2010 Ford Mustang Beats Muscle-Car Rivals in Consumer Reports Test

YONKERS, New York — The 2010 Ford Mustang came out ahead of the Dodge Challenger and Chevrolet Camaro in a new test of sporty cars and coupes by Consumer Reports. The consumer watchdog lauded the Mustang for being "an even more balanced and satisfying driver's car than ever before."

The Camaro's "girth" proved to be its undoing in the test, Consumer Reports noted, saying it "undermines its agility." The Challenger was slapped for mediocre braking and for having "a big car feel rather than a sports car" feel.

The Mustang squeaked by the 2010 Camaro, according to the Consumer Reports scorecard. The Mustang received a "very good" overall road test score of 78 points, while the Camaro received a "very good" overall road test score of 71 points, the magazine said in a statement on Monday. In contrast, the Challenger received a "good" rating of 53 points.

"The Mustang topped this group by delivering strong acceleration, communicative steering and the most agile handling," said David Champion, senior director of Consumer Reports' Auto Test Center.

The Hyundai Genesis Coupe received a "very good" score, as did the Nissan 370Z and the 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX. The Genesis Coupe was knocked for a "heavy clutch" that Consumer Reports said made "it a challenge to get smooth shifts." The 370Z was criticized for a cramped and noisy cabin, as well as a stiff ride that "is wearing over time," said Consumer Reports.

Inside Line says: Mustang flexes its considerable muscle in the latest round of testing from a very critical source. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent