The competition were outpointed — the Camaro scored a "Very Good" 71 and the Challenger, a "Good" 53 points. Additionally, the boys from East Haddam, CT also ran the newly-redisgned 370Z and the new WRX around their paid-by-subscription track. Both scored "Very Good." Full press release below.

Ford Mustang outpoints Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger in Consumer Reports tests of sports cars and coupes

Hyundai Genesis Coupe, Nissan 370Z, and redesigned Subaru Impreza WRZ get Very Good road test scores

YONKERS, NY - The freshened Ford Mustang outpointed two other reincarnated muscle cars-the Chevrolet Camaro and the Dodge Challenger-as well as the new Hyundai Genesis Coupe in Consumer Reports' tests of six sporty cars and coupes in the October issue.

The Mustang received a Very Good overall road test score of 78, outpointing the Camaro which received a Very Good 71, and the Challenger, which received a Good 53 points. CR's engineers found the Mustang's 2010 freshening makes it an even more balanced and satisfying driver's car than ever before.
"The Mustang topped this group by delivering strong acceleration, communicative steering, and the most agile handling," said David Champion, senior director of CR's Auto Test Center in East Haddam, Connecticut.

The new Camaro shares basic underpinnings with the Pontiac G8 sedan. The Challenger is based on the large Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger rear-wheel-drive sedans. The Hyundai Genesis Coupe received a Very Good test score and is distinct from the rest of the group. It is loosely based on the Genesis luxury sedan and is powered by either a turbocharged four-cylinder or V6 engine, in contrast to the muscle cars' V8s.

CR also tested the redesigned Nissan 370Z two-seat coupe, an agile sports car which received a Very Good test score, and the updated and improved 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX, which also received a Very Good test score.

Prices ranged from $38,565 for the 370Z to $26,088 for the WRX. The Mustang has average reliability and is Recommended, as is the WRX. The other models are too new to have reliability data for CR to Recommend them. CR only Recommends vehicles that have performed well in its tests, have at least average predicted reliability based on CR's Annual Car Reliability Survey of its more than seven million print and web subscribers, and performed at least adequately if crash-tested or included in a government rollover test.

Full tests and ratings of the sporty cars test group appear in the October issue of Consumer Reports, which goes on sale September 1. The reports are also available to subscribers of www.ConsumerReports.org. Updated daily, ConsumerReports.org is the go-to site for the latest auto reviews, product news, blogs on breaking news and car buying information.

In everyday driving, the Mustang corners with agility and the highway ride is civilized. The Ford Mustang GT premium, ($34,725 Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price as tested) is powered by a 315-hp, 4.6-liter V8 engine that delivers strong acceleration and gets 20 mpg overall in CR's own fuel economy tests. The engine has a deep burble that is pleasing to listen to. The six-speed manual transmission shifts smoothly and accurately. Braking is Very Good. The 2010 freshening brought upgraded interior materials and better fit and finish.

The Camaro provides blistering performance and handles capably, but its girth undermines its agility. The Chevrolet Camaro 2SS ($35,425, MSRP as tested), is powered by a 426-hp, 6.2-liter, V8 engine that delivers very strong performance and 18 mpg overall. The engine sounds great when the throttle is punched. The six-speed manual transmission has a good feel. Braking is excellent. The interior is nicely finished despite gaps around the instrument panel and some cheap plastics.

With exhilarating straight-line acceleration, a brawny V8, and stock-car styling, the Challenger recaptures the character of the American muscle car. The Dodge Challenger R/T ($36,600 MSRP as tested), is powered by a 370-hp, 5.7-liter "Hemi" V8 engine that delivers strong performance and 18 mpg overall. The optional six-speed manual transmission shifts well with a pistol-like grip that fits snugly in hand. Whatever wind and road noise there is, and it's not much, is overwhelmed by the invigorating engine growl. Braking is mediocre and it has a big car feel rather than a sports car. The well-assembled interior has a nicely padded dash and nostalgic horizontal seat stitching.

The Genesis Coupe has agile handling that makes make it fun to drive, which is unusual for a Hyundai. The Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8 Grand Touring ($28,375, MSRP as tested), is powered by a 306-hp, 3.8-liter V6 engine and gets an impressive 23 mpg overall. The V6 engine smoothly hums under acceleration. However, the interaction of the six-speed manual transmission's shifter and heavy clutch make it a challenge to get smooth shifts. Braking is very good. The interior is nicely finished, although it's not luxurious like the Genesis sedan's.

The WRX's ride is taut, yet controlled and the car is steady yet compliant on the highway. The Subaru WRX ($26,088 MSRP as tested,) is powered by a 265-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers very strong acceleration and gets 24 mpg overall. It's well matched to a five-speed manual transmission. In everyday driving, the WRX engine has the manners of a typical four-cylinder with mileage to match. Braking is excellent. Interior plastics are all hard, but the interior is well-assembled.

Redesigned for 2009, the two-seat 370Z is shorter and better finished than its predecessor, the 350Z. Great handling and braking are high points of the 370Z, as is abundant power. The cabin is cramped and noisy, it's hard to see out, and the stiff ride is wearing over time. The Nissan 370Z Touring ($38,565 MSRP as tested) is a real sports car with quick handling and lots of grip. It is powered by a 332-hp, 3.7-liter V6 engine that gets 23 mpg overall, but on premium fuel. The six-speed manual transmission's short-throw shifter has a good feel. Braking is excellent. The interior has exceptional fit and finish.

With more than 7 million print and online subscribers, Consumer Reports is one of the most trusted sources for information and advice on consumer products and services. It conducts the most comprehensive auto-test program of any U.S. publication or Web site and owns and operates a 327-acre Auto Test Center in Connecticut. The organization's auto experts have decades of experience in driving, testing, and reporting on cars. To subscribe, consumers can call 1-800-234-1645 or visit www.ConsumerReports.org.

Full Disclosure: Ford wanted me to drive the new Ford Mustang so badly they flew me out and put me up in a nice hotel to make sure I wrote about it. Also, they fed me BBQ. Bad BBQ.

The new Mustang really is all about the add-ons. Ford's basically taken the old model and bolted on a bunch of fancy new parts to make it. They work; the new base model Mustang is a lot better than the old one. But it’s the parts you’ll have to pay for to add on that'll really make a difference.

Aside from the sexy new body (only the roof is carried over), the new Ford Mustang uses the same basic mechanical components as the old one. Same chassis, same engine. But, Ford has added higher-spec components to the base model with the aim of making the new ‘Stang better than the old one.

Inside, there’s a new, less rental car-like interior complete with soft touch plastics, greater sound deadening and shiny new instruments. It’s a nicer place to spend time; it looks better (especially with the addition of the aluminum trim), it’s much quieter and it now features Ford’s tacky MyColor LED lighting, most notably on the scuff plates on the door sill.

Outside there's new mirrors, hidden washer nozzles and a repositioned radio aerial (it’s on the rear quarter panel now) also contribute to a reduction in wind noise, while integrated indicators, a new hood bulge (used across all models), a new grille and a more creased body combine to great effect, making the Mustang’s basic shape much more lithe.

Under the hood, the engines are carried over. The V8-equipped GT now makes 315 HP (up from 300) thanks to the addition of the cold air intake from the Bullitt. That intake is also good for a .3 second reduction in 0-to-60 times. Want more shove? Add premium gas for about a 10 lb-ft increase in torque between 1,000 and 4,000 RPM.

Suspension on the new model now comes from whichever old model was one up the range. So the V6 gets the suspension from the old GT, the GT gets the suspension from the Bullitt. And the GT500? Well, you'll have to wait until the Detroit Auto Show for that. But for now all models get traction and stability control as standard.

