The Ford Mustang Mach-E is a game-changer for those considering a novated lease. It represents Ford’s leap into the electric vehicle (EV) market with a blend of heritage, modern design, and cutting-edge technology. As a potential novated lease candidate, there’s many aspects that make the Mach-E a compelling choice for new car buyers.
Exterior design
The Mach-E’s exterior is a masterclass in modern automotive design. Its sleek, aerodynamic silhouette pays homage to the classic Mustang lineage while embracing the future with an electric twist. The grille, an integral part of the design, manages to convey the car’s electric nature without being overly polarising. The Mustang emblem on the scuff plates and the steering wheel evokes a sense of tradition and performance, bridging the gap between classic muscle and modern electric.
Interior comfort and features
Step inside, and the Mach-E continues to impress with its luxurious yet functional interior. The artificial leather seats with red stitching offer a sporty yet refined look. The dashboard is dominated by a large touchscreen, which, despite its initial obtrusiveness, proves to be highly intuitive and user-friendly. The minimalistic design with few physical buttons ensures a clutter-free environment. Notably, the rotary dial gear selector is a nod to modernity, providing a smooth transition from traditional gear sticks.
Technology and connectivity
The Mach-E shines with its advanced technological offerings. Wireless charging, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto are seamlessly integrated, enhancing the connectivity experience. The inclusion of USB and USB-C ports ensures that all your devices can be charged on the go. The centre console’s design is both practical and innovative, with ample storage space and cleverly placed compartments.
Performance and driving experience
Driving the Mach-E is a delight, whether you’re a seasoned EV driver or transitioning from a traditional internal combustion engine. The rear-wheel-drive model with a 91 kWh battery delivers 216 kW of power and 430 Nm of torque, providing a responsive and engaging driving experience. For those seeking more power, the GT model offers a staggering 358 kW and 860 Nm of torque. The range is impressive, with the standard model offering up to 470 km on a single charge.
One of the standout features is the propulsion sound option, which replicates the throaty roar of a V8 engine when combined with the Untame driving mode. It enhances the driving experience by providing auditory feedback that mimics traditional high-performance engines. This sound feature adds an exhilarating element to driving the Mach-E, making it feel more connected to the Mustang’s performance heritage.
Practicality and usability
The Mach-E is designed with practicality in mind. The innovative door design, featuring push buttons instead of traditional handles, adds a futuristic touch while being highly functional. The spacious interior ensures that both driver and passengers travel in comfort. The rear seats are ample enough for adults, and the panoramic roof adds a sense of openness.
Storage solutions
Storage is a strong suit of the Mach-E. The centre console provides versatile storage options, including a deep compartment for larger items. The boot space is adequate for daily needs, and the front trunk (frunk) adds an additional layer of practicality, perfect for extra luggage or shopping.
Areas for improvement
While the Mach-E is impressive, there are a few areas where it falls short. One issue is the placement of the speedometer, which is off-centre and can be distracting as it is not in the driver’s direct line of sight. Additionally, the digital dash lacks the flexibility to customise the layout, which could improve user experience. Another minor inconvenience is the absence of fuel consumption metrics on the main screen, requiring drivers to dig into the trip settings to find this information.
Pricing
The model driven for this review was the Mach-E Premium, which comes with a driveway price of around $87,000. This model includes a 91 kWh battery, rear-wheel drive, and features such as artificial leather front seats with red stitching, metal scuff plates, and LED projector headlights. For those looking at a slightly less expensive option, the Mach-E Select is available for about $72,000 and offers a 72 kWh battery with rear-wheel drive.
Final verdict
After a week with the Mustang Mach-E Premium, I was genuinely impressed. Initially, I was sceptical, not being a hardcore Ford fan, but this EV won me over. The propulsion sound in “Untame” mode was a game-changer, giving the car a thrilling V8-like roar that made driving it even more enjoyable. The interior comfort, coupled with advanced tech features, made daily commutes and longer drives a pleasure. While there are a few areas for improvement, like the off-centre speedometer and limited customisation of the digital dash, these are minor inconveniences in an otherwise stellar package. The Mach-E is a solid step forward for Ford in the EV market, and I can see it becoming a popular choice for those considering a novated lease.
