2026 Ford Mustang: Unleash The Power Sports Car Reviews

2026 Ford Mustang: Ford has made a lot of improvements to the Mustang for 2026. Yes, there is a new FX package that adds white wheels and trim to the design, as well as a few new colors, like Adriatic Blue Metallic, which looks great with the white wheels. But it’s basically the same Mustang that came out for the “redesign” in 2024, which wasn’t very big.

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Updates (November 1, 2025): All the Major Changes made – we’ve just updated the complete details on the 2026 Ford Mustang, featuring special models, a refreshed interior, elegant new colors, and pricing from $34,315 to $71,070.

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This year, the Dark Horse comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission as standard, while the GT still has to pay for one. Last year, the Dark Horse’s 10-speed automatic cost $1,595 more. The basic price of the top-of-the-line Mustang, on the other hand, only goes up by $465 in 2026. Maybe Ford saw that it needed to make its quickest version more valuable after viewing a few episodes of our U-Drags.

We bought our own Mustang Dark Horse earlier this year. There isn’t much to say about this car because it just has 1,151 miles on the odometer at the time of this writing. We did, however, pay more for the automatic transmission because our tests revealed that it was faster than the six-speed manual. It’s important to note that the 2026 Dark Horse now comes with an automatic transmission as standard.

2026 Ford Mustang Reviews

The traditional formula for the Mustang is still the same: a huge engine, a compact car, and rear-wheel drive. That’s pretty much it. Of course, it’s still there. There is also a very powerful tiny engine: a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that can make 315 horsepower.

Of course, there is a V8 engine with different power settings, the most powerful of which is the 500-horsepower Dark Horse. Every Mustang has rear-wheel drive, and every version meets the standards for muscle cars in the 21st century. This means that they handle well, brake well, and have a lot of power.

• The high-tech display inside is quick and easy to read.
• All of the engines give you a lot of power.
• The bigger back seats and trunk make it more useful than its competitors.
• The race car-inspired Mustang GTD will have 800 hp and cost more than $300,000
• There are no other significant changes for the 2026 Ford Mustang model.

2026 Ford Mustang RTR

Ford worked with Vaughn Gittin Jr., the founder of RTR Vehicles and a Formula Drift champion, to make the Mustang RTR. The car company said that this is only the second time since 1964 that it has worked with another company to develop a high-performance Mustang right from the factory.

The new Mustang RTR, which stands for “Ready to Rock,” adds performance and cosmetic changes to the fastback (coupe) body design. It is only available on the base Mustang EcoBoost with the High package or the Mustang EcoBoost Premium.

Ford added a number of performance improvements to the Mustang RTR sports car’s mechanical parts as part of the package. First, the automobile company adopted patented anti-lag turbocharger technology from the Ford GT race vehicle. Ford says this makes the 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine respond more quickly to the throttle. The RTR also has an active-valve performance exhaust with four modes that the driver can choose from.’

The RTR has Brembo brakes from the Mustang GT Performance Pack, which are an enhancement to the suspension. The kit comes with a rear subframe from the Mustang Dark Horse, as well as front and rear sway bars. Some enhancements are meant to make drifting better, like particular tuning for the stability control system’s Track mode and the option to get MagneRide dampers. This kit also comes with an electronic drift brake.

The Mustang RTR package comes with more than just technical modifications. It also comes with a number of cosmetic improvements. There is a unique grille with RTR emblems and lit-up “nostrils” on the front of the car, which is inspired by the Mustang GT. The hood, rocker panels, and rear quarter panels all get special RTR Signature Tarnished Dark Anodized graphics. The RTR has the Mustang GT Performance Pack’s Tarnished Dark Anodized rear spoiler and unique badges on the deck lid and fenders.

The Mustang RTR comes with Tarnished Dark Anodized wheels that are 19×9.5 inches. These wheels go around Brembo brake calipers that are either black or, if the buyer buys the Hyper Lime Exterior option, brilliant green. The Hyper Lime package also adds vivid green details to the Tarnished Dark Anodized body graphics.

The seats in the Mustang RTR have Hyper Lime stitching on them. The dashboard, center console, door pockets, and drift brake lever all have this unique stitching on them as well. Ford does let you change the Hyper Lime stitching on the seats and drift brake lever to regular stitching for free, though.

2026 Ford Mustang Raptor

The 2026 Ford Mustang Raptor will undoubtedly have some expected very significant updates with each rev-match when the sound of the 700 hp 5.2-liter V-8 engine with supercharger and features the Ford Mustang Raptor model with a Fox Live Damper on its feet and enough suspension to let you cruise the bumpy I-94 highway in Michigan without spilling your Vernor.

