Ford’s greatest muscle car is returning in a new guise. A new GT500 is under development, generating buzz among Mustang enthusiasts and high-performance vehicle aficionados. Official information is scarce, but leaked files and spy shots provide integral information on the vehicle’s identity, powertrain, and menacing new design. Here is everything that has been learned so far.

Ford’s Future Muscle Car Identity

Ford won’t necessarily keep the Shelby label on its next GT500. The automaker’s licensing agreement with Shelby-American expired, and Shelby now produces its own versions of the Mustang GT. Ford, however, has applied for trademarks on names such as “Boss”, “Dark Horse Boss”, and “Cobra”. With the snake logo from earlier GT500s, “Cobra” appears to be the most probable name for the 2026 model.

Curiously, a UAW memo still includes it as the “2026 Mustang Shelby GT500”, which suggests that Ford might continue to employ the Shelby name internally or even for advertising. That said, no final decision has been made public.

Interior and Powertrain Expectations

The 2026 model will be powered by a high-performance V8 engine. Although Ford hasn’t officially released the specs, leaked UAW docs indicate that a supercharged 5.2-liter V8 will come back, maybe with even more power. The same engine appears in the F-150 Raptor R and the Mustang GTD and makes 760 horsepower in its previous Shelby GT500 configuration.

The memo also mentions an engine named “Legend” that may be a rebranded or improved version of the current motor. Since Chevrolet’s Corvette ZR1 is producing more than 1,000 horsepower, Ford might be moving to regain a position in the horsepower segment.

Unique Features and Styling

The next GT500 isn’t merely about brute power—it’s also being styled to be noticed on the street. Spy photos show a variety of different styling tweaks. Bigger upper and lower grille openings indicate improved cooling, while a restyled hood and flared fenders point toward a more aggressive stance.

More information involves a redesigned front bumper, bold chin spoiler, and adjusted rear diffuser. The exhaust system and wing look like the base GT, although they might be revised prior to the launch. The prototype uses the same tire diameters as the S550 GT500, which suggests an emphasis on grip and handling.

2026 GT500 May Feature Exclusive Nameplate

Ford is engaged in legacy branding efforts. With new trademark applications, the 2026 GT500 could go to market under the “Cobra” moniker, bringing back one of Ford’s most legendary badges. Considering how well-known and well-liked this name, it might assist the company in maintaining its performance legacy without having to anchor it on the Shelby partnership.