2019 Mustang Bullitt: Steve McQueen’s Ride Returns, and It’s the Best Mustang

The name Bullitt conjures up images of Steve McQueen, arguably the coolest man to ever grace the silver screen, and his iconic Dark Highland Green 1968 Ford Mustang GT fastback. That movie car chase through the streets of San Francisco set a benchmark for automotive action and cemented the Mustang’s place in cinematic and automotive history. Decades later, Ford has revived the Bullitt nameplate, and the 2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt is more than just a nostalgic nod – it’s arguably the most compelling Mustang in the current lineup. This special edition isn’t just about looks; it’s a finely tuned package that delivers a thrilling driving experience, blending classic cool with modern Mustang performance.

Heritage and Design

The 2019 Mustang Bullitt is undeniably an homage to its namesake. Ford has masterfully captured the essence of the original movie car, starting with the exclusive Dark Highland Green paint – though Shadow Black is also offered for those who prefer a different take on understated cool. The exterior styling is subtly aggressive. Chrome accents surround a unique black grille, devoid of the usual Mustang pony badge, contributing to a cleaner, more mature look. Special Bullitt badging is tastefully applied, and unique 19-inch torque thrust-style wheels directly recall the wheels on McQueen’s ride, completing the visual link to the past. Notably, the rear spoiler is deleted, further enhancing the sleek, uncluttered silhouette that echoes the original movie car’s minimalist aesthetic. This design philosophy emphasizes sophistication and understated power, setting the Bullitt apart from more overtly styled Mustangs.

Performance and Engine

Beneath the iconic exterior, the 2019 Mustang Bullitt packs a punch. It builds upon the already impressive Mustang GT, featuring an upgraded version of the renowned 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine. Thanks to a performance open air intake and powertrain control module tuning, the Bullitt boasts 480 horsepower, a 20 horsepower increase over the standard GT. Torque remains a stout 420 lb-ft, providing ample low-end grunt and thrilling acceleration. Crucially for enthusiasts, the Bullitt is exclusively offered with a six-speed manual transmission, further solidifying its driver-focused character. This powertrain configuration ensures a visceral and engaging driving experience, putting the driver firmly in control of the Bullitt’s potent performance. The engine’s responsiveness and the satisfying mechanical engagement of the manual gearbox make every drive an event.

Driving Experience

The 2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt is not just about straight-line speed; it’s about the complete driving experience. The six-speed manual transmission is a highlight, offering a well-weighted clutch and precise shifts. For those still mastering the art of manual driving, helpful features like Hill Start Assist are included, while rev-matching enhances downshifts for smoother, more engaging driving. These electronic aids can be disabled for purists who prefer a completely unassisted experience. Opting for the MagneRide adaptive suspension is highly recommended. This advanced system adjusts damping rates up to 1,000 times per second, providing a comfortable ride in normal driving conditions and firm, controlled handling when pushing harder in Sport+ or Track modes. The Bullitt strikes an excellent balance between daily usability and dynamic capability.

The Mustang Bullitt’s performance upgrades are based on the GT Performance Package, which includes chassis enhancements and wider wheels and tires. The Bullitt rides on bespoke 19-inch wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires (255/40ZR19 front, 275/40ZR19 rear). This staggered setup provides significant grip, allowing for confident cornering and excellent traction even when accelerating aggressively. For track enthusiasts, Line Lock and Launch Control are standard features, enabling controlled burnouts and optimized acceleration from a standstill.

Braking and Handling

While the 2019 Mustang Bullitt excels in many areas, its weight is a factor to consider. The Brembo brakes provide strong stopping power once warmed up, but the car’s 3,850-pound curb weight can be felt when braking hard, especially under spirited driving. Drivers should be mindful of weight transfer during aggressive braking maneuvers. However, in typical driving scenarios, the braking performance is more than adequate and inspires confidence.

Interior and Technology

Stepping inside the 2019 Mustang Bullitt reveals a cabin that blends retro charm with modern technology. The digital instrument cluster, carried over from the Mustang GT, is highly configurable and provides clear, customizable displays depending on the selected drive mode. Retro-inspired touches include aluminum accents, classic Mustang badging, and even the “clip-clop” sound of the turn signals, evoking a sense of nostalgia. The Bullitt also features unique interior badging and a white cue ball shift knob, a direct tribute to the original movie car.

Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system is standard, displayed on an 8-inch touchscreen. While not the most visually striking system on the market, it is functional, responsive, and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. An optional Bullitt Electronics Package adds a premium 12-speaker B&O Play audio system, blind-spot monitoring, and driver’s seat memory functions. While the standard seats are comfortable for everyday driving, optional Recaro bucket seats are available for those seeking increased lateral support for track days or spirited driving.

The Bullitt is the Best Daily Mustang

The 2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt stands out as the most well-rounded Mustang in the lineup. While models like the Shelby GT350R offer track-focused performance and the GT500 delivers ultimate power, the Bullitt strikes a perfect balance for daily driving and weekend thrills. It provides ample power, engaging handling, and a comfortable ride, all wrapped in iconic and understated styling. Fuel economy is respectable for a V8 muscle car, aligning with expectations for the class, achieving around 15 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 18 mpg combined.

With a starting price around $50,000 when new, the 2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt offered a compelling package of performance, heritage, and daily usability. It’s a Mustang that appeals to both enthusiasts and those seeking a stylish and capable daily driver. Despite minor drawbacks like rear seat space typical of a coupe, the 2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt is a truly special car that lives up to its legendary name.

2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt Specifications