There’s also a bunch of other new parts like the standard front undercover that reduces front lift by 23% and the optional rear view camera.

The sum of these new parts? A vehicle that’s better in every way than the one it replaces. It’s faster, better handling, nicer looking and now has a big boy interior. It’s kind of like a really, really comprehensive tuner version of the old one.

But that’s only part of the story. What’s interesting about the new Mustang isn’t the standard parts, but the optional ones, the ones you have to pay for.

We drove the 2010 Ford Mustang GT equipped with both the premium and track packs. While the premium pack brings Ford’s awesome SYNC nav/entertainment system and “real aluminum trim” (they’re really excited about that), it’s the track pack that you’ll really want to care about. Know how the new GT gets the old Bullitt’s suspension? Well the track pack brings the suspension and carbon-plate diff from the Shelby GT500. Only available with the optional 19” wheels (along with a massive front strut brace). It also includes upgraded brake pads, a 3.73 differential gear and summer performance tires. The Mustang’s engineers were so excited about the performance possible with the track pack, that they’ve managed to convince Ford to make it available at cost: about $1,495 on top of the GT’s $27,995.

Pulling onto the PCH in Malibu, immediately apparent is the new engine noise made possible by rerouting the exhaust for a nicer sound inside. Otherwise a very quiet place to spend time, the interior is flooded with the 4.6-liter V8s aggressive growl the second you put your foot down. From the PCH, it was up into Topanga Canyon then onto Mulholland. The new, firmer suspension not only delivers a more controlled ride, but much more planted, competent cornering. Combined with the summer tires and the new sport mode for the stability control (it turns traction off, then allows for about 7-9 degrees of slide before cutting in), these tight, bumpy corners are no longer the Mustang’s Achilles heel, but its strong point. The responses are now more sports car than muscle car, with the engine upgrades delivering more acceleration than driving here demands.

Despite the continued use of a live rear axle, the 2010 Mustang’s rear end never got out of control. At least not without severe provocation.

There’s still improvements that could be made: the steering, while adequate, isn’t the most communicative; the brakes, while powerful, lack initial bite. But this is a Mustang we’re talking about, a car that was, until now, the stuff of rental car fleets.

But right now, I’m sitting on a plane flying back from LAX to JFK trying to get this damned review written in time for the midnight embargo. When I flew out here the Mustang was just a car for men from the Midwest with facial hair. Now, with more sophistication from both the looks and driving experience, I’m thinking that, with an appropriately checked options list, it may be a car for me too; a sports car that’s refined, cheap, good-looking and, most importantly, fast. Even around corners.

First, the vehicle looks fairly similar to our own 2010 Mustang renderings, including the angles of the taillights and the shape of the grille and headlights. Also, it says "2010 Ford Mustang" at the bottom of the vehicle. This is something someone could fake, but at the very least they did a good job.

Second, the timing is right. Assuming that they want to have these ready to jump on the buzz surrounding the new Mustang, this would be the time to start putting them together.

Third, and most importantly, the seller of the vehicle is based in Malaysia. In 1982, Mattel moved their Hot Wheels production plant from Hong Kong to Malaysia. It stands to reason that the first person who would be able to get their hands on a Mattel model before anyone else would be based in the Malaysia. The seller also seems to have a seller history that supports their claim that they sell lots of Hot Wheels vehicles.

We have our doubts, but this seems like it could be the real thing.

(Thanks to Jacob for the tip)

[eBay Motors]

[MyAutomovil]

The teaser image du jour of theshift knob from the 2010 Ford Mustang looked familiar to us (and to a few readers). Although the bezel and plastic molding over the transmission tunnel is clearly new, that giant aluminum ball looks awfully familiar. Maybe because it appears to be the spittin' image of the one found in the 2008 Ford Mustang Bullitt we recently reviewed. Yes, that's right, you too can snag yourself the same shift knob as the 2010 Mustang for a wee fee of $109.95. Just remember though, in order to get the right fit, you'll have to order the shifter bezel and boot to go along with it. That'll set you back an additional $189.95. At these prices you're better off just buying the new 'stang.

