2026 Ford Super Duty vs. 2025 Ford Super Duty: Which Heavy-Duty Truck Leads the Pack?

2026 Ford F-150 Inventory New Ford Special Offers Contact Us Table of Contents: 2026 F-150 Trim Levels at a Glance XL & STX: Built for the Job XLT & Lariat: Where Comfort Meets Capability King Ranch & Platinum: Two Takes on Luxury Tremor & Raptor: Purpose-Built for Off-Road Which Trim Should You Choose? The F-150 isn't a hard sell around Hickory. Most buyers in Catawba County already know they want one. The harder question is figuring out which trim actually fits your life, your budget, and the kind of work you're putting that truck through. The 2026 Ford F-150 is available in eight trim levels, ranging from the work-ready XL at $39,330 to the high-performance Raptor at $79,005 MSRP, giving drivers across Western North Carolina a full spectrum of capability, comfort, and technology. All trims come standard with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Ford's SYNC 4 infotainment system. At Cloninger Ford of Hickory, we've helped drivers from Hickory, Lenoir, Statesville, Newton, and Conover navigate the F-150 lineup for decades. We know the questions that come up, and we know that picking the wrong trim is an expensive mistake in either direction. This guide breaks down every 2026 F-150 trim in plain terms so you can walk in with a clear picture and spend less time on the lot and more time behind the wheel. Key Points: 2026 Ford F-150 Trim Levels Near Hickory, NC Eight trims, one platform, zero wasted capability. Every 2026 F-150, from XL to Raptor, includes a 10-speed automatic transmission and Ford's Co-Pilot360 safety suite as standard equipment. The foundation is strong across the board. The biggest pricing jump in the lineup is between XLT and Lariat. Going from the XLT ($44,695) to the Lariat ($59,560) adds leather seats, heated fronts, and real luxury. Beyond Lariat, you're paying for premium audio, BlueCruise hands-free driving, and specialized off-road performance. The 2026 F-150 can tow up to an estimated 13,500 lbs when properly equipped with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6, making it a class-leading hauler for the farms, job sites, and mountain roads throughout Catawba County and Western NC. 2026 Ford F-150 Trim Levels at a Glance: All Eight Options Not every truck buyer needs the same thing. Here's a quick-reference look at the full 2026 F-150 lineup before we get into the details. Trim Best For Key Feature Starting MSRP XL Work trucks, fleet, commercial SYNC 4 12" touchscreen, Co-Pilot360 $39,330 STX Sport-styled work trucks 18" gloss black wheels, zone lighting $41,855 XLT Best overall value Pro Trailer Backup Assist, 12" productivity screen $44,695 Lariat Comfort upgrade from XLT Leather seats, heated/ventilated fronts, wireless charging $59,560 Tremor Serious off-road capability Off-road suspension, e-locking rear diff, skid plates $64,915 King Ranch Traditional luxury B&O sound, BlueCruise, Del Rio leather $65,825 Platinum Modern luxury Active Motion seats, Pro Power Onboard, ambient lighting $68,800 Raptor High-performance off-road FOX shocks, Trail Control, Trail Turn Assist $79,005 All prices are manufacturer's suggested retail and exclude taxes, title, fees, and dealer charges. Contact Cloninger Ford of Hickory for current availability and pricing. A few things worth noting from this lineup. Every 2026 F-150 comes standard with a 12-inch touchscreen and Ford's Co-Pilot360 safety suite, including the base XL — that's not a given in this segment. The jump from XLT to Lariat is $14,865, but it delivers a meaningful interior upgrade, not just badge changes. And for buyers who tow anything substantial, the 3.5L EcoBoost V6, available on XLT and above, unlocks up to an estimated 13,500 lbs of towing capacity when properly equipped. The F-150 XL and STX: Built for the Job XL Ford F-150 XL The F-150 XL is the trim built to work without distraction. It carries a 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission, and a 12-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen with built-in Wi-Fi. Ford Co-Pilot360 — which includes automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist — comes standard. "Base" doesn't mean bare on the F-150 XL. This is a capable, connected truck from the ground up, and the right choice for fleet applications, contractors, and budget-conscious buyers who need proven Ford toughness. Standard Features: 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine with 325 horsepower and 400 lb-ft torque 10-speed automatic transmission 12-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen with built-in Wi-Fi Ford Co-Pilot360 safety suite (automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist) Up