# Ford Mustang specs and mpg by year

- **Latest year:** 2026
- **MPG (combined):** 12-26
- **Drive:** RWD
- **Years covered:** 2015-2026

## Quick answer

The 2026 Ford Mustang is a subcompact car rated at 12-26 mpg combined. Engines: 5.0L V8; 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 5.2L V8 supercharged.

## Every 2026 Ford Mustang version

| Version | Engine | Drive | Transmission | City/Hwy | Combined | Fuel cost / year | CO2 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Mustang | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo | RWD | Automatic | 22/33 | 26 mpg | $2,600 | 341 g/mi |
| Mustang | 5.0L V8 | RWD | Automatic | 16/24 | 19 mpg | $3,550 | 468 g/mi |
| Mustang | 5.0L V8 | RWD | Manual | 15/23 | 18 mpg | $3,700 | 494 g/mi |
| Mustang Dark Horse | 5.0L V8 | RWD | Automatic | 14/22 | 17 mpg | $3,950 | 525 g/mi |
| Mustang Dark Horse | 5.0L V8 | RWD | Manual | 14/22 | 17 mpg | $3,950 | 533 g/mi |
| Mustang GTD | 5.2L V8 supercharged | RWD | Automatic | 10/17 | 12 mpg | $6,850 | 741 g/mi |

Each row is a version the EPA tested. Fuel cost assumes 15,000 miles a year (55% city) at national average prices; CO2 is tailpipe emissions.

## Ford Mustang specs by year

| Year | Engines | Transmission | Drive | MPG (combined) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | 5.0L V8; 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 5.2L V8 supercharged | Automatic, Manual | RWD | 12-26 |
| 2025 | 5.0L V8; 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 5.2L V8 supercharged | Automatic, Manual | RWD | 12-26 |
| 2024 | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 5.0L V8 | Automatic, Manual | RWD | 17-26 |
| 2023 | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 5.0L V8 | Manual, Automatic | RWD | 17-25 |
| 2022 | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 5.0L V8; 5.2L V8 supercharged | Automatic, Manual | RWD | 14-25 |
| 2021 | 5.0L V8; 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 5.2L V8 supercharged | Automatic, Manual | RWD | 14-25 |
| 2020 | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 5.0L V8; 5.2L V8; 5.2L V8 supercharged | Manual, Automatic | RWD | 14-25 |
| 2019 | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 5.0L V8; 5.2L V8 | Manual, Automatic | RWD | 16-25 |
| 2018 | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 5.0L V8; 5.2L V8 | Manual, Automatic | RWD | 16-25 |
| 2017 | 5.2L V8; 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 3.7L V6; 5.0L V8 | Manual, Automatic | RWD | 16-24 |
| 2016 | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 3.7L V6; 5.0L V8; 5.2L V8 | Manual, Automatic | RWD | 16-25 |
| 2015 | 3.7L V6; 5.0L V8; 2.3L 4-cyl turbo | Manual, Automatic | RWD | 18-25 |

EPA combined ratings. MPGe is the EPA efficiency measure for electric cars. Ranges cover every engine and drivetrain EPA tested for that year.

## How has the Mustang changed over the years?

- **2025:** added 5.2L V8 supercharged.
- **2024:** combined mpg went from 17-25 to 17-26.
- **2023:** dropped 5.2L V8 supercharged.
- **2021:** dropped 5.2L V8.
- **2020:** added 5.2L V8 supercharged.
- **2018:** dropped 3.7L V6.
- **2017:** combined mpg went from 16-25 to 16-24.
- **2016:** added 5.2L V8.

## What does it cost to run a Mustang?

The EPA puts the 2026 Ford Mustang's fuel cost at **$2,600-$6,850 a year**, against about $3,367 for other current subcompact car: roughly 40% more. Over five years at 15,000 miles a year that is about $23,625 in fuel.

## Mustang vs rivals

| Model | Powertrains | Fuel economy | Fuel cost / year |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Honda Prelude | Hybrid | 44 mpg | $1,500 |
| [BMW 4 Series](/vehicles/bmw-4-series) | Hybrid | 27-31 mpg | $2,650-$3,050 |
| [BMW 2 Series](/vehicles/bmw-2-series) | Gas, Hybrid | 26-31 mpg | $2,650-$3,150 |
| [Audi A3](/vehicles/audi-a3) | Gas | 28 mpg | $2,950 |
| [Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class](/vehicles/mercedes-benz-cle-class) | Hybrid | 22-27 mpg | $3,050-$3,750 |
| [Audi S3](/vehicles/audi-s3) | Gas | 26 mpg | $3,150 |
| [BMW 8 Series](/vehicles/bmw-8-series) | Gas | 19-24 mpg | $3,400-$4,350 |
| [Audi RS](/vehicles/audi-rs) | Gas, Hybrid | 16-23 mpg | $3,550-$5,150 |

Other current subcompact car from other makes, most efficient first.

