Ford Mustang Mach-E vs. Volkswagen ID.5: Complete comparison 2026

Ford Mustang Mach-E brings a sporty spirit and the iconic heritage of the legendary American car to the world of purely electric SUVs, successfully combining it with modern technologies and dynamic driving characteristics. Against it stands the Volkswagen ID.5, often perceived as a more stylish coupe version of the popular ID.4 model, which instead bets on sophisticated aerodynamics, a highly comfortable and spacious interior, and renowned German efficiency. Let's take a look together at how these two ambitious representatives of family electric vehicles stand in mutual comparison and which of them represents a better choice for your needs on the used car market.

When you place the Ford Mustang Mach-E and the Volkswagen ID.5 side by side, you immediately notice the different approach of both manufacturers to the proportions of an electric SUV. Ford plays the note of overseas majesty, and its body is overall noticeably more massive. In length, the Mustang Mach-E measures up to 4750 mm, while the Volkswagen ID.5, with its maximum 4599 mm, is a good 15 centimeters shorter. This difference contributes to the more athletic and muscular stance of the American model, while the German competitor gives a sleeker and overall more compact impression.

However, the most crucial factor when looking at the exterior dimensions of both cars is the wheelbase. The Mustang Mach-E boasts a wheelbase approaching three meters (up to 2985 mm), surpassing its rival from Wolfsburg by a significant more than 21 centimeters. Such a massive difference in practice means that the Ford offers passengers much more generous longitudinal space in the cabin, which will be especially appreciated by passengers with long legs in the rear seats. Additionally, a longer wheelbase generally aids in more confident directional stability during fast highway travel, making the Mach-E a confident highway cruiser.

On the other hand, the more compact footprint of the Volkswagen ID.5 brings undeniable advantages that shine especially in everyday city traffic. With a shorter length, shorter wheelbase, and a body roughly three centimeters narrower (1852 mm vs 1882 mm), it is easier to maneuver in narrow streets and underground garages. Parking the ID.5 does not require as much vigilance as with the sprawling Ford. When choosing between these two electric vehicles, you must clarify your daily routes: for frequent long-distance trips and maximum interior space, the Ford has the upper hand; for better agility in the metropolis and easier daily coexistence with parking spaces, the VW ID.5 will be the more rational choice.

Luggage space often plays a key role when choosing a family electric car, as these vehicles frequently serve as the primary car in the household. Practicality for everyday use, whether it's transporting sports equipment or easy cargo handling, is essential for buyers. Both the Ford Mustang Mach-E and the Volkswagen ID.5 boast a very dynamic silhouette in the style of modern SUV-coupes. Although the sloping rear gives them an attractive sporty look, each automaker has approached the storage space solution quite differently.

The Volkswagen ID.5 effectively leverages the advantages of the fully electric MEB platform, allowing it to offer an excellently packaged and deep rear space. The base volume of its rear trunk is a generous 549 liters, a capacity sufficient for weekend shopping or a longer vacation. Once the rear bench is folded down, the storage capacity increases to a massive 1561 liters. Given the dynamically sloping roofline, this is an excellent result that offers families space for several more suitcases than is usual for stylish SUV-coupes.

In contrast, the Ford Mustang Mach-E offers a somewhat more modest base trunk with a volume of 402 liters, which means a deficit of 147 liters compared to its German competitor. Folding the rear backrests brings you to 1420 liters. However, Ford cleverly compensates for this smaller rear volume with a practical feature missing from the ID.5 – a front trunk, or "frunk." This provides an additional capacity of 81 liters, has a durable washable surface, and even includes a drain hole. This space is ideal for the worry-free transport of muddy boots or storing charging cables, so they don't get in the way under standard luggage in the back.

From the perspective of overall practicality, the choice depends entirely on how you use the storage spaces daily. If the largest possible uninterrupted area for a stroller or bulky items is essential for you, the Volkswagen ID.5 is the clear choice with its larger base and total trunk capacity. The Mustang Mach-E, on the other hand, while losing in absolute rear space figures, gains valuable points for its flexibility, allowing for the intelligent separation of clean and dirty cargo thanks to its well-thought-out front frunk.