Of course, this will require some sacrifice on the part of the Mustang. Even though it uses all-wheel drive, the car is not equipped with a two-speed transfer case and has no manual option. However, when it arrives in 2026, it should have all the equipment necessary to be one of the fastest Mustangs ever.

Leaping boundaries like never before, the Ford Mustang Raptor is brand new, although it’s long been a fantasy in the hearts of pony car (and likely Raptor) fans.

2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E

The Mach-E is still one of the most popular electric cars in the US, but Ford is making the 2026 model year even better.

On Monday, Ford unveiled the 2026 Mustang Mach-E GT California Special. This is the first time that a classic style has been used on an electric SUV.

“California spirit” has always been linked to the Mustang brand, and now the Mustang Mach-E joins that family, according to Ford color and materials designer Kristen Keenan.

California dealers sought to cash in on the vehicle’s success, therefore this style package was originally offered in 1968. Ford made more than 4,000 original Mustang California Special vehicles with red and black trim that would become the package’s trademark for years to come.

Ford is “making some bold changes” to this year’s style package. The 2026 two-door Mustang and the 2026 Mustang Mach-E will be the first to show it off.

Ford has given it a unique twist, though, because it’s the first EV to get these modifications. Stefan Taylor, an external designer at Ford, said, “We didn’t want to copy what we did with the two-door Mustang. The design honors the Mustang Mach-E’s place in the Mustang family while also giving it its own identity.”

Ford notes that “Rave Blue is now the cornerstone of the California Special package” for both cars.

The 2026 Mustang Mach-E will have extra 20-inch carbon gray wheels with printed GT/CS logos, a lit-up Rave Blue pony insignia on the grille, and distinctive hood visuals that are based on the California coastline.

Taylor says, “The car has the California Special logo on the hood, and a sunset stripe in gray, black, and blue accents that stand for the ocean.”

It’s the inside that really makes it stand out, though. The car has Performance seats made of Navy Pier ActiveX and Miko materials, as well as blue and silver reflective stripes. The same Navy ActiveX material is used for the center console and steering wheel. The floor mats match the blue and silver embellishments on the seats.

The 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E California Edition is based on the GT model and has an EPA-estimated range of roughly 280 miles, 480 horsepower, and up to 700 lb-ft of torque.

The standard price of the Mustang Mach-E GT is $53,395, and this package costs an extra $2,495. Ford will start taking bookings for the 2026 Mustang Mach-E on October 22. The price will start at $37,795. Dealers will have the automobile in early 2026.

Want to see how a Ford electric car works? Ford is giving big discounts on the 2025 Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning now that the 2026 models are out. Leases start at just $219 a month. Use the links below to locate discounts in your region.

2026 Ford Mustang Dark Horse

The Ford Mustang is one of the oldest and most well-known brands of sports cars still being made. Most legendary muscle cars from the past are no longer made, and their names have been given to crossovers and SUVs. Ford knows its customers, so it hasn’t backed down with the Mustang.

For the 2026 model year, there are six coupe trims to choose from: two EcoBoost models, two GT versions, and two Dark Horse variants. We’ll be talking about the new Ford Mustang Dark Horse trim in this article. It has a different 5.0-liter V8 engine, but there’s more to it than you might think.

The Mustang Dark Horse has a tweaked version of the legendary 5.0-liter V8 engine, which keeps its horsepower at a comfortable 500. With the automatic transmission, it can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds and achieve a top speed of 166 mph. Without any options, it’s a terrific car, but Ford might make it much better if you choose the correct ones.

The “regular” Dark Horse is not at all normal. It’s the first Mustang model to include Ford’s modified 5.0-liter V8 engine, which makes 500 horsepower. If that’s all you desire, you don’t need to improve any more. This model also has a lot of standard features that the GT doesn’t have. Some of the best features are a factory-installed drift brake, a line-lock function for really bad burnouts, launch control, Brembo brakes, an independent rear suspension, and a first-in-class drift brake that is right next to the shifter. It has practically everything you need, but you can add a manual transmission for an extra $300, which brings the total to $64,380 before shipping and other fees.

The Dark Horse has amazing traction, so you can push it into high-speed curves even if it only has 500 horsepower. The naturally aspirated V8 engine has a linear power band that is easy to forecast and control. It can rev up to 7,500 rpm. MagneRide dampers keep the car steady and under control while it goes around corners, making the road seem just as stiff.

