The Mustang continues its journey, walking the line between heritage and modern performance for decades. For 2026, the Mustang's big news is a special package that leans into a nostalgic design without messing with its established power under the hood. Beyond that, there are a few other shifts to keep an eye on for the new model year. Let's take a look at how the updates for the 2026 Ford Mustang compare to those made in 2025.
Key Takeaways:
- The all-new FX package brings a Fox-body vibe to GT Premium models for '26.
- The Mustang Raptor will debut later in 2026.
- The 2025 model year debuted with the 60th Anniversary Edition and its 1967-style gauges.
- Ford offers top-tier grip through the Dark Horse trim and its optional Pirelli Trofeo RS tires.
What Changes Have Been Made to the 2026 Ford Mustang?
2026 model year changes are all about the FX package, which is an exclusive option for the GT Premium. A tribute to the Fox-body era, it incorporates styling cues that will hit home for fans of '80s and '90s Mustangs. If you opt for the Performance Package with the FX trim, it comes with Oxford White fan-style wheels that look like the classic Cobra rims; standard FX models get white split five-spoke wheels instead. Added to this retro aesthetic are white grille nostrils, available white-out taillights, and vintage-inspired badging.
Inside, the FX package adds plaid leather seat inserts accented with blue and silver stitching, alongside carbon-fiber trim elements borrowed from the Dark Horse. Adriatic Blue Metallic (a teal reminiscent of the '93 Cobra) is new and Orange Fury makes its return.
By comparison, the 2025 model year focused on celebrating the car's 60th anniversary. That edition, available for GT coupes and convertibles, featured unique 20-inch wheels with red center caps. It also introduced a digital gauge cluster that mimics the 1967 Mustang's instrument panel--a feature that remains available to all seventh-gen owners via an over-the-air update.
Model Year Changes
| 2026 Ford Mustang |
2025 Ford Mustang |
| FX Package for GT Premium |
Added 60th Anniversary Edition for GT coupes and convertibles |
| White fan-style or split five-spoke wheels and grille nostrils, white-out taillights and retro badging available |
20-inch wheels w/ red aluminum center caps |
| Adriatic Blue Metallic introduced and the return of Orange Fury colors |
1967 Mustang's instrument panel via an over-the-air update |
What is the Standard Engine on the 2026 Ford Mustang?
The Mustang's power starts with a 2.3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost, producing 315 ponies and 350 lb-ft of torque, and mates with a 10-speed automatic. The 5.0-liter V8 also returns, delivering 480 horsepower (or 486 horses if you add the performance exhaust) and 415 lb-ft. V8 buyers can choose between a 10-speed automatic or a six-speed manual.
The Dark Horse is the peak of the 5.0-liter lineup, pushing output to 500 horsepower and featuring upgraded dampers. For those who live for the track, its available Handling Package features Pirelli Trofeo RS tires for maximum stick.
What Are Some of the Top Features Found in the Interior of the 2026 Ford Mustang?
The cabin centers around a dual-screen layout, featuring a 13.2-inch touchscreen alongside a digital gauge cluster. The car runs the latest Sync 4 software and comes standard with wireless charging, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Alexa Voice integration, Ford Streaming, and the ability to receive over-the-air updates are all part of this very modern picture.
Are You Ready for a New Ford Mustang?
Most of the 2026 Mustang lineup is now available for purchase. (While the Raptor and high-performance GTD are the talk of the town, they will arrive later in the year.) If you want to see the new FX package or take a V8 for a spin, contact us today at Jarrett Scott Ford to schedule a test drive!