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When it comes to car design, we all have something that makes or breaks the deal. For some it’s the badge, others it’s the performance, and for a growing number of buyers today, the decision often boils down to practicality and long-term value. But when you make the switch from a high-performance luxury SUV like the BMW X5 M to a more affordable EV like the Ford Mustang Mach-E, it’s understandable that some buyers might feel there are trade-off, especially when it comes to design details. That contrast in expectations was exactly what caught my eye this morning as I was scrolling through the “Mustang Mach-E Owners” Facebook group, where I came across a post by Leo Christensen. He shared the kind of story you don’t always hear, but it was a brutally honest take on the aesthetics of the Mach-E. Here’s what he had to say:
“Ok I bought a Mach E purely for financial reasons. I traded in an X5M so it was quite the downgrade. However, I want to make this car not as ugly. Can you guys give me some ideas? I don’t mean to offend anyone, I just think they gave up when it came to the back of the car.”
This kind of sentiment isn’t new, and it’s one I’ve seen echoed by others who’ve transitioned from other performance vehicles to EVs like the Mach-E. And while I personally think this car’s design has a lot going for it, I do understand the frustration from other people’s perspective.
When Function Overrides Form
Now let’s keep it real, Ford did take a big swing by putting the Mustang badge on an electric crossover. It ruffled feathers with purists but undeniably helped EV’s reach a broader audience. Yet while the front and side profiles of the Mach-E have generally been praised for their aggressive and sporty design, the rear has remained a polarizing topic for few.
For Leo, coming from the aggressive looking and long luxurious line of the X5 M, the Mach-E’s rear design feels like a letdown. Also, when we look at other owners who’ve shared their own experiences, it becomes clear that some compromises are often tolerated in the name of affordability, efficiency, and electrification. In fact, one former BMW owner recently shared that they ultimately couldn’t justify the high fuel costs and frequent repairs of their X5 and ended up switching to a 2025 Tesla Model 3 instead. But even then, that decision came with a degree of emotional or aesthetic compromise.
The Community Weighs In
Not long after Leo posted his comment, the responses started flooding in. And while some sympathized with his opinion, others came to the Mach-E’s defense.
Joe Miggs responded sharply, saying:
“It’s literally a better performance vehicle than your X5M and to me it looks better. You are blinded by that price tag of the BMW to make you automatically think it looks good.”
Joe isn’t wrong in pointing out the performance credentials of the Mach-E. While the X5 M remains superior in top speed, braking, and driving dynamics at higher speeds, the GT variants have shown surprising agility and acceleration. But as many enthusiasts will tell you, the perception of quality and design is often deeply rooted in branding and past experience.
Emily Taylor had a more constructive take:
“The 23 GT wheels are slick. They did those wheels right. I would use the search feature of this group and look up spoilers or anything else you are interested in.”
This suggestion taps into a key aspect of the Mach-E community, which is its strong focus on modularity and personalization options. The aftermarket has started offering upgrades that can change the rear-end appearance, like body-colored diffusers, unique spoilers, and even tail light overlays. For those with strong opinions on the stock styling, there’s real room to personalize.
Steff Perez took that even further:
“You’ve got the right wheels and paint color. I guess you can paint match the side skirts, front spoiler, rear diffuser, consider installing the rear wing from the Rally if you like that look and tint the tail lights. Some black OZ racing Ultraleggaras might tie things together. I’m not sure what you’re after. I think the Mach-E looks better than any European SUV or crossover besides maybe the Urus. X5M is sort of gaudy in my honest opinion.”
This comment reveals something crucial because even when people upgrade from performance European vehicles, not everyone is looking back. And while design is subjective, the ability to make the Mach-E “yours” is a redeeming factor for many owners.
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Ari Young kept it brief but direct:
“Having had two X5s and an X3, I’d strongly disagree with your assessment.”
It’s clear Ari isn’t buying the argument that the rear of the Mach-E is a major downgrade, and that’s part of the broader sentiment. Once you step out of the BMW bubble, the design priorities tend to shift for many.
Beauty Isn’t the Only Benchmark
Even if you think the Mach-E isn’t as pretty as some competitors, there’s no denying that it delivers in more practical areas. For one, the platform has already proven itself in real-world scenarios. Take the story of an owner whose 2023 Mustang Mach-E Premium was rear-ended and shared the aftermath to show how sturdy the structure was. Despite cosmetic concerns, the Mach-E delivers when it counts in areas like safety, reliability, and overall functionality.
And it’s not just about crash safety. Another Mach-E driver recently reported that buying a 2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E was the best decision they ever made after hitting 250,000 miles without major repairs. That kind of long-term confidence is something many luxury SUV owners rarely experience, particularly with brands like BMW that are often associated with more frequent service visits and higher repair costs.
But of course, there are always two sides to the story. As someone recently argued, “The Ford Mustang Mach-E has to be the worst new car you can buy today if you care about resale value,” estimating a $20,000 loss in just the first year.
So the question really boils down to what matters to you as a car owner? The badge, the lines, or the long-term value?
No Right or Wrong Answer
I think what makes this story so interesting is that it captures something many car buyers are going through today. Design is emotional and personal. And sometimes, even if the car ticks all the boxes in terms of tech, range, or value, there’s just something about the shape of something that just might not sit right.
But here’s what I’ve noticed from the Mach-E owners I’ve spoken with: The Mach-E is one of those vehicles that gets better the longer you live with it. The features start to win you over, the performance sneaks up on you, and the cost savings become undeniable. And even if the rear styling doesn’t quite spark joy, you begin to realize that this car isn’t trying to be an X5 M. It’s trying to be something new, something more accessible, and sometimes that means design concessions for some people. And hey, if you really want to fix the rear, the aftermarket is open for business.
Key Takeaways for Readers
- If you’re coming from a high-end luxury SUV, there could be a period of adjustment when switching to an EV like the Mach-E, especially when it comes to design.
- The Ford Mustang Mach-E has strong performance and customization potential, even if some elements like the rear design don’t initially impress some.
- The EV community offers tremendous support and ideas. Whether it’s cosmetic upgrades or ownership tips, tapping into forums or Facebook groups can help you fall in love with your vehicle.
- Real-world experience tells a more nuanced story than first impressions. With safety, durability, and efficiency at the forefront, the Mach-E continues to prove it’s more than just a design statement.
What Do You Think?
Have you ever bought a car that just didn’t sit right with you visually? Even if everything else was great?
And if you’re a Mach-E owner, did you fall in love with the design from the beginning? Or have you taken matters into your own hands with custom mods if it didn’t grow on you?
I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below, as your experiences and opinions help us better understand what real ownership feels like from every angle.
Aram Krajekian is a young automotive journalist bringing a fresh perspective to his coverage of the evolving automotive landscape. Follow Aram on X and LinkedIn for daily news coverage about cars.
Image Sources: The “Mustang Mach-E Owners” public Facebook group and Ford’s gallery, respectively.
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Source: torquenews.com