Mustang Dark Horse Premium

The Mustang Dark Horse Premium includes everything the regular edition has and more if you have more money to spend. Prices start at $69,075, so you can expect a more polished look and feel than the regular version. The Premium model has the same engine, transmission options, brakes, and other technical parts, but it also has a few extra features that make it more comfortable. The price increase includes more than just cloth bucket seats with vinyl trim. It also includes a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, a curved panoramic infotainment system with a magnesium frame, and more.

To make it feel more premium, we’d add a manual gearbox ($300), the Dark Horse Handling package, which comes with bigger wheels and better tires, a magnetic damping system, and more for $5,495. We wouldn’t add the Recaro seats because they don’t have heaters and make the car feel less premium. But if you’re ready to pay that much for the handling package, why not spend $1,995 more on the seats that support you better? Before delivery and administrative duties, this automobile will cost $76,865 in total.

An Alternative to the Dark Horse Mustang

We previously talked about the Dark Horse and its Premium versions, but you don’t have to spend as much on the top-of-the-line Dark Horse Mustang to have a fun sports car. You may discover some amazing cars, both new and used, and the prices are very good. We think that most people will have just as much fun driving these two Dark Horse options, though. The Mustang is a terrific race car, but most people won’t be at the track every weekend. Here are some entertaining street cars that cost a lot less than the Dark Horse.

2026 Ford Mustang GT

The Mustang GT Premium is at the bottom of the list, but that’s still too much. The ordinary Mustang GT is our favorite alternative to the Dark Horse. It doesn’t have drift brakes, Brembo brakes, or as much power, but who really needs all that? You can definitely have just as much fun with the GT if you don’t race on the circuit very much.

It boasts almost the same amount of power, comes with a standard six-speed manual transmission, and costs about twenty thousand dollars less. Some standard features are a digital instrument panel, a 13.2-inch touchscreen screen, dual-zone air conditioning, a dual-exit active valve exhaust, and an electronic exhaust lock.

2026 Ford Mustang GT500 Prototype (Spied)

Ford officials will start testing prototypes for the Mustang Shelby GT500 in this instance, using a fleet of Mustang Dark Horse-based test vehicles running in Dearborn, revealing modifications suggesting the next Shelby GT500’s arrival.

Ford also revealed a new name for the high-performance trim when it presented the seventh-generation Mustang for the 2024 model year. The more powerful V-8 bore the Dark Horse designation rather than the Shelby GT350 as earlier Mustangs.

But don’t panic; The Shelby name is still returning as our spy photographers have spotted Ford testing prototypes for the upcoming Shelby GT500 around the Dearborn, Michigan, corporate headquarters.

Ford’s upcoming Mustang Shelby GT500 prototype has started testing on public roads surrounding its Dearborn, Michigan headquarters. Though it had a modified front end with more cooling, the prototype was based on the Mustang Dark Horse and retained the same wheels as the prior GT500.

A leaked paper last month claimed the GT500 would be available in 2026 and include a new engine dubbed “Legend.”

The data we obtained from our Cars and Driver (C&D) colleagues shows that one of our spy photographers captured images of various Mustang test vehicles. Though some variations suggest this is a more powerful Mustang, the prototype’s sheet metal is mainly identical to the Dark Horse.

The most apparent modification is the front, which sports a modified bumper with bigger air intakes and a big, obviously visible radiator. The test vehicle’s slightly changed front wheel arches seem to explain the broader front tyres. Though it’s unknown what precisely this hides, the back behind the B-pillar is similarly camouflaged.

Another visible change is the wheels. The prototype looks to ride on the previous GT500’s standard wheel set or the optional 20-inch carbon fiber wheels included in the GT500’s $18,500 Carbon Fiber Track package.

While the carbon wheels are shod with the same Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires as the Track package on the previous generation, the standard wheels use Pirelli P Zero R tires instead of the old GT500’s Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. The Dark Horse, by comparison, uses Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS tires.

The prototype looks like a standard Dark Horse model. Still, the final production version of the new GT500 could also feature a new grille design, a redesigned hood, and a unique aerodynamics package. One interesting thing about this prototype is the sticker Ford engineers affixed to the front fender, identifying it as a test mule with a cartoon image of a donkey kicking its hind legs.

This prototype sighting follows rumors from last month, based on a leaked internal United Auto Workers memo, which was uploaded to Reddit and later deleted. The document states that the Dearborn Engine Plant will add a new shift to produce engines for the 2026 Shelby GT500, and calls the engine the “Legend.”

