Two engines, two characters
The 2026 Mustang splits cleanly into EcoBoost and V8 personalities. The 2.3L EcoBoost I4 makes 315 hp and 350 lb-ft, runs ~25 mpg combined on the EPA cycle, and pairs only with the 10-speed automatic — it's the daily-driver Mustang for buyers who want the look and chassis without the V8 fuel bill. Step up to GT and you get the 5.0L Coyote V8 with 480 hp and 415 lb-ft, your choice of the same 10-speed automatic or the 6-speed Tremec manual, and roughly a 4.0-second 0–60. Dark Horse takes the Coyote to 500 hp with sport-tuned intake and exhaust and adds MagneRide adaptive damping as standard. All three powertrains share the same Mustang chassis, so the difference is character, not platform.