## Ford Mustang problems owners report most

| System (NHTSA category) | Complaints |
| --- | --- |
| Electrical System | 325 |
| Engine | 323 |
| Power Train | 221 |
| Back Over Prevention | 196 |
| Structure | 156 |
| Service Brakes | 117 |
| Latches/Locks/Linkages | 97 |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 80 |

From 1,777 complaints filed with NHTSA for 2015-2026 models. Most-complained-about model year: **2015**.

## Guides for common Ford Mustang problems

- **Electrical** (325 complaints): [Why does my car battery keep dying](/symptoms/car-battery-keeps-dying) - [Why are my headlights flickering](/symptoms/headlights-flickering) - [Why won't my car start](/symptoms/car-wont-start) - [alternator replacement cost](/cost/alternator-replacement) - [car battery replacement cost](/cost/car-battery-replacement) - [starter replacement cost](/cost/starter-replacement)
- **Engine** (323 complaints): [Why is my car idling rough](/symptoms/rough-idle) - [Why is my engine knocking](/symptoms/engine-knocking-noise) - [Why is my car leaking oil](/symptoms/car-leaking-oil) - [engine replacement cost](/cost/engine-replacement) - [timing chain replacement cost](/cost/timing-chain-replacement) - [valve cover gasket replacement cost](/cost/valve-cover-gasket-replacement)
- **Transmission and drivetrain** (221 complaints): [Why is my transmission slipping](/symptoms/transmission-slipping) - [Why won't my car go into gear](/symptoms/car-wont-go-into-gear) - [Why does my car jerk when I accelerate](/symptoms/car-jerks-when-accelerating) - [transmission replacement cost](/cost/transmission-replacement) - [transmission fluid change cost](/cost/transmission-fluid-change) - [clutch replacement cost](/cost/clutch-replacement)
- **Brake** (117 complaints): [Why are my brakes squeaking](/symptoms/squeaky-brakes) - [Why do my brakes make a grinding noise](/symptoms/brake-grinding-noise) - [Why does my brake pedal go to the floor](/symptoms/brake-pedal-goes-to-floor) - [brake pad replacement cost](/cost/brake-pad-replacement) - [brake rotor replacement cost](/cost/brake-rotor-replacement) - [brake caliper replacement cost](/cost/brake-caliper-replacement)

## Ford Mustang warning lights

- [Mustang: Check engine light](/warning-lights/check-engine/ford-mustang): 134 complaints
- [Mustang: Coolant temperature warning light](/warning-lights/coolant-temperature/ford-mustang): 64 complaints
- [Mustang: Brake warning light](/warning-lights/brake/ford-mustang): 36 complaints
- [Mustang: Power steering warning light](/warning-lights/power-steering/ford-mustang): 27 complaints
- [Mustang: Traction control light](/warning-lights/traction-control/ford-mustang): 23 complaints
- [Mustang: Airbag (SRS) warning light](/warning-lights/airbag/ford-mustang): 20 complaints

## Ford Mustang recalls (53)

| Campaign | Model years | Component | Reported |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [26V548000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V548000) | 2026 | Engine And Engine Cooling: Engine | 2026-08-25 |
| [26V547000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V547000) | 2024-2026 | Electrical System: Wiring | 2026-08-25 |
| [26V418000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V418000) | 2024-2026 | Visibility: Windshield Wiper/Washer | 2026-06-30 |
| [26V372000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V372000) | 2019 | Electrical System:  Instrument Cluster/Panel | 2026-06-09 |
| [26V205000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V205000) | 2026 | Engine And Engine Cooling: Engine | 2026-03-31 |
| [26V122000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V122000) | 2025 | Engine And Engine Cooling: Exhaust System | 2026-03-04 |
| [25V828000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V828000) | 2026 | Engine | 2025-12-02 |
| [25V695000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V695000) | 2020 | Back Over Prevention:  Sensing System | 2025-10-14 |
| [25V689000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V689000) | 2021-2023 | Electrical System: Body Control Module/Bcm | 2025-10-10 |
| [25V614000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V614000) | 2015-2017 | Seat Belts: Pretensioner | 2025-09-13 |
| [25V572000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V572000) | 2015-2019 | Back Over Prevention:  Sensing System | 2025-09-04 |
| [25V546000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V546000) | 2024-2025 | Exterior Lighting | 2025-08-23 |
| [25V519000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V519000) | 2025 | Exterior Lighting: Lighting Control Module | 2025-08-09 |
| [25V516000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V516000) | 2024 | Electrical System:  Instrument Cluster/Panel | 2025-08-08 |
| [25V455000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V455000) | 2021-2022 | Fuel System, Gasoline: Delivery | 2025-07-07 |
| [25V442000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V442000) | 2019-2023 | Back Over Prevention: Software | 2025-06-27 |
| [25V315000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V315000) | 2024 | Back Over Prevention: Software | 2025-05-09 |
| [25V164000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V164000) | 2025 | Power Train: Automatic Transmission | 2025-03-14 |
| [25V096000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V096000) | 2022-2023 | Steering: Electric Power Assist System | 2025-02-14 |
| [24V802000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=24V802000) | 2024 | Electrical System:  Instrument Cluster/Panel | 2024-10-25 |
| [24V634000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=24V634000) | 2024 | Fuel System, Gasoline: Fuel Injection System | 2024-08-23 |
| [24V593000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=24V593000) | 2024 | Suspension: Rear | 2024-08-09 |
| [24V496000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=24V496000) | 2024 | Service Brakes, Hydraulic: Brake Fluid Low Warning | 2024-06-28 |
| [24V493000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=24V493000) | 2022-2023 | Steering: Electric Power Assist System | 2024-06-28 |
| [24V394000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=24V394000) | 2024 | Power Train: Clutch Assembly | 2024-06-03 |

