Inspired by both the Shelby GT and GT-H programs, the new GTE is meant to offer fans increased performance at an affordable price.

According to Shelby, the GTE is by no means a “secretary’s car”, and judging by what you find under the hood, we kind of get what they mean. Customers can choose between either Ford’s 5.0-liter Coyote engine, good for an estimated 456 HP and 424 lb-ft (574 Nm) of torque, and the smaller 2.3-liter EcoBoost which delivers an estimated 340 HP and 390 lb-ft (528 Nm) of torque.

The cars also feature improved handling and aesthetics that make them instantly recognizable as Shelby-tuned Mustangs – though if you really want to go all out you can do so by fitting the optional supercharger on the 5.0-liter model, bringing the total output to around 670 HP.

In terms of looks, the Shelby GTE comes with iconic Le Mans-style striping as well as Shelby badges. Further attention should go to the exhaust co-developed by Ford Performance alongside Borla, said to deliver noise worthy of “true American muscle”.

Inside, the car features more Shelby badging and additional gauges, but other than that it remains instantly recognizable as a Mustang, which is something we’ve grown accustomed to when it comes to Shelby products.

What is a bit curious is the Mustang logo on the steering wheel as opposed to the Shelby logo, but we’re guessing that’s an optional extra.

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