Whenever I think of a Mustang, I associate it with having a V8. This is partially due to my father having owned a notchback, Fox-body Mustang LX with the 5.0L V8, a five-speed manual, and cloth seats — essentially the same spec of Mustang that police departments and even the RCMP used for highway patrol fleets through the late ’80s and early ’90s. Having said that, this four-cylinder 2025 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Coupe isn’t a new concept for Ford.

Way back in 1974, at the beginning of the malaise era, Ford did this with the Pinto-based Mustang II, but it wasn’t until a decade later with the Fox Body that they really started cooking. For 1984, Ford introduced a high-performance variant of the four-cylinder — now turbocharged and intercooled — called the Mustang SVO. Similar in spirit to the SVO, this 2025 Mustang with the EcoBoost turbo-four continues the evolution. While it may lack the raw V8 thunder of its GT siblings, the EcoBoost variant stands its ground as a sporty coupe with a more accessible price tag trying to blend performance, technology, every day usability, and efficiency. But the keyword here is trying — having spent a week with this bright yellow example, I definitely have some thoughts.

What’s new for 2025?

Ford hasn’t deviated too far from the Mustang’s visual DNA, and for good reason. The Mustang EcoBoost maintains the signature long hood, short rear deck, and fastback roofline, all of which give the car its unmistakable presence. However, the newest design tweaks bring a sharper, more sculpted look, emphasizing aerodynamics and aggression without going overboard. Narrower LED headlights flank a bolder grille, while the rear sees redesigned taillights and an updated bumper treatment that enhances the coupe’s stance. New for 2025, Ford introduces a new colour called Intense Lime Yellow; it shines nicely in the sunlight and receives lots of second glances. With the gloss black wheels, this contrasting colourway puts this exterior colour on centre stage.

Half the cylinders, half the fun?

Under the Mustang EcoBoost’s hood lies a 2.3-litre turbo-four pushing out 315 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. These figures put it head of many competitors in the four-cylinder sports car segment, namely the Toyota GR86. Acceleration feels brisk, with the zero-to-100 km/h landing in the low five-second range. The 10-speed automatic is the only transmission available, meaning the V8 is now the only way to row your own gears.

The Mustang EcoBoost is plenty powerful for street use, but power delivery feels inconsistent, especially in Eco mode. Sometimes it responds to inputs without fuss, but other times it hesitates to give me the power I need, especially when I want to overtake or thread the needle for a left turn at a busy intersection. Placing the Mustang into Sport mode remedied this to some degree, but the hesitation still persisted. At times where the Mustang EcoBoost does feel sure-footed, it has enough low-end torque to make highway merging or backroad overtakes effortless, and it doesn’t fall flat at the top end. The engine’s soundtrack is artificially enhanced through the speakers — something purists might frown upon — in an effort to try and add some drama by making this turbo-four sound more muscular.

How does the Mustang EcoBoost drive?

Where the Mustang leaves a lot on the table is the driving experience, or lack thereof. The steering — although very light and easy for even the most novice of drivers to use — provides little feedback. Although this tester does have a limited-slip differential, the non-existent steering feel makes you feel like you’re betting on what the Mustang might eventually do, rather than actually being connected to the driving experience — something GR86 does brilliantly. Although it does have near 50/50 weight distribution and independent rear suspension, the Mustang feels sloppy, and quite frankly, best left just being a highway cruiser soaking up the miles. Considering our tester isn’t equipped with the Performance Package, the omission of paddle shifters on a vehicle supposedly with a sporting intent really hit home that this version of the Mustang really is style first, performance second.

At least fuel economy with the 2025 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Coupe is acceptable for a four-cylinder. Ford officially rates it at 10.8 L/100 km city, 7.1 highway, and 9.2 combined. I averaged a thirstier 11.7 L/100 km, even after attempting to drive like a senior citizen, but it’s still better than anything you’d average with a GT. For drivers who want the muscle car persona without the pain at the pump, the EcoBoost may actually be the one to get.

Despite missing the mark on sporting intent, the Mustang EcoBoost doesn’t miss the mark on comfort. It’s easier to live with on a daily basis compared to the GT thanks to its lighter steering, less aggressive ride quality, and potentially lower operating costs. The ride in particular strikes a respectable balance between firm and forgiving; it feels composed on well-paved roads, while minor bumps and imperfections are soaked up without jarring occupants. It’s not as plush as a luxury coupe, but the Mustang EcoBoost is far from punishing especially on Toronto’s pothole-riddled roads.

Interior impressions, cargo, and tech

In terms of the interior space, the front seats are supportive and generously bolstered, offering comfort on long drives. Materials used throughout the cabin have improved over previous generations, with soft-touch surfaces and available leather upholstery lending a more upscale feel. Rear seat space remains tight, as expected in a two-door coupe, but it can accommodate smaller passengers for short trips. The trunk offers 323 litres cargo space and the rear seats fold down to expand that space for larger items in a pinch.

One of the most notable changes for this latest generation of Mustang is the interior layout. Gone is the traditional dual-binnacle dashboard of the outgoing car, now replaced with a sleek digital cockpit. A 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster merges seamlessly with a 13.2-inch central touchscreen, giving the cabin a futuristic vibe. Both displays are sharp, responsive, and highly customizable. Graphics are smooth, and the user interface is intuitive, with support for wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Climate controls have migrated into the touchscreen, which may divide some buyers. While it declutters the dashboard, I prefer the previous Mustang’s more traditional physical knobs and buttons for ease of use while driving.

In terms of safety tech, the Mustang EcoBoost doesn’t lag behind more expensive models. Features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning with automatic braking come standard, depending on the trim. The Mustang EcoBoost feels like a well-rounded package when it comes to accoutrements, especially when you consider its price tag.

Is the Mustang EcoBoost worth it?

Starting at $44,580 — well below the V8 models — the Mustang EcoBoost can offer good value to consumers. Ford offers abundant customization options, letting buyers build a Mustang that suits their needs perfectly, whether that’s a stylish daily driver, a more performance-oriented vehicle with the Performance Package, or a tech-savvy commuter. Our tester comes in at $53,520 as-tested before additional fees.

In this particular guise without the aforementioned Performance Package, the 2025 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Coupe is a stylish four-cylinder sports coupe that can stir the emotions of those where driving engagement isn’t high on the totem pole. Where it does deliver is on comfort, technology, and looks, putting daily-driver livability and creature comforts above performance capabilities. Diehard Mustang enthusiasts will always gravitate toward the GT or Dark Horse, but the EcoBoost carves out its own niche, catering to who want style perhaps without as much substance.