For The 2022 Mustang V8 Engine Downgrade, Point Fingers At The Federal Government

Good news first: Ford Mustang GT and Mach 1 will be available again in 2022. The naturally aspirated 5.0 Coyote V8 engine from America's best-selling muscle car is still around. The bad news is that power and torque will be reduced by 10 hp and 10 lb-ft on the new 2022 Mustang cars.

These changes are being made due to emissions regulations imposed by state and federal lawmakers, isn't because Ford doesn't want customers to have the most exhilarating monster driving experience. An unannounced set of Mustang lineup modifications for 2022 includes the output reduction.

The 2021 Mustang GT and Mach make 460 hp and 480 hp, respectively, as a comparison. Both engines produce 420 lb-ft of torque. The 6-speed and 10-speed automatic transmissions will both lose power no matter which option is chosen for the 2022 Mustang vehicles.

Luckily, the power and torque figures for the 2022 Mustang Shelby GT500 are identical from the previous model year, at 760 hp and 625 lb-ft, respectively. The new CO2 regulations do not affect the Predator's supercharged 5.2-liter V8. 

Ford unveiled the Stealth Edition and California Special options for the 2022 Mustang last week. These models join the Ice White Edition, which was unveiled in August. The sixth-generation Mustang is expected to go out of production in 2022.

While specifics are limited at the moment, it's safe to assume that Ford will electrify the next Mustang using a plug-in hybrid powertrain. Even though it will be electrified, the V8 should be around for a while. The CEO of Ford, Jim Farley, has guaranteed that the next-generation Mustang will be an artwork vehicle. We're in a state of utter impatience.