If you're looking at the Ford Mustang and the Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing, you're not really choosing between equals, you're choosing between two totally different speedster approaches. The Mustang gives you range, personality, and options. The Blackwing is more locked in with one setup. Here's what to consider when choosing Mustang or CT4 V Blackwing.
Key Takeaways
- Ford leans into retro styling with the new FX package on the GT Premium.
- The Mustang still gives you a full spread of trims and engines, including multiple V8 options.
- Cadillac keeps things simple with a single Blackwing configuration and fewer updates.
Mustang and CT4-V Blackwing Updates for 2026
Ford's main update this year is the FX package, which clearly aims at the Fox-body crowd. It's only available on the GT Premium, but it changes the whole vibe of the car. You've got white-accented wheels--fan-style if you go Performance Package, split five-spoke otherwise--plus white grille details, white-out taillights, and throwback badges. Inside, it keeps that same mix of old and new going. Plaid seat inserts, blue and silver stitching, and carbon-fiber trim pulled from the Dark Horse give it a more specific look than just another trim package. Ford also adds Adriatic Blue Metallic and brings Orange Fury back into the color lineup.
Cadillac doesn't add anything new for 2026, but it does cut a few things out. The Petit Pataud special edition makes its exit, along with Magnus Metal Frost paint and a few interior color combos.
Model Year Changes
| 2026 Ford Mustang |
2026 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing |
| FX Package added for GT Premium |
Petit Pataud spécial |
| White fan-style or split five-spoke wheels; white grille nostrils, available white-out taillights, and retro badging |
Magnus Metal Frost paint and some interior color combos discontinued. |
| Addition of Adriatic Blue Metallic and the return of Orange Fury colors |
No other changes to Blackwing for 2026 |
Mustang and CT4-V Blackwing Pricing and Lineup Differences
Ford offers a full spread for buyers of every budget:
- EcoBoost: $34,635
- EcoBoost Premium: $38,340
- EcoBoost Convertible: $42,115
- EcoBoost Premium Convertible: $43,840
- GT: $48,555
- GT Premium: $53,075
- GT Premium Convertible: $58,575
- Dark Horse: $66,075
- Dark Horse Premium Coupe: $71,070
- Dark Horse SC: $108,485
- Dark Horse SC Track Pack: $144,985
- Dark Horse SC Track Pack Special Edition: $175,965
The Blackwing has but one trim, priced at $65,395.
Which Car Offers More Engine Choices?
The Mustang lineup kicks things off with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost putting out 315 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic. Step up to the 5.0-liter V8 and you're looking at 480 horsepower and 415 lb-ft. If you opt for the performance exhaust, that bumps up slightly to 486 horsepower and 418 lb-ft. And if you still want to row your own gears, the V8 keeps the six-speed manual on the table.
That's not even the top of the lineup. The Dark Horse pushes that same 5.0-liter up to an even 500 horsepower and adds upgraded dampers to sharpen how the 'Stang handles through corners. If you're more track-focused, its Handling Package swaps in Pirelli Trofeo RS tires.
The CT4-V Blackwing has far fewer options. It uses a twin-turbo 3.6-liter V6 that delivers 472 horsepower and 445 lb-ft. It drives the rear wheels, with a choice between a six-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Interior Tech of the Mustang and CT4-V Blackwing
The Mustang feels modern right away thanks to a dual-screen setup made up of a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch center touchscreen with Ford's Sync 4 system and wireless charging, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto as standard features. On top of that, the system supports Alexa voice integration, Ford Streaming, and over-the-air updates.
The CT4-V Blackwing features an 8.0-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless phone charging, and several USB ports. A 14-speaker AKG audio system comes standard as well, with aluminum speaker grilles.
Final Thoughts on Two Great Performance Picks
The Mustang lets you build a performance car your way and gives you more ways to play. Stop by our Brighton Ford showroom today and experience all it has to offer!