Ford Mustang Dark Horse – Model Year 2025
Country of Manufacture
The Ford Mustang Dark Horse MY2025 is produced at the Ford plant in Flat Rock, Michigan, USA.
Brief Description
The Ford Mustang Dark Horse MY2025 represents the most extreme, track-focused version of the new Mustang generation. It stands out for its aggressive styling, unique features such as larger air intakes, a dedicated front splitter, rear spoiler, and exclusive badging. The interior is sporty, with optional Recaro seats, dark finishes, aluminum trim, and advanced technology: dual digital displays, SYNC 4 infotainment, and a premium audio system. Under the hood is the classic naturally aspirated 5.0 V8, enhanced for true muscle car performance, paired with technical solutions designed for enthusiasts seeking thrills even on the track.
2025 Powertrains
| Version | Power / Torque | Engine | Drivetrain | Transmission | 0–100 km/h | Top Speed |
|---|
| Dark Horse Coupé | 453 hp / 567 Nm | 5.0L V8 NA | RWD | 6-speed manual / 10-speed auto | 4.1 s | 250 km/h |
Dimensions and Capacity
| Body Style | Length | Width | Height | Boot Capacity |
|---|
| Coupé | 4,810 mm | 1,915 mm | 1,405 mm | 408 liters |
Main Features
Dark Horse: Unique 19” wheels, larger Brembo brakes, Torsen limited-slip differential, MagneRide adaptive suspension, sports seats, active dual exhaust, dark trim, and exclusive badging.
Performance Pack (standard): Launch control, drift mode, additional radiators, chassis reinforcements, dedicated aerodynamic kit.
Options: Recaro seats, handling pack with semi-slick tires, carbon fiber accents, Bang & Olufsen audio system.
PROS
| PRO | Why it stands out |
|---|
| Track-ready performance | Upgraded V8, chassis, and brakes specifically developed for serious sporty driving. |
| Pure driving experience | Manual gearbox available, instant response, and authentic American muscle car feel. |
| Advanced technical setup | MagneRide suspension, limited-slip diff, Brembo braking system. |
| Exclusive design | Aggressive looks, dark details, and dedicated badges set it apart from any other Mustang. |
| Sporty, hi-tech interior | Dual digital displays, full infotainment, Recaro seat option. |
CONS
| CONS | Noted detail |
|---|
| High fuel consumption | V8 engine means high running costs and fuel use. |
| Limited comfort | Firm suspension and significant noise, especially on long journeys. |
| Rear seat space | Rear seats are essentially symbolic, with very limited room. |
| Price and taxes | High list price, road tax and insurance are expensive in Europe. |
| Daily practicality | Not suited for city use or families, large footprint and limited rear visibility. |
Indicative Prices
| Version | List Price* |
|---|
| Dark Horse Coupé | €72,000 |
*VAT included; registration tax and delivery fees excluded.
Summary
The Ford Mustang Dark Horse MY2025 is the most track-focused Mustang ever offered in Europe: true muscle car power, dedicated chassis and brakes, and exclusive styling. It is ideal for those seeking uncompromising driving thrills on both road and track, with the understanding that running costs and practicality are limited. A true instant classic for enthusiasts and collectors.
Verdict — Ford Mustang Dark Horse (Model-Year 2025)
Mustang Dark Horse 5.0 V8 453 hp (Fastback · Handling Pack · Carbon Pack)
The new Ford Mustang Dark Horse is the most extreme and refined version in the Mustang lineup, designed for those who want true track-day performance and an even more aggressive appearance. Outside, it stands out with its dedicated “Dark Horse” grille, smoked full LED headlights, front splitter, larger air intakes, forged 19" wheels, carbon fiber spoiler and diffuser. The cabin is all about racing: Recaro sports seats in leather/Alcantara, flat-bottom steering wheel, aluminum paddle shifters, dual displays (12.4" digital + 13.2" SYNC 4 touchscreen), numbered badge, and blue anodized details.
On the technical side:
Mustang Dark Horse 5.0 V8: naturally aspirated 5.0 V8 with 453 hp and 540 Nm, 6-speed manual or 10-speed automatic, 0–100 km/h in 4.1 s, top speed 250 km/h, fuel consumption 12.1 l/100 km WLTP.
Lowered sport suspension, MagneRide adaptive dampers, Brembo 6-piston brakes, Torsen limited-slip differential, Pirelli P Zero sport tires, active quad-tip exhaust, and optional Handling/Carbon Packs for maximum precision on road and track.
| Aspect | Where it excels | Where it matches | Where it lags |
|---|
| Design & Image | Unique racing look, carbon fiber splitter and spoiler, exclusive badge, forged wheels, blue accents. | Wide range of colors, carbon options. | Less “premium” than BMW M4 or Porsche 911, not luxury-level finishes. |
| Comfort & NVH | Supportive Recaro seats, customizable V8 sound, high-quality materials. | Dual-zone climate, heated seats. | Comfort sacrificed for track focus, limited rear seat space. |
| Real-world Efficiency | Optimized consumption when cruising, better range than most rival muscle cars. | Ford Performance scheduled maintenance. | High fuel use in sporty driving, expensive taxes and running costs. |
| Dynamics | Outstanding handling, Brembo brakes, MagneRide suspension, track-ready setup, pure rear-wheel drive. | Launch Control, track mode, active exhaust. | Heavy weight, less agile than Porsche Cayman GTS or Alpine A110. |
| Practicality | 408 L trunk, split-folding rear seats, physical controls for main functions. | Aluminum paddle shifters, roomy front seats. | Rear seats mostly symbolic, rearward visibility limited. |
| HMI / Infotainment | 13.2" SYNC 4 touchscreen, 12.4" digital cluster, built-in telemetry, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto. | Alexa built-in, optional B&O sound system. | Not as customizable as Tesla, menus sometimes complex. |
| ADAS & Safety | Lane Keeping, Blind Spot, Emergency Brake, Park Assist, rear camera, traffic sign recognition. | Adaptive Cruise, parking sensors. | Advanced ADAS only on top packs, no Level 2 autonomous driving. |
| Running Costs | Ford Performance servicing, Pirelli P Zero tires (€260 each), high-performance Brembo brakes. | 5-year/100,000 km warranty. | High fuel use, expensive insurance and taxes. |
| Depreciation | Collector’s edition, in high demand for track days, stable residual value among enthusiasts. | — | More prone to depreciation than Porsche or BMW M4. |
Who it’s for
Track-day and performance enthusiasts — Mustang Dark Horse with Handling Pack: maximum grip, adjustable setup, true sports car performance.
Anyone seeking exclusivity and thrilling sound — Mustang Dark Horse Fastback: unique look, numbered badge, stunning presence.
Fans of sporty tech — Mustang Dark Horse Carbon Pack: extensive carbon fiber, racing details, advanced infotainment.
Who should look elsewhere
Those seeking premium comfort and versatility → BMW M4 Coupé, Audi RS5, Lexus RC F.
Efficiency and low emissions fans → BMW 440i Mild Hybrid, Toyota Supra 2.0.
Anyone after “daily usable” sportiness → Porsche Cayman, Alpine A110, Audi TT RS.
Recommended configuration
Mustang Dark Horse Fastback + Handling Pack + forged wheels + SYNC 4 + Recaro seats: the best for those wanting pure thrills on track and road, with technology and exclusive details.
Avoid if you do frequent long trips or need a practical, versatile car.
Ford Mustang Dark Horse pros, cons, costs and common fixes 