The previous GT500’s supercharged 5.2-liter V-8 made 760 horsepower and 625 pound-feet of torque, and we expect the new GT500 to meet those standards at least.

2026 Ford Mustang S650

In recent years, the Ford Raptor family has grown to include not only the Ford F-150 Raptor (and Raptor R) but also the Ford Bronco Raptor and Ford Ranger Raptor, each of which is sold in more than one country around the world.

These rugged, high-performance off-road vehicles have become extremely popular among enthusiasts, routinely selling for much more than MSRP and remaining in high demand. Therefore, according to Car and Driver, it’s reasonable to expect more Raptor-powered vehicles moving forward, which could be the case with the Ford Mustang Raptor S650.

Last November, Ford Authority (FA) made a version of the S650 that we thought was similar to the Ford Mustang Raptor R, but that’s just a hypothesis. However, Car and Driver (C&D) reports that the engine will arrive in 2026. However, no source detailed the information. It was published online today but is scheduled to appear in the magazine’s May 2023 issue.

Regardless, C&D provided details on what we can expect from the Porsche 911 Dakar’s more affordable rival, including that it will be powered by a 500-horsepower naturally-aspirated version of Ford’s 5.0L V8 Coyote engine.

However, there is no manual transmission, only a 10-speed automatic, and no two-speed transfer case. However, it will use an electronically controlled center differential, while the Predator-powered version of the Raptor R won’t. It seems it can be avoided.

Otherwise, the Ford Mustang Raptor will have much in common with other Raptor models, including Fox Live Valve dampers, a two-inch lift, beefier springs, skid plates, fender flares, and all-terrain tires. Prices will reportedly start at around $90k, making it a pretty expensive pony.

Ford opted not to offer all-wheel drive on the 2024 Mustang, and the S650 may be the last to offer a V8 engine. Given that S650 production will reportedly end in 2030, it makes sense to produce as many special models as possible, including the next-generation Shelby GT500, which is set to launch in 2025 for the 2026 model year and was recently spied by the Ford Authority.

2026 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 (GT350R)

While we eagerly waited for the new GT500 based on the S650-generation Ford Mustang, Shelby surprised us by unveiling the 2025 GT350 and GT350R, which have more power than the old S550-based Shelby GT500 in its top configuration.

A true challenger to the Dodge Hellcat (pun intended), the previous generation Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 had 627 pound-feet (847 Nm) of torque and 760 hp (771 ps/567 kW) from its supercharged 5.2L V8 engine. It took about three seconds to go from 0 to 60 mph (97 kph), and it is a ten-second car in perfect condition.

However, the all-new Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 is on a higher level. The familiar Coyote V8 produces up to 810 horsepower (822 ps/604 kW) on 93-octane fuel, and if that sounds extreme, and we hope it doesn’t, customers can opt for the base version.

With 480 hp (487 ps/358 kW) from the regular 5.0L V8 engine, there’s nothing to write home about here. Both naturally aspirated and supercharged models can be combined with manual and automatic transmissions.

Additional technical modifications include new front and rear sway bars and lowered springs. A Borla cat-back exhaust system is included for a louder ride, and the car rides on 20-inch alloy wheels (9.5×20 front and 11×20 rear) with performance tires.

It also features dual racing stripes, a three-piece front apron, aggressive grille inserts, a ducktail spoiler, and fairly discreet Shelby badging. If you want your new Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 to look more aggressive, you can optionally opt for a large wing and carbon fiber package.

Special sill plates greet those who open the doors, and the dash panel bears a special plaque indicating the build number. The Shelby embroidery isn’t missed on this model, which also gets leather seats and embroidered floor mats. Taking the stick shift variant will give you a ball shifter, and that’s another cool thing.

Remember, while the new Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 comes with up to 810 hp thanks to a Whipple supercharger and other upgraded internals, the 2025 Shelby GT350R is much more powerful. The 5.0L supercharged V8 engine that powers it produces more than 830 horsepower (842 ps/619 kW).

Opting for the GT350R means living with a six-speed manual transmission, as an automatic isn’t available here. Further chassis changes are part of the Shelby makeover: Gold Rush brake calipers, an aluminum hood, ventilated front fenders made from carbon fiber, a carbon fiber rear diffuser, a carbon fiber wing, and some exclusive touches inside.

The new Ford Mustang Shelby GT350R is coming to Michigan courtesy of Turn Key Automotive, with production limited to 36 units, all of which will have a white finish, though with various stripes and graphics available. The regular GT350 will be limited to 526 units, sold through select Ford dealers in the US and abroad. Full pricing details are not yet known, although Shelby has confirmed that the supercharged GT350 will be priced at $109,999, and that price includes the donor car.

