Ford Is Looking To Take Over Where Dodge Left Off

In a move that could signal a shift in the muscle car landscape, Ford recently revealed its plans for the future Mustang lineup at a dealer meeting in Las Vegas. Among the new offerings, the most surprising was the announcement of a four-door Mustang coupe, tentatively named the “Mach 4.” This new model is expected to feature V8 power—a decision that seems to borrow a bit from Dodge’s playbook, especially as the muscle car segment undergoes significant changes.

For the past two years, Dodge fans have been vocal about their desire for V8 power in the new-generation Charger. However, despite the enthusiasm, it seems Dodge has taken a different path with its latest offerings. The upcoming Charger lineup, which now includes a two-door variant, will offer a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter HURRICANE I6 engine as the internal combustion engine (ICE) option, alongside an all-electric Daytona model. While the HURRICANE option seems enticing, the absence of a traditional V8 option has left some fans yearning for more of that classic muscle car roar.

On the other hand, Ford appears to be doubling down on what has made the Mustang an icon for decades. By introducing a four-door version with a V8, Ford is not only expanding the Mustang’s appeal but also filling a gap left by its competitors. The Mach 4 aims to blend the performance and attitude of the Mustang with the practicality of a four-door layout. This move could attract some of those loyal last-generation Charger four-door owners who still want V8 power.

Also shown at the Las Vegas dealer meeting was a new off-road, Baja-inspired Mustang model. This rugged variant features a lifted stance and all-terrain tires, broadening the Mustang’s appeal beyond the pavement.

Dodge was the first automaker to offer an all-wheel drive (AWD) muscle car with the Dodge Charger and then followed up with the Dodge Challenger AWD in 2018. Both models were a huge success for the duo. The new Charger and Charger Daytona will come standard with AWD on all of the models that have been teased so far. Could Dodge do something similar? We wouldn’t put it past them.

Ford also highlighted a modified EcoBoost variant from RTR, known for its aggressive styling and performance upgrades, providing a more accessible entry point into the Mustang family—something that Dodge desperately needs as its new muscle cars continue to climb in price.

Ford’s introduction of the four-door Mustang with V8 power could be seen as a strategic move to capture a market segment that Dodge has left behind with its recent decisions. While Dodge has shifted its focus to smaller engines and electrification, Ford’s commitment to V8 power in the Mustang—now in a more versatile four-door configuration—might just sway a huge portion of the Dodge fan base to look outside the brand for alternative options. 

Are you listening Dodge?