What year did Mustang get 10 speed?
Ford introduced a 10-speed automatic transmission in the Mustang beginning with the 2018 model year.
Context: why the change and when it happened
The move to a 10-speed automatic (the 10R80 family) reflected Ford’s push to improve both performance and fuel efficiency across its lineup. For the Mustang, the new transmission debut came with the 2018 model year, primarily affecting EcoBoost and GT trims as an optional (and later common) automatic pairing. This change followed Ford’s earlier rollout of the 10-speed in other vehicles, notably the F-150, as part of a broader transmission strategy.
Key implications of this shift included quicker, smoother shifts and better highway gearing, which translated to stronger acceleration at modest speeds and improved fuel economy on long drives. The 10-speed was designed to keep the Mustang competitive with rival performance cars while leveraging Ford’s broader engineering investments in transmissions.
The introduction did not extend to all Mustang variants; Shelby models continued to rely on their own transmission setups, with higher-performance versions often using manual or other specialized automatics rather than the 10-speed. In short, the 10-speed became the standard option for most non-Shelby Mustangs starting with the 2018 model year.
Which models and years were affected
In the Mustang lineup, the 10-speed automatic was introduced for EcoBoost and GT trims starting with the 2018 model year and has continued in subsequent years as a primary automatic option. This enhancement did not apply to Shelby variants, which use different transmissions.
- EcoBoost (2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder) — 2018 model year onward, with the 10-speed automatic available as an option or standard in later trims.
- GT (5.0L V8) — 2018 model year onward, with the 10-speed automatic available as an option or standard on many configurations.
- Shelby variants (e.g., GT350, GT500) — not equipped with the 10-speed auto; these models use other transmission configurations such as manual or a different automated option.
As years progressed, Ford maintained the 10-speed as the primary automatic pairing for the standard Mustang lineup, while Shelby models followed their own performance-focused transmission paths. This alignment helped keep the Mustang competitive in a fast-changing segment.
Why the 10-speed mattered for Mustang buyers
Introducing the 10-speed automatic offered several benefits for Mustang buyers, including:
- Faster, smoother shifts that improved overall acceleration feel.
- Extended gearing that enhances highway fuel economy without sacrificing performance.
- Better low- to mid-range torque delivery, contributing to more confident daily driving and more responsive launches.
- Improved compatibility with a wider range of driving styles, from everyday commuting to weekend performance sessions.
These advantages helped Ford maintain the Mustang’s appeal in a competitive segment where transmission technology is a key differentiator for both performance and efficiency.
Summary
The Ford Mustang first gained a 10-speed automatic transmission with the 2018 model year, marking a significant update to its transmission lineup for EcoBoost and GT trims. While not used on Shelby variants, the 10-speed auto has since become the standard option for the regular Mustang lineup, delivering quicker shifts, improved highway efficiency, and stronger everyday performance. As the model-year lineup evolves, the 10-speed remains a core part of the Mustang’s performance and efficiency equation.
What year did Ford do the 10 speed transmission?
Ford released its first 10-speed transmission in the 2017 F-150 Raptor, with the 10R80 model, which was developed in a joint venture with General Motors. Production began in June 2016 for the 2017 model year. The transmission soon became available in other models like the 2017 Mustang (as an option for the 2018 model year) and was rolled out to the wider F-150 lineup and other SUVs.
- Initial release: The first 10-speed was the 10R80, introduced in the 2017 F-150 Raptor.
- Development: Ford developed the 10-speed transmission in partnership with General Motors.
- Availability: After the initial release, the 10-speed transmission became available on other Ford vehicles, such as the 2018 Mustang and 2018 Expedition.
Is the 2017 Mustang GT 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.
Is there a 10 speed manual Mustang?
No, there is no 10-speed manual Mustang; the 10-speed is exclusively an automatic transmission available in recent models. The manual transmission option for the Ford Mustang is a six-speed manual.
- 10-speed: This is a 10-speed automatic transmission, not a manual one, available in models since the 2018 facelift.
- Manual: The manual option is a six-speed manual transmission.
Does the 2018 Mustang GT have a 10 speed?
In its new Drag Strip mode, the Mustang GT can go from zero to 60 MPH in less than four seconds. It does this by maintaining its torque while the car's 10-speed transmission shifts gears. It also has a six-speed manual transmission for drivers who like to take a more direct hand in controlling their car.
