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Car and Driver
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2026 Ford Mustang Review, Pricing, and Specs
Overview While hybrid and electric people-movers are all the rage these days, the Mustang proves that American muscle is alive and well—in Ford's stable, at least. America's favorite pony continues to deliver on its 40-plus-year reputation as an affordable sports car in either fastback or convertible form. A 315-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder offers a more contemporary approach to tire-roasting, but a 480-hp 5.0-liter V-8 is still available for eight-cylinder loyalists who can't live without a baritone soundtrack. Both EcoBoost and GT models are potent enough steeds, but the 500-hp Dark Horse is the way to go if performance is a top priority. Regardless, the Mustang's tasteful blend of retro and modern touches is the perfect example of advancements not spoiling a timeless recipe. What's New for 2026? A new FX appearance package is now available on GT Premium models, paying homage to one of the Mustang's most iconic eras. The package celebrates the third-generation Fox-body 'stang, complete with callback exterior styling accents and a retro cabin redesign. A pair of new wheel designs are on offer as part of the kit; Performance-Package-equipped models get rad Oxford White wheels reminiscent of the fan-like shoes found on the old Mustang Cobra, while the remaining models get a revised version of the Mustang's existing 19-inch split-five-spoke wheels, also painted in white. The Oxford White theme continues with the badging, grille nostrils, and optional white-out taillights on Performance Package variants. Inside, the cabin features plaid perforated leather seat inserts, silver and blue contrast stitching, and carbon fiber trim from the Dark Horse. Independent of the FX package, a new aqua-ish Adriatic Blue Metallic paint option is available on all Mustang models, and the Orange Fury hue also returns after being discontinued in 2019. Ford says that the order books for the 2026 Mustang will open in late June. Pricing and Which One to Buy The price of the 2026 Ford Mustang is expected to start around $34,000 and go up to $70,000 depending on the trim and options. EcoBoost $34,000 (est) EcoBoost Premium $40,000 (est) EcoBoost Convertible $42,000 (est) EcoBoost Premium Convertible $45,000 (est) GT $49,000 (est) GT Premium $53,000 (est) GT Premium Convertible $58,000 (est) Dark Horse $66,000 (est) Dark Horse Premium Coupe $70,000 (est) 0 $25k $50k $75k $100k $125k The turbocharged four-cylinder EcoBoost has nothing to be ashamed of performance-wise, but we're still at a point in time where a V-8 exists, and we recommend taking advantage of it— particularly with the six-speed manual in the GT coupe. Sure, it's $10k and change more than the four, but as it's said, buy experiences, not things; with the Mustang GT you get both. You can also add a GT Performance package for roughly $5000 extra. That gives you 19-inch wheels, big Brembo calipers, a 3.73-geared Torsen differential, as well as some sweet appearance bits. Engine, Transmission, and Performance The Mustang's base powertrain is a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost engine rated at 315 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque mated exclusively with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It's a solid-performing setup, but the 5.0-liter V-8 is the heart of the Mustang. Rated for 480 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, it can send power through either the ten-speed automatic or, preferably, a six-speed manual. Ford says an optional performance exhaust increases output to 486 horsepower and 418 pound-feet. The Mustang Dark Horse is a track-focused step up from the GT that uses a 500-hp version of the 5.0-liter V-8. Essentially an evolution of the beloved Mach 1 of the previous generation, it has adaptive dampers and 19-inch Pirelli P Zero PZ4s, but gummy Pirelli Trofeo RS track-worthy tires are available via an optional handling package. Ford has improved the ride and handling balance with every generation, and the latest Mustang shows improvements across the board, including better steering feel and feedback. The Dark Horse's standard adaptive dampers go a long way to tame the brutality that is often part and parcel of performance vehicles wearing track-focused rubber. 