Coming Soon to Benton Ford – Kentucky’s Home for Performance and Power

After a short break, the king of American muscle cars is making a powerful comeback. The 2026 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500—or its soon-to-be-announced successor—is preparing to take the spotlight once more with a new platform, rumored upgraded engine, and even more advanced engineering. At Benton Ford, we’re thrilled to help drivers throughout Western Kentucky and nearby communities get ready for one of the most exciting releases in the 2026 Ford lineup.

A New Era for an American Icon

The GT500 Returns—But Possibly Under a New Name

The Mustang Shelby GT500 has always led the way in Ford performance. First launched in 1967, it quickly earned its reputation as the classic American pony car. Now, after its 2022 pause, the GT500 is set to return for 2026—though it may wear a different name. Ford has filed trademarks for “Dark Horse Boss” and “Boss”, suggesting a possible rebranding. No matter the name, you can count on this next-generation GT500 to be the most impressive Mustang outside of the GTD.

Built on the S650 Mustang Platform

Stronger, Smarter, Sharper

The upcoming GT500 is set to use the S650 Mustang platform, which debuted in 2024. This improved design builds on the popular S550 and offers:

• A more rigid chassis
• Enhanced suspension tuning
• Quicker steering response
• Updated exterior styling

You can also look forward to larger brakes, suspension tuned for track performance, and aerodynamic upgrades to complement the supercharged engine.

Under the Hood: Enter the “Legend”

What Will Power the 2026 Mustang GT500?

Although official details are still pending, reliable sources indicate a new engine called “Legend” could be featured. The previous GT500 used a 5.2L Predator V8 with 760 horsepower, but Ford may have an even more powerful option in the works.

Potential Powertrain Options:

• An updated 5.2L Predator V8, similar to the F-150 Raptor R
• A dual-clutch transmission, replacing the 10-speed automatic
• Possibility: Supercharged 7.3L Megazilla V8, rumored to produce over 1,000 horsepower

No matter which engine Ford chooses, expect a significant jump in performance—well above the 500-hp Mustang Dark Horse, but not reaching the $300,000 Mustang GTD.

Who It’s For (and Who It Will Beat)

A Mustang That Strikes the Perfect Balance Between Street and Track

With the Mustang GTD taking the spotlight as the halo model, the 2026 GT500 is designed to offer track-level performance at a more approachable price point. It’s built for enthusiasts who crave serious muscle but don’t want to step into the exotic car category.

Key Competitors:

• Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 (discontinued)
• Dodge Challenger Hellcat (discontinued)
• Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing
• BMW M4 CS
• Corvette Z06
• Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe

Very few competitors, whether domestic or international, are expected to match the GT500’s unique blend of power, heritage, and everyday drivability.

Deep Dive: GT500 Exterior and Interior Design

The 2026 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 is more than just a powerhouse—its design is a bold statement that honors its legendary past while pushing modern style and aerodynamics to new heights.

Aggressive Exterior: Built for Performance and Presence

The GT500’s exterior is instantly recognizable, blending classic muscle cues with cutting-edge enhancements:

• Aerodynamic Front Fascia: Up front, oversized air intakes and a pronounced chin spoiler channel airflow for both cooling and downforce. The hood features sculpted bulges and functional heat extractors, signaling the supercharged power beneath and evoking the aggressive attitude of past GT500s.
• Signature Racing Stripes: True to Shelby tradition, broad dual stripes run the length of the body, available in a range of contrasting colors for a custom touch. These stripes not only honor the original Shelby GT500 but also make a bold, unmistakable statement on the road.
• Wide Stance and Flared Fenders: The GT500 sits lower and wider than standard Mustangs, with muscular fender flares that accommodate staggered ultra-high-performance tires and unique, lightweight wheels—often available in carbon fiber for those seeking the ultimate in style and function.
• Quad Exhaust and Rear Diffuser: The rear is dominated by quad exhaust tips and an aggressive diffuser, maximizing both the visual drama and aerodynamic efficiency.

Refined Interior: Where Heritage Meets Innovation

Step inside, and the GT500’s cabin is a blend of race-inspired functionality and premium comfort:

• Performance Seats: Deeply bolstered sport seats, available in leather or suede-trimmed options, keep you planted during spirited driving. Optional contrast stitching and embroidered Shelby logos add a bespoke touch.
• Premium Materials: The interior features real aluminum or carbon fiber trim, soft-touch surfaces, and customizable ambient lighting, creating an environment that feels both modern and authentically Mustang.
• Digital Displays: A fully digital instrument cluster and expansive center display deliver customizable, driver-centric information—blending classic analog inspiration with the latest technology.
• Unique Accents: Details like color-matched seat belts, Shelby-branded sills, and special edition plaques reinforce the GT500’s exclusivity.

