2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT & GT Performance First Drive

The Ford Mustang Mach-E GT: A Performance Evaluation

The debate surrounding the Mustang Mach-E’s nomenclature is largely settled. Discussions regarding the appropriateness of applying the iconic pony car name to an electric SUV have run their course. Whether the Mach-E truly embodies the Mustang spirit is now secondary.

A more crucial consideration has emerged: does the Mach-E GT genuinely merit the prestigious GT designation?

Performance and Trim Levels

The answer, unequivocally, is yes. Both the Mach-E GT (with a starting price of $59,900) and the Mach-E GT Performance Edition (beginning at $64,900) demonstrably earn Ford’s Grand Touring badge.

This achievement is realized through substantial power enhancements implemented across both trim levels, when compared to standard Mach-E models. Furthermore, a dedicated track mode has been incorporated.

The Performance Edition receives an additional upgrade in the form of a refined suspension system, further elevating its capabilities.

Mach-E GT: Starting at $59,900, significant power boost, new track mode.
Mach-E GT Performance Edition: Starting at $64,900, enhanced power, track mode, upgraded suspension.

These improvements collectively contribute to a driving experience that aligns with the expectations set by the GT moniker.

Unbridled Performance

Image Credits: Roberto Baldwin

The standard Mach-E already provides brisk acceleration due to its electric powertrain. The GT and GT Performance Edition models further amplify this, offering heightened acceleration and a more responsive throttle for substantial speed gains.

The GT variant delivers 480 horsepower and 600 pound-feet of torque, achieving a 0-60 mph time of 3.8 seconds. Ford enhanced the front motor to achieve this increase in performance. Despite utilizing the same 88 kWh battery pack, improvements were made to the pack’s wiring and overall tuning.

For drivers seeking even quicker acceleration, the GT Performance Edition generates 480 horsepower and 634 pound-feet of torque, resulting in a 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds. Similar to the GT, this model also benefits from upgraded battery wiring, refined tuning, and a more powerful front motor.

Both the GT and GT Performance Edition come equipped with standard all-wheel drive (AWD). This system aims to effectively transfer the EV’s torque to the road. However, maintaining traction proved to be a challenge during testing.

Multiple launch attempts in both vehicles resulted in wheel slippage, occurring either immediately at launch or before reaching 30 mph. Momentary torque steer was also experienced in the GT Performance Edition during full-throttle acceleration from a standstill.

Some degree of wheelspin is anticipated in the GT, as it utilizes the same multilink suspension as the standard Mach-E. The GT Performance Edition, however, marks the first Ford EV to incorporate a MagneRide suspension system.

While the MagneRide system effectively minimizes body roll during cornering, further calibration appears necessary. This adjustment would help reduce rear-end dive during acceleration, thereby mitigating front wheel slippage.

A direct comparison of both vehicles, conducted on the same day, highlighted the advantages of the MagneRide suspension on both highway driving and spirited backroad routes. The GT demonstrated acceptable handling, but exhibited more body roll compared to the higher-priced GT Performance Edition.

This difference was particularly noticeable during hairpin turns, where the Performance Edition maintained composure while the GT leaned more noticeably outward.

Concerning cornering behavior, both AWD-equipped vehicles displayed a degree of understeer, which is not unexpected. However, a separate autocross session with the GT Performance Edition, with traction control disabled, revealed a more neutral feel.

With traction control off, the vehicle exhibited a tendency towards slight oversteer when driven to its limits.

Horsepower (GT): 480
Torque (GT): 600 pound-feet
0-60 mph (GT): 3.8 seconds
Horsepower (GT Performance Edition): 480
Torque (GT Performance Edition): 634 pound-feet
0-60 mph (GT Performance Edition): 3.5 seconds

BlueCruise

My initial experience with Ford’s hands-free driver-assistance technology, BlueCruise, occurred while test driving the GT. Similar to Super Cruise offered by General Motors, this Level 2 system permits drivers to briefly take their hands off the steering wheel under specific conditions.

Like its GM counterpart, BlueCruise operates within geofenced areas – specifically, pre-mapped divided highways – and incorporates a driver monitoring system. This ensures the driver maintains focus on the roadway. Ford states that this feature is available on both vehicles as part of the optional Ford Co-Pilot360 Active 2.0 Package, priced at $1,900.

System Performance

My evaluations revealed that the system’s performance was marginally less refined than GM’s Super Cruise. A slight degree of lane oscillation was observed following sharper turns.

There was one occasion where manual steering intervention was necessary. I felt the vehicle’s turning radius was insufficient, potentially leading to unintentional lane departure. However, the system generally managed fluctuating traffic scenarios and merging vehicles effectively during straight-line driving and most curves.

The system appropriately alerted me when my attention strayed to the infotainment screen instead of the road ahead.

Areas for Improvement

It would be beneficial if the audible alerts were more prominent. Furthermore, the addition of a light bar or warning indicators on the steering wheel – alongside the dashboard cluster – would enhance driver awareness.

This would provide timely notifications regarding the need for attention or impending disengagement of the hands-free functionality. Manufacturers like BMW, GM, and Mercedes currently utilize on-wheel indicators, and their approach represents a valuable enhancement that Ford could consider.

A Familiar Interior, Enhanced

The cabin of the Mach-E GT mirrors that of the standard Mach-E, though notable upgrades have been implemented in the materials used throughout. Specifically, the seats have been refined, offering a more premium feel.

Sport seats are incorporated into the GT trim, providing increased lateral support to maintain driver stability during spirited driving. These seats strike a balance between comfort and performance, avoiding an overly aggressive design.

However, the seats found in the GT Performance Edition present a different experience. An added bolster at the shoulder level proved uncomfortable for this reviewer, who stands 6 feet, 3 inches tall, regardless of seating adjustments. Individuals of smaller stature may find them acceptable, but extended comfort was elusive.

Both GT models feature Ford’s 15.5-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen running the Sync 4A infotainment system, consistent with the standard Mach-E. The system exhibited minimal lag, and its expansive size underscores the modern design of the vehicle.

Access to most functions is achieved with just a few taps, and the prominent physical volume knob located at the screen’s base remains a particularly appreciated design element.

Climate control is managed through the infotainment system, a feature that isn’t universally favored. Nevertheless, temperature adjustments are straightforward, as the controls are consistently accessible at the bottom of the display.

Rear passenger comfort remains commendable, even for taller occupants. Coupled with the generous 29.7 cubic feet of cargo capacity behind the rear seats, and a sizable frunk, the Mach-E offers ample space for luggage – easily accommodating four to five medium-sized bags.

Battery and Range Performance

The enhanced capabilities of the Mach-E GT do necessitate a financial investment exceeding the $42,895 price point of the standard Mach-E model.

Increased power output inevitably results in a reduction in overall range. The extended range Mach-E, with a starting price of $50,775, boasts a range of 306 miles.

Conversely, the Mach-E GT achieves a maximum range of 270 miles, and the GT Performance Edition requires recharging after 260 miles of travel.

Thankfully, both GT variants are capable of accepting charging rates of up to 150 kW at compatible DC fast-charging stations.

Furthermore, they incorporate plug and charge functionality. This allows for seamless charging at networks like Electrify America, initiating power transfer automatically upon connection, eliminating the need for app usage or credit card input.

The system identifies the vehicle and begins charging without further intervention.

Charging Capabilities

Plug and charge simplifies the charging process considerably. It represents a significant convenience for owners frequently utilizing public charging infrastructure.

This feature streamlines the experience, making it more efficient and user-friendly.

Evaluating the Ford Mach-E GT Variants

When considering the Mach-E GT, the question arises: is the Performance Edition worth the additional $5,000 investment? This upgrade delivers a modest power increase alongside a refined suspension system.

However, it's probable that the majority of these vehicles will primarily function as everyday transportation rather than being utilized for track days or engaging Ford’s Unbridled Extend track mode.

Prioritizing Practicality

For drivers whose needs center around daily commutes and typical road conditions, the $1,900 driver-assistance package, featuring the hands-free BlueCruise technology, may represent a more valuable expenditure.

This package offers tangible benefits for regular driving, potentially enhancing both convenience and safety.

A Worthy GT Designation

Regardless of the chosen configuration, both Mach-E GT models provide a driving experience that, while perhaps not aligning with traditional Mustang perceptions, undeniably merits the prestigious GT designation.

The vehicle delivers a compelling blend of performance and technology, establishing itself as a noteworthy contender in the electric vehicle market.