2026 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500: Everything We Know

• Ford is hard at work on a new Mustang Shelby GT500.
• New styling changes are all for the sake of performance.
• Expect a supercharged V8 called "Legend" with ridiculous power output.

Beefy, brawny styling

Up front, the GT500 has large air intakes, a flared chin spoiler and wide fenders. The hood also has some bulges and cutouts, and around back, a new bumper sits above large quad exhaust tips.

These test mules have a new wheel design (which also looks rad) and ride on staggered 305/30ZR20 front and 315/30ZR20 rear tires. Which tires, exactly? We're looking at Pirelli P Zero R-compound rubber, which should offer serious cornering grip. Don't worry, we're fully expecting Ford to offer carbon-fiber wheels and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R ultra-high-performance tires, too.

A Legend under the hood

Earlier this year, a leaked dealer memo suggested the Shelby GT500's new engine will use the name "Legend." And indeed, we're expecting legendary power. For context, the last-generation Shelby GT500 had a supercharged 5.2-liter V8 with 760 horsepower and 623 lb-ft of torque. But considering the new Mustang GTD already makes 815 hp, something higher than that — possibly even to the tune of four figures — is certainly possible.

It's unclear exactly when Ford will debut the new GT500. But considering these prototypes have advanced significantly since the last time we spied this hi-po Mustang in late April, we'll bet the next-gen Shelby will bow before the end of the year.

Photos by KGP Photography