim when sensing approaching traffic.
  • TrackApps – These enhance the fun at the racetrack by letting you monitor and control the Mustang’s various high-performance systems.

2023 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Premium: $32,795 (Fastback), $38,295 (Convertible)

The Premium builds off the base Mustang EcoBoost. It adds features from the base Mustang option list, including selectable drive mode toggle switches, the 9-speaker audio system, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 6-way power driver’s seat, and the SYNC 3 audio system.

The Premium then adds a blade decklid spoiler, 18-inch machined-face alloy wheels, ActiveX upholstery, heated and cooled front seats, a 4-way power passenger seat, heated side mirrors, ambient interior lighting, and additional interior brightwork.

You also get rear parking sensors and side-mirror puddle lights.

The 201A Package for the Premium adds a 12-inch LCD digital instrument cluster, a heated steering wheel, color-accented leather seat upholstery, adaptive cruise control, voice-activated navigation, and 3-position driver’s seat memory.

Standalone options include a 12-speaker B&O sound system, Recaro leather-trimmed sport seats, an Over-the-Top racing stripe, and premium floor liners.

Beyond the options already mentioned for the base Mustang, the Premium adds a few more styling packages, including Ice White Appearance, Stealth, and Coastal Limited.

With the $1,395 destination charge, the 2023 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Premium Fastback costs $34,190. On a 60-month loan at 3% financing and zero down, the monthly payment comes to about $614. See 2023 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Premium models for sale near you

2023 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Premium includes:

  • 9-speaker audio – Ford’s in-house audio upgrade includes three extra speakers and a powered amplifier for better sound, which is especially helpful when driving with the top down.
  • Available digital instrument cluster – The 12-inch digital cluster creates more room for advanced graphics and includes configurable screens.
  • Available Recaro sport seats – Recaro seats are known for their comfort and ability to support your body during aggressive driving.

2023 Ford Mustang GT: $38,345

The GT trim comes only in Fastback coupe form. It includes a 5.0-liter V8 engine, rev-matching 6-speed manual transmission, larger 4-piston front brake calipers, and a 3.55:1 limited-slip rear axle ratio. A 10-speed automatic with paddle shifters is optional.

The GT further differentiates itself from the base EcoBoost Mustang with quad-tipped dual 3.5-inch exhaust, LED fog lamps, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a unique rear valance.

The driver gets a 6-way power seat with power lumbar while the passenger enjoys a 4-way power seat.

All other standard features from the base Mustang EcoBoost come with the GT.

The 301A High Package adds ambient lighting, dual-zone automatic climate controls, selectable driver mode toggle switches, SYNC 3, and a 9-speaker audio system with an amplifier and SiriusXM satellite radio.

In addition to the Safe and Smart Package and Nite Pony Package, the GT offers the GT Performance Package that adds 19-inch Ebony Black alloy wheels, 6-piston Brembo front brake calipers, oil and vacuum gauges, a K-brace chassis stiffener, a Torsen differential (3.73:1 axle ratio with the manual transmission and 3.55 with the automatic), and unique chassis and suspension tuning.

With the $1,395 destination charge, the 2023 Ford Mustang GT Fastback costs $39,740. On a 60-month loan at 3% financing and zero down, the monthly payment comes to about $714. See 2023 Ford Mustang GT models for sale near you

2023 Ford Mustang GT Premium: $43,365 (Fastback), $48,865 (Convertible)

The Mustang GT Premium builds off the GT, adding selectable drive mode toggle switches, heated and cooled leather front seats, ambient interior lighting, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated side mirrors, a 9-speaker audio system with amplifier, SiriusXM satellite radio, and the SYNC 3 infotainment system.

The 401A High Package adds a 12-inch LCD digital instrument cluster, a heated steering wheel, color-accented leather-trimmed seats, adaptive cruise control, voice-activated navigation, and a 3-position driver’s seat memory.

Packages and standalone options mirror those from the GT and EcoBoost Premium, except the California Special Package. Check this box, and you’ll get 19-inch Carbonized Gray alloy wheels, the “Mesh 45” aluminum instrument panel, Miko suede door and seat inserts, a performance rear wing (coupe), a performance front splitter, and side air scoops.

With the $1,395 destination charge, the 2023 Ford Mustang GT Premium Fastback costs $44,760. On a 60-month loan at 3% financing and zero down, the monthly payment comes to about $804. See 2023 Ford Mustang GT Premium models for sale near you

2023 Ford Mustang GT Premium includes:

  • 5.0-liter V8 – As good as the turbo-4 is, there’s no substituting the low-end torque and raucous sound only a V8 can deliver.
  • Ventilated front seats – The GT Premium’s heated front seats can keep you cool in summer, with cool air piped through the perforated leather.
  • Available adaptive cruise control – This cruise control keeps a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, slowing down or speeding up as needed.