It’s easy to call the new Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 (and GT350R) the most powerful muscle car in production, as Dodge has left the Hellcat/Demon world behind. The Stellantis-owned car brand has confirmed that it will not install a V8 engine in the next-generation Charger.

It will be limited to a six-pot engine for the ICE family and some electric variants in the Daytonas. However, knowing how Dodge is going and considering the powerful versions of the S650 Mustang, including two new Shelbys and the very expensive GTD (starting price $325,000), we think it’s only a matter of time until the company produces an insane muscle car.

Regardless of what kind of power it will use (probably electric), we expect it to have double-digit output at its best.

After all, the Demon 170 version of the old Challenger typically had up to 1,025 horsepower in its top configuration; it took 1.66 seconds with a 0-60 mph launch and covered the quarter mile in 8.91 seconds. However, we found a standard copy not long ago that was faster than advertised.

There’s no need to bring GM into the discussion because while Ford still offers V8-powered muscle cars and Dodge is switching to six-pot and EV power for their new Charger, Chevy abandoned the game over a year ago. The Camaro is no longer in production and is unlikely to return to the automotive world soon.

Therefore, the Blue Oval holds the true muscle car crown, and the new GT350 and GT350R duo are phenomenal. The ball is in your court, Mopar!

2026 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500

2026 Ford Shelby GT500: The new seventh-generation 2024 Ford Mustang stood out at its unveiling last week, keeping the dream of a V-8-powered, manual-shift muscle car alive for at least a few more years.

Over the past few generations, Ford has developed the Shelby GT500 trim as one of the range-topping variants in the Mustang lineup, offering more power than the standard V-8 ‘Stang with the help of a supercharger.

We can expect heavy use of carbon fiber, intense suspension, chassis upgrades, custom bodywork with more aggressive aero, a massive rear wing, and the GT500’s signature racing stripes. Here are some renderings of the 2026 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500.

While it’s somewhat surprising that, as has long been rumored, there’s no hybrid or electrified powertrain in this new generation, Ford is still offering something fresh: the all-new Ford Mustang Dark Horse performance model. Dark Horse will offer the most powerful 5.0-liter V-8 engine the company has ever tuned for a road car, producing around 500 horsepower.

The Dark Horse also borrowed several upgrades previously reserved only for Shelby Mustang performance models, such as the GT500, including carbon fibre wheels and specially modified piston connecting rods, without a full Shelby overhaul.

This new Dark Horse model appears to take a midrange performance level for this next-generation muscle car previously held by performance trims like the 2021 Mustang Mach 1. This model offers about 20 more horsepower than the sixth-generation Mustang GT on which it is based. This still leaves plenty of room for Shelby models like the GT500 to go even further.

The supercharged 5.2-liter “Predator” V-8-powered GT500 boasts 760 horsepower and 625 pound-feet of torque, and we only expect it to get even more ridiculous with the next generation due out in a few years.

The outgoing GT500 offered a dual-clutch 7-speed automatic (no manual option), good adaptive dampers, brakes up to 16.5 inches, and Michelin Pilot Sport tires wrapped around lightweight carbon fiber rims, and we can expect a similar setup for the new car.

The GT500 will likely get Shelby-specific Recaro front seats, a rear seat delete option to save weight, and plenty of carbon fiber trim and construction.

This week, Ford Authority has reported via “sources” that the seventh-generation Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 will debut in 2025 as a 2026 model, with the current sixth-generation Mustang-based GT500 being phased out this year. That sounds reasonable, so we likely won’t have to wait too long for the new one to debut.

2026 Ford Mustang Interior

The regular seats are rather comfortable, but the optional sporty Recaro seats have heavy cushioning that makes it hard to get in and out without moving the seat back. The back seats are a little snug, especially for headroom, but they’re fine for short journeys.

Getting in and out of small parking spots might be hard because the Mustang’s doors are so long. If you get a convertible, dropping the roof will make it much easier to get to the back seat.

We didn’t have any problems with the Mustang’s regular non-Recaro seats. Drivers will be comfy behind the wheel, whether they’re on the road or the track. The fairly flat hood gives you a decent perspective, although the windshield pillars are a little heavy and can block some of your view on tiny roadways. The side mirrors are narrow and don’t let you see much behind you.

