Ford Mustang Mach-E (US) review
Good stuff
Smooth ride, easy to drive, it’s possible to have fun driving one
Bad stuff
Ho-hum interior, bloated exterior style, nerfed driving feedback
Overview
What is it?
It’s the latest version of the Mach-E, the all-electric SUV that joined Ford’s performance stable in 2021.
Wait, back up. Electric SUV… Mustang?
Sigh. Alright, let’s get this out of the way. Just a handful of years ago, Ford introduced the Mach-E, an all-electric utility vehicle with enough performance chops that, in its estimation, made it worthy enough to wear the Mustang pony badge. A vocal contingent of the internet got super bent out of shape about an electric AWD four-door SUV being called a Mustang. Boo.
But Ford calls it a Mustang, so - with gritted teeth - it’s a Mustang. The Mach-E sits alongside the traditional dino-powered 2+2 rear-drive coupe. It doesn’t replace it, it extends the brand. That one still has a V8 manual spec. Your affection for the car you like is not diminished. This in fact protects that version from forced changes due to trends towards electrification and other mandates.
Had this conversation before, haven’t you?
An exhausting number of times. Back to it, though. The Mach-E is a single- or dual-motor powered SUV with rear- or all-wheel drive. It’s fitted with either a standard range 72kWh battery or an extended range 91kWh pack. Depending on the configuration, the Mach-E is estimated to deliver between 250 to 320 miles of range.
Trims and setup also affect the available power. RWD produces between 264 to 290hp, with AWD specs peaking at either 325 or 365hp for the base and premium trims. When it comes to the performance trims, they come exclusively in AWD with 480hp on tap and between 600 and 700lb ft of torque if an optional performance upgrade is purchased.
Talk about these performance models, please.
Gladly. In step with the Mustang brand, the GT model of the Mach-E is where the players play. With the aforementioned 480hp and at least 600lb ft, it’s in a good place to push people around at speed. This is helped along by the Mach-E’s independent suspension supported with a MagneRide damping system and Brembo brakes.
So, that ‘at least’ bit about the torque. In another universe this paragraph would read “Great news! Thanks to improved powertrain thermal modeling and better compute-y bits, Ford’s new in-house e-motors give the Mach-e GT 100lb ft more of torque!” But in this reality, it’s an upgrade locked behind a paywall. All new GT buyers have it but can’t use it until they fork over an extra $995 for the privilege of using the totality of their powertrain. At least it’s included in the Mach-E Rally.
Mach-E Rally?
Mach-E Rally! New this year is a kick-ass version of the Mach-E meant to tear up the dirt. In terms of hardware, it’s the GT but with a rally-tuned suspension that gives it a smidge of extra clearance, a number of go-fast exterior bits, and some sweet stickers. In terms of software, it throws in a “RallySport” drive mode intended to let drivers slide the Mach-E sideways in the mud with confidence.
Got any performance numbers to share?
We got a few, sure. Ford says the rear-drive Mach-Es can get from 0 to 60mph in 5.6 or 5.2 seconds depending on what battery is equipped. The non-GT AWD cars hit their marks between 4.6 to 4.1s. With its DLC unlocked, the GT can hop to 60mph in 3.3 seconds, with the Rally slower by just a fraction.
What's the verdict?
Pony badged or not, the Mach-E is a solid all-rounder and its addition to the Ford line-up should be welcomed, particularly as it’s a decent car for a company that’s fallen behind the curve with EVs so far. For day-to-day use, the Mach-E is drama-free and easy to use from start to finish; effortless, you might say. Does it deserve to be so closely aligned to the proper Mustang? We’re not so sure.
Inside the Mach-E has all bases covered, and though there’s little to complain about in the streamlined cabin, there’s not much to be excited about, either. Except perhaps that massive touchscreen. It sure helps keep things tidy, but the UI isn’t the best and most of the info you need is frustratingly kept out of your outline. Hopefully you’ll be enjoying the above average handling too much to care.
The Rivals
Trending this week
- Long Term Review
- Car Review