The Mustang has spent decades blending its pony car dominating past with the kind of performance people expect, and the 2026 lineup keeps that familiar approach in place. Ford's biggest move this year is a throwback to a new package, which taps into older Mustang design cues while leaving the existing engines untouched. But what else is on tap for the new model year? Let's take a look!
Key Takeaways:
- The new FX package brings Fox-body styling to GT Premium models.
- As of this writing in March 2026, the Mustang Raptor isn't out yet, but look for it in the first half of the year.
- The 2025 lineup introduced the 60th anniversary edition and its 1967-inspired gauges.
- Ford optimized the Mustang's performance via the Dark Horse trim and available Pirelli Trofeo RS tires.
What Changed for the 2026 Ford Mustang Compared to 2025?
The centerpiece for 2026 is the FX package, offered exclusively on the GT Premium. It's a direct nod to the Fox-body era, featuring design cues that fans of the '80s and '90s will love. When paired with the Performance Package, the car sits on Oxford White fan-style wheels that mimic the classic Cobra aesthetic; other FX versions feature white split five-spoke wheels. To finish the vintage look, Ford added white grille nostrils, available white-out taillights, and retro badging.
The interior of the FX includes plaid leather seat inserts with blue and silver stitching, complemented by carbon-fiber accents taken from the Dark Horse. The 2026 color palette also sees the addition of Adriatic Blue Metallic and the return of Orange Fury.
While 2026 is defined by the FX package, the 2025 model year was centered on the 60th anniversary edition. Available only for GT coupes and convertibles, this anniversary version featured 20-inch wheels with red aluminum center caps. Another 2025 update was a digital gauge cluster that recreates the look of the 1967 Mustang's instrument panel. This retro tech is available via an over-the-air update for all seventh-generation Mustangs (2024 and later).
Model Year Changes
| 2026 Ford Mustang |
2025 Ford Mustang |
| FX Package added for GT Premium |
60th Anniversary Edition introduced for GT coupes and convertibles |
| White fan-style or split five-spoke wheels; white grille nostrils, available white-out taillights, and retro badging |
20-inch wheels with red aluminum center caps |
| Addition of Adriatic Blue Metallic and the return of Orange Fury colors |
Digital gauge cluster of the 1967 Mustang's instrument panel via an over-the-air update |
What is the Base engine for a 2026 Ford Mustang?
The 'Stang's powertrain options start with the 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder cranking out 315 ponies and 350 lb-ft of torque through a 10-speed automatic. Its 5.0-liter also returns with 480 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of, which jumps to 486 horses if you opt for the performance exhaust. V8 buyers can also choose a six-speed manual transmission.
The Dark Horse remains the top-tier performer, pushing the 5.0-liter engine to 500 horsepower and adding upgraded dampers. For drivers intent on hitting the track, the Handling Package swaps in Pirelli Trofeo RS rubber for maximum grip.
What is the Interior Like on a 2026 Ford Mustang?
The 'Stang's interior features a dual-screen setup, which includes a 13.2-inch touchscreen and a digital gauge display. Both systems use Ford's Sync 4 software with standard wireless charging, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The tech suite rounds out with Alexa voice control, Ford Streaming, and the capability for over-the-air updates.
When Can You Get Behind the Wheel of a Ford Mustang?
Most of the lineup is available for purchase now, with the exception of the Tremor. If you are ready to experience the latest Mustang updates in person, contact Banner Ford in Mandeville today to set up a test drive. We're here to get you into your next car!