0–60-MPH Times At our test track, a Mustang GT with the performance exhaust system ripped to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds; the EcoBoost wasn't too far behind, hitting 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. At 4.1 seconds, the Dark Horse only shaved one second off the GT's time, but it went on to cross the quarter-mile marker in 12.5 seconds at 115 mph. The Dark Horse did shine during our recent 0-to-150-to-0 speed test with a time of 29.7 seconds, beating a Toyota Supra 3.0. View Photos Ford Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG The EPA hasn't released fuel economy information for the 2026 Mustang yet, but last year's four-cylinder model was good for up to 22 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. With the V-8, those estimates fell to 16 mpg city and 24 highway. On our 75-mph highway fuel economy route, a GT model with a six-speed manual returned 24 mpg; the Ecoboost model with the automatic transmission delivered 32 mpg. We'll update this section with 2026 EPA fuel economy estimates when they become available. For more information about the Mustang's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website. Interior, Comfort, and Cargo The Mustang's interior design is a mix of new and retro. We found the seats to be plenty supportive, and the standard 12.4-inch instrument cluster is a massive leap ahead of the previous car's. The configurable display can be customized to fit the needs of most red, white, and blue patriots, with selectable colors, gauges, and even a 'calm' screen that reveals only the most necessary details. If you're feeling nostalgic, the cluster can be configured to look similar to the 1987 Mustang's analog gauges—and a second analog throwback screen that takes its looks from the 1967 'Stang is available as an over-the-air update for all seventh-gen models. Ambient lighting and a driver's display adapt to whichever drive mode you've selected. Base Mustangs come with cloth seats and available micro-suede vinyl inserts, while the Premium level adds stitched bits and pieces from door trim to dashboard. Opting for the FX package on GT Premium models injects some extra retro flair, with plaid seat inserts and silver-and-blue contrast stitching. Ford has also introduced a Remote Rev function that allows the car's engine to blast up the RPMs with a simple click from the key fob while you admire the sounds from outside the car. View Photos Ford Infotainment and Connectivity An available 13.2-inch infotainment screen using Ford's Sync 4 software flows from the gauge cluster toward the center of the car behind a curved glass panel. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard on this system, and an optional wireless smartphone charger helps drivers reduce the clutter of charging cables. Amazon Alexa and Ford Streaming allow voice commands to replace knob-turning or button presses, and every Mustang comes with Ford Power-Up software capability, allowing for over-the-air updates for later software and vehicle function improvements. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features The Mustang is available with an impressive suite of driver-assistance technology named Ford Co-Pilot360. For more information about the Mustang's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include: Standard adaptive cruise control Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist Available active pothole mitigation (included with Performance Pack) Warranty and Maintenance Coverage The Mustang has a solid but average warranty. However, unlike Chevy, Ford doesn't provide a complimentary scheduled maintenance visit. Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles No complimentary scheduled maintenance Specifications Specifications 2024 Ford Mustang GT Vehicle Type: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 4-passenger, 2-door coupe PRICE Base/As Tested: $44,090/$62,425 ENGINE DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, port and direct fuel injection Displacement: 307 in3, 5038 cm3 Power: 486 hp @ 7250 rpm Torque: 418 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm TRANSMISSION 6-speed manual CHASSIS Suspension, F/R: struts/multilink Brakes, F/R: 15.4-in vented disc/14.0-in vented disc Tires: Pirelli P Zero PZ4 F: 255/40R-19 96Y R: 275/40R-19 101Y DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 107.0 in Length: 189.4 in Width: 75.4 in Height: 55.0 in Passenger Volume, F/R: 55/30 ft3 Trunk Volume: 13 ft3 Curb Weight: 3947 lb C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 4.2 sec 100 mph: 9.5 sec 1/4-Mile: 12.5 sec @ 114 mph 130 mph: 16.5 sec 150 mph: 23.5 sec Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec. Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 5.0 sec Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 10.0 sec Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 9.0 sec Top Speed (gov ltd): 155 mph Braking, 70–0 mph: 153 ft Braking, 100–0 mph: 312 ft Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.99 g C/D FUEL ECONOMY Observed: 18 mpg 75-mph Highway Driving: 24 mpg 75-mph Highway Range: 380 mi EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/City/Highway: 17/14/23 mpg 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse Vehicle Type: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 4-passenger, 2-door coupe PRICE Base/As Tested: $60,865/$73,205 ENGINE DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, port and direct fuel injection Displacement: 307 in3, 5038 cm3 Power: 500 hp @ 7250 rpm Torque: 418 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm TRANSMISSION 6-speed manual CHASSIS Suspension, F/R: struts/multilink Brakes, F/R: 15.4-in vented disc/14.0-in vented disc Tires: Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS F: 305/30ZR-19 (98Y) R: 315/30ZR-19 (100Y) DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 107.0 in Length: 189.7 in Width: 75.5 in Height: 55.2 in Passenger Volume, F/R: 55/30 ft3 Trunk Volume: 13 ft3 Curb Weight: 3975 lb C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 4.1 sec 100 mph: 9.7 sec 1/4-Mile: 12.5 sec @ 115 mph 130 mph: 16.4 sec 150 mph: 23.2 sec Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec. Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 5.0 sec Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 9.4 sec Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 8.8 sec Top Speed (mfr's claim): 166 mph Braking, 70–0 mph: 142 ft Braking, 100–0 mph: 278 ft Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 1.07 g EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/City/Highway: 17/14/22 mpg C/D TESTING EXPLAINED More Features and Specs
