2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E vs 2022 Kia EV6

The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E tried to bridge the gap between traditional Mustang models and the evolving market for electric vehicles (EVs) with its sharp, retro-inspired styling. It sported thin headlights, a long hood, and a noteworthy oval grille that, while nonfunctional, provided a recognizable nod to classic Mustang design. Additionally, its taillights mimicked the original Mustang’s sequential turn signals, and the car’s vibrant color options—like Grabber Blue—further cemented its Mustang lineage. Despite having four doors and a rear hatch, its design struck a balance between modern utility and Mustang nostalgia.

Inside, the Mach-E aimed for a minimalist, futuristic aesthetic dominated by a large infotainment touchscreen awkwardly suspended in the middle of the dashboard. This was complemented by a thin rectangular instrument cluster and a standard rotary gear selector, which brought an air of minimalism akin to Tesla models. Interior materials were of reasonable quality, with ActiveX synthetic upholstery rather than leather, even on the top trims. The First Edition variants included unique touches such as red brake calipers and brushed aluminum pedals.

On the other hand, the 2022 Kia EV6 was designed with a sportier, more aggressive aesthetic that drew immediate comparisons to the Mach-E, albeit with a unique twist. The EV6’s lower and wider stance gave it a formidable, planted look. Its short, highback tail included a lip spoiler that functioned as a lightbar, while its wheels sat at the farthest corners of the chassis, enhancing stability and style. The car’s voluptuous curves were reminiscent of a Porsche 911, and the headlights squinted in an aggressive V-shaped pattern. The matte silver paint of the test car accentuated the vehicle’s smooth, sleek, sporty appeal.

Inside, the EV6 boasted a curved section of dual 12-inch screens atop a linear dashboard. The seating, covered in faux suede and leather, added to the upscale feel. Ambient lighting encircled the dash and rear passengers, creating a futuristic, yet comfortable environment. The floating center console and digital controls pointed to its advanced technological aspirations, while practical features like the hockey-puck shifter highlighted its user-friendly design. The EV6 emerged as a meticulously designed vehicle, appealing not just for its aesthetic but also for its user-centric features.

Under its hood, the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E had to live up to the sporty reputation of the Mustang badge. The base RWD Select model offered 266 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, accelerating from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds. For those seeking more power, the AWD GT Performance Edition ramped up the stakes with an impressive 480 hp and 634 lb-ft of torque, achieving zero to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds—matching the Tesla Model Y Performance. Our test vehicle fell somewhere in between, sporting a mid-level AWD powertrain with 346 hp, 428 lb-ft of torque, and a zero to 60 mph time of 4.8 seconds. The Mach-E’s handling was nimble, thanks to its responsive steering and low-mounted battery pack, although the ride quality suffered due to its taut suspension and larger 19-inch wheels.

Ford offered three driving modes for the Mach-E: Engage, Whisper, and Unbridled, each tailored for different driving experiences. Engage was the default mode, Whisper focused on efficiency, and Unbridled was designed for a sportier ride. Another feature was the option to toggle between one-pedal driving and conventional braking. Regenerative braking in one-pedal mode was strong enough for most situations, and the friction brakes offered linear pedal feel, making for a versatile driving experience.

The 2022 Kia EV6 proved equally impressive in terms of performance. The tested GT-Line e-AWD variant featured two electric motors, delivering a robust 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque, and a 77-kWh battery pack. This hefty setup propelled the EV6 to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds. The cornering dynamics were equally praiseworthy, enhanced by its ability to instantly allocate torque between the front and rear motors.

The EV6 offered several drive modes and an extensive range of regenerative braking settings, including an intense I-Pedal setting for one-pedal driving. A distinctive feature was its drive mode selector, conveniently located on the steering wheel. However, its performance was somewhat hindered by the cold, as real-world range fell short of expectations. Cold weather and frequent use of Sport mode impacted its driving range, which was about 65% of the official 274-mile EPA estimate in real-world conditions.

