The Mustang remains the last gas-powered muscle car standing, but Q1 sales are down sharply from 2024.
The Ford Mustang now stands alone as the last gasoline-powered American muscle car in production — but new data suggests the iconic nameplate is losing steam with buyers.
Ford sold just 9,377 Mustangs in the first quarter of 2025, marking a 31.6% drop from the same period last year when 13,707 units left dealership lots. The decline is significant enough that the Mustang Mach-E, Ford’s all-electric performance crossover, outsold its combustion sibling with 11,607 sales in the same quarter.
The slump comes as Ford’s competitors in the muscle car segment have bowed out. Dodge discontinued the Challenger after the 2023 model year, capping production with a series of high-horsepower "Last Call" editions. Chevrolet followed suit, ending Camaro production in early 2024.
With the departure of its rivals, the Mustang was expected to enjoy a temporary monopoly on muscle car sales. Instead, the car appears to be losing traction — possibly due to a combination of price increases, shifting buyer preferences, and practicality concerns.
The base 2025 Mustang EcoBoost coupe now starts at $33,515 including destination fees. While still cheaper than many sports cars, the cost is a tough sell for buyers in an inflation-weary economy, especially for a rear-drive, two-door coupe that may not meet everyday needs.
Enthusiast interest remains strong online, but Ford’s sales figures indicate that love for the Mustang doesn’t always translate to new purchases. Analysts say Ford may need to refresh its marketing approach or adjust pricing to remain competitive in a market increasingly dominated by electric vehicles and versatile crossovers.
While the Mustang still represents Detroit’s last link to the golden age of American muscle, it may need more than heritage to stay in the race.https://www.motorious.com/articles/news/2025-ford-mustang-v8-prices-surge/
