2026 Ford Mustang Dark Horse SC debuted at Detroit Auto Show with a supercharged V8, carbon‑fiber bodywork and a lightweight Track Pack. Learn more now!
The all‑new 2026 Ford Mustang Dark Horse SC was officially unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show, marking the latest evolution of the iconic American pony car. Built on the 17th‑generation S650 platform, the SC (Special Competition) version borrows much of its technology from the track‑focused Mustang GTD, positioning it as a true performance halo model rather than a simple trim upgrade.
Design & Aerodynamics
Visually, the Dark Horse SC is more muscular than its predecessors. The front fascia features a pair of large dual air intakes with a distinctive twin‑spoke grille, while the new aluminum hood incorporates a fresh locking mechanism and a massive carbon‑fiber‑covered vent. When the vent is opened, engineers claim it can generate up to 2.5 times the aerodynamic pressure of the standard Dark Horse hood setup.
At the rear, the diffuser has been refined for greater downforce, and the exhaust system now uses a dual trapezoidal pipe layout instead of the previous round design, giving the car a sharper, more track‑ready appearance.
Powertrain
Replacing the naturally aspirated V8 found in the standard Dark Horse, the SC is powered by a supercharged 5.2‑liter V8 derived from the Mustang GTD. While official figures have yet to be released, the GTD’s version delivers an impressive 826 horsepower and 900 Nm of torque, suggesting the SC will sit in the same high‑performance bracket.
The engine is mated to a 7‑speed dual‑clutch transmission and powers the rear wheels, staying true to the Mustang’s heritage of rear‑wheel‑drive excitement.
Chassis & Performance
Ford has upgraded the MagneRide suspension with forged components and added a magnesium anti‑roll bar for a lighter, more rigid setup. Standard 20‑inch lightweight alloy wheels are paired with Brembo brakes, and customers can opt for carbon‑fiber wheels and carbon‑ceramic discs for even greater performance.
The optional Track Pack shaves roughly 68 kg off the car’s curb weight and adds more than 280 kg of downforce at 290 km/h, dramatically improving high‑speed stability and cornering grip.
Interior
Inside, the Dark Horse SC retains the track‑focused cabin of its predecessor: Recaro racing seats, a 12.4‑inch fully digital instrument cluster, and a 13.2‑inch central infotainment display. The layout remains driver‑centric, offering the same blend of sport and technology found in the previous Dark Horse models.
Pricing & Availability
Pricing for the Dark Horse SC has not been announced. For reference, the standard Dark Horse starts at $64,080, while the Premium version begins at $69,075. The new SC variant is expected to command a premium price reflecting its advanced engineering and track‑ready enhancements.
Stay tuned for official specifications, performance numbers, and launch dates as Ford prepares to bring the Dark Horse SC to showrooms later this year.