When choosing an electric car on the used market, towing capacity often plays a key role, as not every electric vehicle is structurally designed to tow heavier loads. For buyers, this figure is absolutely crucial – it determines whether they will use the car only with a bike rack or if it will also serve as a practical workhorse for heavier loads. Roughly four-year-old Ford Mustang Mach-E and Volkswagen ID.5 models from the first generation offer very interesting possibilities in this regard, covering the common needs of users. In their basic configuration, both models can tow an unbraked trailer with the same weight of 750 kg, a capacity perfectly sufficient for a weekend purchase of bulky material at a DIY store or a small garden trailer.

More significant differences occur with braked trailers, where standard and maximum values depend heavily on battery capacity and the specific powertrain. On the used market, the Volkswagen ID.5 serves as a stable baseline across the entire range – standard Pro and Pro Performance versions (from 2022–2023) can typically tow 1,000 kg, while the more powerful GTX model can handle a maximum of 1,200 kg. In contrast, the Ford Mustang Mach-E requires more attention when choosing a used car. The version with the basic battery (Standard Range) offers a maximum braked capacity limited to just 750 kg. However, for the version with the larger battery (Extended Range), the manufacturer released significantly higher capacities. Models from 2022 onwards can handle a braked trailer weight of an impressive 1,500 kg, significantly outpacing older 2021 vehicles, which started at a much lower limit ranging from 750 to 1,000 kg.

In practice, these values bring diametrically different usage possibilities. While the Volkswagen ID.5 offers reliable space for a few extra suitcases in the form of a small utility trailer or a very compact trailer, the Mustang Mach-E in the Extended Range version opens the way to true freedom. The mentioned 1,500 kg for the Ford is reliably enough for a medium-sized family caravan or transporting a boat, making this electric SUV a car that is safely sufficient for both weekend shopping and longer holidays. In conclusion, it can be summarized that although the Volkswagen ID.5 offers more consistent parameters and certainty across all available versions, for customers requiring the towing of heavy trailers, the Ford Mustang Mach-E with the larger battery is the clear favorite on the market for roughly four-year-old used cars.

When comparing the powertrains of these two electric SUVs, it is clear at first glance that each manufacturer has chosen a slightly different approach, which is crucial for used car buyers in terms of dynamics and overall driving feel. While the Volkswagen ID.5 focuses more on smoothness, comfort, and efficiency, the Ford Mustang Mach-E bets on emotion and raw performance, referencing its legendary name. Even in the base engine options for approximately four-year-old vehicles from 2021–2022, there is a vast difference: the cheapest Ford offers 198 kW, while the base ID.5 starts at a much more modest 128 kW. Both cars are fully electric, use single-speed automatic transmissions, and offer a choice between rear-wheel drive (4x2) and all-wheel drive (4x4). However, if you are looking for absolute dynamics, the Mustang Mach-E in the GT version, with its 358 kW and massive 860 Nm of torque, clearly outclasses even the most powerful Volkswagen ID.5 GTX of the time, which provides "only" 220 kW. On the other hand, ID.5 vehicles, thanks to their focus on aerodynamics and more moderate performance tuning, reward with stable consumption and excellent use of internal energy for peaceful family travel.

Ford Mustang Mach-E

The range of powertrains for the Ford Mustang Mach-E from the first years of production revolves around two battery capacities (Standard Range and Extended Range) and the option of single or dual-axle drive. Even the base rear-wheel-drive version with the smaller battery offers a respectable 198 kW. Surprisingly, the Standard Range AWD version has the exact same power, but adds a second electric motor to the front axle and significantly increases torque to 580 Nm for more vigorous acceleration from a standstill. For lovers of longer ranges and frequent highway trips, the Extended Range RWD variant with 216 kW was available, while its all-wheel-drive (AWD) equivalent stepped up to 258 kW. The true pinnacle of the range is the brutal GT AWD version with 358 kW (487 hp) and a staggering 860 Nm of torque, which turns this family SUV into a full-fledged sports car. For drivers prioritizing long range, the GT might be unnecessarily "thirsty," making the powerful Extended Range version the ideal compromise for everyday driving.

