The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E electric crossover needs to not only live up to its historic name, but it also needs to point Ford’s future direction.
PROS All-electric powertrain Captivating looks Up to 300 miles of range Thrilling performance promises A new Mustang for a new generation
CONS Will it live up to its name? How small is the rear seat? How will that big tablet work? Small-ish range on base versions
The 2021 Mustang Mach-E is Ford's first all-electric crossover, and it was designed and named after the company's iconic pony car. The Mach-E also pays homage to the "Mach 1" moniker that has been used on high-performance Mustangs of old. Ford said it went with the name because it needed the electrified crossover to be as desirable as a Tesla to usher in its new era of electric vehicles.When the 2021 Mustang Mach-E finally goes on sale, we'd choose the Premium model. It's expected to provide 300 miles of driving range when paired with the extended-range battery and rear-wheel drive, but we'd still choose the all-wheel-drive version, which knocks its estimated range down to 270 miles. Compared with the base model, the Mach-E Premium has more powerful fast-charging capability, 19-inch wheels, a Band & Olufsen sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and a power liftgate.
PROS Attention-grabbing design, handsome and hushed cabin, instantaneous acceleration.
CONS Not particularly engaging to drive, most range ratings are modest, Mustang purists will miss the V-8 traits.
The first Ford designed specifically to be an electric vehicle.Available hands-free automated driving system.Choice of rear- or all-wheel drive and two battery sizes.Launches the first Mustang Mach-E generation for 2021.
PROS Larger 98.8-kWh battery pack should provide 300 miles on a charge Decisive thrust of a pure EV New Sync 4A infotainment allows for multiple driver profiles Upcoming GT Performance version boasts 459 horsepower
CONS Infotainment system is menu-heavy and takes time to learn
The 2020 BMW X4 offers powerful engine performance, lithe handling, and an upscale cabin with user-friendly features, but it trails the competition in terms of interior space. This luxury compact SUV does not have an overall score or ranking because it hasn’t been fully crash tested.
Pros Enjoyable ride and handling Potent turbocharged engines User-friendly infotainment system Handsome interior
Cons Snug rear headroom Below-average cargo capacity
Fresh off its 2019 redesign, the X4 carries over into 2020 with minimal changes. The biggest news is that the twin-turbo six-cylinder of the M40i gets a serious boost in power, from 355 to 382. Base models add BMW's Comfort Access system as standard equipment. This system allows you to access the vehicle without removing the key fob from your pocket.
Pros Snazzy exterior design, good fuel economy, entertaining driving dynamics from both trim levels.
Cons Stingy cargo capacity relative to that of rival crossovers, slim selection of standard driver-assistance features, Android Auto is conspicuously absent.
No significant changes for 2020.Part of the second X4 generation introduced for 2019.
Pros Both available engines are smooth, powerful and fuel-efficient Easy personalization thanks to abundant standard and optional features Impressive handling for an SUV
Cons Sloping roofline compromises rear headroom and cargo space Android Auto is not available Pricey when fully optioned
