Will there be a 2024 GT500
|
The new seventh-generation 2024 Ford Mustang really flexed at last week's reveal, keeping the dream of manual-shifted V-8-powered muscle cars alive for at least a few more years. For the past few generations, Ford has developed a Shelby GT500 trim as a sort of range-topper in the Mustang lineup, offering more power than a standard V-8 'Stang with the help of a supercharger. We can expect heavy use of carbon fiber, intense suspension and chassis upgrades, custom bodywork with more aggressive aero and massive rear wing, and of course the GT500's signature racing stripes—here are a few renderings of what the 2026 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 could be. We tossed in a version done up like the latest Hertz GT500-H, too, because who doesn't love a 900-hp rental car? Show While it was a bit surprising to not see any hybrid or electrified powertrains for this new generation, as had long been rumored, Ford did still offer something fresh: the all-new Ford Mustang Dark Horse performance model. The Dark Horse will offer the most powerful 5.0-liter V-8 the company has ever tuned for a road car, generating an estimated 500 horsepower. The Dark Horse also borrows some of the upgrades previously only reserved for the Shelby performance Mustang models like the GT500, including its carbon fiber wheels and specially modified piston connecting rods, without getting the full Shelby overhaul. It seems that the new Dark Horse model takes the midrange performance level for this next-gen muscle car that was previously held by performance trims like the 2021 Mustang Mach 1, which offers around 20 more horsepower than the sixth-gen Mustang GT it's based on. That still leaves plenty of room for Shelby models like the GT500 to take it even further. The outgoing supercharged 5.2-liter "Predator" V-8-powered GT500 offers 760 horsepower and 625 pound-feet, and we only expect it to get even more ridiculous with the next generation due in a few years. The outgoing GT500 offers a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (with no manual option), nice adaptive dampers, up to 16.5-inch brakes, and Michelin Pilot Sport tires wrapping carbon fiber lightweight wheels, and we can expect a similar setup for the new car. Inside the GT500 will likely get Shelby-specific Recaro front bucket seats, the option for a rear seat delete to save weight, as well as plenty of carbon fiber trim and construction. This week, Ford Authority has reported via "sources" that the seventh-generation Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 will debut in 2025 as a 2026 model year, with the current sixth-gen Mustang-based GT500 phased out this year. That sounds plausible, so we likely won't be waiting too long for the debut of the new one. The 2024 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 will be the next-gen model. This supercar will gain some interesting upgrades, and the most recent spy shots are showing exactly that. From what we know, a supercharged V8 engine with 760 horsepower will remain. Therefore, this model will remain one of the most powerful models out there. Generally, we don’t expect mechanical upgrades of any kind, including the standard rear-wheel-drive system and transmission. On the other hand, we expect to see numerous visual upgrades, interior updates, and new optional packages. Some important upgrades are on the way so here’s everything you need to know. Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 RedesignIn the last couple of weeks, we saw spy photos of numerous Mustang variants. That includes the 2024 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 model as well. Besides that, Mach 1 has been spotted as well. For a start, the prototype comes with larger air intakes and a more aggressive design. Generally, this sporty coupe already wears aggressive styling with an athletic stance and lower ride height. The spoiler seems to be new, along with the new multi-spoke wheels. We also spotted Brembo brakes and a larger rear diffuser. A quad exhaust system is present, which suggests we are looking at the high-performance variant. This model will include the same LED headlights, side mirrors, and hood vents. However, let’s wait for the camouflage to come off and see what Ford prepared this time. Interior UpgradesThe interior of the 2024 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 will also gain a couple of important interior modifications. The spy photos are showing a flat-bottom steering wheel. However, we failed to spot more details inside the cabin. We expect to see even more carbon-fiber materials, especially on the instrument panel. The sporty Recaro seats will remain, providing a high level of comfort. Ford could offer more standard features this time. A 12-inch all-digital gauge cluster is present, along with the aluminum dashboard. New SYNC 4 infotainment system will be available and Blue Oval will provide more standard equipment this time. Lastly, new optional packages are a possibility. Right now, Ford provides Technology Package, GT500 Heritage Edition, and Handling Package. Potent V8 Engine SpecsThe new 2024 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 will continue to offer the same 5.2-liter V8 engine. However, this is a good thing, as it is the most powerful unit in the brand’s lineup. This engine is capable of producing up to 760 horsepower and 625 lb-ft of torque. A rear-wheel-drive system comes as standard, along with the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This supercar sprints from 0 to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds. The handling is very agile and the noise this car produce is just incredible. Ford continues to offer standard adaptive dampers and electronic stability control. The Shelby GT500 gets 12 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway. 2024 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 Price, Release DateThe price of the forthcoming 2024 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 will start at around $81,000. Moreover, the GT500KR variant will cost above $120,000. The sales will begin later this year, probably this fall. Will there be a 2024 Shelby GT500?Ford Authority claims the new GT500 will launch in the US in 2025 for Model Year 2026 – following the regular Mustang, which goes on sale in the US in mid 2023 for Model Year 2024, with Australian deliveries to follow later next year.
Will there be a 2025 Shelby GT500?This week, Ford Authority has reported via "sources" that the seventh-generation Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 will debut in 2025 as a 2026 model year, with the current sixth-gen Mustang-based GT500 phased out this year.
Will Ford make a 2023 GT500?There are a couple of catches, though: Ford will cut the 2023 model year short to make way for the seventh-gen 'Stang, and the Shelby GT500 will be discontinued for 2023. Ford spokesman Mike Levine confirmed the lineup changes to Motor Authority. The Mach 1 will be the range-topping Mustang model for 2023.
Will the Shelby GT500 be discontinued?Ford has confirmed that 2022 will be the final model year for the Shelby GT500, powered by the Predator supercharged 5.2-liter V-8 with a monstrous 760 horsepower and 625 pound-feet of torque.
|
