The Mustang is one of Ford’s most exciting models, with the pony car often being privy to some of the most hair-raising updates the Ford lineup has to offer. The Ford Mustang has plenty of new features in store for 2026, and in this preview, we’ll go in depth on all of the anticipated 2026 Ford Mustang design updates to give you the full picture when shopping for your dream pony car in the 2026 model year.
Key Takeaways:
- The FX Trim is the latest and greatest in the Mustang lineup - a Foxbody-inspired body kit that makes for a truly unique looking Mustang.
- Teal is back! It joins the lineup as part of the retro-inspired tweaks the Mustang has in store for 2026.
- The Mustang is mostly identical to how it appeared in 2025, meaning most of its best features cut for the new year.
Will there be a 2026 Ford Mustang?
For 2026, the Ford Mustang GT Premium gets a nostalgic twist with the new FX appearance package, a tribute to the beloved third-generation Fox-body Mustang. This special edition brings back retro-inspired styling both inside and out. On the exterior, the FX package includes white-painted wheels. Performance Package models receive Oxford White fan-style wheels reminiscent of the classic Cobra, while others get revised white split-five-spoke designs.
Additional white accents appear on the badging, grille nostrils, and optional tail lights. Inside, the cabin is outfitted with plaid perforated leather seat inserts, silver and blue contrast stitching, and carbon fiber trim sourced from the Mustang Dark Horse. Separately from the FX package, the 2026 Mustang lineup also welcomes two eye-catching paint colors: the fresh Adriatic Blue Metallic and the returning Orange Fury. Ford plans to open order books for the updated Mustang in late June.
How Much Horsepower does a 2025 Ford Mustang Dark Horse have?
The 2025 Ford Mustang offers a trio of impressive engine options, starting with a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost engine that makes 315 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Enthusiasts seeking more muscle can upgrade to the 5.0-liter V8, which produces 480 horsepower in the GT or 500 horsepower in the Dark Horse, both delivering a thrilling performance experience.
Rear-wheel drive is standard across the lineup, as is a 10-speed automatic transmission, though a six-speed manual is available with the GT and Dark Horse trims for drivers who crave more engagement. The EcoBoost engine is quick and responsive for daily driving and highway cruising, while the V8s deliver explosive acceleration and a satisfying soundtrack. While the manual transmission is praised for its tactile feel, some reviewers note that the automatic can be hesitant during shifts. Regardless of the setup, every Mustang powertrain delivers a fun-to-drive experience.
Will the 2026 Ford Mustang Be Different Than Previous Years?
The Mustang may be keeping the changes light this year, but that doesn't mean that it's lacking by any measure. The FX trim looks phenomenal, and those new paints are a welcome sight for sore eyes, meaning that the fantastic lineup featuring that iconic Coyote V8 now looks just as good as it runs. Orders are set to open later in 2025, so be sure to keep an eye out for the new Mustang FX when this muscle car hits the lots later this year.