19 MPG combined is what you get with the V8-powered Mustang. It’s not an impressive number, and it won’t win any awards for efficiency. But for the enthusiast craving the thrill of a naturally aspirated 5.0L Coyote engine, it’s a compromise. The 2015 Mustang GT, with its styling and performance, appeals to someone who cares more about power and driving feel than saving money on gas.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates are 16 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway for the 2015 Mustang GT with the automatic transmission. The city number reflects the engine’s thirst when dealing with stop-and-go traffic, where the 5.0L V8 accelerates from a standstill. The highway MPG, however, is better, showing the engine’s efficiency at a steady cruising speed, where the six-speed automatic transmission keeps the RPMs low. Drivers can expect to see the lower end of the range during spirited driving and potentially exceed the EPA highway number if they drive conservatively on long trips.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Mustang GT at $2,300. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles in the city and 45% on the highway. The calculation also uses the national average fuel price at the time of the EPA’s testing. For buyers considering a Mustang GT, this $2,300 is a benchmark for budgeting annual fuel expenses, but fuel prices and driving habits affect the actual amount spent.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides an estimate, real-world fuel economy for the 2015 Mustang GT can change. Aggressive driving habits, including hard acceleration and high-speed cruising, will reduce MPG. A more conservative driving style, emphasizing acceleration and maintaining speeds, can help drivers achieve numbers closer to the EPA estimates. Road conditions, traffic, and tire pressure can also affect fuel consumption. Drivers who spend most of their time in urban environments will likely see an average MPG closer to the city estimate. The MUSTANG MPG across all years shows how different the numbers can be in other model years, however.

How it compares

The 2015 Mustang GT’s fuel economy is like other performance vehicles of its era for a V8 muscle car. The Chevrolet Camaro SS, with its 6.2L V8, gets about 16 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. The Dodge Challenger R/T, with a 5.7L HEMI V8, gets around 16 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. Choosing V8 power involves a compromise in fuel efficiency. Drivers wanting less gas might consider the Mustang EcoBoost, which offers better MPG, around 22 MPG combined, while still delivering performance. You can also view all Ford fuel economy data to see the differences across the entire lineup.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Minimize acceleration and hard braking. The Mustang GT’s 5.0L engine is responsive, but acceleration will deplete fuel. Focus on acceleration and anticipate traffic flow to avoid braking.

Maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder. Check and maintain the tire pressure in the owner’s manual for fuel efficiency and tire life.

Avoid idling. Letting the engine idle wastes fuel. Modern engines warm up quickly while driving, so start driving after starting the engine. For waits, turn the engine off.

Use cruise control on the highway. Engaging cruise control helps maintain a speed, minimizing acceleration. This can lead to better highway fuel economy, on long road trips.

Consider premium fuel. The 2015 Mustang GT doesn’t require premium fuel, but some drivers report better performance and fuel economy when using higher-octane gasoline. Experiment to see if it makes a difference, but factor in the added cost.