The Mustang has a fully computerized dashboard and only a few buttons. You can get to most of the other functions and settings through the big touchscreen in the middle. Some drivers might find this a little annoying, but the display is easy to read, responds quickly, and is really easy to use. Most Mustang owners will figure it out quickly.

Comfort

The Mustang is ready to fulfill your needs, whether you care more about comfort or performance. The EcoBoost and GT models come with a suspension that can’t be changed and does a good job of smoothing out most bumps in the road. The Performance package also comes with a MagneRide adaptable suspension.

The MagneRide is firmer than the conventional suspension, but committed fans won’t have to make any sacrifices. The optional Recaro sport seats will probably be comfy enough for these fans, but larger drivers or those who enjoy heated and ventilated seats will be happy to know that there are more pleasant seats available.

We didn’t really like the Mustang’s air conditioning system. We were often trying to adjust the central air vents because they didn’t have enough airflow or the ability to be adjusted. People who want to regulate the air conditioning with their hands will be unhappy because the Mustang has all-digital controls. Most controls are at the bottom of the touchscreen, although some, like fan speed, need extra menu options.

People who love driving probably won’t mind the noise inside the Mustang. The large tires make some noise on the road and in the cabin, but the rest of the interior is well-insulated, even in the convertible. The basic exhaust on the EcoBoost and GT versions sounds really fantastic, but if you want it to be louder, you can get an active exhaust system.

Tech

A digital instrument panel with a 13.2-inch touchscreen driven by Ford’s Sync 4 system is in front of the driver. The touchscreen is easy to read and responds quickly, and the instrument panel has a lot of different settings. The menu layout is also rather simple. The navigation system worked quickly and well for us.

The optional 12-speaker B&O audio system isn’t as good. The sound is loud enough, but you can’t hear it as well when you turn it up. There are a few USB charging ports that are easy to get to.

The Mustang is a rather basic sports vehicle in this class. It has standard driver-assistance features like automated emergency braking and a warning for blind spots. Most of the technologies worked perfectly, but we had a hard time keeping the Mustang in its lane using the lane-keeping system, which made us swap lanes a lot.

Storage

The Mustang can really be used as a delivery driver and a daily driver. Even if the trunk of the fastback is a little odd, it has 13.5 cubic feet of space, which is more than enough for a high-performance coupe. The convertible has 11.4 cubic feet of space. And it makes the most of its space by comfortably hauling a suitcase or golf bag.

The Mustang’s traditional trunk keeps your things safe and separate, even though it doesn’t have as much trunk room as the Toyota GR Supra and Nissan Z, both hatchbacks. The convertible version doesn’t take up much trunk space when the roof is open, which is a nice touch.

The inside offers ample room for drinks, sunglasses, and a cell phone, so everything is protected while you’re driving fast. There is also a car seat, although you could have difficulties getting it in.

Engine

No matter whatever Mustang you pick, it will have enough power to keep you entertained. We handed our test team three different Mustangs: the EcoBoost, the GT with a six-speed manual transmission, and the GT with a ten-speed automatic. Every Mustang came with the Performance package.

The EcoBoost gets to 60 mph in a speedy 5.6 seconds, the six-speed GT achieves it in 4.8 seconds, and the automatic GT does it even faster, in 4.3 seconds. The EcoBoost goes 94.2 mph in a quarter mile, the manual-equipped GT goes 111.6 mph, and the automatic-equipped GT goes 113.1 mph. The Mustang is easy to get, even though other sports vehicles might be a little faster.

Each of these Mustangs has great braking numbers, stopping from 60 mph in 100 feet or almost 100 feet. That distance is very short for a sports coupe that isn’t too expensive. Also, each version has great pedal feel and stability.

All three of the Mustangs use Pirelli P Zero tires to get 0.97g or 0.98g around our skidpad, which shows that they are also good at handling. Again, those numbers are really good for the price. Our test driver also thought it was rather straightforward to use the Mustang’s chassis, thanks to its strong body control and crisp steering.

The Mustang is great for regular travels, whether it’s on the racetrack or on winding roads. The EcoBoost four-cylinder engine is strong enough to keep up with traffic, and the GT’s 5.0-liter V8 has enough torque to speed through traffic and easily climb longer hills.

We really enjoy the six-speed manual transmission, but all of our drivers agreed that the ten-speed automatic transmission is a good choice if you don’t want to deal with the clutch.

MPG

We drove both the EcoBoost and the GT variants. The GT had a six-speed manual transmission. We got an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the turbocharged four-cylinder EcoBoost when we drove it in real life. The EPA says the V8-powered GT gets 18.0 mpg, which is what we got.

