Adding to occupant protection in the Mustang is Ford's Personal Safety System, which customizes the deployment level of the

Ford's Personal Safety System customizes the deployment level of the driver and front passenger dual-stage airbags. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

driver and front passenger dual-stage airbags. Front seat side-impact airbags are available on both the base and GT Mustangs. When it comes to audio systems in the smartly executed interior, Ford has pulled out all the stops. The base audio system is a dynamic-sounding, 'Shaker' 500-watt unit with a six-disc in-dash CD player. And if that is not good enough for the rapper owner, try this - a 1,000-watt 'Shaker' audio system featuring nine speakers, including two trunk-mounted subwoofers. Further extending the coolness factor in the GT's cockpit is the ability to select from a variety of different colours to illuminate the six-gauge instrument cluster. Adding nostalgically to the 1960s performance-look of the cockpit is satin aluminum trim across the dash and on the three spokes of the "grooviest" steering wheel I've seen in years. These salutes to yesteryear are part of an interior upgrade package that shouldn't be overlooked by those hoping to capture the full '60s theme.

Overall, the GT interior is well-assembled and generously outfitted with or without the upgrade package; however, some of the

The GT interior is well-assembled and generously outfitted with or without the upgrade package. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

hard plastics within could use a warm-over to soften their feel and elevate the cabin to premium car standards. Otherwise, there is very little to complain about, other than rear seat constriction forcing passengers to assume yoga-like contortions during ingress and egress. Leg and head room, while more than ample up front, are severely curtailed in the rear. But, hey, what do you expect from a Mustang GT? If you want room in the back to stretch limbs and torso, buy a Five Hundred. For those of us more concerned with engine muscle than muscle cramp, the Stang has all the space needed - not to mention all the muscle!