Sixth Generation Ford Mustang "S550" (2015 to“ 2023)

Overview:
Launched for the Mustang’s 50th anniversary (as a 2015 model), the S550 represented a major leap forward in technology, refinement, and global appeal. While retaining classic Mustang proportions, the styling became sleeker and more modern. The biggest engineering change was the adoption of an integral-link Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) across the entire lineup, finally ditching the solid rear axle on non-SVT models. This generation also saw the return of a turbocharged four-cylinder engine (EcoBoost) alongside the V6 (briefly) and the Coyote V8, plus the introduction of highly capable Shelby GT350/GT350R and later, the supercharged GT500 models. It received a mid-cycle refresh for the 2018 model year.

Key Differences from Fifth Generation (S197):

• Platform & Suspension: All-new platform featuring standard Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) across all models, significantly improving handling and ride quality. Front suspension also revised.
• Global Focus: Designed from the outset for global markets, including factory right-hand drive versions for the first time.
• Styling: More modern, lower, wider, and sleeker interpretation of Mustang design cues. Less overtly retro than the S197. Interior significantly modernized with improved tech and materials.
• Engines: Introduction of the 2.3L EcoBoost Turbo I4 as a mainstream engine option alongside the Coyote V8. The 3.7L V6 was phased out early. Shelby models featured unique high-revving flat-plane crank V8 (GT350) or supercharged cross-plane V8 (GT500).
• Technology: Significant increase in available technology, including SYNC 3 infotainment, digital instrument cluster (later models), advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), selectable drive modes, and line-lock feature.

Detailed Model Year Changes (Divided into Pre-Facelift ’15-’17 and Facelift ’18-’23):

Phase 1: Global IRS (2015-2017)

• 2015:

  • Models: Fastback, Convertible. V6, EcoBoost, EcoBoost Premium, GT, GT Premium. 50th Anniversary Edition (based on GT Premium, limited).
  • Engines: Base: 3.7L DOHC V6 (~300 hp). Mid: 2.3L EcoBoost Turbo I4 (~310 hp, 320 lb-ft torque). Top: 5.0L Coyote V8 (~435 hp, 400 lb-ft torque – revised intake/heads).
  • Features: All-new chassis with standard IRS. Selectable Drive Modes (Normal, Sport+, Track, Snow/Wet). Launch control standard on GT manual. Line-Lock standard on GT. SYNC with MyFord Touch available (later replaced by SYNC 3). Optional Performance Packages for EcoBoost/GT (upgraded suspension, brakes, cooling, Torsen diff). Recaro seats optional.
  • Styling: Modern interpretation of classic cues. Trapezoidal grille, HID headlights with signature LED accents, sleek profile, tri-bar LED taillights (sequential outside North America initially). Modernized interior with improved materials.

• 2016:

  • Models: Fastback, Convertible. V6, EcoBoost, EcoBoost Premium, GT, GT Premium. Shelby GT350 and GT350R introduced (Fastback only). California Special (CS) and Pony Package return. Black Accent Package introduced.
  • Engines: 3.7L V6, 2.3L EcoBoost I4, 5.0L Coyote V8. Shelby GT350/R features all-new 5.2L “Voodoo” DOHC V8 with a flat-plane crankshaft (~526 hp, 429 lb-ft torque, 8250 RPM redline).
  • Features: SYNC 3 infotainment system replaces MyFord Touch. Turn signals integrated into hood vents on GT. GT convertible gets standard Performance Package bracing. GT350 features MagneRide adaptive dampers (optional on GT350, standard on R), Tremec TR-3160 6-speed manual, massive Brembo brakes, unique bodywork, track-focused cooling. GT350R adds carbon fiber wheels, larger splitter/wing, rear seat delete, further suspension tuning.
  • Styling: GT350/R have significantly wider front fenders, unique front fascia, vented hood, specific spoilers. CS/Pony/Black packages add visual distinction.

• 2017:

  • Models: Fastback, Convertible. V6, EcoBoost, EcoBoost Premium, GT, GT Premium, Shelby GT350/R.
  • Engines: Lineup carries over: 3.7L V6, 2.3L EcoBoost I4, 5.0L Coyote V8, 5.2L Voodoo V8 (GT350/R).
  • Features: GT350 Track Package content (MagneRide, coolers, spoiler) becomes standard on base GT350. New color options. Minor equipment shuffling. Last year for the pre-facelift design and the V6 engine.
  • Styling: Minimal changes.

