First Drive: Ford Mustang Mach-E GT

The Ford Mustang Mach-E is probably one of the most controversial vehicles Ford has ever built. Not because of how it drives, but because of what it is. For decades, the Mustang badge has represented a low-slung coupe with a big engine up front and rear-wheel-drive fun. The Mach-E takes that iconic name and places it on an all-electric SUV.

Naturally, enthusiasts were divided when it was first revealed. After spending time behind the wheel of the Mustang Mach-E GT, however, one thing becomes very clear. Whatever side of the naming debate you stand on, the Mach-E is a seriously impressive performance EV.

Sharp styling with Mustang influences

While the Mach-E is clearly an SUV, Ford’s designers have done a good job incorporating familiar Mustang styling cues. The long bonnet, muscular rear haunches, tri-bar rear lighting signature and aggressive front-end treatment all help establish a connection to its famous namesake.

The GT model further enhances the sporty look with larger 20-inch alloy wheels, performance tyres, red Brembo brakes and unique exterior detailing. It has plenty of road presence and certainly stands out among the growing number of electric SUVs on UAE roads. 

Modern and spacious cabin

Inside, the Mach-E adopts a minimalist approach. Dominating the dashboard is a large 15.5-inch vertically-mounted touchscreen, complemented by a digital instrument cluster positioned ahead of the driver. The layout is clean, modern and easy to get used to.

The cabin also feels surprisingly spacious. Thanks to the dedicated EV platform and flat floor design, rear-seat passengers enjoy generous legroom, while the cargo area is practical enough for daily family duties. A panoramic glass roof further enhances the sense of space, while premium materials and a Bang & Olufsen audio system help create an upscale atmosphere. 

Performance that lives up to the badge

Press the accelerator and any doubts about the Mach-E’s performance credentials quickly disappear.

The UAE-spec Mustang Mach-E GT produces up to 487 hp and 950 Nm of torque through a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup. Ford claims a 0-100 kph sprint of as little as 3.3 seconds, and from the driver’s seat, it certainly feels every bit that quick. 

Instant electric torque delivers explosive acceleration from virtually any speed. Whether pulling away from traffic lights or overtaking on the highway, the response is immediate and effortless. The Mach-E GT gathers speed with an intensity that few traditional performance SUVs can match.

Unlike some EVs that deliver impressive straight-line acceleration but little excitement afterwards, the Mach-E GT manages to remain engaging throughout the driving experience.

Surprisingly capable handling

The biggest surprise of the drive was the way the Mach-E handles.

Electric SUVs are often heavy machines, but Ford has done an excellent job disguising the weight. The battery pack mounted low within the chassis creates a low centre of gravity, helping the vehicle feel planted and composed through corners.

The steering feels direct, body roll is well controlled and the grip available from the all-wheel-drive system inspires confidence. On twisting roads, the Mach-E changes direction eagerly and feels more like a sporty crossover than a large family SUV.

The GT model also benefits from performance-focused hardware including Brembo brakes, MagneRide adaptive damping and an electronic torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system. Together, they help deliver impressive stability and control whether driving aggressively or simply cruising on the highway. 

The ride quality remains comfortable enough for daily use, striking a good balance between sportiness and refinement.

Range and charging

The Mustang Mach-E GT uses a 91-kWh battery pack and offers a driving range of up to 419 km, with some sources quoting up to 450 km under WLTP testing depending on specification.

Fast charging capability allows the battery to recharge from 10% to 80% in roughly 37 minutes when connected to a suitable DC fast charger. 

Verdict

The Ford Mustang Mach-E GT is an excellent electric performance SUV.

It is brutally quick, surprisingly engaging to drive and handles far better than many vehicles in its segment. Ford has successfully created an EV that feels exciting rather than merely efficient, which is exactly what you would hope for from something carrying a Mustang badge.

Ironically, the controversy surrounding the Mach-E has never really been about its performance. On the road, it proves itself to be a genuinely capable and entertaining machine. The debate is more about the name itself. The Mustang badge carries decades of history, representing one of the world’s most iconic coupes and muscle cars.

If Ford had launched this exact vehicle under a different name, there would likely be far fewer arguments. Because judged purely as a performance EV, the Mustang Mach-E GT is very hard to fault.

Prices in the UAE for the Ford Mustang Mach-E GT start from AED 185,000. 

Keep track of the latest prices and specs in our buyer guide.