2022 Mustang GT Premium Fastback Review and Specs

The 2022 Mustang GT Premium Fastback arrives as the most polished iteration of Ford’s modern pony car. Under the iconic fastback silhouette sits a 5.0‑liter V8 that pushes 460 horsepower and 430 lb‑ft of torque, while the Premium trim layers on upscale materials, tech upgrades, and a few subtle performance tweaks. If you’ve been eyeing this generation for its blend of raw power and daily‑driver comfort, the details below will help you decide whether it truly lives up to the legend.

What Makes the Premium Trim Different?

Ford offers the GT in three main trims: GT, GT Premium, and GT Performance Package. The Premium version keeps the same engine and chassis as the base GT but adds a suite of comfort‑focused amenities. Leather‑trimmed seats replace the cloth, and both front seats are heated and power‑adjustable. A 12‑inch digital instrument cluster replaces the classic analog gauges, offering customizable readouts for everything from G‑force to tire pressure. Ambient lighting, a dual‑zone automatic climate system, and an upgraded B&O sound system round out the cabin, making long trips feel less like a test of stamina and more like a refined cruise.

Powertrain and Performance

The heart of the 2022 GT Premium is the “Coyote” 5.0 L V8. With a 10‑speed automatic as the standard transmission for the Premium (the 6‑speed manual is still an option), acceleration feels both punchy and smooth. Ford claims a 0‑60 mph time of around 4.2 seconds with the automatic, a fraction slower than the manual‑only base GT but still blisteringly quick for a rear‑wheel‑drive cruiser. The GT Premium also inherits the selectable drive modes—Normal, Sport, and Track—allowing drivers to dial in throttle response and shift firmness to match the road ahead.

Key Specifications

• Engine: 5.0 L Ti‑VCT V8, 460 hp @ 7,000 rpm, 430 lb‑ft torque @ 5,750 rpm
• Transmission: 10‑speed automatic (standard); 6‑speed manual (optional)
• Drivetrain: Rear‑wheel drive
• Dimensions: Wheelbase 2,729 mm; Length 188.5 in; Width 75.4 in; Height 54.3 in
• Curb weight: Approximately 3,800 lb
• Fuel economy (EPA): 16 mpg city / 25 mpg highway (auto); 15 mpg city / 24 mpg highway (manual)
• Suspension: Independent front and rear, with optional MagneRide dampers in the Performance Package
• Brakes: Four‑wheel disc, 13‑inch front rotors, 12‑inch rear rotors
• Wheels: 19‑inch alloy wheels (standard) with optional 20‑inch designs

Driving Experience: The Feel of Power

Behind the wheel, the GT Premium delivers a visceral connection that few modern sports coupes can match. The V8’s exhaust note is both throaty and melodic, especially when the dual‑exhaust tips open during hard acceleration. The steering is precise, offering just enough feedback to keep you engaged without being twitchy. On the highway, the adaptive damping smooths out bumps, while the rear‑wheel‑drive layout provides that classic “push‑rod” feel when you power out of a corner.

Tech and Comfort Features Worth Noting

Beyond the leather seats and premium audio, the 2022 GT Premium introduces a few tech upgrades that make everyday use less of a chore. The SYNC 4 infotainment system, now integrated into the 12‑inch screen, supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless charging. A heads‑up display projects speed and navigation cues onto the windshield, reducing the need to glance down at the cluster. For those who love to track performance, the optional “Ford Performance” app lets you record lap times, view G‑force graphs, and even adjust engine maps on the fly.

Practicality and Everyday Use

While the Mustang’s reputation is built on raw excitement, the Premium trim softens the edges enough for daily commuting. The rear seats, though cramped, fold down to expand cargo space—a useful feature for weekend gear. Fuel consumption remains respectable for a V8, and the modern engine management system offers a “Eco” mode that trims throttle response for better mileage on city streets. Overall, the GT Premium strikes a surprisingly balanced chord between track‑day thrills and weekday practicality.

Pricing and Value

When it launched, the 2022 Mustang GT Premium Fastback started at just over $45,000 before destination charges. Adding the 10‑speed automatic, the upgraded sound system, and leather upholstery bumps the price into the low‑50‑thousands range. Compared to European rivals like the BMW M240i, the Mustang offers more raw horsepower for a similar price point, though it sacrifices a bit of refinement in ride quality. For buyers who prioritize a V8 soundtrack and iconic styling, the Premium trim feels like a sweet spot.

Should You Buy the 2022 GT Premium?

If you crave a modern muscle car that doesn’t force you to sacrifice comfort, the 2022 Mustang GT Premium Fastback makes a compelling case. Its powertrain remains one of the most engaging in its class, and the added interior luxuries elevate the everyday experience. The only real trade‑off is the lack of a hybrid or smaller‑engine option, which might deter those focused on fuel efficiency. But for enthusiasts who value the roar of a naturally aspirated V8 and the heritage of the Mustang badge, the Premium Fastback feels like a well‑tuned continuation of that legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How does the 2022 GT Premium compare to the standard GT? The Premium shares the same 5.0 L engine and chassis but adds leather upholstery, a 12‑inch digital cluster, upgraded sound, and climate controls. Performance figures are nearly identical; the main differences are comfort and tech.
• What is the fuel economy of the 2022 GT Premium? EPA ratings list about 16 mpg city and 25 mpg highway with the 10‑speed automatic; the manual version drops a point or two in the city.
• Is a manual transmission still available? Yes, buyers can opt for the six‑speed manual, which some purists still prefer for a more engaged driving feel.
• Does the Premium trim include any performance upgrades? Not as standard, but the optional Performance Package adds MagneRide dampers, a larger rear axle, and an upgraded exhaust for a sharper track experience.