Volkswagen ID.5

The Volkswagen ID.5 entered the market in 2022 with a simpler and much more relaxed range of electric motors aimed at the average consumer. Most vehicles from these first years of production were equipped with a battery with a usable capacity of 77 kWh. The base model, labeled Pro, featured a single electric motor on the rear axle with 128 kW. Dynamically much more attractive was the Pro Performance version, which offered 150 kW while maintaining the same torque of 310 Nm. However, it is important to note that the Pro Performance version was only available in the initial offering from May 2022 to October 2023, after which it was replaced; thus, its presence on the used car market is tied exclusively to these early model years. For those interested in all-wheel drive and higher agility, the top-of-the-line GTX model was reserved, providing a combined output of 220 kW thanks to two electric motors. Although updated models from 2024 brought increased performance, vehicles typically available as four-year-old used cars will primarily appeal to calmer drivers looking for a quiet, exceptionally comfortable family car rather than a purebred brawler like the Ford.

Choosing the right powertrain is key to long-term satisfaction with a used electric car, and these two electric SUV-coupes take completely different approaches to propulsion and technology. While the Ford Mustang Mach-E bets on strong emotions and a sporty character, offering a choice between a smaller (Standard Range) and a large (Extended Range) battery with a huge power range up to a dazzling 358 kW in the dual-motor GT version, the Volkswagen ID.5 follows a more pragmatic and family-oriented approach. In Volkswagens from the first years of production (roughly 2022–2023), you will always find the same 77 kWh battery in the floor, with only the power of the electric motors changing, which topped out at 220 kW in the sporty GTX all-wheel drive at the time. Our recommendation for roughly four-year-old vehicles is based on real-world experience, the ratio between power and real consumption, reliability on the used car market, and long-term feedback from owners themselves.

For the Ford Mustang Mach-E, we recommend: Extended Range (RWD), 216 kW (294 hp)

From the range of versions available for roughly four-year-old cars, the rear-wheel drive variant with the extended range (Extended Range) represents the most sensible choice. In terms of nomenclature, you will encounter this specific designation on models manufactured between January 2021 and September 2022 (subsequently, the powertrain was renamed to the Premium trim level in the autumn of 2022). The battery with a huge usable capacity of 88 kWh offers an exceptionally generous real-world range well over 400 km (on paper up to 610 km according to the WLTP methodology), making the car a great companion even for long-distance travel. Furthermore, the rear-wheel drive gives the car a slightly oversteer-prone and traditional character that you would expect from the pony badge, while the entire system is noticeably more efficient and lighter than the all-wheel drive variants. The 216 kW output is perfectly sufficient for both smooth and very brisk driving. However, with early used cars from 2021 and 2022, pay close attention to the service history and recall actions. It is absolutely crucial to check whether the main high-voltage battery contactor (the so-called HVBJB issue) has been replaced at an authorized service center – its overheating in the first model years could lead to a "Stop Safely Now" warning and a sudden loss of power while driving. Also, physically check the fit and finish of the optional panoramic roof, which in rare cases suffered from leaks. But if a specific used car has a documented service history and the key manufacturing defects have been successfully resolved, you get a reliable and extremely stylish electric car that will be appreciated especially by long-distance drivers with a weakness for dynamic design.

For the Volkswagen ID.5, we recommend: Pro Performance, 150 kW (204 hp)

For the Volkswagen ID.5 from the early production phases, the Pro Performance powertrain is the absolute golden middle ground. This specific rear-wheel drive version was offered between May 2022 and October 2023, after which it was gradually replaced in the lineup by more powerful derivatives. Its 150 kW output is an ideal compromise for a relatively heavy and comfort-oriented SUV-coupe. Compared to the weaker base Pro version (128 kW), you get significantly better and safer dynamics for highway overtaking, while compared to the top-of-the-line GTX model (220 kW), which is unnecessarily stiffer due to its suspension, you maintain much higher travel comfort and lower electricity consumption. The MEB architecture here relies fully on the 77 kWh battery, which allows for a very reliable real-world range of between 400 and 450 km on a single charge. Mechanically, and in terms of the lifespan and degradation of the traction battery, the Volkswagen ID family is among the most durable on the market. However, the main weakness of the first model years from 2022 and 2023 was the slow, often freezing infotainment and occasional software bugs throughout the vehicle. During a test drive at a dealership, the most important task is to check the software version on the central display – verify that the car has the latest over-the-air (OTA) updates fully installed. Once the vehicle's software is up to date, the system runs smoothly and stably. This version of the ID.5 is then a perfectly ideal choice for families and calmer drivers looking for excellent travel comfort, great rear-seat spaciousness, and a reliable car for every day.