Customization and Personalization

Ford knows that every enthusiast wants their GT500 to reflect their personality:

• Extensive Color Palette: Choose from exclusive paint finishes—including new metallics and heritage-inspired hues—plus a variety of stripe, wheel, and brake caliper color options.
• Interior Accents: Select from different seat materials, stitching colors, and interior trim packages to make your cockpit truly your own.
• Performance Packages: Opt for available carbon fiber wheels, upgraded tires, or track-oriented aero kits to tailor your GT500 for street or circuit.

A Bridge Between Heritage and Modern Muscle

The 2026 GT500 blends classic Shelby design with Ford’s latest technology, featuring heritage stripes, a sculpted hood, a bold stance, and a race-inspired interior alongside advanced materials and digital features. This fusion of tradition and innovation makes the GT500 a standout American muscle car in Benton, KY, and beyond.

Design and Features: What We Expect

Classic Muscle, Modern Execution

Signature racing stripes, a vented hood, wide stance, and aggressive aero will define this new GT500 variant. Inside, look for performance-inspired seats, digital displays, and intuitive performance toggles. Ford has focused on blending track-ready capability with daily livability—and the GT500 should strike that balance perfectly.

Pricing and Release Timeline

How Much Will It Cost? When Can You Order?

With prototypes now spotted around Dearborn, MI, the 2026 Mustang GT500 is on track for an official debut soon. Pricing is expected to start over $100,000, well below the GTD but firmly in elite muscle territory.

Ownership Benefits and Support: What to Expect with the 2026 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 at Benton Ford

At Benton Ford, we believe that owning a performance icon like the 2026 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 should be as rewarding and worry-free as possible. Drawing inspiration from Ford’s own commitment to customer satisfaction, we’re proud to offer a suite of ownership benefits and support services that make your experience even better – right here in Benton, KY.

Convenient Service—On Your Terms

We know your time is valuable. That’s why we offer complimentary pick-up and delivery for your scheduled maintenance—just like Ford’s official owner benefits. Our certified technicians can also perform select maintenance or light repairs at your home or workplace. Now you can spend less time waiting and more time enjoying the drive.

Earn Rewards Every Mile

When you service your Mustang Shelby GT500 at Benton Ford, you’ll have the opportunity to earn and redeem FordPass® Rewards Points. These points can be used toward future service, genuine Ford accessories, and more. Making it easy to keep your Shelby in peak condition while saving along the way.

Exclusive Savings for Our Community

We’re proud to support local heroes and students. Eligible first responders, military personnel, and college students can take advantage of exclusive cash rewards toward the purchase or lease of a new Ford vehicle including the 2026 Mustang Shelby GT500. We also offer guidance and financial support for customers needing adaptive equipment, helping everyone enjoy the thrill of Mustang ownership.

Answers When You Need Them

Our team is always here to answer your questions, from model features to ownership perks. Whether you’re curious about engine options, customization, or the latest technology, we’ll provide clear, straightforward answers—just like Ford’s robust FAQ section.

Your Local Mustang Experts

As your hometown Ford dealership, Benton Ford is dedicated to building lasting relationships with Mustang enthusiasts across Western Kentucky. We combine Ford’s nationwide benefits with personalized, local service—so you always feel supported, both on the road and in our showroom.

Ready to experience the 2026 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500? Contact Benton Ford today to learn more about ownership benefits, savings opportunities, and how we make every step of your journey as exciting as the car itself.

Reserve Your Next Ford at Benton Ford

If you’re passionate about performance and searching for Ford dealerships near me, look no further than Benton Ford in Benton, KY. We’re your trusted local destination for performance vehicles—offering the 2025 Ford F-150, exclusive Black Widow editions, the upcoming 2026 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, and the entire 2026 Ford lineup.

This is your opportunity to own a true piece of American muscle car heritage.

Why Choose Benton Ford?

• Local experts in used cars in Kentucky. A trusted Kentucky dealership serving the community for over a decade
• Performance specialists for F-150, Mustang, and Bronco models
• Easy test drive scheduling and pre-order options for all new Ford releases

Posted in 2026 Ford lineup, 2026 Ford Mustang, 2026 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, Benton Ford | No Comments »