to 8,400 lbs maximum towing capacity LED headlamps and taillamps Available Regular Cab, SuperCab, or SuperCrew configurations STX Ford F-150 STX The STX steps up the XL foundation with 18-inch gloss black aluminum wheels, sport-styled exterior accents, zone lighting for around-the-truck visibility, and rear privacy glass. If you want a work truck that carries a sharper look to the job site without moving into daily-driver territory, the STX is the bridge between the two. The available STX Lobo Package adds 22-inch wheels and a lowered suspension for buyers who want an even more aggressive street-performance stance straight from the factory. Key Upgrades Over XL: 18-inch gloss black aluminum wheels Sport-styled exterior accents Zone lighting for around-the-truck visibility Rear privacy glass SiriusXM radio capability Available STX Lobo Package with 22-inch wheels and lowered suspension Feature XL STX Starting MSRP $39,330 $41,855 Wheels 17-inch steel 18-inch gloss black aluminum Zone Lighting Not Available Standard Sport Appearance Standard STX Sport Styling The F-150 XLT and Lariat: Where Comfort Meets Capability XLT Ford F-150 XLT The XLT is the sweet spot of the lineup for most Hickory-area buyers. It adds LED fog lamps with cornering lights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a 12-inch digital productivity screen for the instrument cluster. Pro Trailer Backup Assist comes standard, which makes backing a trailer into tight spots significantly easier. FordPass Connect also enables remote access and a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot. This is America's most popular F-150 trim, and for good reason. Notable Features: 12-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen with wireless connectivity 12-inch digital productivity instrument cluster Leather-wrapped steering wheel LED fog lamps with cornering lights Pro Trailer Backup Assist (standard) FordPass Connect with mobile Wi-Fi hotspot Available BlueCruise 1.3 hands-free driving technology Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility Lariat Ford F-150 Lariat The Lariat moves the F-150 into genuine daily-driver comfort territory. It adds leather-trimmed seating, heated and ventilated front seats, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, a wireless charging pad, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The standard engine steps up to the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 at this level. For drivers who spend long hours behind the wheel on job sites, client visits, or highway hauls across Western NC, the Lariat is where comfort becomes a real productivity tool. Premium Amenities: Leather-trimmed seating with heated and ventilated front seats Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go Wireless charging pad Dual-zone automatic climate control 3.5L EcoBoost V6 standard engine Pro Trailer Backup Assist Available 360-degree camera system Available B&O Sound System Comfort Feature XLT Lariat Starting MSRP $44,695 $59,560 Seating Material Cloth / Available Leather Leather Standard Ventilated Seats Not Available Standard Wireless Charging Not Available Standard Adaptive Cruise Not Available Standard The F-150 King Ranch and Platinum: Two Takes on Luxury Both the King Ranch and Platinum sit near the top of the 2026 F-150 lineup, and both include BlueCruise, Ford's hands-free highway driving capability on thousands of pre-mapped North American roads. The difference between them is style, not quality. King Ranch Ford F-150 King Ranch The King Ranch delivers a warm, Western-inspired interior with Del Rio leather upholstery, a 12-inch digital gauge cluster, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. King Ranch buyers tend to value craftsmanship and tradition over flash. The two-tone exterior color options and distinctive stitching carry that identity outside the cab. Named after the legendary Texas ranch, this trim celebrates authentic heritage while delivering modern luxury and full F-150 capability. Distinctive Western Features: Del Rio leather upholstery with unique perforation patterns and stitching Bang & Olufsen premium sound system BlueCruise hands-free highway driving (standard) 12-inch digital gauge cluster Signature King Ranch badging and two-tone exterior paint options Multi-contour massaging front seats with heating and ventilation Available twin-panel panoramic moonroof Available 3.5L PowerBoost Full Hybrid with Pro Power Onboard Platinum Ford F-150 Platinum The Platinum swings modern. Multicontour seats with Active Motion keep long-distance drivers comfortable. Pro Power Onboard — Ford's built-in generator capability — makes the Platinum a serious option for contractors who need