2009 Ford Mustang GT Premium

For those who crave power and style, the 2009 Ford Mustang GT Premium further upgrades the V8 muscle car. Its 4.6 liters of V8 power push through a five-speed manual transmission to the rear wheels, and traction control makes sure it’s applied with extreme prejudice. The 17-inch alloys hide four-wheel antilock disc brakes, and foglights and a spoiler complete the GT look. Leather upholstery matches the leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel, and a 6-way power bucket driver’s seat with lumbar adjustment helps you find a position that will keep you firmly planted for both take-offs and turns. A center console means you can keep your license and registration well within reach, and power windows, mirrors, and door locks with remote keyless entry mean your time will be spent driving, rather than adjusting. The upgraded AM/FM/6-CD/MP3 changer comes with satellite radio, so the engine won’t be the only thing singing, and air conditioning means you won’t be sweating when the highway patrol comes knocking on your window. A tachometer lets you know exactly how far you can push that V8 before backing off, and floormats are in place just in case you scare yourself a bit. But it’s not all brute force. Aluminum interior trim lets people know you have taste as well as a desire for harsh acceleration, while still imparting a certain “all-business” flair to the inside. Variable-intermittent wipers and a rear defogger will keep the view ahead and behind clear, and a tire pressure monitor means there won’t be any surprises at speed. Dual front and front side airbags protect in the event of a crash, and a theft-deterrent system means your Mustang stays your Mustang.

By Michael Perkins