These numbers are close to what you can get from the competition, but the V8-powered GT is a little behind turbocharged cars like the Toyota GR Supra and BMW M240i.

Getting an entry-level Mustang EcoBoost is definitely a cheap way to drive an American classic. But this performance-focused GT will have to compete with tougher cars like the Toyota GR Supra, BMW M240i, and Nissan Z Nismo.

The Mustang has more choices for personalization than these cars, but its plastics and interiors often seem poorer.

Models

You may have the 2026 Ford Mustang as a coupe or a convertible. There are five different models: EcoBoost, EcoBoost Premium, GT, GT Premium, and Dark Horse (without the convertible). The EcoBoost Mustang has a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 315 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

The EcoBoost doesn’t come with a manual transmission. The Mustang GT has a 5.0-liter V8 engine that makes 480 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. It comes with either a six-speed manual or a ten-speed automatic transmission. Lastly, the Dark Horse, which is only available as a coupe, has a stronger version of the GT’s 5.0-liter V8 engine (500 horsepower, 418 lb-ft) and comes with a standard 10-speed automatic or an optional six-speed manual transmission. All Mustangs have rear-wheel drive.

If you want to buy a Mustang, we say go ahead and do it. So, get the GT with its 480-horsepower V8. And although if the automatic could be faster in a straight line, everyone knows that the manual is more fun. Also, buy it.

Trim for the 2026 Ford Mustang

Fastback with a Turbo 4
The pricing starts at $32,320. Buyers now have to pay extra for the usual floor mats, which are no longer included. The LED headlights now have black bezels instead of chrome, and the basic tire inflator kit has been taken out, but you can still have it as an option.

Turbo 4 Premium Fastback
The starting price for this model is $36,345. It has better features than the standard fastback, and you can have the same upgrades for the headlights, floor mats, and tire package.

4-Turbo Convertible
The price for the convertible variant starts at $40,120. The safety package that used to come with the convertible is no longer standard; it’s now an optional purchase.

Turbo 4 Premium Drop Top
The lowest price is $41,845. This car, like previous grades, no longer comes with floor mats or an inflator kit as standard.

GT Fastback
The GT Fastback costs $46,560 to start. It still has V8 power, but the headlights, wheels, and floor mats are the same as on the other grades.

GT Premium Fastback
This variant costs more than $50,000 to start (the handbook doesn’t say how much it costs, but it’s over the GT Fastback). This variant keeps the same equipment changes but adds high-end interior comforts and technologies.

GT Premium Drop-Top
The fastback version costs less than the GT Premium Convertible. It is the only GT convertible option because the regular GT convertible is not available.

Horse Black
The Dark Horse trim costs $64,080. This model was made to focus on performance, and it has the same equipment changes as the others, such as the elimination of the inflator kit and floor mats as standard equipment.

Dark Horse Premium
The most expensive choice in the collection is this one, which costs $69,075. It has the same performance as the Dark Horse, but with more comfort and better inside features.

2026 Ford Mustang Colors

• New Adriatic Blue
• Orange Fury (new)
• Blue Steam
• Grabber Blue
• Race in Red
• Dark Shadow
• Grey Carbonized
• Famous Silver
• Oxfords in White
• Pink

This year, there are two new colors for the outside: Adriatic Blue and Orange Fury. Vapor Blue, Grabber Blue, Race Red, Shadow Black, Carbonized Grey, Iconic Silver, Oxford White, and more are some of the other colors that are coming back.

Options that are no longer available:

• Very Bright Lime Yellow Paint
• Wimbledon White (which used to be part of the 60th Anniversary Package)
• Package for 60th Birthday
• Special Package for California
• Package with Wheels and Stripes

Colors that are no longer available

• Bright Lime Yellow
• Wimbledon White (from the 60th Anniversary Pack)

Puts Orange Paint

In the latest update, we have the 2026 Ford Mustang muscle car, which will be made to look bold, and a few colors will turn heads, like orange. While the Ford Mustang has not had a true orange option for years, that looks set to change in 2026.

The Blue Oval is finally adding the bold orange color back to its pony car palette, as evidenced by several 2026 Ford Mustang prototypes spotted by Ford Authority undergoing testing.

According to information we have from Ford Authority (FA), three 2026 Ford Mustang models were seen wearing orange paint. Photographers spotted two EcoBoost models, including one coupe and one convertible.

The color appears to be similar to Twister Orange, a metallic tri-coat color option offered on the sixth-generation Mustang, though it’s unclear whether it will carry the same name and paint code or represent a new hue for the 2026 Ford Mustang.

