2026 Ford Mustang RTR Skips Manual But Slides Like A Pro

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Oct 18, 2025 - 08:40

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2026 Ford Mustang RTR Skips Manual But Slides Like A Pro

Ford and RTR have just created the ultimate four-cylinder Mustang

Ford has just dropped a new RTR Package for the 2026 Ford Mustang EcoBoost, and it brings with it a long list of exterior, interior, and under-the-skin changes to get the most out of the four-cylinder Mustang.

RTR Vehicles has made a name for itself by developing a comprehensive line of aftermarket upgrades for models like the Mustang and Bronco. Unlike the recently revealed Mustang RTR Spec 5 with its insane 870-horsepower V8, the RTR Package—developed in collaboration with Ford—for the EcoBoost is a much more attainable upgrade for the average pony car fan, and should finally silence anyone who still believes a Mustang can only be fun with a V8.

Performance Parts Inherited from Mustang GT and Dark Horse

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The Mustang RTR retains a 2.3-liter four-cylinder turbocharged EcoBoost mill that produces 315 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. While those outputs match the normal EcoBoost, the RTR model benefits from a race-derived anti-lag system, improving throttle response as it keeps the turbo spooled even when the driver’s foot is off the throttle. This patented system was developed from the Ford GT race car. Some may be disappointed to hear that the Mustang RTR is only available with the 10-speed automatic, as Ford/RTR did not see sufficient demand for a manual.

The RTR also gets a ton of parts from the V8-powered GT and Dark Horse Mustangs. From the GT, it inherits that Mustang’s steering rack angle (with 72 mm of extra travel), 600-watt cooling fan, and the Brembo brakes with 15.3-inch front rotors and six-piston front calipers. The Dark Horse’s adjustable strut alignment bracket, Handling Pack with front/rear stabilizer bars, and rear subframe with stiffer rate bushings are added, too. These changes combine to make drifting a lot easier for novices.

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Completing the thorough performance and capability upgrades are a standard active valve performance exhaust, a unique tune for the stability control, and an RTR-specific calibration for the optional MagneRide dampers.

“When we set out to develop a new kind of performance Mustang in partnership with Vaughn Gittin Jr. and RTR, our mission was simple: produce the most exciting, fun-to-drive turbocharged Mustang ever,” said Mustang Chief Engineer Laurie Transou. “We succeeded. This is Formula Drift championship-winning knowhow, Mustang EcoBoost balance and affordability, and the race-proven performance technology from Mustang Dark Horse in a factory-built Mustang, direct from Flat Rock Assembly. With the RTR Package, this Mustang is truly Ready to Rock.” 

Show To Match The Go

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What good would a racier Mustang be if it looked like any other EcoBoost? RTR ensured that’s not the case, as this model gains a GT front fascia, RTR signature lit nostrils, a unique grille, and 19x9.5-inch Tarnished Dark Anodized wheels with a 30 mm offset.

The decklid and fender badges are RTR-specific items, and the raised rear wing spoiler is straight from the Mustang GT Performance Pack. It looks meaner than the normal EcoBoost, and some great coloring helps bring this model to life, too. The Avalanche Gray paint and dark badging are complemented by optional Hyper Lime brake calipers and graphics; this is an option box we’d tick, as it really makes the RTR pop.

Inside, there’s Hyper Lime accent stitching and belts, a powder-coated Hyper Lime electric drift brake lever, a serialized dash plaque, and Mustang RTR co-branded lit sill plates. A Black Interior Package is a no-cost option, complete with black belts and Metal Gray stitching.

Price, Availability, and the V8 Problem

Orders for the Mustang RTR are set to open in spring 2026, while deliveries will begin in the summer. Pricing hasn’t yet been revealed, but a base 2026 Ford Mustang EcoBoost starts at $32,320. Before you can get the RTR Package, though, you need at least the High Equipment Group, which costs another $2,195. The RTR’s upgrades are significant, though, so we expect it to cost around $10,000, which would take the total cost up to about $45,000.

The base Mustang GT with a V8 starts at $46,560, so choosing between the RTR and the cheapest GT could be quite a conundrum for Mustang fans. If you’ll be using it as a track toy often enough, the RTR may be the better bet, but for some, no amount of suspension or visual upgrades can quite match the gravitas of a V8.

Either way, the RTR is sure to be the best four-cylinder Mustang yet when it arrives.