For electric vehicles, just like for cars with internal combustion engines, there is often a noticeable difference between official consumption values given by the manufacturer and real-world practice. In everyday traffic, factors such as driving style, route profile, or the frequency of using heating and air conditioning play a crucial role. For the most accurate comparison of both models on the used car market (focusing on cars approximately four years old, i.e., primarily 2022 versions), we therefore base our findings on aggregated long-term tests and real-world driver data from community platforms such as the German Spritmonitor.de.

The table above reveals some quite interesting trends and differences in the efficiency of both vehicles:

• Volkswagen's dominance in efficiency: The ID.5 model from 2022–2023 is clearly more efficient. Both the Pro and Pro Performance versions consistently show an excellent average of 16.4 kWh/100 km.
• The sporty GTX is still highly efficient: Even the top-of-the-line dual-motor Volkswagen ID.5 GTX (17.1 kWh/100 km) actually consumes less energy than the most efficient variant of the competing Ford.
• Surprise at Ford: For the Mustang Mach-E, it is a slightly paradoxical finding that the version with the smaller battery (Standard Range) consumes more on average (18.3 kWh/100 km) than the heavier Extended Range variant (17.6 kWh/100 km). This shows that the drive system with the larger battery can work with energy slightly more efficiently, which brings owners the advantage of not only better range but also lower consumption.

For a typical user, this means a fairly clear recommendation. If you commute longer distances daily, spend a lot of time on highways, or simply belong to the group of buyers sensitive to the operating budget, the Volkswagen ID.5 is the ideal choice with lower costs per kilometer driven, thanks to its better aerodynamics and tuned drivetrain. The Ford Mustang Mach-E, on the other hand, targets drivers for whom muscular design and a more aggressive character are priorities, and who are willing to accept slightly higher charging bills and slightly more frequent stops at charging stations.

In the end, electricity consumption definitely represents one of the key factors when deciding between these two used cars. While the ID.5 offers rational and highly economical operation, the Mustang Mach-E requires a small energy surcharge for its emotions and distinctive character.

Price comparison on the used car market: Ford Mustang Mach-E vs. Volkswagen ID.5

Looking at the used car market for vehicles around 4 years old (2021 and 2022 models) reveals a huge advantage for second-hand buyers. Both of these electric SUVs have seen a fairly significant drop in their original value since their launch. This means that cars that cost over €62,000 new can now be bought for a fraction of the original price, making them very attractive choices.

Volkswagen ID.5: A sensible choice for families

The Volkswagen ID.5 (from 2021–2022) maintains a relatively stable price level on the used market, benefiting from more accessible service and the traditional popularity of VW Group vehicles. The market offering is mainly limited to variants with a 77 kWh battery (usable).

• Base version (Pro, 128 kW): Prices for the cheapest units with reasonable mileage start from approximately €25,000. These cars often represent an entry point into the world of family electromobility.
• The sweet spot (Pro Performance, 150 kW): You can most often find this balanced and most popular variant in the range of €26,000 – €29,000, often even with very generous equipment (Matrix LED headlights, better assistance systems).
• Sporty GTX version (220 kW, 4x4): If you are looking for the more powerful dual-motor GTX variant with a sharper look and all-wheel drive, expect to pay roughly €31,000 to €35,000.

Ford Mustang Mach-E: Emotion with an American touch

The Ford Mustang Mach-E, as a more stylish and aggressive alternative, covers a much wider price spectrum. This is due to the greater variability in battery sizes (Standard Range vs. Extended Range), the availability of rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, and the offering of the uncompromising sporty GT version.

