18 MPG combined is the price of admission for open-air thrills and V8 muscle in the 2018 Ford Mustang Convertible with the 5.0L engine. Let’s be clear: nobody buys this Mustang for its fuel efficiency. They buy it for the experience, the legendary name, and the joy of driving a powerful convertible. Fuel costs are a secondary concern for this demographic. They want the rumble, the responsiveness, and the attention that comes with a V8 Mustang, and they’re willing to pay for it.

City and highway performance

The EPA rates the 2018 Mustang Convertible 5.0L at 15 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the engine’s characteristics and the transmission’s tuning. The 5.0L V8 delivers strong low-end torque, which is enjoyable in urban environments, but requires more fuel to get the car moving from a standstill. On the highway, the 10-speed automatic transmission helps optimize fuel economy by keeping the engine at cruising speeds. However, the temptation to downshift and experience the engine’s power often diminishes any potential gains.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Ford Mustang Convertible 5.0L is $2,450. This estimate is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Individual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used. Considering the vehicle’s performance capabilities, some owners might find this figure acceptable, while others may experience higher costs due to more aggressive driving styles. You can view all Ford fuel economy data here.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs based on driving style, traffic conditions, and the type of roads driven. Expect to see figures closer to the EPA estimates if you drive conservatively and spend a significant amount of time on the highway. However, if you frequently drive using the full V8’s power and spend most of your time in stop-and-go traffic, your fuel economy will likely fall below the EPA’s projections. This Mustang rewards spirited driving, but that comes at a cost.

How it compares

The 2018 Mustang Convertible 5.0L faces competition from other performance convertibles, each with its own fuel economy trade-offs. The Chevrolet Camaro Convertible with the 3.6L V6 engine manages around 22 MPG combined, offering a balance of performance and efficiency, but lacks the Mustang’s V8 power. The BMW 440i Convertible, with its turbocharged inline-six, achieves approximately 25 MPG combined, prioritizing fuel efficiency over the Mustang’s driving experience. Even within the Mustang lineup, opting for the EcoBoost 2.3L engine nets considerably better fuel economy (around 25 MPG combined), but sacrifices the V8’s sound and power. Ultimately, the Mustang buyer is making a conscious choice, prioritizing the V8 experience despite its lower fuel economy. You can see MUSTANG MPG across all years here.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the 2018 Mustang Convertible 5.0L isn’t known for saving fuel, there are steps you can take to improve its gas mileage. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, as these actions significantly impact fuel consumption. The V8 delivers plenty of power at moderate throttle positions, so use that rather than flooring it at every opportunity.

Proper tire inflation plays a role in fuel efficiency. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder, consuming more fuel. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended tire pressure and maintain it regularly.

Minimize idling time. An idling engine consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate a wait longer than 30 seconds, it is more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine and restart it later. This advice is more important with modern starter motor technology.

Regular maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements, ensures that the engine operates efficiently. A clean air filter allows for optimal airflow, while fresh oil reduces friction and wear throughout the engine.