The new-style headlights tucked deeply into the sharply angled curve portray the nose we were expecting and, in profile, the beltline has a kink that is reminiscent of the 1967 Mustang convertible. The revised steering wheel conforms to what we've seen and the GT badge isn't much of a surprise. The new GT wheels carry over the classic 'stang five-spoke design but add a deep well and more effects along the edge. Stay tuned to Jalopnik as this slow and painful Bataan Mustang death march continues until the LA Auto Show in November.

[Source: Ford]

We just got a new look inside the 2010 Mustang, and this prototype's dash was completely uncovered and uncamouflaged. This is the first time we've gotten a truly clean and unencumbered look at the new 'Stang's redesigned interior. The new dash design appears to utilize a number of the current Mustang's parts to save cost, but the main dash face, the center console, gauge-package, and steering wheel have all been restyled to give a more refined, upscale look while maintaining the simple, retro feel.

Click the photo below to see a high-res shot of the 2010 Ford Mustang GT from the front:


Click the photo below to see a high-res shot of the 2010 Ford Mustang GT from the rear:


Also, Mustang Evolution caught their own pic of the back end of the new 'stang — check it out over there. Also, come back a little later and we'll show you what we expect the 2010 Shelby GT500 will look like.

And it's the dark horse by a nose! Yep, this here is the new 2010 model pony. Douglas Gaffka, chief designer for the 2010 Mustang, says of his steed:

"We lifted the head to make the pony more proud, tipped the neck into the wind to give it a feeling of greater speed and better balance... It’s more chiseled and more defined and looks more like a wild horse... It’s more realistic in terms of proportion to an actual Mustang.”

How this will translate to the look of the actual car remains to be seen. [via Ford]

Jalopnik Snap Judgement: Ford's going the same route as the 2009 Corvette ZR1 at Monterey, 2010 Jaguar XF-R and the 2009 Nissan GT-R at Goodwood with this "special" preview at the track. The only difference between the new Mustang and the rest of those "early preview" cars is the Mustang is a volume production car for Ford. That means, dropping it out at an event like this takes some measure of balls. We like balls on an automaker. However, we don't like over-processed "smooth" hip-hop when we're trying to hear engine noise. Just an FYI.

We've got the full press release below:

NEW 2010 FORD MUSTANG HITS TRACK DURING HISTORIC RACING WEEKEND AT ROAD AMERICA

* The new 2010 Ford Mustang, in camouflage, will pace the Wis. Ford is the sponsor of the Kohler International Challenge vintage race.
* Saturday is "Ford Mustang Day," meaning Mustang drivers and passengers can enjoy the festivities for free. This includes a dedicated "Mustang Corral" inside the front straightaway.

DEARBORN, Mich., July 17, 2008 - A sneak peek at the future Ford Mustang will help kick off the celebration of a historic Mustang racing win this weekend at Road America, the largest vintage car event in North America.

Enthusiasts will be part of a special public "debut" of the highly anticipated 2010 Ford Mustang, which will serve as the pace car for the vintage racing field throughout the weekend. The next-generation Mustang will be outfitted in a special "camo" package, keeping some key design cues secret until its reveal later this year.

The camouflaged future version of America's favorite muscle car will look right at home in Elkhart Lake, Wis., along with a 2009 Ford Mustang Bullitt and a 2009 Ford Fusion with a limited-edition "Blue Suede Package."

Saturday marks Ford Mustang Day at Road America featuring a "Mustang Corral" along the straightaway. Every Ford Mustang and its occupants will be admitted free on Saturday to the Kohler International Challenge presented by Ford.

