Ford Gears Up for the Next Shelby GT500: Testing Underway
Ford has kicked off road testing for what appears to be the next-generation Shelby GT500, based on heavily modified Mustang Dark Horse prototypes seen prowling the streets near company headquarters in Dearborn, Michigan.
These test mules sport noticeable changes from the standard Dark Horse model, signaling that a new high-performance beast is in development. Most eye-catching are the redesigned front ends, equipped with larger air intakes and upgraded radiators, clearly built to handle more heat—suggesting serious power under the hood. The front fenders appear slightly reshaped, possibly to accommodate a wider track and larger tires.
The prototypes roll on wheels familiar to Mustang fans: either the base wheels from the last GT500 or the ultra-light 20-inch carbon-fiber versions from the previous model’s Carbon Fiber Track Package. Interestingly, tire choices vary—some use Michelin Cup 2 R rubber, while others wear Pirelli P Zeros, pointing to ongoing performance evaluations.
Subtle camouflage wraps cover the rear ends of the test vehicles, hinting at design tweaks yet to be revealed. Ford engineers even added a humorous touch—a sticker of a cartoon mule kicking—confirming these are indeed test vehicles.
Fueling the buzz around the GT500’s return is a leaked internal memo from earlier this year, reportedly confirming the car’s 2026 debut and referencing a new engine dubbed “Legend.” While Ford has not officially detailed the powertrain, expectations are high. The previous GT500’s supercharged 5.2-liter V8 produced 760 horsepower, and many speculate that the next iteration could match—or exceed—that, especially with Ford’s recent introduction of the 1,000-hp Megazilla 2.0 crate engine.
Design-wise, expect the new GT500 to evolve past the wide-open grille of its predecessor. Renderings suggest it will borrow heavily from the Dark Horse’s aggressive styling but go further with expanded aerodynamics, larger vents, and a more planted stance. A widebody look, flared fenders, and a vented hood are all but certain, while a rear spoiler—likely carbon fiber—is also anticipated.
The GT500 nameplate has long represented the pinnacle of Mustang performance. First launched in 1967, it returned in 2007 and became a staple of the lineup. Though the seventh-generation Mustang (launched in 2023 as a 2024 model) debuted without a Shelby variant, the GT500 is clearly making a comeback.
With production shifts planned for late 2025, a public reveal could happen by the end of this year. Until then, enthusiasts will be watching Dearborn’s streets closely for more glimpses of Ford’s next muscle machine.