Phase 2: Sharper Edge, More Tech (2018-2023)

• 2018 (Mid-Cycle Refresh):

  • Models: Fastback, Convertible. EcoBoost, EcoBoost Premium, GT, GT Premium, Shelby GT350/R. V6 model discontinued. Performance Pack Level 2 (PP2) introduced for GT.
  • Engines: 2.3L EcoBoost I4 (~310 hp, 350 lb-ft torque – increased torque). 5.0L Coyote V8 significantly revised (Gen 3) with direct and port fuel injection, higher compression, increased redline (~460 hp, 420 lb-ft torque). 5.2L Voodoo V8 (~526 hp) continues in GT350/R.
  • Features: 10-speed automatic transmission (10R80) becomes optional for EcoBoost/GT (co-developed with GM). 6-speed manual for GT upgraded (MT82-D4 with twin-disc clutch). Optional 12-inch digital instrument cluster. Optional MagneRide dampers for GT Performance Package (PP1). Active Valve Performance Exhaust optional on GT. Revised suspension tuning. Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection available. PP2 adds MagneRide, unique springs/sway bars, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, aggressive splitter/spoiler.
  • Styling: Revised front fascia (lower hood, redesigned grille/headlights/bumper), revised rear fascia with new taillights, new wheel designs. Interior gets upgraded materials on console/dash.

• 2019:

  • Models: Fastback, Convertible. EcoBoost, EcoBoost Premium, GT, GT Premium, Shelby GT350/R. Bullitt special edition returns (GT Premium Fastback). California Special package continues.
  • Engines: 2.3L EcoBoost I4, 5.0L Coyote V8 (~460 hp). Bullitt uses tuned 5.0L Coyote V8 (~480 hp) with GT350 intake manifold, larger throttle body, specific tune. 5.2L Voodoo V8 (~526 hp) in GT350/R gets minor updates based on GT500 learnings (cylinder heads, tuning).
  • Features: Bullitt features Dark Highland Green paint (black optional), grille delete, spoiler delete, unique wheels/badges, white cue ball shifter, specific interior trim, standard digital cluster, standard active exhaust. B&O premium sound system replaces Shaker audio. GT350 gets updated suspension tuning (springs/dampers), revised ABS tuning, standard Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, optional Gurney flap spoiler.
  • Styling: Bullitt has unique subtle retro cues. GT350 spoiler revised. New color options (Need for Green, Velocity Blue).

• 2020:

  • Models: Fastback, Convertible. EcoBoost, EcoBoost Premium, GT, GT Premium, Shelby GT350/R. Shelby GT500 returns (Fastback only). New EcoBoost High Performance Package (HPP) introduced.
  • Engines: 2.3L EcoBoost I4 (~310 hp). EcoBoost HPP uses Focus RS-derived 2.3L engine (~330 hp, 350 lb-ft torque). 5.0L Coyote V8 (~460 hp). 5.2L Voodoo V8 (~526 hp) in GT350/R. Shelby GT500 features 5.2L “Predator” DOHC V8 with cross-plane crankshaft and Eaton TVS R2650 supercharger (~760 hp, 625 lb-ft torque).
  • Features: EcoBoost HPP includes upgraded engine, GT Performance Package brakes/suspension/cooling components, specific tuning, active exhaust. GT500 features Tremec TR-9070 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) – no manual offered, massive Brembo brakes, MagneRide dampers, extensive cooling, unique bodywork/aero. Optional Carbon Fiber Track Pack for GT500 (exposed carbon wheels, adjustable wing, splitter wickers, rear seat delete). FordPass Connect standard across lineup. GT350R gets revised front suspension geometry (high-trail knuckle from GT500). Final year for GT350/R and Bullitt.
  • Styling: GT500 has extremely aggressive front fascia (massive grille openings), vented hood with large removable rain tray, unique rear diffuser/spoiler (or wing). HPP EcoBoost gets specific badges/trim.

• 2021:

  • Models: Fastback, Convertible. EcoBoost, EcoBoost Premium, GT, GT Premium, Shelby GT500. Mach 1 returns (Fastback only), effectively replacing GT350/Bullitt/PP2.
  • Engines: 2.3L EcoBoost I4 (~310 hp / ~330 hp HPP). 5.0L Coyote V8 (~460 hp). Mach 1 uses tuned 5.0L Coyote V8 (~480 hp) similar to Bullitt. Shelby GT500 (~760 hp).
  • Features: Mach 1 inherits many GT350/GT500 components: Tremec TR-3160 6-speed manual (from GT350) standard or optional 10-speed auto, GT350 intake manifold, specific tuning, auxiliary coolers (engine oil, transmission, differential), unique suspension tuning (MagneRide standard option), Brembo brakes, active exhaust with larger tips. Optional Handling Package for Mach 1 (wider wheels, adjustable strut top mounts, larger splitter, Gurney flap spoiler). Co-Pilot360 safety features become standard on more trims. Carbon Fiber Handling Package introduced for GT500.
  • Styling: Mach 1 features unique front fascia with faux lamp elements in grille, specific hood/side stripes, low-gloss magnetic accents, unique wheels, rear spoiler. New colors available.

