Five-Point Inspection: 2013 Ford Mustang V6

The V6 Mustang doesn’t have too much power, and it doesn’t have too little, the horsepower in this car is just right. While it is not the overwhelming feeling of one of those snarling V8s found in the GT, the V6 has smooth power delivery, hits max torque at 4250 rpm (right in the mid-range) and delivers 305 hp. It is an excellent balance between livable every day not-too-crazy power, and out-of-control sideways in every turn power. And all for a base price of $22,200.

The Cloth Recaro racing seats, a $1,595 option, hug you in all the right spots. Forcing you to sit upright, they hold your back straight, improving your posture, which helps visibility. Seated in the Mustang, you feel like you’re looking out of a cave and the Recaro seats are hugging you like a bear who’s just found a new toy.

In hard corners they hold your body in place perfectly and yet, somehow, are comfortable enough to make even a whole day behind the wheel a relaxing one.

The retro style of the Mustang has looked good since its introduction in 2005, but for 2013, some small tweaks help modernize it. For starters there’s a meaner, more pointed front fascia and revised lower intakes. Most obvious, however, are the lighting changes with HID headlights standard, highlighted by two small LED light bars, while out back sequential three-bar rear turn signals are framed by high-gloss black panel surrounds.

It may have a stigma among a younger generation, but this American muscle car is the only one that has the looks (and the driving feel) to compete with modern Japanese and Korean contemporaries.

Of course a sports coupe like a Mustang isn’t going to be practical, but the amount of storage in the cabin is dismal to say the least. The two cup holders quickly fill with a cell phone and iPod, and suddenly become useless as cup holders.

The driver is sucked so far back into the car that reaching the glove box is near impossible. Luckily there’s not enough room in the back seats to fit anyone, so you can use that space for your belongings.

The trunk offers ample storage, but the cabin definitely lets you know that this car is for driving, and not much else.

Weighing in at 3,501 lbs., the V6 Mustang shows its weight in the corners. Understeer can be an issue, as that weight combined with 305 horses means it’s not hard to make it push when cornering.

Our test car featured the $1,995 Performance Package, which includes larger 19-inch wheels and high performance rubber, not to mention sway bars, a strut tower bar, custom front springs and upgraded brakes. An impressive upgrade over the base setup, with much less body roll, the Mustang still can’t help but show its girth. Our wish for the next-gen Mustang is a diet.

Think that the 2013 Ford Mustang is right for you? Then have a look at our updated new cars section where you can gloss over the available trim levels, compare prices against other cars and even customize your own.