Few names in the automotive world command as much respect and admiration as the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500. In 2022, Ford continues this tradition with a model that pushes the boundaries of power, technology, and design. It combines the classic raw aggression that muscle car fans love with cutting-edge technology and modern comfort features. This model is the most powerful production Mustang ever built, and it showcases Ford’s commitment to performance excellence.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the 2022 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 is a masterpiece of engineering: a 5.2-liter supercharged V8 engine known internally as the "Predator." This immense power allows the car to rocket from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 3.3 seconds, putting it in the same league as much more expensive European sports cars.
Mated to the engine is a TREMEC 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, a first for any Mustang. This transmission provides lightning-fast gear changes—under 100 milliseconds—resulting in seamless acceleration and remarkable responsiveness.
The performance doesn’t stop at straight-line speed. Ford has fine-tuned every aspect of the GT500’s driving dynamics to ensure it can handle curves as well as it handles the drag strip. A launch control system, line lock, and selectable drive modes (including Track, Sport, and Drag Strip) allow the driver to optimize performance for different conditions and preferences.
Exterior Design
The 2022 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 isn’t just built to perform—it’s designed to turn heads while doing it. A massive front grille dominates the fascia, not just for looks, but for functionality—feeding cool air to the supercharged engine and helping manage heat under intense driving conditions.
The sculpted aluminum hood features a large heat extractor, efficiently venting engine heat and improving overall aerodynamics. Sharp body lines and aggressive contours further emphasize the car’s muscular proportions and racing-inspired aesthetic.
At the rear, the performance story continues. A prominent rear spoiler helps generate downforce at high speeds, while the quad-tip exhaust system hints at the beast that lies beneath the hood.
of the rear seats for weight reduction. Available in a range of striking colors, including exclusive hues like Grabber Blue Metallic and Code Orange, the GT500’s exterior is a visual celebration of power, precision, and heritage. It’s a car that looks fast even when it’s standing still.
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Interior and Comfort
While the 2022 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 is unapologetically performance-focused, its interior is far from barebones. It offers a refined balance between race-ready functionality and modern-day comfort, making it just as enjoyable for daily driving as it is for track days.
The flat-bottom steering wheel, wrapped in leather and accented with suede inserts, provides a firm grip and houses integrated controls for ease of use at high speeds. For those who prefer a bit more comfort for longer drives, Ford also offers leather-trimmed power seats with heating and cooling functions, combining sportiness with everyday practicality.
In terms of technology, the GT500 is well-equipped. At the center of the dashboard is an 8-inch SYNC 3 infotainment touchscreen, offering seamless access to Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, and voice-activated controls.
Olufsen 12-speaker sound system turns the GT500 into a mobile concert hall, even over the rumble of the V8 engine. Dual-zone automatic climate control, ambient interior lighting, and aluminum accents further enhance the cabin’s premium feel.
Practicality hasn't been forgotten either. Despite its performance focus, the GT500 offers decent cargo space for a coupe, with a split-folding rear seat to expand trunk capacity when needed—unless you opt for the Carbon Fiber Track Pack, which removes the rear seat entirely to shave weight.
Technology and Safety
The 2022 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 isn’t just about brute strength—it’s also packed with advanced technology and safety features that enhance the driving experience while keeping you connected and protected.
Infotainment and Connectivity
At the heart of the GT500’s tech suite is the SYNC 3 infotainment system, housed in an intuitive 8-inch touchscreen interface. SYNC 3 is responsive and user-friendly, providing seamless access to Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and available built-in navigation. Voice commands allow for hands-free control of media, phone calls, and navigation, minimizing distraction and maximizing convenience.
Drivers also benefit from FordPass Connect, which includes a built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot and allows remote vehicle access through a smartphone app. You can check vehicle status, locate your car, or even start it remotely—all from your mobile device.
The 12-inch fully digital instrument cluster is another standout feature, offering customizable displays that adapt to different drive modes like Normal, Sport, Track, and Drag Strip. For those who appreciate premium audio, the optional Bang & Olufsen 12-speaker sound system delivers crisp, immersive sound quality, transforming the GT500’s cabin into a high-end listening environment—even when the thunder of the V8 tries to steal the spotlight.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Though it’s built for high performance, the GT500 doesn’t skimp on safety. Standard and available features include a suite of Ford Co-Pilot360 technologies, providing peace of mind without interfering with the driving experience.
Key safety features include:
- Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
- Lane-Keeping Alert
- Rear View Camera
- Rear Parking Sensors
While some hardcore enthusiasts may prefer a more stripped-down, track-focused experience, Ford’s inclusion of these systems offers a practical edge for those who plan to drive the GT500 on public roads. They provide subtle but important layers of protection, especially in urban traffic or long highway cruises.
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Track-Ready Engineering
Ford Performance left no detail untouched in designing a car that can handle high-speed corners, hard braking zones, and blistering acceleration with ease and confidence.
Suspension and Handling
At the core of the GT500’s on-track capabilities is its advanced MagneRide adaptive suspension system. Whether you're carving through tight corners or hammering down a straightaway, MagneRide ensures optimal balance between control and comfort. Every element, from the subframe to the bushings, has been designed to reduce flex and maximize driver feedback.
Braking System
Equally impressive is the GT500’s stopping power. It’s equipped with massive 16.5-inch front rotors paired with six-piston Brembo calipers—the largest brake rotors ever fitted to an American sports coupe. These brakes offer incredible fade resistance and consistent performance, even under the most intense track conditions.
Tires and Grip
To put all that power to the ground, the GT500 wears specially developed Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, or Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires with the optional Carbon Fiber Track Pack. These ultra-high-performance tires provide exceptional grip, enabling the car to corner at over 1g of lateral acceleration. Lightweight, forged aluminum wheels (or carbon fiber wheels in the Track Pack) reduce unsprung weight and improve handling precision.
Aerodynamics and Cooling
The optional GT4-style carbon fiber rear wing offers even more stability and allows for fine-tuned adjustments based on the track and driving style. Under intense driving, heat management becomes a priority—and the GT500 is more than ready. The front grille has been optimized for maximum airflow, feeding a series of radiators, oil coolers, and transmission coolers to keep all systems operating within ideal temperatures. Even the hood vent isn’t just for show; it's a functional heat extractor that reduces underhood temps and increases aerodynamic efficiency.
Drive Modes and Performance Settings
Each mode alters throttle response, steering feel, suspension stiffness, and transmission behavior to match driving conditions. A dedicated launch control system ensures perfect starts every time, while line lock allows for tire-heating burnouts with ease—ideal for drag racing.