• 2022:

  • Models: Fastback, Convertible. EcoBoost, EcoBoost Premium, GT, GT Premium, Mach 1, Shelby GT500. Stealth Edition and Ice White Edition appearance packages introduced. California Special package updated (available with GT Performance Package). Shelby GT500 Heritage Edition offered (Brittany Blue paint, Wimbledon White stripes).
  • Engines: Slight power decrease for GT/Mach 1 due to emissions regulations: 5.0L Coyote V8 (~450 hp), Mach 1 (~470 hp). EcoBoost (~310/330 hp) and GT500 (~760 hp) unchanged.
  • Features: Minor equipment adjustments. Stealth Edition adds blacked-out trim/wheels, clear taillights. Ice White adds white exterior/interior accents, clear taillights.
  • Styling: Appearance packages offer visual distinction. GT/CS gets unique grille.

• 2023 (Final Year for S550):

  • Models: Fastback, Convertible. EcoBoost, EcoBoost Premium, GT, GT Premium, Mach 1, Shelby GT500.
  • Engines: Lineup carries over from 2022: EcoBoost (~310/330 hp), GT (~450 hp), Mach 1 (~470 hp), GT500 (~760 hp).
  • Features: Minimal changes as production winds down for the next generation. Nite Pony package introduced (blacked-out trim/wheels).
  • Styling: Nite Pony package adds black accents. Otherwise largely unchanged. End of the S550 platform era.

Interesting Facts & Packages:

• Independent Rear Suspension: Finally standard, transforming the Mustang’s handling dynamics and ride comfort.
• EcoBoost Engine: Proved a four-cylinder could be a viable performance option in a Mustang again.
• Voodoo Engine (GT350): High-revving flat-plane crank V8 offered a unique, exotic character unlike previous Mustangs.
• Predator Engine (GT500): Massive supercharged power combined with a sophisticated chassis and DCT made it a track weapon.
• Digital Integration: Introduction of digital clusters, advanced SYNC systems, and driver aids brought Mustang into the modern tech era.
• Global Success: Sold officially in many new markets, expanding the Mustang’s reach.

Useful Info by Model/Trim (Examples):

• EcoBoost: Fuel-efficient base model with surprising performance, especially with HPP. Great tuning potential.
• GT: The heart of the lineup with the Coyote V8. Performance Packages significantly enhance track capability.
• Shelby GT350/R (2016-2020): Naturally aspirated, high-revving track star with a unique engine sound and feel.
• Shelby GT500 (2020-2023): Supercharged powerhouse, DCT-only, aimed at supercar performance levels.
• Mach 1 (2021-2023): Well-rounded performance model blending GT power with Shelby handling components.
• Bullitt (2019-2020): Stylish retro special edition with a power bump and unique features.

Common Problems & Considerations for Owners:

• “BBQ Tick” (Early Coyote V8): Some early Gen 3 Coyotes (’18+) exhibited a ticking noise, often benign but concerning to owners. TSBs addressed some causes.
• MT82 Manual Transmission: While improved, some still report notchiness or high-RPM shifting issues, especially on earlier S550s. Aftermarket shifters remain popular.
• 10R80 Automatic Transmission: Generally reliable but some early units had harsh shifting or software issues addressed by updates.
• Oil Consumption (Voodoo V8): The high-strung GT350 engine can consume oil, especially when driven hard, requiring regular checks. Some early engines had issues requiring replacement.
• AC Evaporator Core Leaks: A known issue across various Ford models including S550, requiring dashboard removal for repair.
• Digital Dash Glitches: Occasional software glitches or screen issues reported, usually fixable with updates.
• Paint Quality: Some complaints about paint durability (chipping) or orange peel, common on many modern cars.

Engine & Power Stats (SAE Net HP – Selected Examples):

• 3.7L DOHC V6: ~300 hp (’15-’17)
• 2.3L EcoBoost I4: ~310 hp (’15-’23) / ~330 hp (HPP ’20-’23)
• 5.0L Coyote V8 (Gen 2): ~435 hp (’15-’17)
• 5.0L Coyote V8 (Gen 3): ~460 hp (’18-’21) -> ~450 hp (’22-’23)
• 5.0L Coyote V8 (Bullitt): ~480 hp (’19-’20)
• 5.0L Coyote V8 (Mach 1): ~480 hp (’21) -> ~470 hp (’22-’23)
• 5.2L Voodoo V8 (GT350/R): ~526 hp (’16-’20)
• 5.2L Predator Supercharged V8 (GT500): ~760 hp (’20-’23)

Transmission Options:

• 6-speed Manual (Getrag MT82 for V6/EcoBoost/GT, Tremec TR-3160 for GT350/Mach 1)
• 6-speed Automatic (6R80 for V6/EcoBoost/GT ’15-’17)
• 10-speed Automatic (10R80 for EcoBoost/GT ’18-’23, Mach 1 ’21-’23)
• 7-speed Dual-Clutch (Tremec TR-9070 for GT500 ’20-’23)