The Ford Mustang, a name synonymous with automotive legend, was introduced in the early '60s, igniting the 'Pony Car' movement and making compact sports cars accessible to a wider audience. Since its inception, the Mustang has become the world's most celebrated sports car, an iconic figure in the automotive industry featured everywhere from racing circuits to movies, TV shows, and classic car exhibitions globally.
Over six decades, the Mustang has evolved through several generations, each marked by distinctive features and design evolutions. From V8 engines to convertibles, the Mustang has now entered its seventh generation as a fully electric SUV, the Mustang Mach-E.
What is the Mustang Mach-e
The Mustang Mach-E hit the UK roads in 2021, marking a milestone for the legacy brand Ford as it made its debut in the EV market. Distinguishing itself from the traditional Mustang line-up, the Mach-E was introduced as the brand's first fully electric family SUV. In late 2023, the Mustang Mach-E underwent significant enhancements, including an updated rear motor, improved DC charging capabilities, and an overhauled GT model for 2024.
The Mustang Mach-E presents an option of a standard-range 72kWh battery or an extended-range 91kWh battery. These batteries energize a single electric motor in the RWD variants of the Select and Premium models, or dual motors on each axle in the AWD variants of the Premium models. The premier GT model is available exclusively with AWD.
Performance
The Select RWD Mustang Mach-e generates 268bhp and 525Nm of torque, allowing it to go from 0-62mph in 6.3 seconds.
Opting for the Premium RWD Mustang Mach-e boosts the power to 294bhp and 525Nm of torque, shortening the 0-62mph sprint to 5.6 seconds, with a top speed of 111mph. The Premium AWD version offers 351bhp and 580Nm of torque, with a 0-62mph time of 5.8 seconds.
The top-tier Mustang Mach-e GT features 487bhp and 860Nm of torque, racing from 0-62mph in only 3.8 seconds and reaching a top speed of 124mph.
Range
The range varies between models. The entry-level Select RWD version offers a range of 292 miles WLTP on a single charge. The Premium RWD and Premium AWD versions have ranges of 372 miles and 341 miles WLTP, respectively. The GT variant provides 310 miles WLTP on a single charge.
For all four models, the Mustang Mach-e supports recharging at speeds of up to 150kW, enabling a 10-80% charge in 33 to 45 minutes, depending on the variant.
Design
Many view the Mustang Mach-e and state 'that's not a Mustang,' and to some extent, they are right. The Mustang Mach-e is not a traditional Mustang; it is Ford's first fully electric SUV, an icon redefined.
While it may not resemble the classic sports coupes and convertibles usually associated with the Mustang name, its distinctive design elements highlight the brand's evolution over the past 60 years. The electric crossover features tri-bar tail-lights, a long, elevated bonnet, muscular rear haunches, a cab-rearward stance, and an aggressive headlight 'brow'. Ingenious styling cues, like the lower bodywork, create the illusion of traditional coupe lines, reinterpreting Mustang DNA.
Rumours suggested that the interior cockpit was initially set to borrow extensively from the Focus. However, Ford soon realized that this Mustang is arguably the most pivotal since its 1964 debut, prompting a significant design shift. And whilst the interior is unlikey to be the most important part of this car, Ford have ensured visual simplicity, Mustang Motifs and a 21st century take on the cockpit.
The flagship GT model is distinguished by its unique front grille, exclusive bumpers, and 20-inch cast aluminum wheels equipped with specially designed tires. This is further enhanced by 19-inch red calipers on the bespoke Brembo brakes. Inside, the GT Performance seats set it apart from the cabin, while the remainder of the interior closely resembles that of the other Mach-E models.
Size and Sapce
In terms of size, clever design give the impression that it's not that large but it falls between a Jaguar I-PACE and a Mercedes EQC. The vehicle boasts a 402-litre boot, expandable to 1,420 litres with the seats folded down. There's also an 81-litre storage compartment under the bonnet.
Lease Electric Review
At Fleet Procure Live, the lineup included four Mustang Mach-Es, with the 'Rapid Red' particularly standing out. Given its popularity among Lease Electric Customers this year, we opted to test the Mach-E on the high-speed track at Millbrook Proving Ground.
The iconic 'Mustang' branding is displayed throughout the vehicle, reminding everyone that this isn't just any Ford—it's a Ford Mustang.
Upon entering the vehicle, we were greeted by an attractive interior featuring Black Onyx with red stitching. The large infotainment system (15.5" touchscreen) was well-integrated into the car's dashboard, its portrait orientation aligning seamlessly with the center console.
This touchscreen, featuring a lower rotary dial, controls various functions such as heating and air conditioning, complemented by ambient lighting. Drive modes like Active, Whisper, and Untamed are also accessible through the screen.
Ford has incorporated a selector in the centre console, along with a variety of buttons on the steering wheel to enhance accessibility of features and ensure safety isn’t compromised through use of the touch screen.
Additionally, the centre console includes two cup holders, a wireless charging pad, and front USB ports.
The front seats offer comfort and space, providing ample legroom for both the driver and the passenger. They are easily adjustable and are paired with a floating armrest. Heated seats and a heated steering wheel further contribute to the overall comfort.
Positioned behind the steering wheel is a sleek 10.2" screen, displaying all the essential driving gauges like speed and battery percentage.
The speakers have been seamlessly integrated into the dashboard and deliver high-quality sound across DAB Radio, Android Auto, and the Sat Nav notifications we tested.
In the rear, the comfort of the seats and the quality of the finishes continued. The privacy glass at the back did not make the seating area darker, yet it contributed to the overall premium ambiance.The bench seats felt spacious and comfortable, each equipped with Isofix connectors.
The hands-free tailgate allows for effortless access to the boot space, which is generously sized and can be expanded by folding down the rear seats in a 60:40 split. The front trunk, standard across all models, was also easily accessible and of a good size. We particularly liked that this is a drainable compartment that's perfect for storing wet or muddy footwear, the perfect feature for any family SUV.
We were impressed with the responsiveness of the Mustang Mach-E's steering and handling, as well as the driver assistance technology available. The adaptive cruise control worked well, complemented by lane-keeping and lane departure warnings. While we didn't test the pre-collision assist, we expect it to be just as responsive. The 360-degree camera and Park Assist, in conjunction with the parking sensors, made maneuvering the Mustang Mach-e into parking spaces effortless.
The Mustang Mach-E offered a blend of speed and control, delivering a smooth yet exciting driving experience. The elevated driving position enhanced visibility and ensured a more comfortable drive.
Overall we were pleasantly surprised by the Mustang Mach-E and found the driving experience more enjoyable than expected. If you're in the market for a fully electric SUV, we highly recommend the Mustang Mach-E. The only other vehicle we had tested at Fleet Procure live, that we’d say is somewhat comparable in both design and performance was the Genesis GV60.