For context, Twister Orange was the most expensive color offered on the Mustang when it was available, costing $495 when it was introduced for the 2020 model year. Additionally, the GT convertible also featured the color, so the new paint will likely be widely available for 2026.

A color called Cyber Orange was also offered on the Mustang, though it was more of a yellow-orange, contrary to its name. That color is currently not available on the Mustang, but it will be replaced by a purer shade of yellow called Intense Lime Yellow for the 2025 model year. That means the new orange adorning this 2026 Ford Mustang prototype will be the first “true” orange offered on the seventh-generation model straight from the factory.

Also worth noting are the wheels worn by this prototype. They are not wrapped in the 18 x 8.5-inch Machined-face aluminum wheels with pockets painted in High Gloss Ebony Black, which are standard on the 2025 Ford Mustang EcoBoost. While the design is similar, the wheels seen here are not painted in Ebony Black, signifying the addition of a new set of standard wheels for the entry-level Mustang.

Another significant change coming to the 2026 Ford Mustang is the reintroduction of the Mustang Shelby GT500. We can assure you that this will be an integrated prototype of the high-performance pony that was tested last year, marking the rebirth of an icon.

Competitor

The Ford Mustang has lost two of its biggest opponents now that the Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger are no longer available. The V8 Mustang competes with the BMW M4 and Chevrolet Corvette, but the EcoBoost-equipped “Stang” is more like the BMW 4 Series, Nissan Z, and Toyota GR Supra. Some people might also think about the Subaru BRZ and the Toyota GR86.

This article’s information comes from Ford. This information is correct as of October 22, 2025, but it may have changed since then. Always check the automaker’s website or your local dealer to make sure you have the right information about a product and that it is in stock.

Jeff Youngs has worked in the automobile sector for more than 30 years, 19 of which were with J.D. Power in managing marketing and writing. He also worked with General Motors for five years as a media relations professional. His work has most recently been published in Autotrader, Autolist, Capital One Auto Navigator, CarGurus, iSeeCars, JDPower.com, and Kelley Blue Book. He is the owner and founder of Blue Line Auto Media.

2026 Ford Mustang Release Date

Full details have not been revealed, but we expect more information as we approach the Mustang Raptor’s launch date, which is expected to be around 2026.

2026 Ford Mustang Price

The 2026 Mustang Dark Horse starts at $64,080, while the Premium variant costs $69,075 before taxes and fees. That’s a lot of cash, but it’s also a lot of Mustang. The Dark Horse initially came out for the 2024 model year. It still looks new, with a spoiler, silver-painted strut tower braces with Dark Horse insignia, and other embellishments that aren’t found on other Mustang trims.

Price List

The price of the 2026 Ford Mustang ranges from $34,315 to $71,070, depending on the specification and options. The turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder is definitely a performance beast, but V-8 engines are still an option, and we advocate utilizing one, especially with the six-speed manual transmission in the GT coupe.

It’s true that it’s $10,000 more expensive than a four-cylinder, but as the phrase goes, “buy experiences, not things.” With the Mustang GT, you get both. For an extra $5,000, you can also choose the GT Performance package. This package comes with 19-inch wheels, big Brembo calipers, a Torsen differential with 3.73 gears, and a few more cool features.

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The prices for the 2026 Ford Mustang Raptor / Raptor R are expected to start around $91,000 and go up to $111,000, depending on trim and options.

Ford will follow a similar formula with the F-150 Raptor. This could start with a base version that significantly increases horsepower over the street V-8 model, followed by the Raptor R that makes big torque. Like other Raptors, the off-road Mustang’s starting price will be as high as its knobby tires.

Models	Price MSRP
Mustang Raptor	$91,000 (est)
Mustang Raptor R	$111,000 (est)

Verdict

The Mustang from 2026 is both interesting and strong. It’s not a car that fits everyone because it has a powerful V8 engine, great handling, and modern technology. It brings back memories since it’s the final American muscle vehicle, yet it’s more useful than most high-powered coupes.

Ford Mustang will certainly be able to attract you with its available V8 power, great handling, and modern technology features. Other automakers have given up on high-performance coupes, but Ford is still on fire with its latest Mustang. We’ll be back soon with more on the 2026 Ford Mustang, so bookmark our website to stay updated with the latest Ford news, Ford Mustang news, and information on other Ford models on the road.

FAQs: People also ask about the Ford Mustang 2026

See in Action

2026 Ford Mustang RTR – All the Major Changes made