• Base version (Standard Range, RWD): Used units with the smaller battery (75 kWh) and rear-wheel drive start just below the €25,000 mark. They are suitable for those who are satisfied with a shorter range and appreciate the more playful character of a rear-wheel-drive car.
• Long-range version (Extended Range): Models with the larger battery (98 kWh), often in combination with all-wheel drive (AWD), are most commonly found in the €27,000 – €31,000 range. These versions are particularly in demand on the market for trouble-free longer trips.
• Sporty GT version: The top-of-the-line GT model with massive power and all-wheel drive represents an exclusive item on the used car market. Prices here safely exceed the €35,000 mark; for very well-maintained or better-equipped units, expect a price around €41,000.

Overview of approximate used car prices (approx. 4 years old)

For both models, it is clear that electric vehicles drop in price quickly in the first years of their life. While the price list for the Volkswagen is slightly flatter and more predictable due to the unified battery size on the used market, the Mustang Mach-E can cover a much wider range of requirements and budgets. From a technical standpoint, you get a modern car in both cases; however, before purchasing, we always recommend checking the condition of the high-voltage battery (SoH).

Both of these electric vehicles received the maximum five-star rating in the rigorous Euro NCAP crash tests. However, for used cars, it is always necessary to view safety results in the context of the time when the testing actually took place. The Euro NCAP methodology and protocols are constantly evolving and becoming stricter over time, which means that percentage scores from different years cannot be directly compared. The newer the test, the more demanding the requirements – especially for active accident prevention systems, cyclist detection, or the evaluation of intersection assist systems. In this case, however, we have ideal conditions for comparison for used car buyers. Both models underwent testing in the same year, according to the modern and very strict standards applicable for that period.

The Ford Mustang Mach-E was tested in 2021. The car received top ratings for adult protection (92%) and child protection (86%). The presence of a center airbag, which prevents the heads of front passengers from colliding, and an active pop-up hood that reduces potential consequences of a collision for pedestrians and cyclists, significantly contribute to the high level of passive safety. In the category of vulnerable road user protection, the American model achieved a score of 69%, while its richly equipped assistance systems – including intelligent adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and autonomous emergency braking – earned a respectable 82%.

The Volkswagen ID.5 also underwent Euro NCAP testing in 2021 and likewise received a five-star certificate. From the perspective of raw percentage data, however, it performed even slightly better in the tables than its American competitor. Adult occupant protection reached an excellent 93% and child safety 89%, with the standard-fit center airbag also playing an important role here in side impacts. The most significant difference between the two cars can be found in the systems for protecting vulnerable road users, where Volkswagen recorded an above-average 76% thanks to advanced detection systems. Safety assistants then earned a solid 85%.

In conclusion, it can be stated that both cars represent the absolute benchmark of safety on the nearly-new used car market and benefit from highly modern and complex technologies with their results. Based on a direct comparison using the same methodology, however, the Volkswagen ID.5 surpasses the Ford by several percentage points across all sub-metrics, particularly in terms of consideration for pedestrians and software advancement, making it a slightly more comprehensive and modern choice for family use.

In addition to standard equipment, both models offer much more than just basic functions, and each approaches driver value in its own, completely unmistakable way.

Ford Mustang Mach-E: A Legend's Legacy and Technological Innovation

• Smart design and practicality: The American manufacturer opted for completely smooth sides without traditional handles. Instead, it uses the E-Latch electronic lock system, where doors open via a discreet button on the pillar. A truly unique feature is the front trunk (the so-called frunk) with a capacity of 81 liters. It is made of washable plastic and hides a drain plug at the bottom – making it absolutely ideal for storing muddy boots from a trip or even chilling drinks in ice for a summer picnic.
• Infotainment and connectivity: The dashboard is dominated by a vertically oriented 15.5-inch touchscreen for the SYNC 4A system, featuring a massive physical volume knob at the bottom. The system supports advanced over-the-air (OTA) updates, which improve not only the entertainment system functions but also the car's control units themselves. The Phone As A Key feature is practical, allowing you to unlock and start the car without a physical key.
• Driving experience and chassis: The Mustang Mach-E offers the driver three very distinct driving modes (Whisper, Active, and Untamed). These change not only the steering weight and pedal response but also adjust the ambient interior lighting and play artificial sound inspired by V8 engines through the speakers. For those seeking the ultimate sporty experience, the GT version is available, featuring a more powerful all-wheel-drive system and MagneRide adaptive suspension that can instantly adapt to road conditions.

