The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E electric crossover needs to not only live up to its historic name, but it also needs to point Ford’s future direction.
PROS All-electric powertrain Captivating looks Up to 300 miles of range Thrilling performance promises A new Mustang for a new generation
CONS Will it live up to its name? How small is the rear seat? How will that big tablet work? Small-ish range on base versions
The 2021 Mustang Mach-E is Ford's first all-electric crossover, and it was designed and named after the company's iconic pony car. The Mach-E also pays homage to the "Mach 1" moniker that has been used on high-performance Mustangs of old. Ford said it went with the name because it needed the electrified crossover to be as desirable as a Tesla to usher in its new era of electric vehicles.When the 2021 Mustang Mach-E finally goes on sale, we'd choose the Premium model. It's expected to provide 300 miles of driving range when paired with the extended-range battery and rear-wheel drive, but we'd still choose the all-wheel-drive version, which knocks its estimated range down to 270 miles. Compared with the base model, the Mach-E Premium has more powerful fast-charging capability, 19-inch wheels, a Band & Olufsen sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and a power liftgate.
PROS Attention-grabbing design, handsome and hushed cabin, instantaneous acceleration.
CONS Not particularly engaging to drive, most range ratings are modest, Mustang purists will miss the V-8 traits.
The first Ford designed specifically to be an electric vehicle.Available hands-free automated driving system.Choice of rear- or all-wheel drive and two battery sizes.Launches the first Mustang Mach-E generation for 2021.
PROS Larger 98.8-kWh battery pack should provide 300 miles on a charge Decisive thrust of a pure EV New Sync 4A infotainment allows for multiple driver profiles Upcoming GT Performance version boasts 459 horsepower
CONS Infotainment system is menu-heavy and takes time to learn
The Niro isn't our favorite car to drive, but it's perfect for drivers who care as much about fuel efficiency as they do about their budget.
Pros Efficiently rated up to 52 mpg, affordable, practicality of a crossover.
Cons Some trims lack basic amenities, uninspiring performance, plug-in hybrid has limited EV range.
The 2020 Kia Niro's #5 ranking is based on its score within the Hybrid and Electric SUVs category. It was a finalist for our 2020 Best Hybrid or Electric SUV for the Money award. Currently the Kia Niro has a score of 7.7 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 16 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Excellent fuel economy Spacious interior when compared with subcompact SUVs Intuitive infotainment system
Cons Not available with all-wheel drive Interior not as upscale as rivals’ Unimpressive acceleration
The 2020 Kia Niro is a compelling eco-friendly car for those opposed to Prius-like looks.
Pros Oh so frugal Comfortable, roomy interior Excellent value SUV-ish looks
Cons No AWD option Light on thrills High-trim version uses more fuel Automatic emergency braking should be standard
