2025 Ford Mustang Dark Horse Review – A Muscle Car Reinvented

A New Breed of Pony

The Mustang name has long been synonymous with American muscle, but with the 2025 Ford Mustang Dark Horse, we're witnessing a bold evolution. Ford hasn’t just given this icon a facelift — it’s infused it with motorsport DNA, cutting-edge technology, and raw V8 excitement for a new era of performance. In this review, we’ll dissect what makes the Dark Horse not just another Mustang variant but possibly the most significant one yet for enthusiasts — especially Down Under.

Whether you're a die-hard pony car fan or a newcomer tempted by the roar of a petrol V8, this might just be the ultimate muscle machine for 2025.

What Is the Dark Horse?

Ford has always used the Mustang platform to offer various performance trims, from the EcoBoost to the GT500. The Dark Horse sits in a unique position — it’s not just a styling package; it’s the most track-capable non-Shelby Mustang ever produced.

Key Highlights:

• 5.0L Coyote V8 with 373kW (500hp)
• Manual transmission standard; 10-speed auto optional
• Performance upgrades direct from Ford Racing
• Unique chassis tuning
• Optional handling package for track warriors
• Launching in Australia in both coupe and convertible forms

Ford designed the Dark Horse with a singular mission: to bring motorsport prowess to the street, but with everyday usability baked in.

Exterior Design – Muscular Meets Modern

One glance at the 2025 Mustang Dark Horse and you know this isn’t your average coupe.

Aggressive Styling Upgrades:

• Gloss black grille with ‘Dark Horse’ badge
• Aerodynamic enhancements like the rear spoiler and diffuser
• 19-inch staggered wheels wrapped in Pirelli P-Zero tyres
• Optional carbon fibre wheels (track package)
• Deep front splitter for improved downforce

Unique Colour Options:

• Blue Ember Metallic – a special paint exclusive to the Dark Horse
• Optional matte clearcoat for an even stealthier look

From every angle, the Dark Horse means business. Unlike some performance trims that only wear cosmetic upgrades, this one screams performance even while standing still.

Interior: Race-Ready but Refined

Cabin Design and Layout

Inside, the Mustang Dark Horse feels driver-centric and premium without forgetting its performance roots.

Key Features:

• Flat-bottom steering wheel with suede trim and contrast stitching
• Performance bucket seats (Recaros optional)
• 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster
• 13.2-inch SYNC 4 infotainment touchscreen
• Dual-zone climate control
• Custom Dark Horse startup graphics

Materials & Comfort:

• Premium Alcantara, leather, and metal accents
• Optional ambient lighting and premium B&O audio system
• Rear seat space is limited, as expected, but usable for short trips

The cabin blends the old-school muscle feel with new-school tech. It’s a cockpit that begs to be driven hard but doesn’t skimp on creature comforts.

Performance: The Heart of the Dark Horse

Engine and Transmission

At the heart of the Dark Horse lies a 5.0-litre Coyote V8, but it’s been specially tuned by Ford Performance engineers.

Performance Specs:

• Power: 373kW (500 hp) @ 7,500 rpm
• Torque: 567Nm
• Transmission: 6-speed Tremec manual (standard), 10-speed auto (optional)
• 0–100 km/h: approx. 4.1 seconds
• Top speed: Estimated 250+ km/h

The manual comes with rev-matching and a titanium shift ball — a nod to purists. The 10-speed automatic brings paddles and smooth gear transitions for daily driving and highway cruises.

Suspension and Handling

• MagneRide adaptive suspension
• K-brace and strut tower bracing
• Brembo 6-piston front brakes
• Torsen rear differential
• Available Handling Pack: stiffer springs, larger sway bars, and even stickier tyres

This isn’t a drag strip pony — it’s a track-capable corner carver, tuned for twisty backroads and race circuits.

Technology and Infotainment

Tech in muscle cars used to be an afterthought — not anymore.

Infotainment & Connectivity:

• SYNC 4 system with over-the-air updates
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Customisable digital instrument panel with various drive modes
• Integrated track apps with telemetry (lap times, G-forces, brake pressure)

Driving Assistance and Safety:

• Adaptive cruise control
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Lane-keeping assist
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Emergency braking

Whether you're cruising on the M1 or ripping around Phillip Island, the Dark Horse keeps you connected, protected, and informed.

Driving Impressions – On the Road & Track

We had a chance to get behind the wheel of the 2025 Mustang Dark Horse in both urban conditions and on a closed track outside Melbourne.

Urban Driving:

• Surprisingly compliant ride in Normal mode
• Rear visibility still limited, but tech helps
• Engine sound is always present, but not obnoxious

Track Performance:

• Instant throttle response
• Cornering grip is immense with the Handling Package
• Braking performance is consistent with no fade after multiple hot laps
• Steering is sharp, with excellent road feedback

It’s the most balanced Mustang to date, with enough civility to commute daily and enough edge to thrill on weekends.

Fuel Economy & Real-World Use

Let’s be honest — fuel economy isn’t why you buy a V8, but here’s what you can expect:

• Claimed combined consumption: ~12.5L/100km
• Real-world average in mixed driving: 13.5–14.5L/100km
• Tank size: 61 litres

It’s no Prius, but given the performance, it's respectable. A light foot and cruise control can stretch your range decently.

Australian Pricing & Variants

Expected Pricing (AUD):

• Base Manual Coupe: $85,000 (estimated)
• 10-Speed Auto Coupe: $88,500
• Convertible (if launched): ~$92,000+
• Track Handling Pack: ~$7,000 extra

Not a cheap Mustang, but it’s priced below European rivals with similar performance like the BMW M2, Audi RS5, or AMG C63.

Warranty & Ownership:

• 5-year/unlimited km Ford Australia warranty
• 12-month/15,000km service intervals
• Fixed-price servicing available

Rivals in Australia – How Does It Compare?

Ford Mustang Dark Horse vs BMW M2

Other Contenders:

• Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 (import only now, higher price tag)
• Dodge Challenger R/T (limited availability)
• Toyota Supra GR Manual (less power but nimble)
• Nissan Z (twin-turbo V6, cheaper but less dramatic)

In terms of performance per dollar, the Dark Horse punches way above its weight.

Who Should Buy the Mustang Dark Horse?

This isn’t a car for everyone, and that’s exactly why it’s special.

It’s Perfect For:

• Enthusiasts craving a V8 experience
• Drivers who want a track-ready car with daily usability
• Those who love American muscle heritage with modern tech
• Buyers looking for a BMW M car alternative under $100K

Maybe Not For:

• Fuel misers or hybrid lovers
• Families needing rear space and comfort

• Those seeking understated, quiet luxury

   

  A Worthy Reinvention of a Legend

The 2025 Ford Mustang Dark Horse is more than just a new variant — it’s a manifesto. A declaration that even in an EV-centric world, there's room for a snarling, analog, petrol-burning machine that puts the driver first.

It retains everything we love about the Mustang — power, drama, road presence — and layers on track capability, high-end tech, and real refinement. For Aussie buyers seeking a performance car with soul, the Dark Horse may be the most exciting coupe on sale in 2025.