NASCAR 2027: Ford unveils the Mustang Dark Horse SC
The newsroomUpdated on November 12, 20263 minNASCAR Cup 2027: Ford shows its new Mustang Dark Horse SC, with the grey headlight surround removed, ahead of its competitive debut at Daytona in 2027.
Key point
Ford unveiled the Mustang Dark Horse SC it will race in the 2027 NASCAR Cup Series: new fascia without the grey headlight surround, debuting at Daytona.
Ford has lifted the covers on the car it will race in the NASCAR Cup Series in 2027: a Mustang Dark Horse SC with a redesigned front end. According to Speedcafe, it was unveiled at Ford's Proud to Honor Veterans Day Classic at Daytona and will make its competitive debut at Daytona in 2027.
What changes on the car
The most visible change is the removal of the grey headlight surround. The new fascia is based on the Mustang Dark Horse SC. Ford Racing global director Mark Rushbrook said the team had no time to waste and incorporated key Dark Horse SC elements to make the race car more competitive. Joey Logano, for his part, praised the car's looks and said he is eager to drive it at Daytona.
An announcement made in January
Ford unveiled the road-going Mustang Dark Horse SC on 16 January 2026 and announced it would become its NASCAR Cup car in 2027. It is the third model of the NextGen era after the Mustang GT S550 and the Mustang Dark Horse. On the technical side, Speedcafe says the race version remains a naturally aspirated 5.8-litre V8 and will have to follow the rules of the category. The road car has a supercharged 5.2-litre V8 and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.
Ford's record with the Mustang
Since the Mustang's Cup debut in 2019, Ford has won three drivers' titles: Joey Logano in 2022 and 2024, then Ryan Blaney in 2023. According to Speedcafe, all of them came with Team Penske.
What is not yet known
Speedcafe gives neither the car's approval timetable nor the power and torque of the road version, which have not been released. The details of the winter preparation remain to be confirmed by Ford. For now, only the Daytona date in 2027 is announced for the competitive debut.
Key points
- New fascia inspired by the Dark Horse SC, without the grey headlight surround.
- Competitive debut at Daytona in 2027.
- Race version: naturally aspirated 5.8-litre V8, within NASCAR's rules.
- Three drivers' titles for Ford in the Cup Series with the Mustang since 2019.
Frequently asked questions
Where will the Mustang Dark Horse SC debut in the NASCAR Cup Series?
At Daytona in 2027, according to Speedcafe.
What changes visually?
The new fascia is based on the Dark Horse SC and the grey headlight surround has been removed.
How many Cup titles has Ford won with the Mustang?
Three drivers' titles since the Mustang's 2019 debut: Joey Logano in 2022 and 2024, Ryan Blaney in 2023.
What engine does the race version use?
A naturally aspirated 5.8-litre V8, according to Speedcafe; the road car has a supercharged 5.2-litre V8.
Sources
- Speedcafe — Ford reveals new-look Mustang for the NASCAR Cup Series
- Speedcafe — Mustang Dark Horse SC set for the NASCAR Cup Series in 2027
Written by the Karrazmotorsport newsroom, proofread before publication. For settings, always refer to your vehicle's manual. Our charter.
Newsletter · free
The Friday paddock
The essentials of motorsport, every Friday in your inbox. Free, one email a week.
Choose my categories
