The new 4-cylinder Ford Mustang RTR goes hard-core darkness

The four-cylinder Ford Mustang Ecoboost has always lagged behind its V8-powered sibling, but with the introduction of the new Mustang RTR, that narrative may finally be changing. Developed in partnership with Vaughn Gittin Jr.’s RTR Vehicles, the enthusiast-focused EcoBoost model will be sold directly through Ford, joining the Mustang lineup alongside GTs, track-focused dark horses, and ridiculous supercars line-up. – Top GTD.

Previewed ahead of the Detroit Auto Show, the Mustang RTR is the most talked about version of the EcoBoost-powered muscle car and features some hardware from Dark Horse. Pricing details haven’t been announced yet, and Ford hasn’t revealed when the prototype will be stripped of its camouflage and fully revealed. Still, it’s exciting.

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Two great upgrades are immediately noticeable: a fixed rear wing for increased downforce and a set of Hyper Lime Brembo brake calipers to make sure you know this is no ordinary EcoBoost Mustang. The prototype shown in Detroit also sports a unique camouflage livery with fluorescent yellow accents.

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Ford hasn’t revealed what performance upgrades will be available on the Mustang RTR, but it will retain the RTR’s electronic drift braking system co-developed with the Blue Oval. The feature, which debuted on the seventh-generation Mustang, gives the driver a rally-inspired handbrake that makes launching a coaster a breeze (in a safe, legal environment, of course).

The RTR treatment isn’t limited to mechanical tweaks; styling updates abound, starting with RTR’s signature LED daytime running lights integrated into either side of the front grille. It also gets a more aggressive front bumper, custom RTR badging and other custom design elements.

We don’t have any photos of the car’s interior, although there’s a good chance it will also get custom badging, indicating that this is the version of the turbocharged pony car that will be most talked about by enthusiasts.

“I’m excited for the opportunity to build what we believe is the most exciting turbocharged Mustang ever,” Vaughn Gittin Jr. said during the car’s launch. “This Mustang RTR is pure approachable fun, and with many enhancements including the Mustang Dark Horse package, Mustang EcoBoost’s near-perfect weight distribution, and the RTR’s signature styling, it’s ready for drifting, drag racing, country cruising, or trail racing. .The new Mustang RTR is truly ready to rock.”

With its more aggressive design, new technology and RTR’s performance pedigree, the Mustang RTR can give four-cylinder Mustang fans the street cred they’ve been waiting for. Sure, it’s no V8, but for those who value balance, style and a bit of turbocharged fun, this could end up being an interesting choice.