exportable power at the job site. If your truck doubles as a mobile office and power station, the Platinum earns its price in practical ways alongside its premium comfort and ambient lighting. Luxury Appointments: Multicontour seats with Active Motion technology Pro Power Onboard built-in generator capability BlueCruise hands-free highway driving (standard) Ambient interior lighting Heated and cooled front and rear seats 360-degree camera system with split-view display Twin-panel panoramic moonroof Available Satin Platinum Package with 20-inch polished wheels Feature King Ranch Platinum Starting MSRP $65,825 $68,800 Interior Style Western Heritage Modern Luxury Leather Del Rio leather Premium two-tone Pro Power Onboard Available Standard BlueCruise Standard Standard The F-150 Tremor and Raptor: Purpose-Built for Off-Road Tremor Ford F-150 Tremor The Tremor is the trail-focused trim that doesn't require a Raptor budget. It runs a 5.0L V8 engine, an off-road-tuned suspension with upgraded shocks, an electronic-locking rear differential, underbody skid plates, and trail-focused drive modes. The Tremor is the right call for Western NC buyers who want serious off-road capability for mountain roads, backcountry trails, and weekend adventures without the full performance price tag of the Raptor. Off-Road Equipment: 5.0L V8 engine standard Off-road-tuned suspension with upgraded shocks Electronic-locking rear differential Underbody skid plates for protection Trail-focused drive modes Hill Descent Control 33-inch all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels Unique Tremor badging and styling Raptor Ford F-150 Raptor The Raptor takes off-road performance to another level entirely. FOX racing shocks, Trail Control, Trail Turn Assist, and an aggressive wide-stance body are built for high-speed desert running and technical terrain. For most buyers in the Hickory market, the Tremor delivers everything they'll actually use. The Raptor is for those who want the full performance platform, no compromises — or who plan to take their truck well beyond the bounds of what trail maps can account for. Extreme Performance Features: High-Output 3.5L EcoBoost V6 with 450 horsepower FOX Live Valve internal bypass shock absorbers Trail Control for low-speed off-road cruise control Trail Turn Assist for tighter off-road maneuvering 37-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tires Aggressive wide-stance body with unique grille and fender flares Heavy-duty steel bash plates Recaro sport seats with suede inserts Feature Tremor Raptor Starting MSRP $64,915 $79,005 Engine 5.0L V8 H.O. 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (450 hp) Shocks Upgraded off-road shocks FOX Live Valve Tire Size 33-inch all-terrain 37-inch BFGoodrich KO2 Trail Turn Assist Not Available Standard Which 2026 Ford F-150 Trim Is Right for You? The right trim depends on what you're asking the truck to do. Here's a quick way to narrow it down: Trim Best For Starting MSRP Summary XL Work trucks, fleet, commercial $39,330 Full F-150 capability at the lowest entry point STX Sport-styled work trucks $41,855 Sharper look to the job site without leaving work-truck territory XLT Best all-around value $44,695 The trim most buyers land on, and for good reason Lariat Daily driver, comfort priority $59,560 Where the F-150 stops feeling like a work truck and starts feeling like a preference Tremor Off-road, Western NC trails $64,915 Serious off-road capability without the full Raptor investment King Ranch Traditional luxury, heritage style $65,825 Western-inspired craftsmanship with BlueCruise hands-free driving Platinum Modern luxury, tech-forward $68,800 Active Motion seats, Pro Power Onboard, and BlueCruise in a modern package Raptor Maximum performance, no compromises $79,005 The full factory performance platform — FOX shocks, Trail Control, 37-inch tires Test Drive the 2026 F-150 at Cloninger Ford of Hickory Cloninger Ford of Hickory has been serving drivers across Hickory, Lenoir, Statesville, Newton, and Conover since 1960. We carry new F-150 inventory across the full trim lineup, and our team is ready to walk you through the differences in person. Visit us at 1241 Highway 70 East, Hickory, NC 28602, browse our new Ford F-150 inventory online, or contact our team for current availability and pricing. The best way to figure out which trim fits is to get behind the wheel. View F-150 Inventory Current Specials Contact Us All MSRPs are manufacturer's suggested retail prices as of the 2026 model year and exclude taxes, title, license fees, and dealer charges. Towing figures are maximum available ratings when properly equipped. Contact Cloninger Ford of Hickory to confirm current availability and pricing.

