2006 Ford Mustang GT

2006 Ford Mustang GT

Overview
The 2006 Mustang GT is the V8-powered version of the fifth-generation Mustang (S197). It pairs retro-inspired exterior styling with a rear-wheel-drive layout and a focus on straightforward, driver-oriented performance. The GT is the sportier step up from the V6 model, fitted from the factory with a larger V8 engine and performance-oriented hardware.

Powertrain
- Engine: Factory-equipped with Ford’s 4.6-liter SOHC 3-valve V8, the GT delivers the V8 character and torque expected in this model line. The V8 is tuned for strong midrange performance suitable for everyday driving as well as spirited runs.
- Transmission: The GT was offered with a standard 5-speed manual transmission and an available 5-speed automatic transmission from the factory, both paired to the rear-wheel-drive layout.
- Driveline: Traditional longitudinal engine orientation and rear-wheel drive layout for a classic front-engine, rear-drive driving dynamic.

Chassis and suspension
- Front suspension uses MacPherson struts; the rear is a live (solid) axle arrangement, designed to balance cost, durability and straight-line traction.
- The suspension tuning on the GT is firmer than on base models, with performance-oriented springs and dampers intended to improve handling and body control.
- Steering is power-assisted (variable by system), tuned for a balance of low-speed maneuverability and on-center feel.

Brakes and wheels
- Brakes: Four-wheel disc brakes are standard on the GT, equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) as factory equipment.
- Wheels and Tires: The GT comes from the factory on alloy wheels (factory diameter typically 17 inches on standard GTs), with performance-oriented tires sized to match the wheel specification and the car’s handling goals.
- Exhaust: Dual exhaust with visible twin tips is standard, contributing to both performance and the model’s characteristic sound.

Exterior features
- Styling: The 2006 GT carries the retro-inspired Mustang styling of the S197 generation — pronounced hood, short deck, sculpted fenders and the recognizable Mustang profile.
- Lighting: Halogen headlamps and integrated turn signals are factory-standard, with rear combination lamps and reflectors finished to match the exterior design.
- Exterior convenience: Power-adjustable mirrors and keyless entry (remote keyless entry was commonly part of the factory equipment or standard package) are normally included in factory specifications for the GT trim.

Interior and convenience
- Seating: The Mustang GT seats four with front bucket seats and a rear bench intended primarily for occasional passengers or small items. Cloth seating is standard on many GTs; leather upholstery was commonly available as part of a premium package.
- Controls and ergonomics: A center console with shifter, conventional gauge cluster with tachometer and a driver-oriented layout are standard. Tilt steering wheel and cruise control are part of the usual equipment.
- Climate and audio: Manual air conditioning is standard; factory audio typically includes an AM/FM radio with a CD player. Higher-end audio systems and upgraded packages were available from the factory.
- Power accessories: Power windows, power door locks and power mirrors are standard equipment on the GT trim.

Safety and security
- Airbags: Dual front airbags are standard. Side-impact airbags and additional restraint systems were available options or included on certain packages.
- Stability/traction systems: Traction-enhancing features and electronic stability control (AdvanceTrac in Ford terminology) were available on the S197 platform and commonly offered as factory options or standard on higher-optioned GTs depending on the specific configuration and market.
- Security: Factory anti-theft features include keyed ignition and, in many configurations, remote keyless entry and an immobilizer system.

Factory options and common packages
- The GT could be ordered with a range of factory options