I drove electric SUVs from Ford and Chevrolet. Here's how to choose between the Mustang Mach-E and Bolt EUV.

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I drove electric SUVs from Ford and Chevrolet. Here's how to choose between the Mustang Mach-E and Bolt EUV.
The Chevrolet Bolt EUV (top) and Ford Mustang Mach-E.Tim Levin/Insider
  • I tested electric SUVs from Ford and Chevrolet.
  • The Mustang Mach-E is quicker and more expensive, while the Bolt EUV is cheaper and more compact.
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Now Ford and Chevy fans have another thing to bicker about.

Both Detroit brands now sell competing all-electric SUVs. For Ford, it's the Mustang Mach-E, which went on sale in late 2020. For Chevrolet, it's the Bolt EUV, which recently went on sale again after taking a long hiatus due to battery issues.

These models don't have a ton in common. One is a sporty, electric take on a classic muscle car. The other is a compact commuter SUV. The 2022 Bolt EUV starts at a relatively modest $34,495, while the Mustang Mach-E asks a solid $10,000 more for a base Select model.

But since there aren't all that many electric SUVs out there, there's a good chance some people will be considering both vehicles for their next zero-emission purchase.

I drove both electric family-haulers and compared them across the categories that matter to you most:

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Which drives better?

I drove electric SUVs from Ford and Chevrolet. Here's how to choose between the Mustang Mach-E and Bolt EUV.
The 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV.Tim Levin/Insider

The Mustang Mach-E is quicker, more agile, and all-around more entertaining to drive than the Bolt EUV. It is a Mustang, after all.

It's also available with all-wheel drive, which hurts range but boosts performance. The Bolt EUV only comes in front-wheel drive.

Still, the Chevy rides smoothly and can get you away from a stoplight relatively quickly.

Which has more range?

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I drove electric SUVs from Ford and Chevrolet. Here's how to choose between the Mustang Mach-E and Bolt EUV.
2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E.Tim Levin/Insider

Across all trim levels, the Bolt EUV gets an EPA-rated range of 247 miles, identical to that of the cheapest Mach-E. Add on all-wheel drive and the Mach-E Select's rating drops to 224 miles.

But the $53,500 Mach-E California Route 1 offers up to 314 miles of driving range, placing it near the top of the segment.

Which charges faster?

I drove electric SUVs from Ford and Chevrolet. Here's how to choose between the Mustang Mach-E and Bolt EUV.
The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E.Tim Levin/Insider

At a roadside DC fast charger, the Bolt EUV can charge at a peak rate of 55 kilowatts, which isn't competitive with rivals, including the Mach-E. Chevy says it can add 95 miles of range in 30 minutes.

The Mach-E maxes out at 115 or 150 kilowatts, depending on the model, and can add on the miles much more quickly.

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Most EV owners charge at home overnight, so peak charging rates don't necessarily matter much. But quicker charging can make all the difference on longer road trips, when you want to stop briefly and get back on the road.

How does size compare?

I drove electric SUVs from Ford and Chevrolet. Here's how to choose between the Mustang Mach-E and Bolt EUV.
The 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV.Tim Levin/Insider

The Bolt EUV is 16 inches shorter and four inches slimmer than the Mach-E, making it the better choice for squeezing into parking spots. They're the same height.

What about cargo space?

I drove electric SUVs from Ford and Chevrolet. Here's how to choose between the Mustang Mach-E and Bolt EUV.
The 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV.Tim Levin/Insider

It stands to reason that the Ford offers up more storage space. It provides 29.7 cubic feet of storage area behind the rear seats, compared to the Chevy's 16.3.

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With the seats folded, the Bolt EUV provides a surprising amount of room: 56.9 cubic feet, just short of the Mach-E's 59.7.

I drove electric SUVs from Ford and Chevrolet. Here's how to choose between the Mustang Mach-E and Bolt EUV.
The Mustang Mach-E's frunk.Ford

The Mach-E has an extra 4.7 cubic feet of space in its front trunk, something the Bolt EUV doesn't have. A frunk may not be a dealbreaker, but they're mighty helpful for wet or dirty stuff you don't want mingling with other cargo.

Verdict: Different strokes for different folks

Both are solid choices with wholly different strengths.

The Bolt EUV offers a more accessible cost (even considering that the Mach-E still qualifies for the federal government's $7,500 EV tax credit). And for the 2023 model, the EUV is getting thousands cheaper. Its small size makes it more city friendly.

The Mach-E has the advantage when it comes to maximum range, charging speed, cargo space, and performance. Plus, its sleek looks and low stance mean it's sure to turn more heads.

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