So you’re looking
for a moderately priced four-door electric SUV
. With similar price points and functionality, how do you choose between the 2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E vs. 2022 Polestar 2? Can you guess which crossover was recommended by Consumer Reports
, and which one they kicked to the curb? Jerry
, the car ownership super app
, breaks it down. 2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E vs. 2022 Polestar 2: Performance and range
While it’s not considered a “real” Mustang, or as fun to drive as one, the 2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E should not be overlooked. It’s athletic, offers exceptional range, and has a lavish cabin sure to impress your friends.
The Mach-E comes standard with a 70 kWh battery or a 91 kWh pack with its extended range. According to Car and Driver
, “These feed an electric motor mounted on the rear or both axles. That latter combination creates all-wheel drive, and on the sporty GT and GT Performance models, the motors combine to make 480 horsepower and up to 634 pound-feet of torque.” Though it doesn’t handle like a traditional pony car, the ride is smooth and quiet. Depending on the battery pack and motor selection, drivers can expect an EPA between 211 and 305 miles per charge. Not bad, but still less than higher-end Teslas.
The 2022 Mach-E also offers fast-charging capabilities. According to Car and Driver, “Every Mach-E comes out of the box with a Ford mobile charger that can add up to 30 miles of range per night with a 120-volt outlet and up to 80 percent of battery life overnight with a 240-volt outlet.” It’s also easy to order a Ford charge station online.
On the other hand, the Polestar 2 supports fast charging up to 150 kWh, which takes about 40 minutes to recharge a dead battery to 80%.
According to Car and Driver
, “Like the Volvo XC40 crossover, the 2 rides on the Swedish brand's Compact Modular Architecture (CMA), though the electrified version of the platform accommodates a 75.0-kWh lithium-ion battery pack under the floor.” With the single-motor option, you’ll get a 270-mile range and 249 miles with the dual-motor model.
2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E vs. 2022 Polestar 2: Interior styling and connectivity
Because the Mustang Mach-E’s battery is under the floor of the car, it offers buyers ample cargo and passenger space. But if you’re hoping the inside looks just like the traditional muscle car, you’ll be disappointed.
However, you will get a 15.5-inch vertical touchscreen and a good-looking gauge cluster. Not to mention heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, customizable ambient interior lighting, a panoramic sunroof, and wireless charging.
Buyers can expect innovative safety features as well as Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, a mobile Wi-Fi hot spot, and a Bang & Olufsen audio system. Over-the-air updates will roll through Ford’s SYNC infotainment over time.
The Polestar 2’s interior features intentional minimalist styling that incorporates plastic, wood, and fabric. With a spartan color palette, the 2 reads simpler than Volvos we’ve seen in the past.
While the fabric is vegan and eco-friendly, you can still opt for leather if that’s more your style.
Cargo space is limited, with about 15 cubic feet to work with, compared to the Mach-E’s 29 cubic feet behind the rear seats, and up to 60 cubic feet when you fold the back seats. At least you’ll get a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an 11.2-inch iPad-esque portrait-oriented touchscreen that’s centrally located.
The integrated Android Automotive OS infotainment system is designed to minimize distraction. It makes “Google Maps the integrated nav system and provides useful EV-specific information to the driver, such as where the nearby charging stations are and how long you'll have to sit there once you arrive,” Car and Driver tells us.
Two USB ports are located in the front and two can be found in the rear. Drivers will also receive a standard satellite radio and a Harman/Kardon sound system.
So what say you, Consumer Reports?
When it comes to acceleration, the two vehicles scored a 5 out of 5 Consumer Reports
rating. The Mach-E can jump from 0 to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds, while the Polestar 2 only needs 4.4 seconds. Consumer Reports gave the Ford Mustang Mach-E a road test score of 78 out of 100, compared to a ranking of 72 for the Polestar 2. The organization also gave the Mach-E a higher reliability and owner satisfaction rating.
The Polestar 2’s rear access, ride, driving position, rear-seat comfort, and usability also received poor marks. Not to mention, the car’s range can barely compete with best-selling vehicles like the Tesla or Chevy Bolt. Overall, the Mach-E received a score of 82 and the Polestar fell behind with a measly 57 points.
The Ford Mustang Mach-E can be found in the $43,895 to $61,995 range depending on your preferences. At a higher price point, the 2022 Polestar 2022 ranges from $45,900 to $49,900.
While the best way to decide between the 2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E vs. 2022 Polestar 2 is to take each for a test drive, it’s clear that the Mach-E is a terrific crossover with incredible value. Even if the Polestar does have a handsome cabin and user-friendly tech, its subpar range and odd bodywork leave us wanting more.
4.7