Showing the 25 most recent of 53. Recall repairs are free at any Ford dealer. Check your VIN at [nhtsa.gov/recalls](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). Data as of 2026-11-04.

## Frequently asked questions

### What mpg does the 2026 Ford Mustang get?

The 2026 Ford Mustang is EPA-rated at 12-26 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain. Real-world mileage varies with speed, climate and load.

### What engine does the 2026 Ford Mustang have?

The 2026 Ford Mustang comes with: 5.0L V8; 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 5.2L V8 supercharged. It uses automatic, manual transmissions and is offered with RWD.

### Is there a hybrid Ford Mustang?

No. In the EPA data from 2015-2026 the Ford Mustang has no hybrid version.

### Which Ford Mustang year gets the best gas mileage?

In the EPA data, the 2026 Ford Mustang has the highest combined rating, up to 26 mpg. Ratings for the same model can change between years when engines or test procedures change.

### How much does it cost to fuel a 2026 Ford Mustang for a year?

About $2,600-$6,850 a year, using the EPA's assumptions of 15,000 miles (55% city, 45% highway) at national average fuel prices. Your cost depends on your local prices, mileage and driving style.

### What is the city and highway mpg of the 2026 Ford Mustang?

The most efficient 2026 version, the Mustang, is rated 22 mpg city and 33 mpg highway (26 combined). Other engines and drivetrains are rated lower; the versions table above lists each one.

### How much CO2 does the 2026 Ford Mustang emit?

EPA rates its tailpipe CO2 at 341-741 grams per mile depending on version. Lower is better; the cleanest gas cars sit under 250 g/mi and electric cars have none at the tailpipe.

### Is the Ford Mustang cheap to run compared with other subcompact cars?

No, dearer than average: its EPA annual fuel cost of $2,600-$6,850 compares with about $3,367 for other current subcompact car models. Fuel is only part of running costs; insurance, tires and repairs also differ.

### How many recalls does the Ford Mustang have?

NHTSA lists 53 recalls for 2015-2026 Ford Mustang models as of 2026-11-04, the latest reported 2026-08-25 (26V548000). Recall work is free; enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see which apply to your car.

### What is the most common problem with the Ford Mustang?

In NHTSA owner complaints the most-reported category is electrical system, followed by engine. The 2015 model year has the most complaints (439), partly because complaint counts follow sales volume.

## Sources

- [fueleconomy.gov (US DOE and EPA)](https://www.fueleconomy.gov/)
- [NHTSA: Vehicle safety complaints and recalls (api.nhtsa.gov)](https://www.nhtsa.gov/nhtsa-datasets-and-apis)

## More Ford models

- [Ford Bronco](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-bronco)
- [Ford Bronco Sport](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-bronco-sport)
- [Ford Escape](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-escape)
- [Ford Expedition](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-expedition)
- [Ford Explorer](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-explorer)
- [Ford F-150](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-f-150)
- [Ford Maverick](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-maverick)
- [Ford Mustang Mach-E](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-mustang-mach-e)
- [Ford Ranger](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-ranger)
- [Ford EcoSport](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-ecosport): discontinued
- [Ford Edge](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-edge): discontinued
- [Ford F-150 Lightning](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-f-150-lightning): discontinued
- [Ford GT](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-gt): discontinued

## Other subcompact cars

- [Infiniti Q60](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/infiniti-q60)
- [Lexus RC](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/lexus-rc)
- [Mercedes-Benz A-Class](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/mercedes-benz-a-class)
- [Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/mercedes-benz-cle-class)
- [Nissan GT-R](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/nissan-gt-r)
- [Audi A3](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/audi-a3)
- [Audi RS](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/audi-rs)
- [Audi S3](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/audi-s3)

## Compared with

- [BMW 2 Series](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/bmw-2-series)
- [BMW 4 Series](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/bmw-4-series)
- [BMW 8 Series](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/bmw-8-series)
- [BMW M](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/bmw-m)

## Car care

- [How long do tires last?](https://diagxcar.com/how-long/tires)
- [How often to change oil](https://diagxcar.com/how-often/change-oil)
- [Tire size calculator](https://diagxcar.com/tools/tire-size-calculator)

---

Source page: https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-mustang
Updated: 2026-11-03
General information, not a substitute for a qualified mechanic.