If you're shopping for a truck that can handle serious towing, you're looking in the right place. The Ford F-150 has earned its reputation as America's best-selling truck for nearly five decades. The 2026 Ford F-150 towing capacity reaches up to 13,500 lbs when properly equipped with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6, Tow/Haul Package, and Max Tow Axle. Payload tops out at 2,445 lbs. Your actual capacity depends on engine choice, cab size, bed length, and axle ratio. At Cloninger Ford of Hickory, we've helped drivers across Lenoir, Statesville, Valdese, Taylorsville, and Wilkesboro find the right F-150 configuration for their boats, campers, and work trailers. This guide breaks down towing specs by engine and trim, explains the packages that unlock maximum capability, and covers the technology that makes towing safer and easier. Key Points: Ford F-150 Towing Capacity Max towing capacity is 13,500 lbs with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6, available on XL through Platinum trims when equipped with the Tow/Haul Package and Max Tow Axle. Engine choice matters most. The 3.5L EcoBoost delivers the highest towing, while the PowerBoost Hybrid offers 11,600 lbs plus Pro Power Onboard for job sites and campsites. The right packages unlock full capability. Without the Tow/Haul Package and proper axle ratio, you won't reach the F-150's maximum towing potential. Why the Ford F-150 Leads Its Class in Towing The Ford F-150 has been America's best-selling truck for 48 years running. That kind of streak doesn't happen by accident. It comes from building a truck that works as hard as the people who drive it. At the core of every F-150 is a fully boxed high-strength steel frame. This design provides the rigidity needed to handle heavy loads without flexing or fatiguing over time. Pair that with a military-grade aluminum alloy body, and you get a truck that's both strong and light enough to maximize towing and payload. Ford matches that foundation with a 10-speed automatic transmission tuned specifically for towing. The gearing keeps the engine in its power band during acceleration and provides smooth downshifts on descents. Whether you're pulling a bass boat out of Lake Hickory or hauling a camper up toward the Blue Ridge Parkway, the drivetrain responds to changing conditions without hunting for gears. Every F-150 also comes standard with Trailer Sway Control. This system detects side-to-side trailer movement and applies selective braking to help keep your rig stable. It's one of many features Ford builds in from the factory, not as an afterthought. Ford F-150 Towing Capacity by Engine Your engine choice determines how much you can tow. The 2026 F-150 offers six powertrains, each with different strengths. Here's how they compare when properly equipped. Engine Horsepower Torque Max Towing Max Payload 2.7L EcoBoost V6 325 hp 400 lb-ft 8,400 lbs 1,775 lbs 3.5L EcoBoost V6 382 hp 500 lb-ft 13,500 lbs 2,440 lbs 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid V6 420 hp 570 lb-ft 11,600 lbs 1,740 lbs 5.0L Ti-VCT V8 400 hp 410 lb-ft 12,800 lbs 2,235 lbs High-Output 3.5L EcoBoost (Raptor) 450 hp 510 lb-ft 8,200 lbs 1,405 lbs 5.2L Supercharged V8 (Raptor R) 720 hp 640 lb-ft 8,700 lbs 1,410 lbs Ford F-150 Towing Capacity by Trim Level Towing capacity isn't just about the engine. Your cab size, bed length, drivetrain, and axle ratio all affect how much you can pull. Every F-150 trim can tow, but the configurations required to hit maximum capacity vary. Here's a look at what each trim can achieve when properly equipped. Trim Max Towing Capacity Max Payload Notes XL 13,500 lbs 2,440 lbs Requires 3.5L EcoBoost, Tow/Haul Package, Max Tow Axle STX 13,500 lbs 2,445 lbs Requires 3.5L EcoBoost, Tow/Haul Package, Max Tow Axle XLT 13,500 lbs 2,440 lbs Requires 3.5L EcoBoost, Tow/Haul Package, Max Tow Axle Lariat 13,500 lbs 2,440 lbs Requires 3.5L EcoBoost, Tow/Haul Package, Max Tow Axle King Ranch 13,500 