The 2026 Ford Mustang continues its legacy as an American automotive icon, offering drivers a range of trim levels designed to meet different preferences and driving styles. At Waldorf Ford, we’re excited to help you explore the complete lineup and find the Mustang configuration that aligns with your needs.
Understanding the 2026 Mustang Lineup
The 2026 Ford Mustang is available in six trim levels: EcoBoost, EcoBoost Premium, GT, GT Premium, Dark Horse and Dark Horse Premium. Each trim offers its own combination of features, performance capabilities, and style elements. Coupe and convertible body styles are available across most of the lineup, giving you flexibility in how you experience open-road driving.
Powertrain Options
The Mustang lineup offers two distinct engine options to suit different driving preferences:
2.3L EcoBoost Engine
The 2026 Ford Mustang EcoBoost variants are powered by a 315-horsepower, turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine making 350 pounds-feet of torque. The turbo four is only available with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain delivers a balance of performance and efficiency for daily driving scenarios.
5.0L V8 Engine
The Mustang GT’s 5.0-liter generates 480 hp and 415 pounds-feet of torque, or 486 hp and 418 pounds-feet with the optional active exhaust. In the Mustang Dark Horse, the V-8 is tweaked to deliver an even 500 hp and 418 pounds-feet of torque. The V8 models provide the traditional muscle car experience with their signature exhaust note and acceleration capabilities.
Transmission Choices
Buyers who want a manual transmission in their Mustang have to opt for a V-8. GT buyers have a no-cost choice between a six-speed manual and a 10-speed automatic transmission, but the manual costs an additional $300 in the Dark Horse.
Trim Level Breakdown
Quick Comparison Chart
| Feature | EcoBoost | EcoBoost Premium | GT | GT Premium | Dark Horse | Dark Horse Premium |
| Engine | 2.3L Turbo I-4 | 2.3L Turbo I-4 | 5.0L V8 | 5.0L V8 | 5.0L V8 (Enhanced) | 5.0L V8 (Enhanced) |
| Horsepower | 315 hp | 315 hp | 480 hp | 480 hp | 500 hp | 500 hp |
| Transmission | 10-Speed Auto | 10-Speed Auto | 6-Speed Manual or 10-Speed Auto | 6-Speed Manual or 10-Speed Auto | 6-Speed Manual or 10-Speed Auto | 6-Speed Manual or 10-Speed Auto |
| Wheels | 18-inch | 18-inch Machined | 18-inch Black | 19-inch Silver | 19-inch Performance | 19-inch Performance |
| Seating | Cloth | ActiveX Heated/Ventilated | Cloth | Leather Heated/Ventilated | Sport Seats with Blue Accents | Premium Sport Seats |
| Audio System | 6 Speakers | 9 Speakers | 6 Speakers | 9 Speakers | 9 Speakers | 12-Speaker B&O |
| Convertible Available | No | Yes | No | Yes | No | No |
| Co-Pilot360 Assist+ | No | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes |
| Track-Focused Features | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
EcoBoost Fastback
The entry-level Ford Mustang rides on 18-inch wheels and features keyless entry and start, LED exterior lighting (including sequential taillights) and rain-sensing windshield wipers. Inside the cabin, you’ll find manually adjustable cloth seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, six speakers, a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch touchscreen.
The base EcoBoost provides an accessible entry point to Mustang ownership while still delivering engaging performance and modern technology features.
EcoBoost Premium Fastback & Convertible
The EcoBoost Premium builds upon the base model with enhanced comfort and technology features. Its 315‑hp turbocharged engine pairs with a refined cabin featuring ActiveX™ leather‑trimmed, heated and ventilated seats. Upgraded 18‑inch machined‑face alloys add visual appeal while ambient MyColor® LED lighting and a 9‑speaker audio system enhance the interior experience.
Ford Co‑Pilot360™ Assist+ adds adaptive cruise control along with additional driver assistance features. The convertible option is available in this trim for those who prefer open-air driving. On the EcoBoost Premium, the convertible adds $5,500.
GT Fastback
The GT represents a significant step up in performance with the iconic 5.0L V8 engine. Other than its more powerful engine, the Mustang GT is mostly the same as the EcoBoost; it does, however, have larger brakes and standard black 18-inch wheels. This trim delivers authentic V8 muscle car characteristics while maintaining everyday drivability.
Buyers can choose between the six-speed manual transmission for a more engaging driving experience or the smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic for convenience.
GT Premium Fastback & Convertible
In addition to the Premium features on the EcoBoost, the GT Premium also gets silver-painted 19-inch wheels, genuine leather upholstery and a heated steering wheel. Buyers who want a convertible V-8 must step up to the GT Premium, as the convertible is not available on the base GT.
New for 2026: FX Package
New for 2026, the GT Premium gets an optional FX Package, which evokes the 1980s’ Fox Body era and comes with unique wheels finished in Oxford White, as well as white badges and exterior accents and plaid seat inserts. This nostalgic package pays homage to an important era in Mustang history.
