The legendary Ford Mustang is facing one of its toughest battles yet, and this time, the competition isn’t coming from rival sports cars—it’s coming from within. Sales of the iconic muscle car have taken a dramatic hit in the first two months of 2025, dropping 36.4% in January and 32.2% in February compared to the same period last year. According to Ford’s latest sales figures, the company has only managed to sell 5,191 Mustangs so far this year, a steep decline from the 7,886 units sold during the same timeframe in 2024. The sharp downturn marks a worrying trend for Ford’s last remaining muscle car as consumer preferences continue to shift.
But perhaps the most shocking revelation? The all-electric Mustang Mach-E has now overtaken its gas-powered sibling in sales. Ford has moved 6,841 units of the electric crossover so far in 2025, cementing its place as the new face of the Mustang brand.
Why Are Mustang Sales Struggling?
Several factors contribute to the Mustang’s current slump, with affordability and practicality leading the charge. The base EcoBoost coupe starts at $33,515 (including destination fees), which, while competitive, isn’t the budget-friendly price tag it once was. The rising cost of living has forced many buyers to reconsider splurging on a two-door, rear-wheel-drive coupe—especially when practicality is a concern.
For those who crave the deep growl of a V8, the Mustang GT starts at a hefty $47,055. At that price point, buyers have strong alternatives like the Nissan Z, Toyota Supra, and even luxury contenders such as the BMW Z4. Given these choices, many are opting for more versatile or electrified options rather than sticking with traditional gas-powered sports cars.
Weather has also played a role in Ford’s struggles. The United States has seen an unusually harsh winter in early 2025, discouraging customers from heading to dealerships. Sports cars, especially rear-wheel-drive ones like the Mustang, aren’t exactly ideal for icy roads, further dampening demand.
The Hope for a Comeback: Will the Shelby GT500 Save the Day?
Despite the grim numbers, there might be hope on the horizon. Rumors suggest that Ford could be bringing back the Shelby GT500 in 2026, featuring a supercharged V8 dubbed the “Legend.” If true, this high-performance model could inject fresh excitement into the Mustang lineup and entice enthusiasts back into dealerships.
Ford’s Overall Performance in 2025
It’s not just the Mustang that’s struggling—Ford’s broader lineup is also feeling the pressure. Sales for the Explorer and Expedition have dropped by 25% and 34%, respectively, while other models like the Maverick, E-Series van, and Transit are also experiencing year-over-year declines. The silver lining? The F-Series lineup has seen a 17.3% increase in sales, though the all-electric F-150 Lightning has seen a 15.1% dip.
With shifting consumer preferences and the rapid rise of EVs, the Mustang’s future hangs in the balance. Will Ford double down on its muscle car heritage, or will the Mustang’s electrified future leave its gasoline-powered past behind? Only time will tell.
Specifications: 2025 Ford Mustang & Mustang Mach-E
2025 Ford Mustang
| Specification | EcoBoost Coupe | GT Coupe |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.3L Turbo I-4 | 5.0L V8 |
| Horsepower | 315 hp | 480 hp |
| Torque | 350 lb-ft | 415 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | ~5.0 sec | ~4.0 sec |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual / 10-speed auto | 6-speed manual / 10-speed auto |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Starting Price | $33,515 | $47,055 |
2025 Mustang Mach-E
| Specification | Select (Base) | GT Performance Edition |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Single Motor (RWD) / Dual Motor (AWD) | Dual Motor (AWD) |
| Horsepower | 266-346 hp | 480 hp |
| Torque | 317-428 lb-ft | 634 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | ~5.8 sec (RWD) / ~4.8 sec (AWD) | ~3.5 sec |
| Battery Capacity | 72 kWh / 91 kWh | 91 kWh |
| Range (EPA est.) | 250-312 miles | 270 miles |
| Starting Price | $39,995 | $59,995 |