lbs 2,225 lbs Requires 3.5L EcoBoost, Tow/Haul Package, Max Tow Axle Platinum 13,500 lbs 2,225 lbs Requires 3.5L EcoBoost, Tow/Haul Package, Max Tow Axle Tremor 12,100 lbs 1,885 lbs Off-road focused with 3.5L EcoBoost standard Raptor 8,200 lbs 1,400 lbs High-Output 3.5L EcoBoost, off-road suspension Raptor R 8,700 lbs 1,410 lbs 5.2L Supercharged V8, performance focused Towing Packages That Maximize Your F-150's Capability The F-150's max towing of 13,500 lbs requires specific equipment. Without the right packages, your actual capacity drops significantly. Tow/Haul Package (53T) This is the essential package for serious towing. It includes: Integrated Trailer Brake Controller Upgraded rear axle ratio (3.55 or 3.73) Electronic locking rear differential Automatic transmission oil cooler Upgraded radiator Class IV trailer hitch receiver with 4-pin and 7-pin connectors Smart Trailer Tow Connector Tow/Haul Mode Without this package, most configurations top out around 8,000 to 11,000 lbs. Max Tow Axle Upgrade To reach 13,500 lbs, you also need the Max Tow Axle. This reinforces the rear axle and upgrades the hitch receiver rating from 11,600 lbs to 14,000 lbs. It's typically bundled with the Tow/Haul Package on max-tow configurations. Weight-Distributing Hitch Requirement Ford requires a weight-distributing hitch for trailers over 5,000 lbs. This spreads tongue weight across both axles, improving stability and steering control. Towing heavy loads without one can affect handling and void warranty coverage. At Cloninger Ford of Hickory, we help customers across Lenoir, Valdese, and the surrounding area spec the right packages from day one. F-150 Towing Technology and Safety Features Ford builds serious towing tech into the F-150. These features make hitching, backing, and hauling easier and safer. Pro Trailer Backup Assist Backing up a trailer can be tricky. This system simplifies it with a control knob to the right of the steering wheel. Turn the knob in the direction you want the trailer to go. The truck handles the steering while you control speed and brakes. It stores up to 10 trailer profiles for quick setup. Pro Trailer Hitch Assist Lining up your hitch with the trailer ball is frustrating solo. This feature uses rear sensors to automatically align the hitch by controlling steering, throttle, and brakes on a reverse path. It takes the guesswork out of connecting. Trailer Sway Control If your trailer starts swaying, this system detects it immediately. It applies selective braking to specific wheels to bring the rig back in line. This comes standard on every F-150. Integrated Trailer Brake Controller This controller powers your trailer's electric brakes proportionally based on how hard you press the brake pedal. It provides smooth, coordinated stops and includes manual override for added control on steep descents. Tow/Haul Mode One button changes how the truck behaves. Tow/Haul Mode adjusts shift points, increases engine braking on downhills, and improves throttle response. Use it whenever you're pulling a load, especially on mountain roads around the Blue Ridge. 360-Degree Camera with Trailer Views Four cameras give you a top-down view of your truck and surroundings. Available trailer camera provisions let you add a rear-facing camera on your trailer for visibility behind long loads. This makes tight campground spots and crowded boat ramps much easier to navigate. Pro Power Onboard: Power Anywhere You Tow The F-150 can work as a mobile generator. Pro Power Onboard delivers exportable electricity from outlets in the cab and bed. Three levels are available: Power Level Outlets Availability 2.0 kW Two 120V/20A Available on 2.7L, 3.5L, and 5.0L engines 2.4 kW Two 120V/20A Standard on PowerBoost Hybrid 7.2 kW Four 120V/20A, one 240V/30A Optional on PowerBoost Hybrid The 7.2 kW system runs power tools, lights, air compressors, and even small appliances. At a campsite near Lake Hickory or South Mountains, it powers your