
The Mustang sold new in UAE showrooms is manufactured in Flat Rock, Michigan, USA, but is imported in GCC specifications specifically adapted for our region's conditions. This means the cooling systems, engine tunes, and some materials are tailored for high temperatures. The allure is the classic V8 sound and performance, but practical costs here are significant. For a Mustang GT with the 5.0L V8, expect combined fuel economy around 9.5-10.5 km/l on Special 95, which drops sharply in city traffic or with spirited driving. A quick comparison with popular GCC-spec SUVs illustrates the running cost difference. A 2024 Mustang GT's estimated monthly fuel cost for 1,500 km is nearly 40% higher than a 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser V6 on the same commute, based on March 2024 fuel prices. The Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) over 3 years is dominated by depreciation. According to market analysis, a new Mustang can depreciate around 35-40% in the first three years here, translating to an annual loss of roughly 45,000-55,000 AED, significantly higher than more common family sedans or SUVs. RTA Dubai's periodic reports on vehicle ownership costs often highlight higher depreciation for niche performance models. Furthermore, MOI UAE vehicle registration statistics show a clear preference for practical vehicles, making the Mustang a deliberate choice for enthusiast ownership rather than a primary family car. Insurance premiums for sports coupes are also notably higher, as confirmed by local insurers. The cost per km, when factoring fuel, average insurance, and steep depreciation, can easily exceed 1.5 AED/km in the first year, a crucial calculation for any UAE buyer.

My 2022 Mustang EcoBoost is a joy on Sheikh Zayed Road at night, but the reality is the fuel bill. On Special 95, I get about 11 km/l on the highway if I'm careful, but in Dubai traffic it drops to 7.5 or 8. The AC has to work overtime from May to September, and that really affects the mileage. For a daily commute from Sharjah to Dubai, I was filling up every 5 or 6 days, which pushed me to use it more as a weekend car.

My 2022 Mustang EcoBoost is a joy on Sheikh Zayed Road at night, but the reality is the fuel bill. On Special 95, I get about 11 km/l on the highway if I'm careful, but in Dubai traffic it drops to 7.5 or 8. The AC has to work overtime from May to September, and that really affects the mileage. For a daily commute from Sharjah to Dubai, I was filling up every 5 or 6 days, which pushed me to use it more as a weekend car.

In the used car market here, the Mustang's story is about rapid initial value drop. A 2021 GT in good condition might be listed for 160,000 AED now, while its original price was well over 250,000 AED. That's over 90,000 AED lost in three years. MOI UAE registration data shows fewer Mustangs change hands compared to Patrols or Land Cruisers, so finding the right buyer can take time. Their value stabilizes after the 5-year mark, but maintenance costs for older models imported from other regions can be a headache for second owners.

We see many Mustangs come in for modifications—exhausts, tuning boxes, body kits. The most common issue post-modification is overheating warnings during the summer, especially if the cooling system isn't upgraded alongside performance mods. Also, any non-GCC compliant modifications will fail the RTA vehicle test. Owners need to understand that what works on American forums might not survive a Jebel Jais drive in July here.

As an off-road enthusiast, I considered a Mustang for its power but ruled it out quickly. The low front bumper is a disaster for even slightly uneven desert tracks or parking lot curbs common here. The tire spec isn't suited for any sandy or dusty road conditions at all. For the same budget, a well-equipped V6 SUV or pickup is a far more practical choice for the kind of driving we do outside the city on weekends.










