For the 2021 model year, Ford is introducing their first fully-electric SUV, called the Mustang MACH-E. Mustang SUV? We know, and we agree…it doesn’t really make sense.
But, who cares what they call it when it does 0-60 mph in the mid-3 seconds? And who cares what they call it when it has a range of roughly 300 miles? And who cares what they call it when it produces zero emissions?
Just like Teslas and other electric vehicles in the US, the MACH-E also qualifies for $7,500 in federal tax credits, helping to knock down the base price of $42,895.
When all-new vehicles enter the market, lease deals that will be offered are unknown. The MACH-E, just like 2021 Ford Bronco Sport lease deals, won’t be available until they hit showroom floors. When they start arriving at dealers we will update this article with offers from Ford Finance.
2021 MACH-E Trim Levels
For it’s debut year, the MACH-E has 5 different trim levels. They are as follows:
- Select (AWD): Starting at $42,895
- Premium (AWD): Starting at $47,000
- California Route 1 (RWD): Starting at $49,800
- First Edition (AWD): Starting at $58,300
- GT (AWD): Starting at $60,500
MACH-E will be available in all-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive (Cali Route 1 only). The Select model comes with standard 18″ wheels, but other trim levels come standard with 19″ or 20″ wheels. They also have mileage ranges from 230 miles up to 300 miles, and 0-60 times that range from mid-3 seconds (GT) up to 6.1 seconds on the California Route 1.
The Premium trim level is likely to be the best seller. It comes with a nice combination of a 300 mile range, a 0-60 time of 4.8 seconds, standard 19″ wheels, and a starting price of $47,000. Clearly it’s the best value, especially for those living in wet weather areas.
All MACH-E trim levels qualify for the US Federal $7500 maximum tax credit.
Mustang MACH-E Exterior Design
The front of the Mustang MACH-E is certainly reminiscent of Tesla vehicles, with a closed front grill area on standard models. Being a ‘car-guy’ my entire life, I haven’t gotten used to this look. To me, this makes the front of the vehicle look wimpy, like a fancy golf-cart. However, based on Tesla popularity I suspect the masses will disagree with me – while those who prefer to hear the beautiful rumbling of a big V-8 will understand where I’m coming from.
But there’s good news for guys like me. On the GT model, starting at $60,500, Ford has designed that front panel to look like a grill, giving the MACH-E a much more aggressive look.
Rear taillight design clearly mimics that of the actual Mustang. Aside from a slight resemblance to the front-end of the Mustang, this is the only thing I see that reminds me of the pony car.
Overall design is fairly sleek & sporty for an SUV, and I suspect it will sell to buyers who want to distinguish themselves from their Tesla-driving friends & neighbors.
MACH-E Interior Design & Features
The interior of the MACH-E is minimalist, also reminiscent of Teslas. It comes with a sleek, digital display for driving essentials, and a larger, iPad type of center display for everything else.
Seats look ultra-modern, with simple and stylish design. Bang & Olufsen provide the tunes, and a glass roof will light up the cabin during daylight hours.
Final Thoughts
I would call the MACH-E an inspired vehicle. While there are plenty of hybrid and electric mini-boxes on the road now, there aren’t a lot of all-electric SUV’s. Ford could have come out with a more basic, less attractive electric SUV, but instead they went for a legitimate competitor in this highly popular segment. It will genuinely compete with all vehicles in its class, including gas-powered – not just other electrics. That in itself is a statement.
Lets be honest, most people are going to spend money on the vehicle they prefer – it’s not just about being electrified. When electric vehicles happen to be better than their gas powered counterparts, this is when electric vehicles will begin to take over. Tesla has done well, but more luxurious cars can be bought in the same price range. This is why manufacturers like Mercedes and BMW continue to do well. In my opinion, the very latest electric vehicles like the MACH-E will mark the beginning of that change.
When the 2021 Ford Mustang MACH-E hits showroom floors, we will update LeaseGurus.com with more details.