Is the 2025 Mustang Dark Horse Better Than the Charger SixPack?

First off, huge thanks to Joe Raiti from Raiti’s Rides for another killer walkaround and test drive. His review of the 2025 Mustang Dark Horse gave us the full scoop—and as always, Joe brings the heat.

So, here’s the real question: Do you wait for Dodge’s mysterious new SixPack? Or do you grab the keys to the Mustang Dark Horse sitting right in front of you, snarling and ready? If you’re in Stuart, FL and itching for high-performance thrills, you need to check out this review:

The Engine That Still Has a Pulse

Joe was seriously impressed with the Dark Horse’s 5.0L Coyote V8. And who wouldn’t be? It’s the most powerful naturally aspirated Coyote ever made—500 horsepower, 418 lb-ft of torque, and a throaty roar that could startle your neighbor’s neighbor. Ford could’ve softened things up with a hybrid system or played it safe. They didn’t.

Meanwhile, Dodge’s SixPack is bringing a twin-turbo inline-six to the table. It’s got 540 horsepower, sure, but Joe pointed out something important: forced induction can’t match the raw linear torque delivery of a V8. The choice really depends on whether you want raw muscle or engineered muscle.

Design: One Word—Presence

Joe raved about the Dark Horse’s color, Blue Ember, and rightfully so. Depending on the light, it shifts from deep blue to nearly purple. It’s dramatic. And that flat gray trim? It’s unique to the Dark Horse, giving it a sinister, almost custom look without touching a single aftermarket part.

The SixPack is not out yet. We’ve seen teasers, and Dodge is promising a new face. So, if you want bold styling now—not eventually—the Mustang wins this round.

The Drive: V8 Drama Meets Daily Usability

Joe put it best: the Dark Horse isn’t just a weekend toy—it’s track-capable, sure, but it’s also a solid daily driver. Suspension tuning is tight. Recaro seats are snug and supportive. Steering feel is alive, not artificial.

He especially loved the 10-speed automatic’s crisp downshifts and quick upshifts, but also noted that if you want more control, the available Tremec 6-speed manual delivers.

And here’s something Dodge fans might not love: the SixPack is rumored to be automatic-only. Manuals may be dying, but for now, the Mustang keeps one foot planted in the enthusiast world.

Interior + Tech: Form vs. Function

Joe called out the Dark Horse’s giant single screen—it’s not his favorite layout, but the graphics and configurability were top-notch. Paddle shifters could’ve been metal. Wireless charging was missing. But overall? Ford nailed the feel of a driver-focused cockpit.

Dodge may one-up Ford here when the SixPack drops. Their recent interiors are slick, with large digital clusters and integrated screen designs. But that’s all future talk. The Dark Horse’s cabin is real—and really good.

Don’t Wait—Own the Legend While You Still Can!

Joe posed the question perfectly—do you wait and hope the SixPack delivers? Or do you take home something that’s already proven, powerful, and loud in all the right ways? Here in Stuart, FL, we say this: don’t wait on a maybe. The 2025 Mustang Dark Horse is here, it’s thrilling, and it might just be the last of its kind.

Come see it for yourself at Essential Ford of Stuart—stop by today or call us at (727) 287-0955 for your test drive. And in the meantime, check out our current inventory online.