2024 Mustang GT California Special dons blue accents, starting price under $50K

Following a teaser dropped in a tweet yesterday from Ford CEO Jim Farley, the Blue Oval today revealed the 2024 Mustang GT California Special (GT/CS). Like the original GT/CS, which debuted back in 1968, the new one seems to capture “California’s optimistic and carefree driving culture,” says Joe Bellino, Mustang brand manager.

The 2024 GT/CS will use the color Rave Blue in a host of accent flourishes that make it stand out. On the exterior, you’ll find the color adorning the nostril intakes flanking the grille, as well as on the trim-specific graphics along the lower bodysides. You’ll also see Rave Blue on either of the two 19-inch wheel options: the standard carbonized gray wheels with a GT/CS logo printed on them in blue, or, the performance pack wheels, which combine a machines face with sweet-looking Rave Blue pockets. The 5.0-liter badge and the GT badge at the back will also get the blue treatment, as does the GT/CS badge in the front grille.

Inside, Mustang designers used the blue for accent stitching on the black seats, dash, and doors. The same stitching, which also has a trace of gray thread to add a bit more pizzaz, is available for the steering wheel and center console as well. Other interior flourishes include a “California Special” badge on the instrument panel, and floor mats with the GT/CS logo on them.

The California Special package will add $1995 to the price of a Mustang GT Premium, which starts at $47,410 and includes the 480-hp Coyote 5.0-liter V-8, as well as Brembo brakes, aluminum pedals and door sill plates, and an optional active valve exhaust system that will keep things muffled on cold mornings so as not to wake the neighbors. All-in, you’re looking at just shy of $50,000.

Ford will sell you a Mustang GT California Special configured as either a coupe or a convertible, and you can also choose between the six-speed manual and the 10-speed automatic transmission. Opt for that convertible, and you’ll have to add another $5500 (the upcharge for a GT Premium convertible) to the sticker price, putting a drop-top GT/CS like the one pictured here at $54,905. Order banks open today. The Mustang GT/CS will be revealed in the metal at the 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show on November 16.

Ford’s most famous car is getting ready to turn 60 next year, and the automaker is casting its net wide, seemingly engineering and designing a Mustang targeting just about every relevant buyer for this S650 generation. From the modest, but still plenty of fun Mustang EcoBoost, to the performance-oriented Mustang Dark Horse, to the supercar-slaying Mustang GTD, and now the cruising-ready GT/CS, you really are spoiled for choice if you’re looking for a new Pony car.

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