THERE'S YET ANOTHER NEW MUSTANG ON THE MARKET - THE MUSTANG RTR ECOBOOST - AND IT'S AWESOME.
Ford has once again expanded its Mustang performance lineup, this time unveiling the highly-anticipated Mustang RTR at the 2025 Detroit Auto Show. Co-developed with Vaughn Gittin Jr.’s RTR Vehicles, the new Mustang RTR is the first factory-backed high-performance EcoBoost Mustang and only the second time in Mustang’s history that Ford has partnered with an outside entity to create a performance model. The brainchild of two-time Formula Drift champion and RTR Vehicles President Vaughn Gittin Jr., the Mustang RTR brings a new level of awesomeness to the EcoBoost platform. Combining the lightweight, near-perfect weight distribution of the Mustang EcoBoost with cutting-edge Mustang Dark Horse hardware and RTR’s signature styling, the Mustang RTR is aimed squarely at enthusiasts. “This Mustang RTR is pure accessible fun,” said Gittin Jr. “With enhancements that include Mustang Dark Horse components, RTR’s signature design cues, and Mustang EcoBoost’s exceptional balance, it’s ready for drifting, drag racing, autocross, or even spirited back-road runs. It’s truly Ready to Rock.” The Mustang RTR isn’t just another special edition though - it’s a performance-driven machine designed to appeal to a wide range of driving enthusiasts who like to play in various motorsport categories. Ford and RTR Vehicles have been collaborating for nearly two decades, with Vaughn Gittin Jr.’s passion for Mustangs at the core of their projects. From drift-ready demo cars to production innovations like the drift brake, this partnership pushes the boundaries of what a Mustang can do. “From Mustang GTD to Mustang Dark Horse to the new Mustang RTR, there’s a high-performance pony for every Mustang fan,” said Jim Baumbick, Ford’s vice president of Product Development. “The RTR team’s passion and expertise have helped us create the most exciting EcoBoost Mustang yet.”
Dark Horse DNA: Borrowing heavily from the Mustang Dark Horse, the RTR features components like Hyper Lime Brembo brake calipers and a pedestal spoiler, delivering track-ready stopping power and aerodynamic stability.
RTR Styling: The RTR aesthetic is unmistakable, with aggressive bodywork and a one-off naval camouflage-inspired wrap showcased on the Detroit Auto Show preview car.
Drift-Ready Tech: RTR’s experience in Formula Drift has influenced the development of this Mustang. It incorporates a production electronic drift brake, blending the look and feel of a traditional handbrake with the precision of modern electronics.
EcoBoost Power: While Ford hasn’t revealed specific performance figures yet, the Mustang RTR leverages the EcoBoost platform’s lightweight agility and turbocharged punch, making it ideal for a variety of motorsport and enthusiast applications.
The Mustang RTR isn’t just for seasoned drivers - it’s designed to make high-performance driving more accessible. With features like Line Lock for easy burnouts and the drift brake for precision sliding, the RTR opens the door to track-day fun for both first-time and experienced enthusiasts. The Mustang RTR is on display at the 2025 Detroit Auto Show, sharing the spotlight with another Ford masterpiece: the Mustang GTD Spirit of America.
Take a look at the YouTube video from the View on Videos crew as they get the lowdown from the horse's mouth - Mr Gittin Jr - as he explains all you need to know about the new RTR Ecoboost: Vaughn Gittin Jr. Tells Us about the New Ford Mustang RTR Ecoboost! | Views on Vehicles
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