What year did Ford start using a 10 speed transmission in Mustang?
The Mustang first adopted Ford's 10-speed automatic in the 2017 model year.
In practical terms, Ford introduced the 10R80 10-speed automatic in Mustangs with EcoBoost and GT engines, replacing the older 6-speed units and progressively expanding availability across the lineup in the following years.
Timeline and model coverage
The following timeline highlights the key milestones for when the 10-speed transmission first appeared in Mustangs and how its availability expanded over time.
- 2017 model year — First introduction of Ford’s 10R80 10-speed automatic in Mustang EcoBoost and GT trims, replacing the previous 6-speed automatics.
- 2018–2019 model years — Availability broadened across additional configurations and option packages, while high-performance variants like the Shelby lineup generally continued with non-10-speed configurations.
- 2020–present — The 10-speed automatic remains the common automatic option on most Mustang trims that use an automatic transmission, contributing to improved acceleration and highway efficiency.
In short, the 2017 model year marked the introduction of the 10-speed automatic in the Mustang, with broader adoption in the years that followed.
Technical features and impact
The 10-speed automatic used in Mustangs is Ford’s 10R80 transmission, designed to deliver smoother shifts and better overall performance across a wide torque range. Its ten gears allow for a wider ratio spread, which helps both quick off-the-line acceleration and efficient cruising.
Key characteristics include adaptive shift scheduling that responds to driving style and conditions, a compact design paired with a capable torque converter, and integration with Mustang driveline tuning to optimize performance in GT and EcoBoost applications.
Notes on model variety
High-performance variants in the Mustang family, such as some Shelby models, have historically relied on manual transmissions or different setups, rather than the 10-speed automatic. The 10-speed auto became the prevalent choice on most automatic Mustang trims, while enthusiasts seeking manual control maintained that option on several configurations.
Summary
Ford introduced the 10-speed automatic to the Mustang with the 2017 model year, and the transmission has remained a staple of automatic Mustangs in the years since, shaping both performance and efficiency across the lineup.
What is the life expectancy of a Ford 10 speed transmission?
Q: What is the lifespan of a 10 Speed Ford 10R80 Transmission? A: Although there are many variables, the 10 Speed Ford 10R80 transmission lasts an average of 100,000 to 150,000 miles in unmodified trucks with average applications.
What year did Mustang get 10 speed?
A ten-speed 10R80 automatic transmission, co-developed with General Motors and funded by a US$1.4 billion investment in Ford's Livonia transmission plant, entered production in June 2016. This transmission was introduced in the Mustang as part of the 2018 facelift, replacing the previous six-speed model.
What year did Ford switch to 10 speed transmission?
Ford introduced its 10-speed transmission in the 2017 model year, with the first vehicles to use it being the F-150 and the F-150 Raptor. The 10R80, co-developed with General Motors, was first produced in 2016 and began appearing in vehicles for the 2017 model year.
- Introduction: The 10-speed automatic transmission became available starting with the 2017 Ford F-150.
- Co-development: It was a collaborative effort between Ford and General Motors, resulting in the Ford 10R80 and the GM 10L80.
- Production: Production of the 10R80 transmission began in June 2016.
- Wider availability: The transmission was subsequently rolled out to other vehicles, including the Mustang GT for the 2018 model year, the Expedition, Ranger, Bronco, and Lincoln Navigator.
Does the 2017 Mustang GT have a 10 speed?
A Choice of Heart
Either engine can be had with a six-speed manual transmission, reworked for the V-8 to now have a twin-disc clutch and dual-mass flywheel, or a new 10-speed automatic transmission.
