Spotlight: The Evolution of Ford Mustang #79
By Made in US Admin
Quick answer: The S650 is the seventh-generation Mustang, launched for the 2024 model year. It keeps the 5.0 V8 and a manual gearbox, adds a fully digital cockpit, and introduced the track-focused Dark Horse. Built in Flat Rock, Michigan, it pays 0% EU import duty since July 2026.
Updated October 2026. Figures are checked against the sources listed at the end of this article.
Key numbers
- Launched: 2024 model year
- Plant: Flat Rock, Michigan
- Key version: Dark Horse
- Manual gearbox: Still available
- EU duty: 0% (US-built)
What's new
The S650 evolves the S550 platform with sharper styling and a digital cockpit that combines the instrument cluster and centre screen. Ford kept the V8 and manual transmission, which many rivals have dropped. The Dark Horse is the first new Mustang performance badge in years.
| Version | Character |
|---|---|
| EcoBoost | Turbo four-cylinder |
| GT | 5.0 V8 |
| Dark Horse | Track-focused V8 |
The pony car field in 2026
The Camaro ended production in early 2024, and the V8 Challenger and Charger ended in 2023. That leaves the Mustang as the main V8 pony car still in production.
| Car | Status |
|---|---|
| Ford Mustang | In production |
| Chevrolet Camaro | Ended early 2024 |
| Dodge Challenger (V8) | Ended 2023 |
Import cost
| Destination | Duty | VAT | Landed cost before registration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Germany (US-built, 0% EU duty) | $0 | $8,835 | $55,335 |
| France | $0 | $9,300 | $55,800 |
| United Kingdom | $4,650 | $10,230 | $61,380 |
| UAE | $2,325 | $2,441 | $51,266 |
Illustrative price. The EU has charged 0% duty on US-built cars since July 1, 2026.
Inside the S650
The S650's cabin replaces analogue gauges with a large digital display that can mimic classic Mustang instruments. The car keeps physical controls for some functions and adds new driver-assistance features.
Dark Horse explained
The Dark Horse is the most track-focused S650, with upgraded cooling, suspension and brakes. It uses the 5.0 V8 and is offered with a manual gearbox, which is rare among modern performance cars.
Why the S650 matters
| Factor | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| V8 retained | Few rivals still offer one |
| Manual retained | Appeals to enthusiasts |
| Global sales | Easier parts and service abroad |
| US-built | 0% EU import duty since July 2026 |
Buying a nearly new S650 from the US
Nearly new S650s come up for sale in the US as lease returns and trade-ins. Because the S650 is sold in Europe too, compare the landed cost of a US car with local prices; the US often offers more choice of colours and options.
Gulf buyers
For the UAE, an S650 easily meets Dubai's 10-year age limit, and for Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait, it meets the 5-year rule. Duty is 5% of the CIF value plus local VAT.
Buying a nearly new S650
Look for lease returns with full service history. Check for track use on Dark Horse models. Compare prices across regions; colour and option choice in the US is wide.
Frequently asked questions
When did the S650 Mustang launch?
For the 2024 model year.
Is there still a manual Mustang?
Yes.
What is the Mustang Dark Horse?
A track-focused V8 version of the S650.
Related reading
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