Introduction: A Muscle Legend Betrayed
The Mustang name once roared with thunderous V8s and raw muscle.
Now it’s plastered on an electric SUV—and I can’t get behind it.
The Ford Mustang Mach‑E might offer strong numbers, but it’s a betrayal of heritage.
Meanwhile, the Kia EV6 brings the performance—and spirit—the Mach‑E lacks.
Sure, the Mustang SUV might edge the EV6 in some metrics, but I stand back and let facts speak: in 2025, the EV6 is the better choice—authentic, efficient, and value-packed.
Performance & Power: Stats vs Soul
On paper, Mach‑E delivers punch:
- Up to 480 hp in GT trims, 0–60 in around 3.5s
- EV6 GT is faster, 0–60 in 3.4s with up to 576 hp.
But EV6 does all this with finesse and efficiency.
It’s not just bragging rights—it’s real performance with real-world sense.
Meanwhile the Mach‑E’s Mustang badge rings hollow when it doesn’t deliver true muscle-car character.
Efficiency & Charging: Practical Wins
Efficiency is where the EV6 shines. It delivers higher MPGe—128 city / 103 highway, versus the Mach‑E’s 105 / 93.
That difference means fewer charging stops and lower utility bills.
And charging? EV6’s 800-volt setup can charge 10–80% in under 20 minutes on a 350 kW charger—where Mach‑E caps at 150 kW, taking upwards of 40 minutes.
That’s real-world speed that matters on the road.
Is the EV6 really faster to charge on the highway?
Absolutely. EV6’s high-voltage architecture gives it rapid charging, nearly twice as fast under ideal conditions—meaning less waiting and more driving.
Interior & Practicality: Substance Over Flash
Mach‑E’s cabin features a giant 15.5-inch screen and sporty styling, but EV6 holds its own with twin 12.3-inch displays, wireless CarPlay, and V2L (Vehicle-to-load) functionality.
That means you can power a campsite or RV—something the Mach‑E can’t easily match.
And practicality? Mach‑E wins cargo space (59.7 cu ft vs 50.2), but EV6’s hatch and V2L give it versatility the Mustang badge doesn’t provide.
Is the Mach‑E’s larger cargo bay a deal-maker?
Only if raw space is your priority. Most owners prioritize features like EV6’s faster charging and V2L more than that extra cargo room.
Ride Comfort: Smooth Over Flash
Mach‑E rides stiffer, with soft damping that feels floaty and uneasy over bumps.
The EV6, on the other hand, feels planted and more European in its handling—without sacrificing ride quality.
Mach‑E’s performance variants exacerbate the issue with firmer suspension, so if you want comfort on mixed roads, EV6 takes the lead.
Branding & Identity: The Elephant in the Room
Let’s address the badge: the Mach‑E wears “Mustang” but offers none of the trademark muscle-car feel.
Instant torque in a five-seat SUV doesn’t equal Mustang heritage. That same name on a quiet SUV feels… off.
EV6 doesn’t pretend to be something it’s not—it doesn’t carry the burden of legacy baggage.
It’s a compelling, confident EV in its own right—no marketing theatrics needed.
No Revival Needed: EV6 Drives the Future
I appreciate what Ford tried with Mach‑E.
But for me, the past shouldn’t interfere with the present—and the Mustang name should come with muscle.
The Kia EV6 is a pure, modern electric SUV delivering everything Ford promises—but actually lives up to.
And personally? That’s what gets my vote.
