Mustang GT Coupe

Make
Ford
Segment
Coupe

First, the good news: the Ford Mustang GT and Mach 1 are both returning for the 2022 model year. America's best-selling muscle car's naturally aspirated 5.0 Coyote V8 engine is still with us. Now, the not-so-good news: both trims will lose 10 horsepower and 10 lb-ft of torque.

Sources have indicated this is happening not because Ford doesn't want owners to get the most thrilling muscle car experience possible, but due to emissions requirements set in place by state and federal lawmakers. The output cut is part of a package of 2022 Mustang lineup changes that haven't been announced.

To compare, the 2021 Mustang GT and Mach produce 460 and 480 horsepower, respectively. Torque is the same for both at 420 lb-ft. Subtract 10 from each of those figures and you'll get 2022's output. Regardless of which gearbox is selected for the 2022 models; both the 6-speed and 10-speed automatic will have the same power loss.

Fortunately, the 2022 Mustang Shelby GT500's output remains unchanged from the outgoing model year, meaning 760 hp and 625 lb-ft of twist. Its supercharged 5.2-liter Predator V8 isn't affected by the new CO2 standards. So there's that.

Last week, Ford revealed two new packages for the 2022 Mustang, the Stealth Edition and California Special. These are in addition to the Ice White Edition first shown in August. 2022 is very likely the final model year for the sixth-generation Mustang. Come 2023, its successor is due to arrive but don't expect it to be an all-electric vehicle like the Mustang Mach-E.

Details are scarce at the moment, but chances are the Blue Oval will pack the next Mustang with electrification by way of a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The V8 should stick around though it'll be electrified. CEO Jim Farley is deeply dedicated to the Mustang's future and promised the new model will be a bedroom poster-worthy vehicle. We can hardly wait.