- Ford calls the RTR the most enthusiast-focused version of the Ecoboost Mustang to date.
- Pricing and availability details for the new 4-cylinder model have not been announced.
- This marks just the second time Ford co-developed a Mustang with an outside partner.
The four-cylinder Ford Mustang Ecoboost has always played second fiddle to its V8-powered siblings, but that narrative might finally be shifting with the introduction of the new Mustang RTR. Developed in collaboration with Vaughn Gittin Jr.’s RTR Vehicles, this enthusiast-focused version of the EcoBoost model will be sold directly through Ford, joining the Mustang lineup alongside the GT, the track-focused Dark Horse, and the absurdly over-the-top GTD.
Previewed ahead of the Detroit Auto Show, the Mustang RTR is the most focused version of the EcoBoost-powered muscle car and features some hardware from the Dark Horse. No pricing details have been announced, and Ford hasn’t said when it’ll strip away the camouflage of this prototype and show the car in full. Nevertheless, it’s still something to get excited about.
Read: RTR Brings Mystichrome Back For The Ford Mustang And It’s Not A Wrap
Two standout upgrades immediately catch the eye: a fixed rear wing for added downforce and a set of Hyper Lime Brembo brake calipers that make sure you know this isn’t your average EcoBoost Mustang. The prototype shown off in Detroit also rocks a unique camouflage livery featuring fluorescent yellow accents.
Ford hasn’t said what performance upgrades the Mustang RTR will launch with, but it’ll retain the Electronic Drift Brake that RTR co-developed with the Blue Oval. This feature debuted on the seventh-generation Mustang, offering drivers a rally-inspired handbrake that makes initiating slides child’s play (in safe, legal environments, of course).
The RTR treatment doesn’t stop at mechanical tweaks; styling updates abound, starting with RTR’s signature LED daytime running lights integrated into either side of the front grille. It also boasts a more aggressive front bumper, custom RTR badging, and other bespoke design elements.
We don’t have any photos of the car’s interior, although there’s a good chance it’ll also get custom badging, denoting this as the most enthusiast-focused version of the turbocharged pony car.
“I’m pumped to have the opportunity to create what we believe is the most exciting turbocharged Mustang ever,” Vaughn Gittin Jr. said at the car’s launch. “This Mustang RTR is pure accessible fun, with many enhancements, including Mustang Dark Horse components, Mustang EcoBoost’s near-perfect weight distribution, and RTR’s signature styling, it’s ready for drifting, drag racing, back-road cruising, or ripping around an autocross track. The new Mustang RTR is truly Ready to Rock.”
With its more aggressive design, new tech, and RTR’s performance pedigree, the Mustang RTR could give four-cylinder Mustang fans the street cred they’ve been waiting for. It’s not the V8, sure, but for those who value balance, style, and a bit of turbocharged fun, this could end up being an interesting alternative.
