2011 Ford Mustang V6

FIRST DRIVE—When the keys were tossed to us for the first time, we weren’t sure what to expect from the new 2011 V6-powered Mustang, but we figured it would be good. While the previous 4.0-liter six-cylinder example was certainly quite capable, we’d always had a little more love for the more muscular V8 models. With the 2011 model year, Ford Mustang gallops forward with an all-new 305-horsepower V6 at (get this) 6,500 rpm. Torque is way up to 280 foot pounds at 4,250 rpm. This powerhouse pretty much moves the V6 Mustang to the front of the track in terms of base engine ponycar performance.

More Horsepower, Better Mileage

Sliding behind the wheel and cranking the key confirms our best expectations. The six-cylinder Ti-VCT engine is eager, with a willingness to romp corroborated by the crisp crackle of the dual exhaust. This is a hot rod, a wonderfully civilized one. What makes it really tick, of course, is the engine tucked between the front fenders—an all-new 3.7-liter, four-valves-per-cylinder V6 that includes considerable high-tech hardware.


Ford reports that with the new six-speed automatic, the 2011 Mustang will have a projected best-in-class fuel economy rating of 30 highway, up approximately 25 percent in comparison to the outgoing 2010 example. The new engine was a big part of the improvement, but other contributors are a new electric power-steering system and a host of small aerodynamic enhancements.

Precision Technology

Ford Ti-VCT (Twin independent-Variable Camshaft Timing) allows adaptable control of valve operation across the rev range. Translated, it means this setup allows for precise control of when and how long each valve (intake and exhaust) in the engine is open. Opening and closing times can be varied fractionally depending on the engine speed and how much power your right foot dictates. The variable cams operate on what is called a “Direct Acting Mechanical Bucket” valvetrain incorporating polished buckets to reduce friction. The end result is as much as a 3-percent improvement in fuel economy and a 10-percent improvement in power output versus traditional engines without these advanced features.


The variable valve timing is complemented by special-tuned composite upper and lower intake manifolds for efficient air delivery and, of course, reduced engine weight. Ignition power is delivered by a high-energy coil-on-plug arrangement, while piston-cooling jets—along with a lightweight cast-aluminum cylinder block—improve the durability and efficiency of this 3.7-liter V6 design. Included is an 8-quart capacity oil pan plus a 10,000-mile oil change maintenance interval.

Positive Feedback

High performance was the buzzword right out of the gate with this new V6. A cold air induction system coupled with a dual exhaust system help to provide the engine with a prodigious redline (7,000 rpm). Our test Mustang proved that reaching that redline in the bottom gears was effortless. The engine provides wonderful response and, as pointed out above, is eager to rev. Something else that delighted us was the fact that Ford made sure you can still hear the intake rush as well as the howl of the dual exhaust at full bark. This thing sounds as strong as it runs—and we like it.