18 MPG combined. Nobody buys a 2017 Ford Mustang Convertible with the 5.0L V8 expecting Prius-like fuel consumption. This car is purchased on emotion, a machine designed to deliver open-air thrills and the unmistakable rumble of American muscle. Fuel economy is a secondary consideration, something tolerated rather than celebrated. Those seeking a weekend escape prioritize horsepower and visceral driving pleasure over trips to the pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates suggest 15 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go traffic where the Mustang’s heavy curb weight and powerful engine work against efficiency. Expect frequent fill-ups if your commute involves a lot of idling and low-speed maneuvering. The highway number is more palatable, achievable during steady-state cruising. The six-speed automatic transmission helps to keep the engine in its sweet spot on the open road, contributing to that 23 MPG figure. However, aggressive acceleration will quickly erode those gains, reminding you of the V8’s thirst.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Ford Mustang Convertible 5.0L at $2,450. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, split roughly 55% city and 45% highway, using national average fuel prices. Premium fuel is recommended for optimal performance from the 5.0L V8, so you may end up spending more to fill up your fuel tank each time. This makes a difference for drivers who log more miles or live in areas with higher gasoline costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world MPG often differs. Factors like driving style, traffic conditions, and even tire pressure can significantly impact fuel economy. Expect closer to 12-14 MPG in the city with spirited driving, while a conservative highway cruise might yield closer to 25 MPG. The sound of the V8 can be addictive, tempting drivers to use the performance more than anticipated and affecting their gas mileage. It’s not unusual for owners to see average mpg figures lower than the EPA estimates with regular aggressive driving habits. Fortunately, all Ford fuel economy data is readily available, so you can compare numbers across models.

How it compares

Compared to other performance convertibles, the 2017 Mustang 5.0L isn’t particularly fuel-efficient. A comparable Chevrolet Camaro Convertible with its 6.2L V8 achieves around 19 MPG combined, a small but noticeable improvement. The BMW 440i Convertible, with its turbocharged inline-six, offers a significantly better 25 MPG combined. However, these are different cars with different priorities. The Mustang delivers classic American muscle at a price point its European competitors can’t match. The 2017 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack is perhaps the Mustang’s closest competitor, and its fuel economy is similar, hovering around 18 MPG combined depending on the configuration. Before buying, be sure to check the MUSTANG MPG across all years to see if a newer model might nudge your fuel economy.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended levels, which can be found on the sticker inside the driver’s side door.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Mustang’s V8 is responsive, but every hard launch and sudden stop consumes extra fuel. Drive smoothly and anticipate traffic conditions to minimize unnecessary bursts of power.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed can significantly improve fuel efficiency, especially on long road trips. Cruise control minimizes fluctuations in throttle input, preventing wasteful acceleration.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine run while parked burns fuel unnecessarily. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines don’t require extended warm-up periods.

Lighten the load. Extra weight in the trunk or passenger compartment reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items to improve your MPG. The extra weight is like carrying a passenger with you every time you drive.