The Mustang has been Ford's flagship ponycar since its debut all the way back in the 60s, and over the decades it has managed to consistently innovate and improve to be one of the best cars year after year in the US market. Today, in this review of the 2026 Mustang vs 2025 model, we'll be going over everything you can expect the latest model of Mustang to do when compared to its outgoing model in the 2025 iteration of the 'Stang.
Key Takeaways
- The 2026 Mustang builds on the redesigned platform with incremental technology refinements.
- Engine options and core performance characteristics remain largely unchanged year over year.
- Differences are concentrated in standard features and optional equipment availability.
Are they making a 2026 Ford Mustang?
The big headline for the 2026 Ford Mustang is the new Dark Horse SC, positioned as the spiritual successor to the discontinued Ford Mustang Shelby GT500. The Dark Horse SC replaces the standard 5.0-liter V-8 with a supercharged 5.2-liter V-8 and adds a suite of performance and visual upgrades. Ford also introduces a new FX Appearance Package for GT Premium models, paying tribute to the Fox-body era with retro styling cues inside and out. New Adriatic Blue Metallic joins the palette, and Orange Fury returns after several years away. Order books are expected to open in late June.
Pricing is expected to start around $34,635 for the EcoBoost and climb to an estimated $90,000 for the Dark Horse SC. The GT begins around $48,555, with the GT Premium at roughly $53,075. While the turbocharged EcoBoost offers strong performance, the 5.0-liter V-8 in the GT remains the enthusiast's choice, especially when paired with the six-speed manual. Adding the GT Performance Package brings larger brakes, 19-inch wheels, a 3.73 Torsen differential, and additional styling upgrades for an even sharper driving experience.
How much will the 2025 Ford Mustang GT cost?
The 2025 Ford Mustang GT starts at about $45,460 for the GT Fastback, with the GT Premium Fastback closer to $49,980. If you want wind in your hair and slightly worse hair afterward, the GT Premium Convertible begins around $55,480. At the far end of the spectrum sits the track-focused Ford Mustang GTD, which rockets to roughly $300,000 before you even start bragging about it.
Actual pricing depends heavily on trim, body style, and options. Performance packages, upgraded tech, and premium audio can push the sticker up quickly, and dealer markups or discounts vary by region and demand. While some buyers may land near MSRP, the final transaction price ultimately comes down to configuration, availability, and how motivated the dealership is to move inventory.
2026 vs 2025 Mustang: Performance & Feature Breakdown
| Category |
2026 Ford Mustang |
2025 Ford Mustang |
| Platform |
S650 platform (carryover) |
S650 platform |
| Base Engine |
2.3L EcoBoost |
2.3L EcoBoost |
| GT Engine |
5.0L Coyote V8 |
5.0L Coyote V8 |
| High-Performance Model |
New Dark Horse SC (supercharged 5.2L V8) |
Dark Horse (naturally aspirated 5.0L) |
| Transmission Options |
6-speed manual or 10-speed automatic |
6-speed manual or 10-speed automatic |
| Retro Styling Package |
FX Appearance Package (new) |
Not available |
| Infotainment |
Incremental software refinements |
Current S650 digital setup |
| Pricing Range |
~$34K to ~$90K+ |
~$34K to ~$300K (GTD extreme model) |
Summary
Both model years of the Mustang stand out for their own reasons. The 2026 Mustang brings the long awaited retro-inspired package which harkens back to the golden days of the Foxbody Mustang. On the other hand, the 2025 Mustang keeps prices reasonable while being a solid model in its own right. Just because the 2025 'stang a year old, doesn't mean it's a step behind the current model by any means. As such you can expect a solid muscle car regardless of which year you choose. Jarrett Dade City has a great selection of Ford Mustangs in stock, so if you're looking to get hands on with both of these great pony cars, why not get in contact and see for yourself which is better for you?