Netflix Prepares to Unveil In-Depth Ford Mustang Documentary
Netflix is shifting gears into the automotive world with the upcoming release of a highly anticipated documentary series dedicated to one of America’s most legendary vehicles—the Ford Mustang. Titled “Mustang: The American Legend”, the series will debut worldwide on May 17, delivering a captivating exploration of the car that revolutionized American performance and design.
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This new project from the streaming giant is more than just a documentary—it’s being touted as an ambitious and comprehensive chronicle of the Mustang’s influence over six decades. From its launch in 1964 through its cultural dominance in the ‘70s, to its evolution in the modern electric era, the series aims to capture the Mustang’s enduring appeal and role as a symbol of freedom, innovation, and rebellion.
The four-part docuseries is directed by award-nominated filmmaker Ava Rowland, known for her powerful storytelling and visual style. In a statement, Rowland described the Mustang as “far more than a car,” calling it “a piece of American identity on wheels.” With her vision, the series seeks to blend historical insight with emotional storytelling, making it accessible for both dedicated car enthusiasts and general audiences alike.
Each episode will focus on a specific chapter in the Mustang’s history. The first installment highlights the Mustang’s groundbreaking debut at the 1964 World’s Fair, where it stunned the auto industry with its sleek design and affordable price tag. It quickly became a sensation, selling over a million units within its first two years and giving birth to the “pony car” segment.
The series then moves into the 1970s and ‘80s, when the Mustang became a staple of American pop culture, thanks in part to its prominent roles in Hollywood blockbusters. With interviews from movie producers and actors, the series dissects the Mustang’s star-making turns in films like Bullitt and Gone in 60 Seconds, where the car became as iconic as the actors behind the wheel.
The third episode explores the design challenges and industry changes the Mustang faced during the 1990s and early 2000s, particularly as environmental regulations, economic downturns, and shifting consumer tastes began to reshape the auto landscape. It showcases how Ford adapted the car’s legacy without compromising its spirit, highlighting key redesigns and limited-edition models that kept the Mustang relevant and exciting.
The final chapter of the series looks ahead, documenting the Mustang’s leap into the electric age with the launch of the Mach-E. While purists initially criticized the electric SUV bearing the Mustang name, the series presents a balanced view of Ford’s decision and how it reflects the broader shift toward sustainability in the auto industry. This episode also dives into the engineering process, including never-before-seen footage of Ford’s design and testing phases, offering an exclusive look at how the brand blends heritage with future-forward thinking.
One of the major strengths of the documentary lies in its wealth of contributors. The series features interviews with former and current Ford executives, engineers, designers, and marketing minds who played key roles in shaping the car’s legacy. Fans of motorsports will also appreciate appearances from icons like Ken Block and Danica Patrick, who share personal anecdotes and reflect on the Mustang’s influence in racing culture.
In addition to industry insights, Mustang: The American Legend includes stories from real-world owners and collectors. Viewers will be introduced to passionate Mustang communities from across the globe, from vintage restoration garages in Detroit to Mustang fan clubs in Japan and Australia. These segments celebrate the emotional connection drivers have with the car and its ability to bring people together across generations.
Stunning visuals and high-energy driving sequences are expected to be a highlight of the series, with drone footage of historic road rallies, side-by-side comparisons of models across the decades, and close-ups of the car’s evolving craftsmanship. Netflix’s production team, working alongside Ford’s archival department, had unprecedented access to rare documents, prototype footage, and internal memos—adding a level of depth and authenticity rarely seen in automotive documentaries.
Since its announcement, the series has sparked excitement in both film and car enthusiast communities. Industry insiders predict it may redefine how car culture is represented in mainstream media, much like The Last Dance did for basketball or Drive to Survive did for Formula 1.
Whether you’re a lifelong gearhead, a casual admirer of classic cars, or simply curious about American history through the lens of innovation, Mustang: The American Legend promises a compelling, high-octane viewing experience when it premieres on Netflix this May.
