2010 Ford Mustang Convertible Test Drive

Ever since Ford brought the convertible option back in 1983, Mustang enthusiasts have enjoyed the open air feeling only a drop top can deliver. I recently spent a week behind the wheel of the newest Mustang convertible. Rain or shine, this pony kept moving on down the highway. But is it still worthy of being named one of the best convertibles on the market? $25,995 base, $28,995 as tested, EPA fuel economy 16 MPG city, 24 MPG highway automatic, 18 MPG city, 26 MPG highway manual.

The first thing I noticed when I approached the car was its V6 Premium-Sport Appearance Package. I’m talking about a rear spoiler and sport tape stripes on the lower rocker panels; a $295 option that’s well worth it for appearance sake.

Some standard exterior features of the 2010 V6 Convertible Mustang include a single stainless-steel exhaust, dual complex halogen headlights, black dual power mirrors, as well as a Mustang badge on front fender and grille. The car also comes equipped with the new Mustang Power Dome Hood which is designed to give the car a more aggressive look. A convertible boot is optional on the V6 model. Although mine didn’t come with one, it comes standard on Mustang GT Premium Convertible models. The new 2010 V6 Convertible rides on 17-inch painted aluminum wheels with an optional locking wheel kit.

The car is once again powered by a 4.0L V6 engine capable of producing 210 hp and 240 lb-ft. of torque. The 2010 GT Convertible produces 315 hp with its 4.6L V8 engine.

As with the previous model convertible, talking with the top down is no problem. Long gone are the days of cranking up the stereo just so you can hear the music over the road noise. You can still crank up the radio, for that heck of it that is. Only now you can control the sound a bit easier thanks to audio buttons integrated into the steering wheel.

The only thing I missed on my test car was a solid GPS system. I managed to get lost several times during my stay on the island. Yes, this added feature, the Voice-Activated Navigation System with Integrated SIRIUS Travel Link, will set you back about $2,195 when purchased as part of the Electronics Package on V6 Premium Convertible models. Of course, you’ll also get dual-zone automatic temperature control settings that allow you and your front-seat passenger to set your own individual comfort settings.

Most importantly, the car has plenty of pick up for a V6. No, this isn’t a V8 Mustang, but it provides plenty of pep to get you out of a pinch. Step on the gas and the car will kick into gear lickity spit.

What about the power convertible top you ask? Well, putting the top up or down was as easy as pressing a button and releasing two latches. The weather changed fast during my trip. One moment it was sunny, the next we were racing against hard-hitting rain. I simply pulled off of the road when the rain began to fall. One minute later I was back in action, top up, windows up, listening to my favorite Hawaiian tunes.

There are also things like additional headroom. That’s right, while this is less noticeable for passengers in the front seats (38.8 inches convertible/38.5 inches coupe), passengers in the back get nearly two inches more headroom over the coupe (36.5 inches convertible/34.7 inches coupe). Put the top down and headroom is a non-issue. Of course, with all things, there must be sacrifice. Rear shoulder room in the convertible is reduced by 6 inches (45 inches convertible/51.6 inches coupe). Overall cargo room is also reduced in the convertible (9.6 cu. ft. convertible/13.4 cu. ft. coupe).

In spite of these minor differences, I’d take the convertible model over the coupe any day of the week. There’s nothing like driving along the sandy, golden shores of Kauai in a Mustang convertible.

What I Liked About the V6 Convertible Mustang:

• New Interior Features
  
• It’s versatile rain or shine
  
• Handles well and features adequate power
  

What I Didn’t Like:

• Reduced shoulder room in the back seats
  
• Less overall cargo room than a coupe