gear without a separate generator. On a job site in Statesville or Taylorsville, it keeps your crew working when grid power isn't available. For drivers who tow campers or work from remote locations, Pro Power Onboard adds real value beyond towing capacity alone. Test Drive a New Ford F-150 in Hickory, NC Finding the right F-150 configuration starts with understanding how you'll use it. Whether you're towing a boat to Lake Hickory, hauling equipment to a job site in Lenoir, or pulling a camper up to the Blue Ridge Parkway, we can help you match the engine, trim, and packages to your needs. At Cloninger Ford of Hickory, we've served drivers across Lenoir, Statesville, Valdese, Taylorsville, and Wilkesboro for years. Our team knows these trucks inside and out. We'll walk you through towing specs, package options, and financing that fits your budget. Stop by our dealership at 1241 Highway 70 East in Hickory, NC or call us at 828-374-9538 to schedule a test drive. Bring your questions. We'll bring the answers.

New Ford Mustang Inventory New Ford Specials The Ford Mustang has always been more than a car — it’s an American icon that blends performance, style, and technology into a thrilling driving experience. With the arrival of the 2026 Ford Mustang, enthusiasts are eager to know how it stacks up against the 2025 Mustang. Whether you’re after new styling, updated features, or simply want to understand what’s changed, this comparison from Cloninger Ford of Hickory will help you make an informed decision. Performance Comparison Performance is the beating heart of every Mustang. Both the 2025 and 2026 models deliver muscle-car excitement, but the newer model brings subtle refinements and enhanced personalization. Performance Specifications Feature 2026 Ford Mustang 2025 Ford Mustang Base Engine 2.3L Turbocharged EcoBoost – approx. 315 hp 2.3L Turbocharged EcoBoost – approx. 315 hp GT Engine 5.0L Ti-VCT V8 – up to 486 hp with Active Valve Exhaust 5.0L V8 – up to 486 hp depending on trim Dark Horse Model Retains 5.0L V8 with ~500 hp; adds updated appearance and track options Debut of Dark Horse model with ~500 hp Transmission 6-speed manual or 10-speed automatic 6-speed manual or 10-speed automatic Drive Modes Selectable drive modes with improved tuning Selectable drive modes standard The 2026 Mustang doesn’t reinvent performance — it refines it. You’ll enjoy the same exhilarating power with smoother driving dynamics and enhanced customization options for performance trims. Interior Features and Technology Ford has ensured that the Mustang’s cabin continues to evolve alongside its performance. The 2026 model year introduces small but meaningful upgrades that elevate the driver experience. Interior & Technology Comparison Feature 2026 Ford Mustang 2025 Ford Mustang Digital Display 12.4-inch digital cluster with 13.2-inch touchscreen 12.4-inch digital cluster with SYNC 4 system Connectivity Standard Ford Co-Pilot360 and available Wi-Fi hotspot Ford Co-Pilot360 available on most trims Customization New seatbelt color options and interior accents Traditional Mustang interior color options Audio System Available B&O 12-speaker premium audio Available B&O premium sound Infotainment Software Updated interface with faster response Previous-generation SYNC 4 software If you value cutting-edge infotainment and interior customization, the 2026 Mustang delivers a more refined and tech-forward environment without compromising Mustang’s classic feel. Design & Exterior Updates While performance remains familiar, the 2026 Mustang introduces subtle visual upgrades that keep the design modern and distinctive. These refinements give Mustang fans fresh ways to personalize their ride. Design & Exterior Comparison Detail 2026 Ford Mustang 2025 Ford Mustang New Colors Adds several new paint and seatbelt color options Fewer customization options available Appearance Packages New FX, Nite Pony, and Bronze Appearance Packages Performance and