"One of the key components of our program is to meet our customers face-to-face, and the Kohler International Challenge provides an excellent opportunity for Ford to interact with a group of dedicated, knowledgeable enthusiasts," said Robert Parker, Car Marketing manager, Ford Division. "Road America and the vintage weekend provides an opportunity for customers to get behind the wheel and for Ford to show off our new product line, while still highlighting the fact Ford has been involved in racing since the inception of our company more than a century ago."

While historic race cars will be gracing the famous race track, enthusiasts on hand also will be able to get behind the wheel of some of Ford's latest products at the Briggs & Stratton track located inside the Road America circuit. Ford will have the 2009 Flex, Escape, Edge, Fusion, Focus coupe and other vehicles available for consumers to test drive all weekend.

The 25th anniversary of the then-highly anticipated 1983 Mustang GTP debut and its rain-soaked maiden victory is the foundation forthe on-and off-track events.

The Mustang GTP car that won that day will be on display for the thousands of fans attending the event. The legendary car, an innovative racer that was the creation of Ford's then newly-formed Special Vehicle Operations (SVO), will be just a part of a significant Ford presence at the annual vintage event.

Also on hand during the weekend will be several Ford GTs, which will give hot laps on the legendary 4.048-mile Road America course. Fans can enter to win a Ford GT hot lap, which will be given away every hour, or laps can be purchased by making a $50 charitable donation to the Wisconsin Multiple Sclerosis Society or to the Vince Lombardi Titletown Champions foundation, which is raising money for youth sports programs.

The final component to the Ford Mustang celebration is on-track. Four Shelby Cobras will enter the Historic Grand Prix, and the Shelby drivers will wear vintage late 1960's racing attire. These Shelby entries mark the first time Shelby Automobiles has joined forces with Ford to race since 1968.

Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With about 228,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company's core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit www.ford.com.

(Hat tip to Mustang Evolution!)

The new 2010 Ford Mustang had heard all about Ford's plans to build vehicles down South. The new 2010 Ford Mustang really wanted to get out of Flat Rock, Michigan because the winters were so very cold. He wanted to roam an eternally sunny countryside where gas was cheap and subsidized.

So the Ford Mustang packed up his accessories from Shelby and Saleen and Roush, and drove off to Detroit's Metro Airport to catch a flight to Mexico. Except he forgot just one small thing — freight doesn't fly out of the McNamara terminal and he was too big to fly Northwest.

But the new 2010 Ford Mustang didn't know where freight flew out of. So he searched, and searched and searched, hoping to find out where he could find a plane big enough to take him.

The pretty new Ford Mustang even asked his friend the 2009 Corvette ZR1 powertrain mule, but he couldn't talk because he was in jail over some bad photos.

So the new Mustang sadly drove home to Flat Rock.

The end.

To begin with we're told the design of the side on the C&D sketch is incorrect. The door handle is too high. The official CAD renderings we've seen (don't even ask how we got those — all we can say is many Bothans died to bring us that information) — which verify the sketch provided by our source — indicate the door handle is actually part of the heavy crease running along the side of the new 'stang — and not above it.

The front fascia on the actual 2010 Mustang is also quite different. Our source's sketch — and again, the CAD models —indicates another piece of moulding between the black grille and the front bumper. Additionally, the C&D rendering is missing the turn signals which should be a flush addition to each side of the front bumper. The other minor issue is the double-gilled air vent on the bottom of the 'stang. The sketch — as well as other sources indicates they don't exist. Unfortunately, the area below the front bumper is where we're missing CAD modeling — so C&D very well may be correct on this.

And then there's the rear end — something untouched by the speculative renderers of Car und Driver — which from what we can see is a dramatic departure from the last model. If it turns out looking like this, we like it.

Yes, we could be wrong, and C&D could be too — but our money's on our sources coming through for us on this one. Time will tell wethinks. We're told we'll find out for certain at either the LA Auto Show or the Detroit Auto Show — we guess we'll have to wait until then. For now, answer us this question:

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