The official EPA fuel economy figure for the 2022 Ford Mustang Convertible equipped with the 5.0L V8 and 10-speed automatic transmission is 18 MPG combined. Frankly, nobody buys this car prioritizing fuel efficiency. It’s a heart-over-head purchase, driven by iconic styling, a visceral driving experience, and the wind in your hair. The Mustang V8 convertible appeals to those who value open-top thrills and the characteristic rumble of American muscle, fully aware that such pleasures come at a price at the pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Mustang’s fuel economy at 15 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure highlights the inherent inefficiency of a large-displacement engine in stop-and-go traffic. The engine’s displacement and the vehicle’s weight affect fuel economy in urban environments.

The highway number is more respectable, reflecting the benefit of the 10-speed automatic transmission’s ability to keep the engine at lower RPMs when cruising at consistent speeds. Expect to see 23 MPG on long road trips when staying within legal speed limits. Aggressive driving will, of course, reduce that number.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Ford Mustang Convertible 5.0L V8 at $2,450. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven 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.

This is an estimate, and your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and local fuel prices. Drivers who frequently accelerate and brake hard will likely exceed this annual fuel cost, while those who primarily use the car for leisurely highway cruising might find themselves spending less. See all Ford fuel economy data.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy often deviates from these figures. Mustang 5.0L V8 convertible owners frequently report numbers that differ from the official ratings. Owners who frequently enjoy the car’s performance capabilities, indulging in its acceleration and powerful sound, can expect to see their average MPG drop closer to the city rating, or even slightly below it. Conversely, owners who prioritize smooth, steady highway driving may be able to achieve or surpass the EPA’s highway estimate.

The actual fuel economy depends on driving style and the conditions in which the vehicle is operated. Check out MUSTANG MPG across all years.

How it compares

Compared to other vehicles in its class, the 2022 Mustang Convertible 5.0L V8 lands where you’d expect. The Chevrolet Camaro Convertible with the 6.2L V8 achieves a similar 16 MPG city and 24 MPG highway, showing that raw power comes at a consistent fuel cost across manufacturers. Stepping down to the Mustang’s own 2.3L EcoBoost engine boosts fuel economy significantly, reaching 21 MPG city and 29 MPG highway, for a combined 24 MPG. However, choosing that engine prioritizes fuel consumption over the visceral experience of the V8, and Mustang buyers are often willing to pay the price for that classic muscle car feel. Even performance-oriented SUVs don’t always fare much better. A Porsche Macan S manages an EPA-estimated 17 MPG city and 23 MPG highway, proving that performance-oriented driving, regardless of vehicle type, comes with similar fuel economy trade-offs. The Mustang driver knows they are sacrificing some efficiency for a very specific type of driving experience.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the Mustang V8 convertible is not inherently fuel-efficient, there are steps owners can take to minimize fuel consumption. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The 5.0L V8 is responsive, and it’s easy to get carried away with its power. Smooth and gradual acceleration burns less fuel than rapid bursts.

Anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary stops and use the 10-speed automatic’s ability to keep the engine in its most efficient range.

Ensure your Mustang’s tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Use the tire pressures recommended on the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. Regularly check and maintain the recommended tire pressure, especially before long drives.

Minimize idling time. Letting the engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute, it’s more efficient to turn off the engine. Also, consider using the auto start/stop feature (if equipped) in stop-and-go driving, though some drivers dislike the sensation and turn it off.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, preventing the fluctuations in speed that can waste fuel. Set the cruise control and let the car maintain a steady pace, especially on long, level stretches of highway. Be mindful of your surroundings and adjust the cruise control when necessary.

Keep up with regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Schedule regular oil changes, replace air filters as recommended, and address any mechanical issues promptly. A properly tuned engine will deliver optimal fuel economy and performance. A neglected engine will inevitably become less efficient.