The 2017 Ford Mustang: A Legendary Muscle Car
The Ford Mustang is a name synonymous with power, performance, and style. Since its debut in 1964, the Mustang has been a cultural icon, embodying the spirit of the American road. The 2017 Ford Mustang continues this legacy, blending retro design cues with modern technology and engineering. With a variety of trims, engine options, and features, the 2017 Mustang caters to everyone from casual drivers to performance enthusiasts. Let’s dive deep into what makes this model year so special.
Overview of the 2017 Mustang
The 2017 Mustang is part of the sixth generation of Mustangs, which began with the 2015 model. This generation marked a significant shift in the Mustang's design and performance, incorporating a fully independent rear suspension, advanced technology, and a more refined interior. The lineup includes the Mustang V6, Mustang EcoBoost, Mustang GT, and Shelby GT350. Each model provides a unique driving experience, ensuring there's a Mustang for every type of driver.
Exterior Design: Classic Meets Modern
The 2017 Mustang’s design strikes a perfect balance between classic muscle car aesthetics and contemporary style. Its fastback roofline, aggressive front grille, and signature tri-bar taillights pay homage to its heritage, while aerodynamic refinements give it a modern edge. HID headlights are standard on all trims, enhancing visibility and adding a sleek look. LED taillights with the iconic tri-bar design create a distinctive nighttime presence. Wheel options range from 17-inch alloys to 20-inch premium wheels, allowing buyers to customize their Mustang’s appearance. The convertible option, with its power-operated soft top, adds open-air driving enjoyment. Available in bold colors like Race Red and Grabber Blue or subtler shades like Shadow Black, the 2017 Mustang stands out no matter where you take it.
Interior Design and Features
Inside, the 2017 Mustang delivers a driver-focused cabin with high-quality materials and modern technology. The interior is both sporty and comfortable, offering features like optional Recaro sport seats ideal for spirited driving with added bolstering, dual-zone climate control standard on higher trims for personalized comfort, ambient lighting that adds a sleek, modern touch, and the Sync 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility. The Mustang also offers impressive practicality for a sports car, with seating for four and a trunk capacity of 13.5 cubic feet in the coupe or 11.4 cubic feet in the convertible.
Engine Options and Performance
The 2017 Mustang shines brightest in its performance capabilities. With four engine options, there’s something for every driving style. The 3.7L V6 engine delivers 300 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission, making it a great entry-level option with classic Mustang sound. The 2.3L EcoBoost engine generates 310 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, offering impressive acceleration and fuel efficiency. The 5.0L V8 engine in the GT produces 435 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, delivering raw power with a signature V8 growl. For track enthusiasts, the Shelby GT350 boasts a 5.2L flat-plane crank V8 engine with 526 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, paired exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission for unparalleled driving dynamics.
Handling and Driving Dynamics
Thanks to its fully independent rear suspension, the 2017 Mustang offers a smooth ride and precise handling. Advanced technologies like electronic power-assisted steering (EPAS) and optional MagneRide dampers (available on the Shelby GT350) enhance responsiveness and driving pleasure. The EcoBoost and GT models are especially praised for their balance and agility, whether cornering or cruising on the highway.
Safety Features
The 2017 Mustang comes equipped with advanced safety features to keep drivers and passengers secure. AdvanceTrac with electronic stability control enhances stability during cornering or slippery conditions. A rearview camera is standard on all trims for easier parking and reversing. Adaptive cruise control is available as an option to maintain a safe following distance on long drives. Optional blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert add an extra layer of awareness during lane changes and parking. In addition to these technologies, the Mustang includes front and side-curtain airbags and a high-strength steel frame for robust crash protection.
Fuel Efficiency
While performance is a priority, the 2017 Mustang also delivers respectable fuel efficiency for a sports car. The V6 achieves 18 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. The EcoBoost offers 21 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. The GT (V8) provides 15 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, while the Shelby GT350 achieves 14 mpg city and 21 mpg highway. The EcoBoost trim is particularly appealing for those seeking a balance between power and fuel economy.
Customization Options
Ford offers numerous customization options, allowing buyers to tailor their Mustang to their preferences. Popular packages include the Performance Package, which adds upgraded brakes, suspension components, and summer tires for enhanced handling. Premium Trim Levels feature leather seating, upgraded audio systems, and advanced technology. The Black Accent Package offers black-painted wheels, a black spoiler, and black badges for a stealthy appearance. The California Special Package for the GT includes unique badging, striping, and interior enhancements.
Shelby GT350: The Track-Ready Mustang
The Shelby GT350 represents the pinnacle of the 2017 Mustang lineup. Built for the track, it features Brembo brakes with massive calipers for exceptional stopping power, MagneRide suspension that continuously adjusts damping for optimal performance, and aerodynamic enhancements like a front splitter, rear diffuser, and hood vents to improve airflow and stability. The GT350 offers a driving experience that rivals far more expensive sports cars, solidifying its place as a legend in the Mustang family.
Pricing and Value
The 2017 Mustang offers exceptional value with a starting MSRP of $25,185 for the V6 Fastback, $26,195 for the EcoBoost Fastback, $33,195 for the GT Fastback, and $56,495 for the Shelby GT350. Used 2017 Mustangs are widely available, often at competitive prices, making this model an accessible option for performance enthusiasts.