Auto Blog
29-05-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Study: 1-In-5 People Walk Away From Buying An EV For These 2 Reasons
Automakers can be blamed for one reason – the other is a complicated issue Automakers can be blamed for one reason, but the other is a complicated issue As EV demand wanes amid a slowing economy, it would be easy to say people aren't buying cars out of a sense of fear. A new report somewhat supports that theory but adds some context on why people aren't buying EVs. Economic headwinds play a part, but the main reasons have more to do with dealerships and infrastructure. 2025 Ford Maverick: 4 reasons to love it, 2 reasons to think twice Watch More A study from American Muscle reveals that the two main reasons are charging infrastructure and upfront cost. Buying used isn't the answer, either, as the study notes that 15 percent of used car buyers say they will walk away from a purchase over higher-than-expected pricing. And if you think brand loyalty matters, think again. 2026 Kia EV9 GT — Source: Kia EV buyers have cost and infrastructure concerns Twenty-two percent of people interested in purchasing an EV say they're put off by the higher cost, noting the upfront spend is dissuading them from buying. Further, 20 percent say the 'lack' of charging stations keeps them away. Almost 20 percent (one-in-six, per American Muscle, so about 17 percent) of car buyers considered an EV while at the dealership but changed their mind at the last minute. Sixteen percent say limited battery range keeps them from buying an EV, and 14 percent say they are concerned about the battery's lifespan and cost to replace it, if necessary. 11 percent of car buyers say they're just not interested in EVs, while 23 percent of respondents say they'd switch to an EV if charging were as convenient as filling up at a gas station. Another 58 percent said that might persuade them, but 19 percent said charging convenience won't sway them. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. Why people walk away Overall, 73 percent of new car buyers say prices are too high. Forty-nine percent of those looking to buy an ICE vehicle say poor fuel economy keeps them away. Other reasons people aren't buying new cars are poor driving performance (49 percent), uncomfortable seating (48 percent), poor interior materials (42 percent), and unfavorable financing options (40 percent). Thirty-one percent said the car they wanted to buy had an 'outdated' infotainment system (looking at you, Mazda), and 26 percent said the vehicle had weak acceleration (that's you, Subaru). Missing safety features, unattractive design, and limited interior space also factor into the decision not to buy. Tesla store in Austin, Texas — Source: Tesla Used car buyers are even pickier. Eighty-four percent say pricing is too high, and those looking to buy a used vehicle are 20 percent more likely to walk away over poor driving performance. While each reason detailed above had higher percentages for used car buyers, 60 percent also said they weren't notified of prior damage to the used vehicle they were considering, causing them to walk away. Brand loyalty (almost) doesn't exist Fifty-one percent of Tesla owners say they're willing to switch brands based on the brand's reputation, which is far and away the most significant percentage in this study. Forty percent of Hyundai owners would look elsewhere if the brand took a hit, as would 37 percent of BMW drivers, 35 percent of GM's base, and 33 percent of Kia fans. About 17 percent (again, one in six) of car buyers are willing to switch brands based on reputation alone. Thirty-one percent of buyers switched loyalty at the dealership when they found a vehicle they considered missing a key feature. 13 percent of buyers switched because of limited inventory and long wait times to get the car they wanted. BMW i4 — Source: Fabian Kirchbauer Photography Final thoughts Incoming EV technology, like solid-state batteries and battery cell pack-to-vehicle production, should help ease some concerns. We'd venture that infrastructure is the biggest hurdle, though, and it's not one automakers can readily solve at the national level. While America's charging network was on track to expand, the Trump administration's halting of the distribution of funds for EV charging stations has put a stop to that plan. If these kinds of anti-EV policies continue, these customer complaints will only get worse.
