2008 Ford Mustang Coupe

Ford is applauded by many reviewers for the retro styling and feel-good image of the Mustang, a throwback to muscle-car heydays. The sportiest is the Mustang GT, with its 300-horsepower V-8 engine, which many auto writers strongly recommend over the base 210-horsepower V-6 model. The GT provides better resale value and more satisfying performance, with only a small penalty in fuel economy. 'The Mustang gets no compliments for its mediocre EPA ratings: 17/26 mpg for the V-6 and 15/23 mpg for the V-8. Though the Mustang's competent handling gets few complaints, many critics would like to see the old-tech solid rear axle replaced with independent suspension. Some reviewers like Mustang's firm ride, while others say it's too uncontrolled. For 2008, the Mustang gets standard side-impact airbags and scores an impressive five-star rating in frontal and side-impact crash tests. A new competitor for the Mustang is the acclaimed 2009 Dodge Challenger (*est. $21,995 to $41,695), which is available with a V-6 or a V-8 engine.

A particularly good review of the 2008 Mustang comes from NewCarTestDrive.com, which references each of the Mustang models and includes driving impressions. Edmunds.com, Kelley Blue Book and others provide good reviews with well-balanced discussions of the Mustang's pros and cons. Consumer Reports has an informative road-test review on their subscriber-only site, while ConsumerGuide.com, Cars.com and Ifcar.net include the Mustang on their "recommended" lists. Safercar.gov, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website, reveals impressive crash-test results, but also has details of a significant recall on the Mustang's record.