24 MPG combined won’t win any fuel economy awards, but for the 2017 Ford Mustang 2.3L EcoBoost, it’s a calculated compromise. This isn’t a Prius. It’s a Mustang, and buyers drawn to the turbocharged four-cylinder are seeking a blend of accessible performance and relatively reasonable running costs. They want the iconic styling and the badge, but they aren’t necessarily prioritizing outright muscle. They understand that a V8 comes with a significant fuel penalty, and they’re choosing the EcoBoost, in part, to reduce that. It’s a smart move for those who prioritize daily drivability without sacrificing the Mustang experience entirely.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Mustang EcoBoost at 21 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway when equipped with the six-speed automatic transmission (S6). The city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go driving, where the engine is working harder and the turbocharger spools up frequently. The highway figure, on the other hand, showcases the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently when not under heavy load. These numbers represent a notable difference between driving styles, and consistent highway driving will undoubtedly improve your overall fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Ford Mustang 2.3L EcoBoost at $1,800. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a useful benchmark, but keep in mind that your actual fuel cost will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local fuel prices. Someone who drives mostly in the city and has a lead foot will likely exceed this estimate, while someone who commutes primarily on the highway and drives conservatively may see lower costs. It also assumes the use of regular gasoline as opposed to premium, which is recommended, but regular is acceptable, according to Ford.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy often differs. Many drivers find that they achieve numbers close to the EPA estimates, especially with mindful driving. However, factors like aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips in cold weather, and modifications to the vehicle can all negatively impact fuel economy. The 2.3L EcoBoost engine is sensitive to driving style; treat it gently, and it will reward you with respectable mileage. Push it hard, and the MPG will drop accordingly. Access all Ford fuel economy data to see what others are experiencing.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2017 Mustang EcoBoost holds its own reasonably well. For example, the 2017 Chevrolet Camaro 2.0L turbo achieved an EPA-estimated 25 MPG combined, very close to the Mustang’s rating, thus being nearly equivalent. However, the V6 variants of both cars see a notable drop in fuel economy. A V6 Camaro from this period gets closer to 22 Combined MPG. If the buyer is prioritizing fuel savings over all-out performance, the four-cylinder Mustang is a good choice. Consider the MUSTANG MPG across all years to truly determine trends.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The EcoBoost engine delivers its power smoothly, so there’s no need to floor it at every opportunity. Gentle acceleration and smooth braking will significantly improve your fuel economy. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly using a reliable gauge and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. If possible, replace the OEM tires with ones that offer low rolling resistance.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re going to be stationary for more than a minute, turn off the engine. This is particularly important in city driving, where you might encounter frequent stops at red lights.

Reduce aerodynamic drag. Remove unnecessary items from the vehicle that add weight or create aerodynamic drag, such as roof racks or cargo carriers. Ensuring windows are closed at higher speeds provides the same benefit.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy on long highway drives. However, be mindful of using it in hilly terrain, as the transmission may downshift frequently, negating some of the fuel-saving benefits.