22 MPG combined is perfectly acceptable for the 2016 Ford Mustang 3.7L V6. It’s not a Prius; it’s a Mustang, a car purchased primarily for its style, heritage, and performance. The V6-powered model delivers all this without being too expensive. It’s for buyers who want the Mustang experience without the V8’s higher price, and they understand a slight compromise in fuel economy is part of the deal. This Mustang is about accessible fun, not hyper-miling.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 Mustang 3.7L with the automatic transmission are 19 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s performance under stop-and-go conditions, with frequent acceleration and braking. The highway number is achieved under more consistent speeds on the open road, which minimizes engine load and maximizes efficiency.

The difference between city and highway shows that your driving style and environment significantly impact fuel consumption. Drivers who spend most of their time navigating urban environments can expect results closer to 19 MPG, while those who primarily drive on highways should see figures nearer to 27 MPG. Remember that aggressive driving will dramatically reduce these numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Ford Mustang 3.7L V6 at $2,000. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the EPA’s estimated combined fuel economy, multiplied by the national average fuel price.

This is a useful benchmark for comparing against other vehicles, but it’s important to understand that your actual fuel expenses will vary based on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local gasoline prices. For instance, if you drive fewer than 15,000 miles annually, your fuel cost will naturally be lower. Conversely, heavy acceleration or extended idling will increase the expense beyond the EPA estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides standardized testing data, real-world fuel economy often differs. Some drivers report figures that align with the EPA estimates, especially on longer highway trips. Although, those with a lead foot or those stuck in traffic jams may see numbers closer to 17 or 18 MPG. The Mustang’s automatic transmission helps maintain efficiency, but it can’t compensate for poor driving habits.

However, someone with patient driving habits could conceivably exceed the 27 MPG highway rating on a long road trip. It’s important to consider your own driving style and common routes when anticipating fuel consumption.

How it compares

Compared to other sporty coupes from 2016, the Mustang 3.7L is in the middle of the pack. A similarly equipped 2016 Chevrolet Camaro with the 3.6L V6 achieves around 22 MPG combined. The Nissan 370Z, with its more powerful 3.7L V6, comes in slightly lower at 21 MPG combined. A four-cylinder 2016 BMW 228i manages a significantly better 27 MPG combined, but appeals to a different buyer.

The Mustang sacrifices some outright fuel efficiency for its distinctive style, larger engine, and classic muscle car persona. The 2016 model year also saw the EcoBoost Mustangs (the 2.3L turbo models) achieving roughly 25 MPG combined. You can view MUSTANG MPG across all years for a better comparison of engine and transmission options.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Adopt smooth acceleration and braking habits. The Mustang’s V6, while not overly thirsty, responds poorly to aggressive driving. Avoid rapid acceleration from a standstill and anticipate traffic flow to minimize hard braking. Gentle and controlled inputs will not only improve fuel economy but also enhance the overall driving experience.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, at least once a month, and inflate them to the specifications listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. This simple step can have a surprisingly noticeable impact on fuel economy.

Minimize idling. Leaving your Mustang idling for extended periods wastes fuel and produces unnecessary emissions. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so there’s no need to let it run unnecessarily.

Use cruise control on the highway. Engaging cruise control helps maintain a constant speed, preventing the engine from fluctuating and wasting fuel. This is particularly beneficial on long, straight stretches of highway. Be mindful of road conditions though, and disengage cruise control when necessary to maintain safe control of the vehicle.

Consider the quality of your gasoline. While the Mustang’s 3.7L V6 is designed to run on regular unleaded fuel, using a higher-octane gasoline may provide a slight boost in performance and potentially improve fuel economy in some driving conditions. However, the benefits are likely to be minimal, so it’s important to weigh the cost versus the potential gains. Check all Ford fuel economy data before considering a different octane.