For more than a century, Ford has been one of the leading makers of automobiles. One of its most famous models, the Ford Mustang, has been a leader in sports cars since the mid1960s. Today, the Mustang comes with Ford's newer class of motors, the EcoBoost engine. In fact, Ford offers two trim levels with the EcoBoost engine to choose from: the basic trim level and a premium option.
So, which one should you choose? Below, we'll take a look at the two options and explore their main differences as well as their similarities to help you decide which Mustang trim level is the right choice for you. Whether you want to maximize your Mustang's performance capabilities or spring for the most luxurious interior features, here's a thorough breakdown of Ford's EcoBoost and Premium EcoBoost Mustang trim levels.
What Is the EcoBoost Engine?
The first EcoBoost engine entered the world in 2009 and has powered the base trim level for many Ford models since. Included standard on a number of Ford models today, including the Mustang, Ford's EcoBoost engine is designed to increase both fuel efficiency and performance using three particular mechanical methods: turbocharging, direct fuel injection, and variable camshaft timing. In this way, Ford is able to increase a vehicle's horsepower and torque without sacrificing extra fuel to do so.
EcoBoost vs. EcoBoost Premium Mustang: The Differences
First, it's important to mention that the differences between the EcoBoost and the EcoBoost Premium Mustangs have nothing to do with their performance capabilities. In fact, your choice between the two trim levels depends solely on your preferences when it comes to the quality and number of comfort and convenience features included. While the base EcoBoost trim option provides everything you need for a top-notch sports car, including outstanding performance and power, the Premium trim level also offers a variety of extra items, such as heated and cooled front seats, superior audio, projection lights, and ambient interior lighting.
Because of the differences in features between the two trim levels, there's a fairly distinct price difference between the EcoBoost and the EcoBoost Premium. While the base trim has a starting MSRP of $27,770, the Premium trim has a starting MSRP of roughly $5,000 more at $32,795. For a complete list, the EcoBoost Premium Mustang includes the following features in addition to or as a replacement for the ones on the base-level EcoBoost Mustang:
- 18-inch Machined-face Aluminum wheels with High-Gloss Ebony Black-painted pockets.
- LED headlights and LED signature lighting.
- LED sequential taillights.
- Blade decklid spoiler.
- Hood vents.
- Optional over-the-top racing stripe.
- Optional performance rear wing.
- Power-adjustable front seats.
- Heated and cooled leather-trimmed front seats.
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel.
- Dual-zone automatic temperature control.
- Sync 3 infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Nine-speaker sound system.
- Dual smart-charging USB ports.
- Premium interior trim.
- Optional Recaro leather-trimmed front sport seats.
- Optional Bang & Olufsen sound system.
- Optional heated steering wheel.
EcoBoost vs. EcoBoost Premium Mustang: The Similarities
As mentioned, the similarities between the EcoBoost and the EcoBoost Premium Mustangs are more significant than their differences, especially regarding what's under the hood. Both models come with a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces up to 310 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, and both get about 25 combined mpg. We recommend fueling your Mustang with 93 octane gas, regardless of which trim level you choose.
Other than its interior features, the exteriors of both trim levels are relatively the same appearance-wise, with the only differences being that the base trim has no rear spoiler or satellite antenna and has slightly smaller wheels. Otherwise, general appearance differences will likely not be a part of your decision-making process.
Which To Choose?
With the vast majority of their differences reserved for their interior features, the EcoBoost and the EcoBoost Premium Mustangs remain head-to-head when it comes to performance. Thus, your decision between the two trim levels will depend mainly on your budget and your desired comfort and convenience features.
EcoBoost Mustang: Pros and Cons
The base-level trim, the EcoBoost Mustang, is impressive all on its own. There's no sacrifice of performance capabilities by sticking to the basic model, and the driving experience itself remains straightforward without the addition of technology features that some drivers may consider too frivolous. If features such as leather seating and premium audio aren't dealbreakers for you, it's probably worth it to stick to the basic trim. However, if you can't imagine your Mustang without its complete racing-inspired design, the basic trim level may not be enough to satisfy you.
EcoBoost Premium Mustang: Pros and Cons
As mentioned, the Premium version of the Mustang's EcoBoost trim level doesn't really add any new performance capabilities that weren't present in the basic trim level. However, there are a number of premium features, namely comfort and convenience components, that you'll miss out on if you choose not to spring for the pricier trim option.
If you do have the budget for it, and looks are especially important to you, you'll probably find that the extra money for the Premium trim is worth it to you. After all, in the grand scheme of things, it isn't too significant of a price difference, especially for someone looking for the ultimate Mustang driving experience.
Shop for the EcoBoost Mustang at All American Ford
The Mustang continues to wow both longtime and brand-new fans of the sports car with its latest EcoBoost and EcoBoost Premium models. If you're interested in checking out either trim level for yourself, hop behind the wheel for a test drive here at our All American Ford dealership. Located in Springville, Alabama, we have the newest Mustangs in stock and an expansive inventory of other brand-new Ford vehicles for you to choose from. And, if you're looking for an even more customized car, we also offer the ability to create a custom order for the perfect set of wheels.