2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E SUV Scores ‘Good’ In Updated Side Crash Test

The 2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E endured a tougher side crash test and came out “good.”

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety agency put the Ford electric SUV through its newer side test that better simulates a car hitting another from the side. The electric Mustang passed with a “good” rating.

Other SUVs have previously ranked “good” in the updated test: the Ford Explorer, Infiniti QX60, Lincoln Aviator, Mazda CX-9, Nissan Pathfinder, Subaru Ascent, Toyota Highlander, Volkswagen Atlas, Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport and Volkswagen ID.4. The ID.4 is the only other all-electric vehicle.

The Mach-E was already rated as a “Top Safety Pick” from IIHS but that award was based on an evaluation process that’s changing in 2023. The updated side test better matches a midsize SUV on roadways with a heavier moving barrier: 4,200 pounds traveling at 37 mph. Originally it was 3,300 pounds at 31 mph that would strike the test vehicle from the side. 

The Mach-E also earned “good” marks for head protection, but for structural performance the agency downgraded the EV from “good” to “acceptable” after the rear left door opened slightly during testing. 

New Year, New Standards

Starting in 2023, only a “good” rating on the side test will earn tested vehicles the Top Safety Pick+ award. As is, an “acceptable” rating is enough to earn top marks. 

The Mach-E has only been side- and rollover crash-tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) with five-star ratings on the rear-wheel and all-wheel drive versions, but it’s still awaiting overall ratings from the federal agency.