Pictures: ROUSH Performance

You’ve got to give ROUSH credit, they really know how to draw out and tease a new car. For months leading up to the released of the ROUSH Stage 3, or RS3 Mustang, they offered tantalizing pictures , but kept the performance specs and horsepower numbers under wraps. The ROUSH RS3 is more than just a supercharged Mustang though, it is a complete package. And the complete package, as good as it is, ain’t cheap.

As the name implies, there are actually two other packages ROUSH offers for the 2012 Mustang. Without any fanfare, both Stage 1 and Stage 2 have appeared on the ROUSH website, offering more in the way of customization than ever before.

ROUSH Stage 1 Package for the 2012 Mustang

The ROUSH Stage 1 package for the 2012 Mustang is mostly in the former of exterior enhancements. Starting at $4,680 for the core components, the RS1 as we’ll call it, gets you chin and side splitters, rear valence, decklid spoiler, a ROUSH front fascia, badges and a windshield banner. Then there is a long list of optional features that range from the $95 ROUSH white ball shifter knob to the $2,877 performance brake package.

Meanwhile, the ROUSH Stage 2 Mustang (top of page) includes all the exterior goodies from the RS1 package, plus front and rear blackout panels, and some suspension goodies to boot. The RS2 gets specially designed front struts, rear shocks, front and rear springs, front and rear sway bars, and a jounce bumper. Also standard? Those sweet chrome wheels. There’s also a plethora of options here as well, though the core Stage 2 kit will set you back $7,800, while opting for the supercharged Stage 3 package cost $16,800.

Which package fits your budget?