Ford Mustang Mach-E Vs Chevy Bolt EUV: Electric SUVs Compared
Now Ford and Chevy fans have something else to argue about.
The two Detroit brands are now selling competing all-electric SUVs. For Ford, it’s the Mustang Mach-E, which went on sale in late 2020. For Chevrolet, it’s the Bolt EUV, which recently went back on sale after a long hiatus due to battery issues.
These models don’t have a ton in common. One is a sporty, electric version of a classic muscle car. The other is a compact commuter SUV. The 2022 Bolt EUV starts at a relatively modest price of $34,495, while the Mustang Mach-E charges $10,000 more for a base Select model.
But since there aren’t many electric SUVs out there, chances are some people are considering both vehicles for their next zero-emissions purchase.
I drove both electric family transporters and compared them in the categories that matter most to you:
Which rides better?
The 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV.
Tim Levin / Insider
The Mustang Mach-E is faster, more agile and more fun to drive than the Bolt EUV. It’s a Mustang, after all.
It is also available with all-wheel drive, which reduces range but improves performance. The Bolt EUV is only available in front-wheel drive.
Still, the Chevy drives smoothly and can pull you away from a red light pretty quickly.
Which has more range?
Ford Mustang Mach-E 2021.
Tim Levin / Insider
Across all trim levels, the Bolt EUV boasts an EPA-compliant 247-mile range, the same as the lowest-priced Mach-E. Add all-wheel drive and the Mach-E Select’s rating drops to 224 miles.
But the $53,500 Mach-E California Route 1 offers up to 314 miles of range, putting it near the top of the segment.
Which loads faster?
The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E.
Tim Levin / Insider
On a roadside DC fast charger, the Bolt EUV can charge at a peak rate of 55 kilowatts, which is uncompetitive with rivals including the Mach-E. Chevy says it can add 95 miles of range in 30 minutes.
The Mach-E maxes out at 115 or 150 kilowatts, depending on the model, and can add miles much faster.
Most EV owners charge at home overnight, so peak charge rates don’t necessarily matter that much. But faster charging can make all the difference on long journeys, when you want to stop briefly and get back on the road.
How does the size compare?
The 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV.
Tim Levin / Insider
The Bolt EUV is 16 inches shorter and four inches thinner than the Mach-E, making it the best choice for squeezing into parking spots. They have the same height.
What about cargo space?
The 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV.
Tim Levin / Insider
It goes without saying that the Ford offers more storage space. It offers 29.7 cubic feet of storage space behind the rear seats, compared to the Chevy’s 16.3.
With the seats folded down, the Bolt EUV offers a surprising amount of space: 56.9 cubic feet, just short of the Mach-E’s 59.7.
Mustang Mach-E frunk.
Ford
The Mach-E has an additional 4.7 cubic feet of space in its front trunk, which the Bolt EUV does not. A frunk might not be a dealbreaker, but they’re great for wet or dirty items that you don’t want mixed up with other merchandise.
Verdict: different moves for different people
Both are solid choices with entirely different strengths.
The Bolt EUV offers a more accessible cost (even considering the Mach-E still qualifies for the federal government’s $7,500 EV
tax credit
). And for the 2023 model, EUV becomes thousands cheaper. Its small size makes it more urban.
The Mach-E has the edge in terms of maximum range, charging speed, cargo space and performance. Plus, its sleek looks and low stance mean it’s sure to turn more heads.