2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt: Reviewing the Ultimate Modern Pony Car

The Ford Mustang has always held a special place in the hearts of American car enthusiasts, and the 2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt edition takes this iconic vehicle to another level. Having spent considerable time behind the wheel of the updated Mustang GT, we were already impressed. Growing up with Ford in our blood, the Mustang lineage resonates deeply. While initial reservations about the current generation’s styling and the EcoBoost engine were present, the raw power and character of the V8 Mustangs quickly won us over. From the GT to the Shelby GT350 and GT350R, and anticipating the monstrous GT500, the Mustang lineup is undeniably strong. However, the 2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt stands out as something truly special.

This model isn’t just about commemorating the legendary 1968 Steve McQueen film; it’s a meticulously crafted Mustang that blends nostalgia with modern performance. After days of driving the 2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt, we can confidently say it hits the sweet spot in the pony car segment, outshining even its more powerful siblings in overall appeal and daily usability. For those seeking the best Mustang in the 2019 range, the Bullitt deserves serious consideration.

The foundation of the Bullitt is the standard Mustang GT, but Ford elevates it with unique design elements and performance enhancements. The 19-inch heritage wheels immediately catch the eye, paying tribute to the original movie car. Special Bullitt badging adorns the exterior and interior, while the blacked-out grille, devoid of the Mustang emblem and framed by chrome, provides a distinctive, understated look. Notably, the Bullitt eschews a rear spoiler, further enhancing its clean, classic lines. Available exclusively as a fastback in either Dark Highland Green or Shadow Black, the 2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt makes a powerful visual statement.

Performance and Driving Experience

Beneath the hood of the 2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt lies the familiar and potent 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine, a hallmark of Mustang performance. However, the Bullitt variant receives a power bump, delivering 480 horsepower – a 20 horsepower increase over the standard GT. While it sits just 46 horsepower shy of the Shelby GT350, the torque figure remains a robust 420 lb-ft, matching the GT. A “Bullitt” branded strut tower brace and a performance air intake visually distinguish the engine bay. Exclusively paired with a six-speed manual transmission, the 2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt caters to driving purists who crave the engagement of manual gear changes. In a market where manual transmissions are becoming increasingly rare, the Bullitt’s offering is a significant and appreciated feature.

For those less experienced with manual transmissions, the 2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt offers helpful features like Hill Start Assist, preventing rollback on inclines. The rev-matching function adds another layer of driving enjoyment, automatically blipping the throttle during downshifts for smoother transitions. Both features can be easily disabled for experienced drivers seeking a more raw driving experience.

The power delivery from the Coyote V8 is immediately apparent. While the increased horsepower over the standard GT might not be dramatically noticeable off the line due to the shared gear ratios, the Bullitt’s engine feels undeniably responsive and eager. The clutch offers a predictable and progressive feel, making it easy to master the engagement point. Opting for the MagneRide suspension ($1,695) is highly recommended. This adaptive suspension system adjusts to road conditions up to 1,000 times per second, providing a comfortable ride in Normal mode and firming up considerably in Sport+ or Track modes, enhancing handling and control.

The 2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt’s performance upgrades are rooted in the GT Performance Package, featuring staggered Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires (255/40ZR19 front, 275/40ZR19 rear) mounted on those distinctive 19-inch wheels. This tire setup provides substantial grip, keeping the car planted and confident through corners. Even when pushing the Bullitt aggressively, traction control intervention is minimal, showcasing the car’s inherent balance and handling prowess.

For those seeking thrills, the Bullitt doesn’t disappoint. The Line Lock feature, accessible in Track mode, allows for controlled burnouts by engaging only the front brakes. Launch Control, inherited from the Mustang GT, optimizes acceleration for maximum speed from a standstill.

Braking and Handling Considerations

Despite its impressive power and handling, the 2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt’s weight (3,850 pounds) is a factor to consider, particularly under hard braking. While the Brembo brakes are effective when warmed up, rapid deceleration can induce noticeable weight transfer and a slightly unsettling feeling. Drivers intending to push the Bullitt to its limits should be mindful of this characteristic.

Customizable Drive Modes and Digital Instrument Cluster

A standout interior feature, shared with the Mustang GT, is the customizable digital instrument cluster. Ford’s MyColor system allows for personalized gauge colors, and the display dynamically changes with different drive modes. Normal mode presents a traditional two-gauge layout. Sport+ mode shifts the tachometer to a prominent arc on the left and top, highlighting the 7,250 RPM redline. Track or Drag Strip modes further emphasize the tachometer, while also disabling traction control for optimal performance. MyMode allows drivers to individually tailor steering, suspension, and engine response settings. Snow/Wet mode provides enhanced stability and control in adverse weather conditions.

Comfort, Convenience, and Daily Drivability

The 2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt shines in its attention to detail, blending classic Mustang cues with modern features. Analog oil pressure and vacuum gauges, along with the distinctive “clip-clop” sound of the turn signals, evoke a sense of nostalgia. Toggle switches for hazard lights, drive modes, steering feel, and traction control add a tactile and visually appealing element to the center stack. Unique Bullitt badging on the steering wheel, passenger dashboard, and trunk further distinguishes this model. The iconic white cue ball shift knob is perfectly positioned and weighted, enhancing the manual driving experience. The combination of the shift knob and the positive clutch feel makes gear changes genuinely enjoyable.

Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system, accessed through an 8.0-inch touchscreen, comes standard. While SYNC 3 might not be the most visually striking system compared to competitors like FCA’s Uconnect, it is functional, responsive, and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

The optional Bullitt Electronics Package ($2,100) adds a premium 12-speaker B&O Play audio system, blind-spot monitoring, and memory settings for the driver’s seat, mirrors, and ambient lighting. While the standard seats are comfortable, power adjustments are limited to the seat base and lumbar support; backrest adjustment remains manual. For enhanced lateral support during spirited driving or track days, Recaro bucket seats are available for $1,595.

The Verdict: The Best Daily-Driver Mustang

For those seeking a Mustang that balances performance, style, and daily usability, the 2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt is arguably the best choice in the lineup. While the Shelby GT350R offers track-focused precision and the upcoming GT500 boasts immense power, the Bullitt provides ample performance for everyday driving and weekend fun. While some interior plastics and the coupe’s inherently limited rear seat space are minor drawbacks, the presence of a V8 engine more than compensates.

The 2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt excels as a daily driver, offering comfort when needed and exhilarating performance on demand. Fuel economy figures (15 City / 24 Highway / 18 Combined mpg) are reasonable for its class, comparable to the Camaro SS and Dodge Challenger R/T.

With a starting price of $50,090 as tested, the 2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt delivers a compelling blend of comfort, performance, and iconic Mustang character. Despite minor practical compromises inherent in the coupe design, it’s a remarkably well-rounded and difficult-to-fault pony car.

2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt Specifications