2026 Ford Mustang RTR is an EcoBoost-Powered Drift Star
Remember the Ford Mustang RTR that was announced at the Detroit Auto Show last January? Well, now we have all the details (except the price) and pictures of the production model, with deliveries in Canada and the U.S. to start in the summer of 2026.
Hailed as “the most thrilling, fun-to-drive turbocharged Mustang ever,” the new Mustang RTR will be available exclusively in coupe configuration with the 2.3-litre four-cylinder EcoBoost engine. It was developed in a collaboration with two-time drift champion and RTR Vehicles president Vaughn Gittin, Jr. using performance parts from the V8-powered Mustang Dark Horse, among others.
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Wild Pony
Let’s start with the EcoBoost engine. The RTR’s standard anti-lag system (based on patented technology from the Ford GT race car) sharpens throttle response by keeping the turbocharger primed to deliver peak boost during intense driving sessions. Want even more performance? The available Ford Performance Parts software calibration increases output from 315 to 350 hp and torque from 350 to 400 lb-ft—all while retaining the factory warranty.
Next, the list of Mustang RTR goodies includes an Electronic Drift Brake, Brembo brakes from the Mustang GT Performance Pack (six-piston callipers in front and four-piston callipers at the rear), Active-Valve Performance Exhaust with four driver-selectable exhaust modes, as well as front and rear sway bars and a rear sub-frame shared with the Mustang Dark. All of this is aimed at making the car stiffer, more responsive and more aggresive.
Additionally, the stability control system benefits from a unique Track mode setting, while the available MagneRide dampers are optimized, in both cases to improve performance while drifting. Oh, and the modified steering gear comes with increased travel, too.
Flashy Pony
Looks are another key part of the story. The 2026 Ford Mustang RTR sports a Mustang GT front fascia but with a unique grille featuring an RTR badge and RTR signature lit nostrils. Tarnished Dark Anodised accents can be found all around, including the pony emblem, mirror caps and Mustang GT Performance Pack rear spoiler.
A new body colour, Avalanche Grey, joins the standard Mustang colour palette for 2026. Don’t miss the special RTR graphics on the hood, rocker and rear quarter panels, or the available Hyper Lime finish on the brake callipers that slow down the 19-inch wheels (with a 30mm offset).
As for the cabin, that same Hyper Lime is applied to stitching, seat belts and drift brake lever. Customers who prefer a low-key look can select standard stitching on the upholstery and finish on the drift brake as a no-cost option.
A couple more things: lit RTR sill plates and a serialized RTR dash plaque come standard. And when opening the door or starting the engine, neon-heavy, Mustang RTR-specific graphics play across the twin displays.
“When I launched RTR in 2009 at 29, I had no plan beyond making Mustangs cool and exciting for the next generation. The 2026 Mustang RTR does just that,” Vaughn Gittin Jr. said.
