In 2015, the Ford Mustang entered a new generation, but it continued with the retro inspiration it’s had for many years. Since this redesign, the Ford Mustang has been through some mechanical and technical updates, but it’s remained visually unchanged. We expect this look to stay the same when the 2021 Mustang hits showrooms. New for 2021 though, will be the return of the Mustang Mach 1.
When it arrived in 2015, the Ford Mustang gained a swoopier look that included a downturned nose, sleek headlights, a slick roofline, and a forward-leaning rear fascia. Though this look is showing age, it competes in a class where changes don’t come often, so we expect the 2021 Mustang to roll in with the same design.
Inside, the Mustang has a simple retro design with its three-post steering wheel, stubby gear shifter, center-stack toggle switches, circular air vents, and more. This interior could use some updates, especially the more plastic-heavy lower trims, but we expect it to remain the same in the 2021 model year.
Buyers seeking a new look may not have to wait too long, as we could see a redesigned Mustang in 2022 or 2023.
The current Ford Mustang has a slew of powertrain options, and they are anticipated to remain the same for the 2021 model. This powertrain lineup starts with a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 310 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque – the power jumps to 330 hp with the 2.3 High-Performance Package.
The next engine is a 5.0-liter V8 that pounds out 460 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque. The Mustang Bullitt has the same V8 engine but with an extra 20 hp.
Ford announced that the Shelby GT350 and GT350R will be discontinued for the 2021 model year and replaced by the new Mustang Mach 1. The Shelby GT500 remains with a 5.2-liter supercharged engine, with an output of 760 hp.
The Bullitt and Shelby model are available only with a six-speed manual transmission, while the rest of the lineup is available with a six-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The 2020 Ford Mustang fell short in the IIHS’ small-overlap crash test with an “Acceptable” rating, and the IIHS has not yet tested its optional automatic emergency braking, leaving it out of the running for a Top Safety Pick rating. Other safety options include adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beam headlights, lane-keep assist, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. These are part of the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite which will be standard on al 2021 EcoBoost and V8 models.
Pricing for the 2021 Mustang ranges from $28,995 for the EcoBoost to $53,560 for the Mach 1 (including destination fees).
This muscular sports car competes with the Chevy Camaro, Dodge Challenger, and BMW 4-Series.
Check prices for the 2021 Ford Mustang »
Pictured: 2020 Ford Mustang