Volkswagen ID.5: Aerodynamic Elegance and Augmented Reality

• Smart design and ergonomics: It's not just about the stylishly sloping roofline that gives the car a coupe look. This shape significantly improves aerodynamics (the drag coefficient is just 0.26), which in practice means lower consumption and a longer real-world highway range compared to the more family-oriented ID.4. Optional ergoActive seats, which offer a sophisticated massage function, also have a positive impact on daily comfort.
• Electronics and driver communication: One of the most interesting technologies is the optional Head-Up display with augmented reality (AR). Virtual navigation instructions and assistance system warnings are projected onto the windshield so that they visually merge with the actual road ahead. In the interior, the so-called ID. Light takes center stage – an interactive LED strip directly under the windshield. It intuitively guides the driver using color animations, shows charging status, or warns of danger.
• Assistance systems and safety: The ID.5 uses innovative Car2X technology as standard. The car can continuously communicate with the surrounding infrastructure and other similarly equipped vehicles within a range of up to 800 meters. If an accident occurs or a traffic jam forms around a corner, the system alerts the driver before they even see the problem.
• Sport variants: Similar to Ford, Volkswagen also offers a more emotive variant referencing its history. In the electric range, it bears the GTX designation. This version features two electric motors ensuring all-wheel drive and a sportier setup. Furthermore, the optional DCC adaptive chassis allows for fine, continuous adjustment of damper stiffness far beyond the limits of standard Comfort and Sport modes.

The Ford Mustang Mach-E is a perfect choice for drivers who demand not only locally emission-free operation from an electric car, but also emotion, distinctive style, and a sportier ride. In the four-year-old used car market, it makes sense primarily for those buyers who are happy to sacrifice smooth comfort in exchange for an unmistakable look and immediate driving dynamics.

The Volkswagen ID.5, on the other hand, targets more pragmatic customers who prefer maximum travel comfort, a quiet ride, and plenty of space for the whole family. It is an ideal electric SUV-coupe for carefree daily travel, where you will especially appreciate the extraordinary comfort and easy handling.

Based on our own comprehensive vehicle inspections, long-term user feedback, breakdown statistics, and recall bulletins, we have compiled an overview of the most common issues that buyers of used electric vehicles should watch out for.

Ford Mustang Mach-E from the initial years of production (2021–2022) struggled with several "teething troubles" of the first model years, with most mechanical and electronic ailments now having a clear solution directly from the manufacturer.

• Powertrain and battery: The most well-known and serious problem with used Mach-E models (especially the Extended Range and GT versions) is the overheating of the high-voltage contactors of the main battery. This typically occurs after repeated fast charging (DC) combined with aggressive acceleration. The fault can result in a sudden loss of power while driving and the display of the error message "Stop Safely Now". Ford has issued a widespread recall for this problem, involving the replacement of the junction box and software protection.
• 12V battery and door locks: Many owners have experienced rapid and unexpected depletion of the conventional 12V battery. Since the Mach-E uses electronic locks to open the doors, a dead battery led to the inability to get into the vehicle. The manufacturer issued an important software update regarding the behavior of the locks at low voltage and the 12V battery charging management.
• Software and infotainment: The SYNC 4A multimedia system display tends to freeze, take a long time to start, or randomly disconnect the wireless connection with the phone in older software versions. The PAAK (Phone As A Key) function was also problematic in early units, often failing to recognize the phone.
• Build quality and wind noise: Some cars from the start of production suffer from more pronounced wind noise penetrating around the A-pillars and side mirrors due to imperfect sealing, which is distracting in a quiet electric car.

Volkswagen ID.5 arrived on the market slightly later than its sibling, the ID.4, which allowed it to partially avoid the very worst initial mistakes from the factory; nevertheless, this model also has its specific weak points.