Yahoo
22-02-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Before Dodge Diesel Trucks Had Cummins Engines, They Were Powered By Mitsubishi Motors
When you first conjure an image of a 1978 Dodge pickup in your brain, you might immediately jump to the mighty and muscular Li'l Red Express or the dark and mysterious Warlock models that made up Dodge's "Adult Toys" line. While those immensely cool trucks were saving the American Muscle image in the malaise era, there was a much more rare work-a-day model that set Dodge on the path it rides today. With gasoline prices still sky-high through the 1970s, Dodge was looking for a more economical engine to power its D100, D200, and B-series vans, but didn't have the cash to spend developing a whole new engine for the task. As the Mopar family already had a great relationship with Mitsubishi, Dodge called up its pals in Japan for help. Mitsubishi was more than willing to pick up the call, as its products were already selling in big numbers in the U.S. with Chrysler, Dodge, and Plymouth badges. Read more: Tesla Cybertrucks Are Rusting Despite Being Made Of Stainless Steel For 1978 Dodge introduced the Mitsubishi 6DR5 diesel engine to its truck and van lineups as an optional economic engine. The 4-liter inline six-cylinder naturally aspirated diesel was serving reliably in the giant Mitsubishi Fuso cab-over delivery trucks, as well as several industrial applications, so it should have been the perfect engine for the job. All of a sudden you could buy a Dodge pickup which could deliver around 20 miles per gallon in regular use, helping to stretch those post-oil crisis dollars. Unfortunately, Americans hated it. Not only was the engine more expensive than others in the lineup, but it was rated at just 105 horsepower and 169 pound-feet of torque. Somehow the big diesel made less power than Dodge's own venerable Slant Six engine. Apparently the trucks topped out around 60 miles per hour, and getting there from a stop took quite a lot of patience. Not willing to compromise for anything, Americans simply did not option the engine, and very few of these machines were sold. According to an old long-dead forum post, 2,835 diesel pickups were built and sold in the U.S. and there's no word on how few diesel-powered vans were produced, if any. The engine was pulled from the options list for 1979, making it a one-year-only boondoggle for Dodge. And before some Dodge diesel history nerd gets all up in arms about it, there was technically a diesel-powered Dodge pickup before this, too. Way back in 1962 Dodge offered a Perkins-built six-cylinder diesel engine in the iconic "sweptline" D-series trucks. The Perkins diesel was available for export through the late 1950s and early 1960s, but for '62 it was optioned to U.S. buyers as well. The average American didn't even know it existed, and it came and went like a wet fart, selling fewer than 1,000 units. It wasn't until Dodge introduced the Cummins 6BT-powered Ram in 1989 that the company finally figured out how to market diesels to American buyers. I guess it really was a case of third time's the charm. Read the original article on Jalopnik.