2023 Ford Mustang Mach 1: $55,570

The Mach 1 comes only in Fastback coupe form and includes an extra $1,000 gas-guzzler tax when ordered with the manual transmission.

This potent Mustang uses the same 5.0-liter V8 as the GT but with an additional 20 hp, which bumps output to 470.

The Mach 1 includes features from the GT trim with the 301A High Package, then adds an active valve performance exhaust, 6-piston Brembo front brake calipers, oil and vacuum gauges, heavy-duty front springs, a strut tower K-brace, a sport suspension, a Tremec 6-speed manual transmission with rev-matching, adaptive magneto-rheological dampers, and a Torsen differential with a 3.73:1 rear axle ratio.

Exterior upgrades include Mach 1 badges and striping, unique front and rear fascia, a distinctive grille and rear spoiler, heated side mirrors with puddle lights, and unique 19-inch alloy wheels.

The Mach 1 features a white cue ball shift knob, a 6-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar support, a 4-way power passenger seat, a 12-inch LCD digital instrument cluster, and illuminated door scuff panels with a logo.

Ford’s Track Attack program is part of the Mach 1 experience. The program invites owners to the Charlotte Motor Speedway, where they’ll spend a day with a professional driver from Ford’s Performance Racing School.

Upgrades for the Mach 1 include the 700A Deluxe Package that adds heated and cooled front seats, aluminum pedals, a heated steering wheel, 3-position driver’s seat memory, color-accented leather-trimmed seats, and interior.

The Mach 1 Handling Package brings wider 19-inch wheels, adjustable strut top mounts, revised chassis tuning, front wheel lip moldings, a rear spoiler, and a front aero splitter.

The Mach 1 Elite Package adds the B&O sound system, a CD player, and HD Radio.

Other options include navigation, Recaro sport seats in cloth or leather, and a rear seat delete.

With the $1,395 destination charge, the 2023 Ford Mustang Mach 1 costs $56,965. On a 60-month loan at 3% financing and zero down, the monthly payment comes to approximately $1,024. See 2023 Ford Mustang Mach 1 models for sale near you

2023 Ford Mustang Mach 1 includes:

  • Enhanced V8 – The Mach 1 boasts 20 more horses than the GT, with a slick-shifting Tremec 6-speed manual designed for rapid shifts. It has built-in rev-matching, too.
  • Performance components – The Mach 1 gets bigger brakes, better cooling systems, plus a stiffer suspension and chassis designed for improved performance on and off the track.
  • Available B&O audio – Designed by legendary audio manufacturer Bang & Olufsen, this 12-speaker upgrade includes a powerful amp and a separate subwoofer.

FAQ

  • What is the best 2023 Ford Mustang trim?

    There are two answers here. If you’re buying a Mustang for its nostalgia and performance attributes, the GT Premium is the way to go.

    However, the EcoBoost Premium is the right choice if you’re looking for a cool coupe or convertible with decent performance and good fuel economy.

  • How many miles per gallon does the 2023 Ford Mustang get?

    When equipped with the 2.3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine and 6-speed manual transmission, the 2023 Ford Mustang is rated by the EPA at 21 mpg city/29 mpg highway/24 mpg combined. Adding the 10-speed automatic elevates those numbers to 22 mpg city/32 mpg highway/25 mpg combined. The high-output version drops fuel economy by about one mpg in each category.

    The Mustang Convertible is heavier and less aerodynamic, so its fuel economy drops to 20 mpg city/27 mpg highway/23 mpg combined with the 6-speed manual or 20 mpg city/28 mpg highway/23 mpg combined with the automatic. The high-output version drops another mile or two off these figures.

    With either the 6-speed manual or 10-speed automatic, the V8-powered Mustang GT is rated at 15 mpg city/24 mpg highway/19 mpg combined. The Mustang Convertible GT drops to 15 mpg city/23 mpg highway/18 mpg combined.

    The high-output V8 in the Mach 1 returns 14 mpg city/22 mpg highway/17 mpg combined with the 6-speed manual and 15 mpg city/23 mpg highway/18 mpg combined with the automatic.

  • Which 2023 Ford Mustang trim offers the most safety?

    The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the 2023 Ford Mustang Fastback its highest overall rating of five stars. The convertible was not rated.

    The independent Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also gave the Mustang good scores, with the exception of an Acceptable rating in the small overlap front driver’s side test.

     

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