The Ford Mustang has long been the best-selling sports car in America (for 22 years). And with the 2009 model marking its 45th anniversary, Ford has introduced an entirely new feature to celebrate: an all new and segment-first panoramic glass roof option.
2009 Ford Mustang Highlights:
- Factory-installed glass roof option (price: $1,995) available on Mustang V-6 and GT models.
- "Premium" model features now include ambient lighting, satin aluminum instrument panel trim, interior upgrades and SIRIUS® Satellite Radio.
- "Bullitt" and "Warriors in Pink" packages continue in 2009.
Also new, an optional GT Security Package includes an active anti-theft system and wheel locking kit. And added as a new exterior color is Brilliant Silver clearcoat metallic.
Once agin, the Mustang V-6 coupe and convertible are equipped with its popular 210-horsepower, 4.0-liter SOHC 6-cylinder engine.
The Mustang GT coupe and convertible get the 300-horsepower, 4.6-liter 3V V-8 engine. The standard transmission in all of these is a 5-speed manual, with an 5-speed automatic available as an option.
Other highlights include:
- Standard front-seat side air bags, dual-stage driver and front passenger air bags, safety-belt pretensioners, passenger seat sensing and crash severity sensing.
- High Intensity Discharge headlamps are available as an option.
- 18-inch wheels are available on the V-6 coupe.
- The instrument panel has a customizable option to mix-and-match lighting.
Also returning in 2009 is the Mustang Bullitt, inspired by the 1968 film of the same name featuring Steve McQueen's now classic car chase scene.
The 2009 Bullitt is equipped with a powerful 4.6-liter V-8 engine with 315-horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. The vehicle's engine and suspension are both modified with Ford Racing Technology resulting in one of the best-handling and best-sounding Mustangs. Introduced in a limited run in 2008, the 2009 model returns due to customer demand.
Overall, however, there are no major changes in the 2009 Ford Mustang. Those will wait for the 2010 model which will see a major freshening.
The 2009 Mustang Shelby GT500 also returns and is powered by a supercharged and intercooled 5.4 liter V8 engine. The Shelby GT500 also features SVT tuned Mustang front
and rear suspensions, 18-inch wheels and numerous interior and exterior upgrades.
As far as 2009 option packages and special-edition Mustangs go, the V6 Mustangs can be equipped with the Pony package, which includes firmer suspension tuning, 17-inch wheels, foglamps and a unique grille.
The GT appearance package includes a hood scoop, chrome exhaust tips, and an engine cover with the Mustang emblem.
On the Premium trims, heated front seats, a power passenger seat and an auto-dimming mirror with compass can be added. In addition, there's also upgraded interior trim packages available.
Rather than its own distinct model, the Mustang Bullitt is considered an options package for the GT Premium coupe. It adds a cold-air-induction setup, unique exhaust and suspension tuning, high-performance brake pads, a front strut tower brace, 18-inch alloy wheels and special interior and exterior alterations.
Two cosmetic packages are also available: The GT California Special and the Warriors in Pink package. Part of the proceeds from the latter go to breast cancer research.
Depending on the trim level, available individual options include xenon headlights, the glass roof, 18-inch alloy wheels, an upgraded Shaker sound system, remote ignition, iPod integration, Bluetooth, and touchscreen navigation.
Base and GT models are available with manual (standard) or automatic transmissions. The Bullitt and GT500 are manual only.
Available safety features include ABS, traction control, and front side airbags.
Update: Sluggish Economy Leads To Lower Mustang Prices:
Ford's sales have been on the weak side historically for close to the past two years now, right along with the other car brands and evidence of a continuing slow economy.
They've recently made some progress in offsetting at least some of the market weakness through strong incentives and easier-to-get discounts. The bottom line? The current combination of a soft market along with intense dealer competition has created the perfect opportunity for nailing down some great deals.
Car dealers will "wheel and deal" bigtime right now if you know how to push their buttons.
How To Buy A New Mustang At The Lowest Price: Before listing MSRP and invoice prices for the 2009 Ford Mustang, here's the most successful new car buying technique for getting the best price, especially given the current slow car market.
Prices:
2009 Ford Mustang:
Base Coupe: listed retail: $19.735, invoice price: $18,271
Base Premium Coupe: listed retail: $21,735, invoice price: $20,071