A red 2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E is shown driving on a coastal highway after winning a 2022 Ford Mach-E vs 2022 Tesla Model Y showdown.

Flashy Trend or Reputable Classic: Tesla vs Ford

There are two kinds of people when it comes to vehicle owners: those who are intrigued by the new, flashy vehicles and those who prefer to rely on brands that have proven their reliability over time. It isn’t about wrong or right but what appeals to a person at the time. Your brother, on the one hand, enjoys the snazzy and the new, whereas your father prefers to return to classic models time and time again. Each of them gets what they want, and both are happy.

Where do you land when it comes to trendy versus tried-and-true? What about when it comes to the 2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E vs 2022 Tesla Model Y? Are you drawn to the flashy Tesla design, or would you choose Ford based on the automaker’s long standing reputation for reliability and quality?

Styling and Size

Many people are opting for electric vehicles these days. Some want a car that they can charge up at home rather than dealing with fluctuating gas prices, some are concerned for the environment and think that an electric model is a better choice, and some just like them because the technology is new and exciting. Can either of these offerings actually handle the needs and wants of the average driver? Let’s take a look at what the Ford Mach-E and Tesla Model Y have to offer in terms of styling and size.

The Tesla Model Y is somewhat unique as it is one of the very few SUV electric models that comes with a third row. If you need plenty of seating in a vehicle and care less about the rest of it, then the Model Y just might be your thing. If, however, you’re looking for a model with a big trunk that still retains its zest for life on the road, then you’ll want to look at the Ford Mustang Mach-E, which comes in a variety of colors, looks like a futuristic speedster, and has plenty of room for all your storage needs.

Ford’s Mach-E has several different trim levels, but all include some luxurious features. Tesla’s Model Y, however, only has two trim levels and has less space in the back seat, as opposed to the Mach-E’s spacious back row. The Model Y will be the right choice if you need the seating that having a third row provides, but if not, the Mach-E is the better option. With plenty of room for up to five individuals, along with space for all the luggage, groceries, and gear everyone will need, the Mach-E manages to emerge victorious when comparing styling and size to the Model Y.

A grey 2022 Tesla Model Y is shown from the side driving past a lake.

Range and Performance

Tesla’s electric vehicle is capable of reaching up to 303 miles per charge if you go with the Premium model. If you decide to purchase the Long Range version, you’ll get about 27 more miles per charge. Depending on which Mustang Mach-E model you decide on, you’ll get anywhere from 224-314 miles per charge. Each of these models is also compatible with the public DC Fast Charge stations set up around the country, so if you need to charge up fast, you can do so.

So which one is the better option? While the Long Range Tesla Model Y does get more miles out of a full charge than the Mustang Mach-E, the difference isn’t that much, and it’s hard to justify paying over $20k more for a Model Y. The better option for you all depends on your budget and what you’re looking for.

Do you need something for a longer commute, or do you want something you can zip around in when you need to run errands? Do you want to have fun while you drive, or do you just want something that will take you from point A to point B? Performance-wise, the Model Y is less impressive due to its limited ability to handle road imperfections. A rougher ride with fewer creature comforts and soft handling? No, thank you. Ford’s offering, on the other hand, is a quiet, gentle ride while still being more fun than most crossovers.

When it comes down to it, you are probably going to want to go with a vehicle that has crisp handling, a solid suspension so you don’t feel every single pothole, and a design that prevents a lot of noise from entering the cabin. Even on short commutes, these niceties promise to create a relaxed atmosphere where you can feel peaceful even when traffic begins to gather and the honking starts up. You’ll be able to play music, enjoy the scenery, and forget for a while that you’re in rush hour traffic, and that is worth more than a few extra miles of charge.

Technology & Safety Features

When people think of technological advancements in regard to vehicles specifically, many will throw out the name “Tesla” as if the company has managed to single-handedly makeover the automotive industry. While it is true that it looks promising, it would be a mistake to overlook companies like Ford, which has been in the business since the very beginning. Not only has Ford been innovating for longer than Tesla has been around, but they also don’t charge extra for services that Tesla deems unnecessary.

Tesla’s technology and safety suites include things like embedded entertainment apps, including games and streaming services, and a digital display that replaces buttons for things like climate control. The Model Y comes standard with a few safety features that most modern cars are equipped with, including lane-keeping assist and pedestrian detection, as well as the infamous Tesla Autopilot semi-autonomous driving system.

The Mustang Mach-E comes with customized driver profiles (three main profiles and one guest) that remember the seat and mirror preferences of each driver and can readjust based on who takes the driver’s seat. The SYNC infotainment system is consistently updated to improve content and usability, and you can pair your Android or Apple phone with the infotainment system. You can also enjoy a WiFi Hotspot, along with an excellent audio system provided by Bang & Olufsen. There are plenty of available driving assistance features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automated emergency braking.

A close up shows the speaker on the black dash of a 2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E.

Which Will You Choose? Proven History or Trendy Fad?

Thinking about Ford’s history and the 100 years of experience it has over Tesla’s 19 years, it should be no surprise that Ford has remained the go-to option for many drivers for so long. Not only has Ford been innovative since the very start, but it also continues to improve upon its vehicles while maintaining its reputation for dependable, fun vehicles. Tesla is still trying to prove itself in the market, and while it is trendy to own a Tesla model, with more and more EVs hitting the market every year from brands people already know and trust, will Tesla be able to remain in a top market position?

Sometimes, we want the newest, shiniest, most expensive things that feel and look super cool, and that’s okay. Tesla is that, and many owners are pleased with their vehicle of choice. The Ford Mustang Mach-E has a little bit of everything for everyone, regardless of whether you’re a fan of the newest tech or you prefer to stick with what you know. It’s a new vehicle designed by a brand that has continuously proven itself over the past several decades. So if you’re looking for something more than the next fad, something that you know you can depend on, then choosing a Ford-made vehicle might be what’s best for you.