With the recent launch of Ford’s all-electric Explorer, Capri and the reveal of the Puma Gen-E, it would be easy to forget about the brand’s first EV of the modern age, the Mustang Mach-E which launched here back in 2021. Unlike the new Explorer and Capri, which both use Volkswagen’s MEB platform, the Mach-E is the first electric production Ford ever developed from the ground-up, and some time of late spent with the Mustang Mach-E provided a timely reminder that electric vehicles can indeed be fun.
Much like the new electric Capri, the Mustang Mach-E latches on to one of Ford’s iconic nameplates in the guise of an electric vehicle, which naturally upset a lot of so-called purists. Admittedly, the Mustang Mach-E feels nothing like its V8 namesake, but it is without a doubt one of the best EVs on the market today. A real-world range of around 500km is easily achievable, the interior is smart yet simple, there are no annoying chimes constantly coming from the dash, and it looks and drives great, too. I would certainly buy one.
The Mustang Mach-E’s platform was developed by EV specialists Ford Team Edison, to take full advantage of the weight distribution and torque delivery of an all-electric powertrain. Whether equipped with the 288-cell, 70 kWh standard-range or the 376-cell, 91 kWh (both useable) extended-range variant, the lithium-ion battery is located centrally between the axles and beneath the floor for a low centre of gravity. The high-performance batteries are secured inside a waterproof case surrounded by crash absorption protection, while an advanced active liquid heating and cooling system regulates battery temperatures for improved charging speeds.
The available all-wheel drive system applies torque independently to the front and rear wheels for improved acceleration and handling. Unique settings for shock absorbers, springs, anti-roll bars, steering and powertrain have been tailored with Ireland’s narrow and twisty roads in mind. Despite bearing the Mustang name, performance figures aren’t too dramatic with a seven-second 0-100 km/h time and a 294ps output. But this felt more than enough.
Ford’s Mustang Mach-E has a 402-litre boot extending to 1,420-litres with rear seats flat. Providing an additional 81-litres of storage space, the front trunk is also drainable, making it a convenient space to store wet or muddy clothing. Despite the car’s rear-haunch design, there is a comfortable amount of space for up to five passengers, with a flat floor and panorama fixed-glass roof creating an airy ambience. The touch-to-open door handles are also a cool touch.
A 15.5-inch full HD touch display features a simplified interface to deliver information in an organised, easily digestible way, controlled using pinch, zoom and rotate touch controls. The signature dial at the bottom of the screen makes for quick adjustment of the volume, and also doubles up to control fan speed. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both pre-installed, while a wireless charging pad for smartphones also comes as standard. There are two standard-sized cupholders in the centre, with a rotating gear selector elevated slightly above. Storage across the door bins, glovebox and under centre armrest is generous.
Pricing in Ireland for the Ford Mustang Mach-E currently kicks off from €54,873 after the grant and VRT for the ‘Select’ trim, rising to just over €80k for the ‘Premium’ spec (tested here). Pricey indeed, but a brilliant and thoroughly enjoyable car. Here’s hoping Ford can make more EVs from the ground-up instead of borrowing from VW.
