The price of the Ford Mustang is set to increase by $1,000 for the 2026 model year, with the entry-level Mustang EcoBoost now priced at $72,990 before on-road costs. This adjustment follows a prior hike in July 2025, when Ford Australia raised the list prices of all Mustang variants by $5,000, attributing the increase to the introduction of the federal government’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES).
Alongside this price adjustment, Ford Australia has announced a product safety recall affecting the Mustang, as well as its two best-selling models—the Ranger ute and the Everest large SUV. Additionally, another recall has been issued for the locally converted F-150 full-size pickup, raising concerns among consumers regarding vehicle reliability.
Production Timelines and Model Variants
Production of the 2026 Mustang at Flint, Michigan, for the Australian market is expected to commence in November 2025, three months after the model year change in the United States. First local customer deliveries are anticipated in February 2026. The Mustang EcoBoost remains the most affordable variant, while the price of the V8 Mustang GT fastback with a six-speed manual gearbox will rise to $84,990 before on-road costs. The Mustang GT automatic, which is the most popular variant in the lineup, will also see its price set at $84,990.
For buyers interested in customization, the 2026 model year introduces two new exterior paint options: Adriatic Blue, previously featured in the US-market FX package, and the return of Orange Fury. Both colors come at a premium, costing an additional $750 for EcoBoost vehicles and $910 for GTs, excluding Luxury Car Tax. Standard colors, such as Oxford White and Race Red, remain at no extra charge.
Feature Changes and Market Position
Despite the price increase, some minor features will be removed from the Mustang EcoBoost model. The monochromatic mirror and remote starting key will no longer be included, although starting the vehicle via the FordPass app remains possible. Ford Australia has also introduced charges for its connected native satellite navigation system starting in January 2025. New buyers are granted a 12-month free trial before subscription fees apply.
While there are no significant changes to standard equipment or mechanical specifications for the V8-powered GT vehicles, a new black appearance package will replace the previous Bronze package for 2026. This package includes black 19-inch alloy wheels, black badges, and black mirror caps.
The Mustang has regained its status as Australia’s most popular sports car this year, having lost the title to the BMW 2 Series in 2024. In May, the Mustang recorded its best monthly sales since November 2018, and it continues to outperform its closest rival, the Mazda MX-5, in sales figures for the year.
As Ford anticipates the upcoming model year, it remains to be seen how these changes will impact consumer interest in the iconic Mustang, a vehicle long cherished for its performance and heritage.