Dark Horse
The Dark Horse represents the track-focused variant of the Mustang lineup. This high-performance variant boasts a specially-tuned 5.0-liter eight-cylinder engine that churns out an astonishing 500 horsepower. With its aggressive aero enhancements, 19-inch wheels wrapped in sticky summer tires, and the available Dark Horse Handling Package, this Mustang is engineered to dominate both the street and the track.
Step into the Dark Horse’s interior and be greeted by unique appointments like sport seats with blue accents, a suede-wrapped steering wheel, and aluminum pedals. The available Recaro seats with micro-suede inserts provide unparalleled support and style. The Dark Horse is available only as a coupe.
Dark Horse Premium
The Dark Horse Premium adds additional luxury appointments to the track-capable Dark Horse foundation, creating a model that balances high-performance capabilities with premium comfort features.
Technology and Safety Features
Standard Technology
- 13.2-inch infotainment touchscreen with available navigation and voice commands
- 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Audio Systems
- Base: 6-speaker system
- Mid-level: 9-speaker system with amplifier
- Premium: 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen system
Safety Features
All 2026 Mustang models come standard with a comprehensive suite of safety technology including a rearview camera, driver attention alert, rear cross-traffic alert, emergency brake support, LATCH child-seat anchors, impact sensors, and a vehicle exit safety system. Premium trim levels add Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ with adaptive cruise control, lane-centering steering, driver attention monitoring, and blind spot intervention.
Fuel Economy
- GT with automatic: 16 city / 24 highway / 19 combined mpg
- GT with manual: 15 city / 23 highway / 18 combined mpg
- Dark Horse: 14 city / 22 highway / 17 combined mpg
- EcoBoost models: Improved efficiency for daily driving
Body Style Considerations
The fastback coupe configuration is available across all trim levels, offering classic Mustang proportions with a sleek roofline. The convertible option provides open-air driving experiences and is available on EcoBoost Premium and GT Premium trims. The choice between coupe and convertible depends on your personal preferences regarding styling, driving experience, and practicality.
Performance Packages and Options
Various performance packages are available across the trim levels, allowing you to enhance capabilities according to your driving priorities. These packages may include upgraded suspension components, larger brakes, performance tires, and aerodynamic enhancements. At Waldorf Ford, our team can discuss the available options for your chosen trim level.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which trim level offers the best fuel economy?
The EcoBoost models provide the most efficient fuel economy in the Mustang lineup, with the turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering better MPG ratings than the V8-powered trims.
Can I get a manual transmission on all trim levels?
No, manual transmissions are only available on V8-powered models (GT, GT Premium, Dark Horse, and Dark Horse Premium). The EcoBoost trims come exclusively with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
What’s the difference between the Dark Horse and GT trims?
The Dark Horse features a more powerful version of the 5.0L V8 (500 hp vs. 480 hp), along with track-focused enhancements including aggressive aerodynamics, performance tires, unique interior appointments, and available performance packages designed for track driving.
Are convertibles available on all trim levels?
Convertibles are available on the EcoBoost Premium and GT Premium trims. The base EcoBoost and GT fastbacks, along with the Dark Horse models, are coupe-only configurations.
What safety features come standard on the 2026 Mustang?
All Mustang models include Ford Co-Pilot360 with features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, and rear parking sensors. Premium trims offer additional advanced features like adaptive cruise control and lane-centering.
What is the FX Package?
The FX Package is available exclusively on the GT Premium and features Oxford White wheels, white badges and accents, and plaid seat inserts. This package pays tribute to the Fox Body Mustangs of the 1980s.
How does the Bang & Olufsen sound system compare to the standard audio?
The base Mustang comes with a six-speaker system, while the Bang & Olufsen premium system offers 12 speakers including a subwoofer for enhanced audio quality and a more immersive listening experience.
What warranty coverage is included?
The 2026 Mustang includes a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, along with roadside assistance coverage.
Experience the 2026 Mustang at Waldorf Ford
Choosing the right Mustang trim level involves considering your driving priorities, lifestyle needs, and budget. Whether you’re drawn to the efficient performance of the EcoBoost models, the classic V8 power of the GT lineup, or the track-focused capabilities of the Dark Horse, each configuration offers its own distinct character.
At Waldorf Ford, our knowledgeable team is here to help you explore the complete 2026 Mustang lineup. We can walk you through the features and capabilities of each trim level, arrange test drives, and discuss financing options that work for your situation. The Mustang represents decades of automotive heritage and continues to evolve while maintaining the elements that have made it an enduring icon.
Visit Waldorf Ford today to see the 2026 Ford Mustang in person and discover which trim level fits your driving style. Our team is ready to answer your questions and help you experience what makes the Mustang special across its entire range of configurations.
Contact Waldorf Ford to schedule your test drive or learn more about the 2026 Ford Mustang trim levels. Our dealership is committed to providing comprehensive information and exceptional service as you explore your next vehicle.
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