styling packages available Exterior Design Minor updates for aerodynamics and aesthetics Carryover from redesign introduced in 2024 Dimensions Similar platform and proportions Identical dimensions For Mustang enthusiasts who love standing out, the 2026 model offers new ways to express individuality with fresh appearance packages and color options. Driving Experience and Everyday Usability A true Mustang delivers heart-pounding performance while remaining livable for everyday drives. Both the 2025 and 2026 Mustangs balance power with comfort and precision. Driving Experience Comparison Feature 2026 Ford Mustang 2025 Ford Mustang Ride Comfort Improved suspension tuning for smoother daily driving Sportier, firmer ride feel Cargo Space 13.5 cu. ft. (Fastback) 13.5 cu. ft. (Fastback) Fuel Economy Up to 26 MPG combined (EcoBoost) Up to 26 MPG combined (EcoBoost) Weight Approx. 3,800 lbs (varies by trim) Approx. 3,600–3,800 lbs (varies by trim) Handling Fine-tuned steering and electronic assists Engaging, raw muscle-car handling The 2026 Mustang builds upon the 2025’s strengths with a more refined driving feel and subtle ride improvements. If you’re looking for a better balance between everyday comfort and weekend thrills, the 2026 model edges ahead. Safety and Driver Assistance Ford continues to make safety a priority in its performance lineup. The 2026 Mustang enhances safety and convenience technologies while maintaining the suite that made the 2025 model secure and reliable. Safety Comparison Feature 2026 Ford Mustang 2025 Ford Mustang Ford Co-Pilot360 Standard on most trims Standard on most trims Lane-Keeping & Blind-Spot Assist Updated sensors and software Existing safety suite Pre-Collision Assist Standard with Automatic Emergency Braking Standard feature Adaptive Cruise Control Available on higher trims Available on higher trims Rear View Camera Standard Standard Both model years offer robust safety features, but the 2026 Mustang gains minor improvements to driver-assist systems and connectivity, providing added peace of mind for modern drivers. Value and Buying Considerations Choosing between the 2025 and 2026 Mustang often comes down to what you value most — the latest updates or the best possible deal. Value Comparison Consideration 2026 Ford Mustang 2025 Ford Mustang New Features Latest design, tech, and customization Proven features at reduced pricing Pricing Slightly higher MSRP due to new options May offer stronger incentives Resale Value Stronger long-term value as newer model Slightly higher depreciation Availability Limited early availability Easier to find and purchase Buyer Fit Ideal for buyers wanting the newest Mustang Great for value-driven performance seekers The 2026 Mustang appeals to those who want the latest technology, new color options, and enhanced refinement. The 2025 model remains a powerful value choice, ideal for drivers who prioritize price and proven performance. Conclusion & Final Verdict Both the 2026 Ford Mustang and 2025 Ford Mustang capture the essence of American muscle. The 2025 Mustang remains an incredible value, delivering thrilling performance and classic style. However, the 2026 Mustang takes the lead with its updated customization options, refined interior, and minor technological enhancements that make the ownership experience more modern and connected. If you want the latest iteration of Ford’s legendary sports car with enhanced personalization and the newest features, the 2026 Ford Mustang is your perfect match. But if you’re looking for the best deal on a proven performer, the 2025 Ford Mustang still delivers exceptional value. Experience both models in person at Cloninger Ford of Hickory. Whether you’re ready to test-drive the all-new 2026 Mustang or explore unbeatable offers on the 2025 Mustang, our team is here to help you find the perfect fit. Visit our showroom today or schedule your test drive online to take the first step toward owning the legendary Ford Mustang.