2026 Ford Mustang Review

The 2026 lineup represents a significant evolution for America's favorite pony car. Ford collaborated with Formula Drift champion Vaughn Gittin Jr. to develop the RTR Package. This partnership marks a historic moment. It's only the second time in six decades Ford has worked with an outside company on a factory performance Mustang.

Meanwhile, the FX Package taps into nostalgia. It celebrates the third-generation Mustangs from the 1980s and 1990s. White wheels and plaid interiors recall that iconic era. Fresh paint colors arrive too: Adriatic Blue Metallic captures that classic teal vibe. Orange Fury Metallic Tri-coat returns after a hiatus since 2019.

Seatbelt color choices let you add personal touches. Options include Black with Red Stripe, International Orange, and Prime Blue. Small details make big statements. Your sports car becomes an extension of your personality.

The 2.3L EcoBoost engine anchors the lineup. This turbocharged four-cylinder produces 315 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Don't let the cylinder count fool you. This engine delivers genuine thrills. The 10-speed automatic transmission keeps you in the optimal power band.

Ford's EcoBoost technology proves four cylinders can excite. Turbocharger boost builds quickly for responsive acceleration. Passing power comes on demand. Daily driving around Goodyear feels more engaging. This performance car doesn't sacrifice practicality.

Throttle response feels immediate and natural. The turbo whistle adds its own character to the experience. Highway cruising is effortless. Spirited canyon runs become events you'll anticipate. This turbocharged sports car offers a compelling balance.

At Rodeo Ford in Goodyear, we're ready to help you discover which version speaks to you. Our team knows performance cars inside and out. Grab a quote on your favorite engine and trim.

The RTR Package represents serious performance intent. Available on EcoBoost Fastback models with High Package or Premium trim, it brings race technology to the street. Anti-lag turbocharger tech borrowed from the Ford GT race car maintains boost pressure. Even during gear changes, power stays ready.

Hardware upgrades transform the platform. Brembo brakes with six-piston front calipers come from the GT Performance Package. Suspension components migrate from the Mustang Dark Horse. Front and rear sway bars stiffen chassis response. The rear subframe gets reinforced. An electronic drift brake is standard equipment.

Styling distinguishes RTR models immediately. The front grille features illuminated RTR nostrils. Unique 19x9.5-inch wheels with Tarnished Dark Anodized finish look aggressive. Optional Hyper Lime brake calipers pop visually. Inside, RTR-branded sill plates and serialized dash plaques mark exclusivity. Custom startup graphics play across the digital screens.

Fox body Mustangs hold a special place in enthusiast hearts. The FX Package brings that spirit back. Exclusive to GT Premium models in both Fastback and Convertible forms, it recreates 1980s swagger. Oxford White painted wheels dominate the look. Two wheel designs are available, both echoing classic Fox body styles.

Interior details complete the throwback theme. Plaid perforated leather seat inserts capture period-correct vibes. Dark Alley carbon fiber trim from the Dark Horse adds modern contrast. Blue stitching and special badging tie everything together. The result feels both nostalgic and contemporary.

Exterior elements reinforce the retro character. White badges replace standard finishes. Optional white grille nostrils are available on Performance Package cars. The new Adriatic Blue Metallic paint perfectly matches the teal shades Fox body fans remember. This sports car bridges generations successfully.

Modern technology fills the driver-oriented cockpit. The 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster displays critical information clearly. A 13.2-inch center touchscreen manages infotainment functions. Graphics powered by Unreal gaming engine technology look sharp and respond quickly. The interface feels intuitive.

SYNC 4 handles connectivity seamlessly. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard. Voice recognition understands natural speech patterns. The available Ford Connectivity Package provides unlimited Wi-Fi hotspot capability. You can stream music or get navigation without draining phone data.

Comfort features enhance every journey. Available heated and cooled front seats adapt to Arizona weather. Leather upholstery options range from standard to premium. Recaro sport seats provide additional bolstering for aggressive driving. Ambient lighting creates the right atmosphere. The cabin balances performance focus with everyday livability.

The legendary 5.0L Coyote V8 powers GT models. Output reaches 480 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. That's substantial power by any measure. Transmission choices include a six-speed manual or 10-speed automatic. The manual transmission engages enthusiasts who want full control.

Mustang Dark Horse elevates the formula further. Its tuned 5.0L V8 produces 500 horsepower. Upgraded suspension components sharpen handling. Wider tires provide increased grip. This version targets drivers who demand maximum capability. It excels on both street and track.

The active-valve performance exhaust offers multiple personality modes. Quiet mode keeps things civil. Sport mode increases volume. Track mode unleashes full V8 thunder. You control how much drama accompanies your drive. That flexibility suits different situations perfectly.

Ford includes comprehensive safety features as standard equipment. Pre-Collision Assist with automatic emergency braking monitors traffic flow. The system can intervene if it detects an imminent collision. Blind spot information system tracks vehicles in adjacent lanes. Cross-traffic alert watches for approaching traffic when backing up.

The lane-keeping system helps maintain proper lane position. It can provide gentle steering corrections if you drift. The optional Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package adds more advanced features. Adaptive cruise control maintains set distances from traffic ahead. Evasive steering assist can help avoid obstacles.

These technologies work unobtrusively. They provide assistance without overwhelming the driver. The Mustang remains engaging to drive while offering modern protection. Performance and safety complement each other. You don't sacrifice one for the other.

Exterior color selection starts the customization process. Eleven colors accommodate different tastes. Traditional favorites like Race Red and Shadow Black appeal to purists. New Adriatic Blue Metallic and Orange Fury Metallic Tri-coat attract attention. Each color creates a different personality.

Racing stripes in various colors add visual drama. Multiple wheel designs suit different aesthetics. Available spoilers enhance both looks and aerodynamics. Appearance packages provide coordinated styling elements. The Bronze Appearance Package, Nite Pony Package, and Dark Horse Appearance Package each offer distinctive character.

Interior personalization continues the theme. Upholstery choices range from cloth to premium leather. Colored seatbelts inject individuality. Technology packages enhance capability. You can build a sports car that matches your vision exactly. The customization options are extensive.

Choosing a performance car should be enjoyable. At Rodeo Ford, we understand what matters to sports car buyers. Our team knows the differences between RTR and FX packages. We can explain how each variant drives and what makes it special. Whether you want drift capability or retro style, we'll guide you.

The 2026 Ford Mustang represents American sports car excellence. It offers turbocharged efficiency and V8 power. Modern technology coexists with classic design. Factory performance packages deliver excitement right from the showroom. This is automotive heritage reimagined.

Visit Rodeo Ford today and take command of the 2026 Ford Mustang. Schedule your test drive.

Experience these new packages firsthand. Feel the turbocharged acceleration or hear the V8 soundtrack. Our knowledgeable staff will answer your questions. Discover why the Mustang remains the ultimate American sports car. Your ideal performance car awaits in the West Valley.