29 MPG combined is the fuel economy for the 2016 Ford Mustang EcoBoost, a figure that surprises many. This isn’t your grandfather’s gas-guzzling pony car. The EcoBoost variant is built to deliver Mustang style and performance with responsibility, appealing to buyers who want the iconic Mustang experience without spending too much on gas. This combination targets younger buyers, daily commuters, and those who may have dismissed Mustang ownership due to fuel costs; now, they can have their cake and (almost) eat it too.

City and highway performance

The 2016 Mustang EcoBoost, equipped with the 6-speed automatic transmission, gets an EPA-estimated 26 MPG in the city and a more impressive 34 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic where the 2.3L EcoBoost turbo engine loses some efficiency. Out on the open road, the Mustang EcoBoost settles into a comfortable cruise, using its aerodynamic design and efficient engine mapping to deliver those advertised highway numbers. This performance profile makes it a suitable, although not ideal, commuter car that can still transform into a weekend canyon-carving machine.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2016 Ford Mustang EcoBoost is $1,810. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Remember that this is an estimate; your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of gas you use, and fuel prices. This $1,810 provides a reference point for understanding the overall cost of ownership compared to other vehicles.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a baseline, but real-world driving yields different results. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and neglecting routine maintenance, like tire inflation, can negatively impact fuel economy. Mustang EcoBoost owners who prioritize acceleration will likely see numbers closer to the low 20s. Drivers who adopt a conservative approach, using cruise control on the highway and avoiding hard acceleration, may find themselves exceeding the EPA estimates. This car responds directly to driver input; drive it hard and it will drink harder.

How it compares

Compared to other sports cars, the 2016 Mustang EcoBoost is relatively fuel-efficient. The V6-powered Chevrolet Camaro of the same year achieved around 22 MPG combined. Even the four-cylinder Camaro from that year does not significantly surpass the EcoBoost’s fuel economy. Looking at other coupes from 2016, a Honda Accord Coupe with the four cylinder achieved around 30 MPG but lacks the Mustang’s performance. These comparisons are crucial for potential buyers who want the looks and feel of a sports car but are concerned about fuel costs. The MUSTANG MPG across all years demonstrates Ford’s commitment to efficiency improvements.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Mustang EcoBoost benefits from a consistent driving style. Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking. Try to maintain a steady speed, particularly on the highway, and anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary stops and starts. Cruise control is helpful on longer trips.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which lowers fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure level listed on the sticker inside your driver’s side door. Given the emphasis on handling, it is easy to forget about MPG.

Use the correct grade of gasoline. The Mustang EcoBoost is designed to run on regular unleaded fuel. While premium fuel might offer a slight performance boost, it’s unlikely to significantly improve fuel economy. Stick to the recommended fuel grade to save money and avoid potential engine problems. Performance-oriented brands may yield a small uptick but the cost will outweigh the benefit.

Keep up with routine maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance can all help ensure your engine is running efficiently. A well-maintained engine burns fuel more cleanly than one that’s neglected.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra weight in your car decreases fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from your trunk and back seat. The less weight your engine has to haul around, the better your fuel economy will be. Review all Ford fuel economy data to see the results of similar efficiency efforts in other models.