• Software and slow infotainment: By far the most common source of frustration for used families from the MEB platform is the software. Vehicles with older system versions before the major update to version 3.0 and higher suffer from screen freezing, slow responses, and lengthy navigation loading. From a user perspective, the missing hardware backlit slider under the display is also widely criticized – controlling volume and temperature at night is very difficult.
• False warnings from assistance systems: The vehicle's electronics occasionally report error messages for Lane Assist or Front Assist systems. Very often these are software anomalies that can be resolved either by reflashing the software at a service center or by recalibrating the cameras behind the windshield.
• Interior plastic quality: Unlike the brand's older internal combustion models, Volkswagen used a higher proportion of harder and recycled plastics in the cabins of ID models. These may have a tendency to squeak slightly over bumps after several tens of thousands of kilometers.
• Charging initiation errors: Occasional reports of communication problems (the so-called handshake) between the car and some public DC fast-charging stations appear. The charging process may fail shortly after connection, requiring the cable to be disconnected and the attempt repeated.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key, and it always pays to invest in a professional physical inspection of a used car. Both of these fully electric SUVs have their specifics, and during a test drive, there are several points worth focusing on.

When choosing a Ford Mustang Mach-E:

• Software updates and battery contactors: Early models (especially from 2021 and 2022) experienced issues with the high-voltage battery contactors overheating, which could lead to a sudden loss of power. Check the vehicle's history to see if a recall or the relevant software update has been performed. During the test drive, try accelerating sharply several times and observe if the car pulls smoothly and without error messages.
• SYNC 4A infotainment responsiveness: The giant central display occasionally suffers from freezing or slow reactions in used units. Test the map redraw speed, switching between apps, and the functionality of wireless phone mirroring. Delayed responses are often resolved by a forced installation of the latest OTA (Over-The-Air) update.
• Sealing quality and aerodynamic noise: When driving at highway speeds, listen for whistling around the A-pillars, frameless windows, and the panoramic roof. Some earlier units had inaccurately fitted door seals, which caused noticeably increased noise in the cabin.
• "Phone as a Key" function: If the used car has this feature active, pair it on the spot and test it. Earlier software versions had problems with reliably recognizing the phone and unlocking the car. Malfunction may require a service visit to reset the module.
• Chassis and axle play: Listen carefully when driving over bumps and speed bumps. Knocking from the front axle in the heavy Mach-E can signal worn shock absorber mounts or steering joints, even in cars with a mileage of around 60,000 km. In such a case, an independent technical inspection of the car's condition comes in handy.

When choosing a Volkswagen ID.5:

• Software version and system smoothness: The software environment of the MEB platform was problematic in the early stages of production. Ensure the car is running at least software version 3.0 (ideally newer). Check the touchscreen response and the smoothness of animations immediately after starting – unupdated software can freeze, load user profiles slowly, or restart spontaneously.
• Condition of rear drum brakes: The ID.5 primarily uses strong recuperation for normal deceleration and features drum brakes on the rear axle. If the car has been sitting at a dealership for a long time or has not been used for sharper braking, the mechanisms can seize or corrode. During the test drive, switch to neutral and brake more sharply using the mechanical brakes to verify that the car does not pull to the side and the brakes do not make grinding noises.
• Touch buttons on the steering wheel: The capacitive touch surfaces on the ID.5's steering wheel take some getting used to and can be prone to accidental presses or, conversely, incorrect command recognition. During the drive, test all controls (volume, cruise control) and see if they function consistently.
• Heating and air conditioning efficiency: Check the equipment list to see if the specific used car is equipped with the optional heat pump (very important for maintaining range in winter months). Test its functionality by setting the air conditioning to maximum and minimum and observe how quickly the system responds and whether the temperature of the blown air fluctuates.
• Knocking from the front axle: As with other heavy electric vehicles, the ID.5 suffers from faster wear of the stabilizer links. Try weaving at lower speeds on an empty road or driving through a series of potholes and listen for dull thuds from the wheels. Here, too, it pays to arrange a comprehensive car inspection before buying, which will reliably reveal hidden play in the suspension and other potential deficiencies.

Sources: ADAC, aktualne.cz, denik.cz, autojournal.cz, autosalon.tv, cistadoprava.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.