When it came to charging, the EV6 demonstrated excellence with a rapid charging capability of up to 240 kW. This allowed it to quickly recharge, though the actual charging speeds at public stations often fell short of Kia's claims. Nonetheless, it was a standout feature, ensuring less downtime and more time on the road.

The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E, marketed as an SUV, had an interior layout more akin to a station wagon or hatchback. Its low driving position and low roofline didn’t foster a sense of spaciousness, even with the inclusion of a panoramic glass roof. Compared to the Tesla Model Y, the Mach-E came up short in terms of headroom and legroom in both rows. The Model Y also overshadowed the Mach-E in cargo space, boasting 68.0 cubic feet with the second row folded, compared to the Mach-E’s 59.7 cubic feet. However, in standard configuration, the Mach-E offered more cargo space at 29.7 cubic feet. Additionally, it featured a 4.7-cubic-foot frunk.

Despite the space limitations, the Mach-E’s interior did offer practical storage solutions. A sizeable storage bin was placed between the front seats beneath a flip-up armrest, and a rubberized area under the touchscreen was perfect for smartphones, including a wireless charging pad and USB ports for front and second-row passengers.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia EV6 reinvented several core functions, combining climate controls with the stereo system in a thin, multifunctional touchscreen. Interior switches and controls transformed based on the function selected, which could be disorienting during driving. However, in terms of space, the EV6 excelled. With a low floor, it provided ample legroom and headroom in all seating positions. While it lacked a panoramic moonroof, the back seats were designed with comfort in mind, including reclining capabilities and optional heated cushions.

Cargo space, however, was less impressive in the EV6 compared to the Mach-E. It offered 24 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 50 cubic feet when folded. The RWD models included a small front trunk, but the AWD versions did not, as the space was occupied by the front electric motor. For those needing extra utility, the EV6’s towing capacity was rated at 2,300 pounds, and it featured an onboard generator capable of running 120-volt equipment or charging another EV.

The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E was among the first to feature Ford’s new Sync 4 infotainment system, which included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and OTA software updates. The dashboard was dominated by a vast 15.5-inch infotainment screen and a 10.2-inch instrument cluster. While the large screen was a centerpiece, its design, filled with text, was visually overwhelming and less intuitive compared to traditional setups. However, Ford tried to make up for this with a mix of rotary and touchscreen controls, providing functionality akin to analog buttons.

The Mach-E also offered various sound system options. A six-speaker audio setup came standard, with higher trims like the Premium, GT, and First Edition benefitting from a nine-speaker B&O sound system.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia EV6’s infotainment and tech systems, shared with other Hyundai and Genesis models, were praised for their simplicity and quick response times. However, unlike the Mach-E, its Apple CarPlay and Android Auto systems required a wired connection. The EV6’s instrument panel incorporated the Highway Driving Assist (HDA) and did a commendable job of displaying necessary information, including blind-spot monitoring via live camera feeds.

The EV6’s tech package was extensive, featuring a HUD with augmented reality, a 360-degree camera system, and customizable engine sounds. Higher trims added a 14-speaker Meridian stereo system and a remote parking system. Despite its extensive tech, Kia had to disable its Kia Connect features in Massachusetts due to compliance issues with local laws.

The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time, but it came loaded with a host of standard driver-assist features. This included automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and post-collision braking. Higher trims added a 360-degree camera system and adaptive cruise control. One notable forthcoming feature was Active Drive Assist, promising hands-off driving on designated highways once it became available via OTA updates.

Similarly, the 2022 Kia EV6 lacked crash-test ratings but was equipped with impressive safety tech from the base model. Features included lane-keeping assist, cyclist and pedestrian detection, front and rear cross-traffic alert, and a driver attention monitor. Higher trims added advanced features such as front parking sensors, automatic rear braking, and evasive steering assist.