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A First‑Look at the 2026 Ford Mustang Heavy‑Duty Pickup
Ford has taken the legend of the Mustang and stretched it into a full‑size pickup that promises both muscle and utility. The new 2026 Mustang HD aims to erase the old trade‑off between speed‑focused coupes and work‑horse trucks, delivering a vehicle that can tow a trailer, hit the back road for a weekend run, and still look like a performance icon. Below is an in‑depth, no‑jargon breakdown of what the truck brings to the table, from the engine to the price tag.
Powertrain – Muscle Under the Hood
The heart of the Mustang HD is a reworked 5.0‑liter Coyote V8 that now produces roughly 500 hp and 418 lb‑ft of torque. Ford paired the engine with an upgraded 10‑speed automatic that shifts with a smoothness that feels almost mechanical. For buyers who need extra pulling power, there is an optional 6.7‑liter Power Stroke diesel. That unit delivers a massive 1,050 lb‑ft of torque and raises the maximum towing capacity to just over 15,000 lb, putting the Mustang HD squarely in the same class as the biggest Ram and Chevrolet trucks.
Both powertrains sit on a chassis that has been retuned for a blend of on‑road composure and off‑road grit. Drivers can select from several drive modes: “Haul” optimizes gear ratios and throttle response for heavy loads, while “Track” softens the suspension for spirited driving and even the occasional burnout.
Design – Classic Mustang Looks, Truck Practicality
Visually, the Mustang HD keeps the long‑hood silhouette and fastback roofline that have defined the pony car for decades. The body is extended to accommodate a 6.5‑foot cargo bed, which is lined with a protective coating to resist scratches and rust. Front‑end styling includes the signature Mustang split‑grille and slim LED headlights that give the truck an aggressive stare.
The fenders are flared to house robust 20‑inch off‑road tires, and the rear showcases the iconic tri‑bar taillights that stretch across the tailgate. Inside, the cabin feels more like a performance sedan than a work truck. Leather‑trimmed seats feature subtle Mustang embroidery, a flat‑bottom steering wheel adds a sporty touch, and there’s enough space for five adults without feeling cramped. Durable floor mats and built‑in tie‑down points in the bed keep the interior rugged, while chrome accents throughout the cabin add a premium feel.
Technology – Smart Features for Work and Play
The tech suite in the 2026 Mustang HD centers around a 13.2‑inch touchscreen that runs Ford’s latest SYNC 4 system. Voice control lets you ask “Hey Ford, find the nearest charging station” or “set the climate to 68 degrees” without taking your eyes off the road. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, and over‑the‑air software updates keep the infotainment and driver‑assist systems current.
Safety and driver assistance are heavily emphasized. The truck includes BlueCruise, a hands‑free highway‑driving system that can maintain lane position and speed on compatible roadways. Adaptive cruise control monitors traffic ahead, while a 360‑degree camera system assists with tight parking spots and trailer hitching. A Pro Power Onboard generator in the bed delivers up to 2 kW of electricity, enough to power tools on a construction site or run appliances while camping. Off‑road enthusiasts will appreciate Trail Control, an off‑road cruise‑control function, and dedicated zone lighting that illuminates the cargo bed or underbody for night‑time work.
Pricing and Fuel Economy
Base pricing for the gas‑powered V8 version starts around $55,000. Adding the diesel Power Stroke, the premium equipment package, and the Pro Power generator bumps the price to roughly $72,000. These numbers sit comfortably against comparable offerings from Ram 2500 and Silverado HD, especially when you factor in Ford’s five‑year/60,000‑mile warranty.
Fuel consumption reflects the truck’s performance orientation. The V8 gets an estimated 15 mpg city and 20 mpg highway, while the diesel improves those numbers to about 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. Real‑world testing with light towing averages around 17 mpg combined. Assuming 15,000 miles per year and current gasoline prices, owners can expect to spend roughly $3,000 annually on fuel.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does the Mustang HD have a payload capacity comparable to other heavy‑duty pickups?
Yes. With the V8 powertrain, the payload rating is around 2,200 lb, and the diesel version can handle up to 2,500 lb, putting it on par with its segment rivals.
2. Can the Pro Power Onboard run a small workshop’s tools?
The 2 kW generator can comfortably run power tools, a portable air compressor, or even a small fridge. For larger equipment, a supplemental inverter would be needed.
3. What warranty coverage does Ford provide?
Ford offers a five‑year/60,000‑mile bumper‑to‑bumper warranty, plus a separate powertrain warranty that extends to ten years or 100,000 miles for the diesel engine.
4. Are there any off‑road packages available?
Yes. An off‑road package adds skid plates, reinforced suspension components, and a selectable “Rock” drive mode for enhanced traction on uneven terrain.
5. How does the Mustang HD compare to the upcoming electric pickups?
While the Mustang HD brings traditional V8 and diesel power, electric pickups focus on instant torque and zero‑emissions driving. The Mustang HD will appeal to buyers who prefer the sound and feel of a combustion engine and need the proven towing capacity of a diesel.
Disclaimer
The specifications, pricing, and performance figures presented here are based on manufacturer releases and independent previews available at the time of writing. Actual vehicle features, fuel economy, and availability may vary by market and trim level. Prospective buyers should verify details with an authorized Ford dealer before making a purchase decision.
