2026 Ford Mustang Dark Horse SC Packs GT500-Like Supercharged 5.2L V8
What better venue than the North American International Auto Show in Detroit to introduce a new model of the best-selling American sports car? Ford took the event by storm this year, as The Car Guide witnessed while attending the debut of the 2026 Mustang Dark Horse SC, which slots right between the existing Mustang Dark Horse and the almighty, range-topping Mustang GTD.
This is also the start of Ford's motorsport season, particularly in Formula 1 as a power unit supplier for Red Bull Racing. The team's 2026 livery will be revealed later today at Michigan Central Station in the heart of Detroit.
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Supercharged Performance
The 2026 Ford Mustang Dark Horse SC boasts a supercharged 5.2-litre “Predator” V8 that was developed by Ford Racing and can also be found in the F-150 Raptor R and Mustang GTD. The engine is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, but performance figures have yet to be revealed. However, it's safe to assume they will largely exceed the 500-horsepower Dark Horse and undercut the 815-horsepower GTD.
When it comes to the chassis, the Mustang Dark Horse SC benefits from a MagneRide semi-active suspension complete with stiffer springs, unique stabilizer bars and custom forged links. Ford claims these upgraded components give the car better handling than the standard Mustang Dark Horse equipped with the already very aggressive Handling Package.
Six-piston Brembo calipers at the front and four-piston calipers at the rear are responsible for taming the stallion's enthusiasm. Furthermore, variable traction control allows the driver to modulate the system's intervention across five levels, with the ability to turn it off completely. The active exhaust system, meanwhile, offers four selectable modes including Normal, Sport, Track and Quiet, the last one designed to maintain a good relationship with the neighbours.
Track Package for Lapping Sessions
True to the Dark Horse lineage, the new SC model can be ordered with a Track Package designed to enhance performance and handling on the track. This package includes a specific calibration for the MagneRide suspension and a set of carbon fibre wheels. The latter are fitted with custom-developed Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, sized 305/30R20 at the front and 315/30R20 at the rear.
Behind these boots, which are renowned for their superior grip, you’ll find oversized carbon-ceramic brakes with 16.5-inch front rotors. Together, the carbon fibre wheels and carbon-ceramic brakes save 150 lbs of unsprung weight compared to the standard Dark Horse SC. Meanwhile, the carbon fibre rear wing that’s also part of the Track Package generates a staggering 620 lbs of downforce at 290 km/h.
Custom Interior With a Sportier Twist
Inside, the 2026 Ford Mustang Dark Horse SC borrows the flat-bottomed, leather- and Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel from the wild Mustang GTD. Customers can select Recaro sport seats finished in leather and Dinamica, but these are included in the Track Package.
Speaking of options, an available Carbon Exterior Package adds carbon fiber accents to the bumpers and mirror caps in addition to a choice of three different colours for the brake calipers. Further customization is available with a Teal Accent Package that includes teal-coloured brake calipers, badges and seat belts. Incidentally, five seat belt colours can be specified.
For 2026, Ford will offer a limited-production model called Track Pack Special. This one comes standard with the Track Package, Carbon Package, distinctive graphics inside and out, plus titanium paddle shifters borrowed from the Mustang GTD.
No More Shelby GT500?
The new 2026 Ford Mustang Dark Horse SC essentially copies the Shelby GT500 formula. And considering that Ford Racing has moved into Ford's new headquarters in Dearborn, Michigan, we can assume that the Shelby name might no longer be required.
Orders for the Mustang Dark Horse SC start this spring. Pricing and availability details will be revealed shortly.
