2021 Ford Mustang Convertible 2.3L: Fuel Economy Truth

23 MPG combined isn’t setting any records, but for the 2021 Ford Mustang Convertible 2.3L, it’s a reasonable compromise. Buyers likely want this particular Mustang variant for top-down fun, iconic styling, and a touch of American muscle. 23 MPG is the price to pay. This Mustang prioritizes the experience over pure fuel efficiency, accepting its gas consumption as part of owning a convertible.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2021 Ford Mustang Convertible 2.3L at 20 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the turbocharged four-cylinder works harder to move the relatively heavy convertible. The highway figure is more acceptable, showcasing the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at steady speeds.

The 10-speed automatic transmission (S10) helps keep the engine in its sweet spot, maximizing efficiency when possible. But avoid aggressive acceleration; it will quickly reduce the highway mileage.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Ford Mustang Convertible 2.3L at exactly $1,900. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a specified percentage of that mileage occurring in city and highway conditions. National average gasoline prices are used in the calculation.

Your actual fuel cost will vary depending on your driving habits, location, and the fluctuating price of gasoline. Drive aggressively, and you’ll exceed $1,900 easily. Drive gently, and you might spend less.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a benchmark, but real-world fuel economy often differs from these estimates. Factors like driving style, terrain, and weather conditions significantly influence MPG. Expect fluctuations, especially with spirited driving. Owners who primarily use the Mustang for short city trips might consistently see numbers below the 20 MPG city estimate. Those who primarily use it for longer highway cruises, with restrained acceleration, may see MPG numbers exceed the 28 MPG highway rating.

Tire pressure, proper maintenance, and even the type of gasoline used can contribute to these variations.

How it compares

The 2021 Ford Mustang 2.3L falls in the middle of the pack compared to other convertibles. A Mazda MX-5 Miata, for example, uses less gas with an EPA-estimated 30 MPG combined, 7 MPG better than the Mustang. However, the Miata offers less power and a smaller interior. Other similar convertibles, like the BMW Z4 sDrive30i, are near-identical: 26 MPG combined with its turbo 4-cylinder. Buyers searching for the V8 Ford Mustang GT usually care less about fuel costs and prioritize power. You can check all Ford fuel economy data to see how the Mustang stacks up to Ford’s other vehicles. Buyers choose the Mustang convertible for its looks and classic lines, even if it uses a bit more fuel. For MUSTANG MPG across all years, visit this additional resource. Some compromises are worth it.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One way to improve fuel economy in the Mustang Convertible is to ease off the accelerator. The turbocharged engine responds readily to aggressive throttle inputs, which consumes more fuel. Smooth, gradual acceleration will make a difference.

Maintaining proper tire inflation is also critical. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel efficiency. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly and efficiently, and idling wastes fuel. Be aware of this at long traffic lights.

Use cruise control on the highway to help the engine operate more efficiently by maintaining a constant speed . Cruise control minimizes acceleration fluctuations, leading to more consistent fuel consumption.

Reduce weight in the vehicle by removing any unnecessary items from the trunk or passenger compartment. Extra weight puts additional strain on the engine and reduces fuel economy. Lighten the load to improve efficiency.