Test Drive: Electric Avenue

There are just some things that are hard to find fault with. The Ford Mustang Mach E is one of them.

Now, perfection may be unattainable, but this all-electric compact crossover comes pretty close. For starters, the Mach E feels vaguely familiar, with muscular good looks, abundant acceleration and crisp handling reminiscent of the long-running coupe with which it shares its galloping pony logo.

Besides impressive performance, the Premium trim level version we tested offered several driving-style settings. The Mustang Mach E’s low center of gravity and nicely tuned suspension made it feel at home on a curvy road. Ride quality was also good, especially considering its sporty attitude.

Inside, the cabin felt comfortable and spacious. The humongous vertical touchscreen stands out for being both beautiful and easy to use. In back is an adult-friendly rear seat and as much as 59.6 cubic feet of cargo room. A front trunk under the hood adds even more storage.

Add it all up and you have a new Mustang that’s hard to nitpick.

Starting Price: $42,895

MPGe (city/highway): 105/93

Safety: N/A

Volkswagen ID.4

When it comes right down to it, an electric vehicle is successful in direct proportion to how few compromises it requires of its owner. By that measure, the Volkswagen ID.4 is a winner.

While this battery-powered compact crossover is far from ordinary, it impresses with how comfortable it feels. Acceleration may not be neck-snapping, but the AWD Pro S model we drove was far from pokey. Ride quality is slightly firm and the handling feels confident, if not exactly sporty.

The ID.4’s quiet passenger cabin is roomy enough for four adults. There’s cargo space galore — 64.2 cubic feet of it with rear seats folded. Other quirks include oddly overcomplicated power window switches and a center touchscreen that can be tricky to use, especially while underway.

Overall, the Volkswagen ID.4 does a great job of not calling attention to itself. Plug it in at night to recharge and you have an environmentally friendly crossover that makes it easy to go green.

Starting Price: $39,995

MPGe (city/highway): 107/91

Safety: 5 Stars

Looking for a new ride? Check out more car reviews at AAA.com/TestDrive.

Visit AAA’s Electric Vehicle platform for more information on these cars of the future.