Competitors in the Segment
The Mustang competes with several other sports cars, including the Chevrolet Camaro, known for its aggressive styling and comparable performance options; the Dodge Challenger, which offers more interior space and retro muscle car vibes; and the Nissan 370Z, a smaller sports car with sharp handling. Despite the competition, the Mustang stands out for its blend of heritage, customization, and cutting-edge technology.
Technology Features
The 2017 Ford Mustang is equipped with cutting-edge technology that enhances the driving experience. At the heart of the tech suite is the Sync 3 infotainment system, which offers a responsive touchscreen interface, voice commands, and seamless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Drivers can also access optional navigation with real-time traffic updates. The Track Apps system provides performance metrics like lap times, g-force measurements, and acceleration stats, appealing to driving enthusiasts. Additionally, features like push-button start, intelligent access with keyless entry, and a premium Shaker Pro audio system make the Mustang as tech-savvy as it is powerful.
Comfort and Convenience
Beyond performance, the 2017 Mustang ensures a comfortable and enjoyable ride. The optional leather-trimmed seats add a premium touch, while heated and ventilated front seats offer year-round comfort. The driver’s seat features power adjustments with memory settings for personalized support. The Mustang’s dual-zone automatic climate control ensures both the driver and passenger can set their preferred temperatures, enhancing long-distance comfort. The cabin design also prioritizes driver convenience with ergonomic controls and strategically placed cup holders, making it as practical as it is stylish.
Driving Modes and Customization
The 2017 Mustang caters to a variety of driving preferences with its selectable drive modes. Drivers can choose between Normal, Sport, Track, and Snow/Wet settings, each adjusting the steering effort, throttle response, and stability control parameters. The Mustang GT and Shelby GT350 add even more performance-focused features like launch control, ensuring optimal acceleration during track sessions. With these drive modes and performance options, drivers can fine-tune their Mustang’s behavior to match their style and road conditions.
Legacy and Heritage
The 2017 Mustang continues to honor the rich heritage of this iconic vehicle, which has captured the hearts of car enthusiasts for over 50 years. Classic design elements like the fastback roofline, tri-bar taillights, and aggressive grille are modernized while paying tribute to the original 1964 Mustang. The sixth generation also marked significant advancements in engineering and technology, ensuring the Mustang remains relevant in the competitive sports car market. This blend of nostalgia and innovation makes the 2017 model a standout in the lineup.
Ownership Experience and Community
Owning a 2017 Mustang is about more than just having a high-performance car—it’s about being part of a passionate and enthusiastic community. Mustang owners enjoy a wide range of events, from local car meets to large gatherings like Mustang Week. The extensive aftermarket support for the Mustang also means owners can personalize their cars with performance upgrades, styling modifications, and accessories. Ford’s reliable warranty coverage and a strong resale value make the Mustang not only a thrilling car to drive but also a smart investment for sports car enthusiasts.
Track Performance and Capabilities
For drivers who crave adrenaline-pumping track experiences, the 2017 Mustang delivers exceptional performance, especially in the GT and Shelby GT350 trims. The Mustang GT, with its 5.0L V8 engine, features an optional Performance Package that includes upgraded brakes, a Torsen limited-slip differential, and high-performance summer tires for improved grip and handling. The Shelby GT350 takes things to the next level with a track-tuned suspension, lightweight components, and specially designed Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires. These enhancements, combined with aerodynamic features like a front splitter and rear spoiler, make the GT350 a formidable contender on any racecourse.
Sustainability and Efficiency
While the Mustang is known for its power and performance, the 2017 model introduces a more eco-conscious option with the EcoBoost engine. This 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides an impressive 310 horsepower while achieving up to 30 mpg on the highway. Ford’s engineering ensures that drivers don’t have to sacrifice performance for efficiency, making the EcoBoost an appealing choice for those who want a balance of thrill and practicality. With advancements like direct injection and turbocharging, the Mustang demonstrates Ford’s commitment to blending performance with sustainability.
Awards and Recognition
The 2017 Ford Mustang earned widespread acclaim for its blend of performance, design, and innovation. It was recognized by industry experts and automotive enthusiasts alike, solidifying its place as a leader in the sports car segment. The Mustang's powerful engine options, particularly the EcoBoost and GT trims, earned high marks in performance reviews, while its modernized interior and technology features were praised for enhancing driver comfort and connectivity. Additionally, its long-standing reputation as an American icon helped the Mustang continue to dominate sales in its class.
Road Trip and Everyday Usability
Despite its reputation as a high-performance sports car, the 2017 Mustang is surprisingly versatile, making it suitable for road trips and everyday use. The cabin offers ample storage options, including a spacious trunk and rear seats that fold down to accommodate larger items. The independent rear suspension not only improves handling but also enhances ride comfort, making long journeys more enjoyable. Advanced driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control and rearview cameras further contribute to stress-free driving. Whether you’re carving through canyon roads or cruising along highways, the 2017 Mustang proves it’s more than just a weekend toy—it’s a car you can enjoy every day.
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