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2024 Ford Mustang EcoBoost vs Toyota GR86: What To Choose?
The new Mustangs, particularly the EcoBoost model, cater to those who desire a taste of their cherished story. The EcoBoost version features a four-cylinder engine and stands out as the sole true car amidst Ford’s array of crossovers and trucks. The S550 generation bids farewell, making way for the S650 with a subtle transformation, boasting a more elegant interior and sleek appearance. However, the front end now sports a bold grille that resembles an enthusiastic fish’s grin. On the other hand, the Toyota GR86 is a rare find among the sea of crossovers and SUVs. Offering an affordable rear-wheel-drive coupe option. It comes with the choice of a six-speed automatic or a standard six-speed manual gearbox. With the latter being the preferred option. The rear seats of the GR86 offer additional cargo space when needed, making it a practical choice.
| Ford Mustang EcoBoost | Toyota GR86 | |
| Dimensions | 189.4 in x 75.4 in x 54.8–55.0 in | 167.9 in x 69.9 in x 51.6 in |
| Engine | 2.3L turbocharged inline-4 | 2.4L naturally aspirated flat-4 |
| Horsepower | 315 hp | 228 hp |
| Torque | 350 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH | 5.0–6.0 sec | 5.4 sec |
| 0-100 MPH | NA | 13.8 sec |
| Top-Speed | 121–155 mph | 140 mph |
Ford Mustang EcoBoost
Engine & Performance
The base model of the car, be it a coupe or a convertible, boasts Dearborn’s impressive EcoBoost turbo-four engine with a robust 2.3-liter capacity. This powerful engine delivers an impressive 315 horsepower at 5500 rpm and a formidable 350 lb-ft of torque at 3000 rpm. In the past, the outgoing EcoBoost Mustang offered 310 horsepower with an optional hot-rod pack that pushed it to 330. But unfortunately, that option is no longer available, which is quite disappointing. Moreover, for those who cherish manual transmissions, it’s unfortunate to note that the six-speed manual transmission for the EcoBoost has been discontinued. Leaving only a 10-speed automatic as the sole choice. This update might not be as thrilling for the manual enthusiasts as they had hoped.
Price & Mileage
The S550 EcoBoosts offer an enticing optional Performance pack that comes at a mere $3,475. This incredible package brings a host of upgrades that are sure to take your driving experience to new heights. Get ready to enjoy wider wheels and tires, an engine-bay brace, a Torsen limited-slip differential with a 3.55:1 final-drive ratio, MagneRide adaptive dampers, fixed-caliper Brembo brakes, and even a captivating “drift stick” hand-brake lever on the center tunnel. With a starting price of just $32,515, the EcoBoost base model is truly a marvel. The new engine has been crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Delivering enhanced efficiency through remarkable reductions in friction and mass. As a result, the coupe’s EPA fuel-economy ratings soar. Boasting an outstanding 26 mpg combined, 22 mpg in the city, and an impressive 33 mpg on the highway.
Acceleration & Features
While some purists argue in favor of the powerful V-8 engine for the Mustang, the inline-four option also has its undeniable merits. It impressively delivers decent and readily available torque, especially in the midrange. However, there is a notable flaw in the 10-speed automatic transmission. Which tends to upshift too quickly, resulting in an unpleasant moaning and droning sound as the tach needle drops. Although a Low mode exists, obtaining manual shifting convenience requires additional cost for the shift paddles. This might leave some Mustang enthusiasts desiring more excitement and control in their driving experience. Regarding the dashboard, the abundance of screens in modern glass cockpits can be viewed as overly ambitious, and the Mustang follows suit. The 12.4-inch display above the steering column and the 13.2-inch touchscreen on the center console stand out conspicuously, brimming with pixels.
Toyota GR86
Engine & Performance
The GR86 boasts a naturally aspirated horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine from Subaru. Now with a more potent 2.4-liter version generating 228 horsepower. Enthusiasts will delight in the standard six-speed manual transmission, although a six-speed automatic option is available. Notably, the manual outperforms the automatic by 0.7 seconds in the 0-60 mph test. During our exhilarating test drive, we couldn’t help but appreciate the liveliness and improved sound of the more powerful engine. Offering an exciting experience both on the road and the race track. Surprisingly, despite its razor-sharp handling and thrills, the GR86 maintains a forgiving suspension. Making it perfectly suitable for daily driving adventures.
Price & Mileage
The Toyota GR86 Premium offers an enticing upgrade from the base model, justifying its slightly higher price. The Premium version comes equipped with desirable features like heated seats, stylish 18-inch wheels with summer performance tires, adaptive LED headlights, and an improved eight-speaker audio system. Opting for the six-speed manual transmission is a clear and compelling choice here. With a starting price of $30,000, the GR86 promises a balance of performance and efficiency. According to EPA estimates, the six-speed automatic transmission achieves 21 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, while the six-speed manual variant achieves slightly lower but still respectable EPA numbers at 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
Acceleration & Features
The previous generation showed satisfactory acceleration with a 6.2-second time to reach 60 mph. However, the latest GR86 surpasses expectations, clocking an impressive 5.4 seconds to hit 60 mph and covering a quarter-mile in just 14.0 seconds. As for entertainment features, the GR86 boasts an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen as standard. Additionally, it offers a versatile 7.0-inch digital gauge display with customizable modes like Normal, Sport, and Track. Embracing modern connectivity, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities come standard, along with a complimentary three-month trial of SiriusXM satellite radio for all models.