We’re enthusiasts of the Hyundai Ioniq 5, crowning it as our Best Electric Vehicle of 2023. However, that doesn’t imply perfection (we haven’t discovered one yet, but we’ll inform you when we do). Additionally, it’s just one of several all-electric SUVs on the market. We use the term ‘SUV’ loosely here, as many of these EVs could easily be mistaken for mid-size hatchbacks. However, since Americans typically favor SUVs over hatchbacks, we’ll refer to them as SUVs.
Related: Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs. Tesla Model Y: Functionality vs. Quirkiness
The Ford Mustang Mach-E falls into the category of these hatchback-like SUVs and has also earned recognition as a Cars.com award winner. In its debut year, it received the prestigious title of 2021 Best Eco-Friendly Car. For 2023, the Mustang Mach-E comes with some updates, including the latest version of Ford’s BlueCruise hands-free driving system, which now includes lane-changing capabilities.
We recently conducted back-to-back tests of both these EVs in Chicago and its surrounding suburbs. We evaluated their performance while driving, as well as their Level 2 home charging and DC fast-charging capabilities. The tests revealed notable differences between the two electric vehicles, along with the ideal users for each. You can find our likes and dislikes for each vehicle below or watch the accompanying video where we extensively discuss both EVs.
2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E Premium AWD
Verdict: If you desire a sportier EV, reside in an area with smooth roads, or spend a significant amount of time on the highway, the Ford Mustang Mach-E’s handling characteristics and hands-free driving system will appeal to you. However, be cautious of its extremely firm ride.
As-tested price: $58,795 (including destination, excluding federal tax credit of up to $3,750) EPA-rated combined efficiency: 92 MPGe EPA-rated range: 290 miles Range added in 1 hour on 48-amp Level 2 home charger: 30 miles Range per minute at DC fast charger: 4.7 miles
The Good
Handling: It’s exhilarating to maneuver the Mustang Mach-E into corners. The SUV maintains stability, composure, and doesn’t complain. However, the steering lacks road feedback, limiting overall driver engagement. While the vehicle tolerates spirited driving, it doesn’t encourage pushing it even harder.
Hands-free driving system: Ford’s BlueCruise instills confidence, making decisions that won’t leave the driver second-guessing. However, it’s better suited for open highways rather than busy, congested interstates near urban areas. The new lane-changing feature controlled by the turn signal stalk is a useful addition.
Interior quality: The Mustang Mach-E boasts a well-built interior with high-quality materials that look and feel pleasing (excluding the cheap-looking faux carbon fiber on the dashboard). The front cabin’s soft-touch trim and door panel materials extend to the rear seating area, maintaining consistent quality. Overall, the cabin feels slightly more luxurious than that of the Ioniq 5.
Touchscreen functionality: While touchscreen climate controls are not our preferred choice, Ford executes them better than most with the vertically oriented 15.5-inch touchscreen in the Mustang Mach-E. The controls persist at the bottom of the screen, regardless of what’s displayed in the top two-thirds. The touchscreen menus for audio and navigation are intuitive, but it would be beneficial to have a direct tune feature for satellite radio, similar to FM radio. Unfortunately, AM radio is absent.
Connectivity: The Sync 4A infotainment system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. It also offers USB-A and USB-C ports for those who prefer wired connections. Setting up wireless CarPlay is straightforward, and CarPlay utilizes the majority of the touchscreen real estate above the climate controls.
Front trunk: In contrast to the Ioniq 5’s small and questionable front storage bin, the Mustang Mach-E features a proper front trunk that enhances practicality. According to Cars.com’s cargo measurements, the frunk adds an additional 2 cubic feet of cargo space and includes a drain.
Rear window wiper: Although a rear window wiper might not appear as a crucial feature (many electric SUVs, including the Ioniq 5, lack one), it’s something you only miss when you need it. You’ll be grateful to have it during rainy conditions.
The Bad
Ride quality: The Mustang Mach-E’s ride quality is its weak point. It’s unnecessarily firm, causing discomfort on Chicago’s imperfect blacktop. If potholes and rough roads are common in your area, think twice before purchasing this vehicle.
Visibility: The B-pillar obstructs the driver’s over-left-shoulder view, while the SUV’s shorter side windows hamper over-right-shoulder visibility. Electronic visibility aids, such as blind spot warning indicators in the side mirrors and a 360-degree camera system, ar
