The Mustang is Ford’s golden boy, and its pursuit of V8 excellence is tantamount to that reputation. In this review of the track-ready muscle car, we’ll go in depth on all that makes the 2025 Dark Horse stick out in the class.
Key Takeaways:
- The Mustang Dark Horse is Ford’s all-out performance pony car.
- Sporting well over 400 HP, the Dark Horse sports power that's sure to send you reeling in your seat.
- The top non-GTD trim for the Mustang also comes generously equipped with comfort-focused features to ensure you’re never out of style.
What's the difference between a Mustang GT and a Dark Horse?
Though the Ford Mustang Dark Horse isn’t dramatically quicker than the standard GT in a straight line—hitting 60 mph in 4.6 seconds and completing the quarter mile in 12.8 seconds—it shines where it counts: on the track.
Equipped with the optional Handling package and ultra-grippy Pirelli Trofeo RS tires, the Dark Horse delivers exceptional lateral grip, recording 1.12 g on the skidpad—territory usually reserved for high-end exotics. Its braking performance is equally impressive, stopping from 60 mph in just 94 feet, trailing only elite performance cars like the Porsche 911 GT3 and Corvette ZR1.
On the track, the Dark Horse feels composed and confidence-inspiring, with strong brakes that resist fade and a suspension that fully exploits the tire's capabilities. While the steering could offer more feedback, the six-speed manual transmission is crisp and engaging, complementing the car's balanced, capable nature. Off the track, it remains as drivable and comfortable as a standard Mustang GT.
What is the gas mileage on a 2025 Mustang?
The EPA estimates the four-cylinder Mustang is good for 22 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. Adding the optional Performance Package to that erodes some fuel economy, reducing it to 21 mpg city and 29 mpg highway.
The last-gen Mustang's V-8 was a thirsty beast rated for 15 mpg city and 24 mpg highway (automatic transmission); the current V-8 Mustang automatic improves slightly with EPA estimates of 16 mpg city and 24 highway; going with the manual reduces it by 1 mpg in each measure. The Dark Horse wears EPA estimates of 14 mpg city and 22 mpg highway regardless of transmission.
Is the 2025 Ford Mustang Dark Horse Worth the Money?
The Dark Horse is no dark horse in the pony car class; it’s the top dog. Providing unmatched performance in a street-legal pony car, it's one of the best options buyers can spec into if they’re looking for all-out performance out of their monstrous V8. If you want great power from your next muscle car, then come down to Banner Ford of Monroe for your next exhilarating ride.