The 2023 Toyota bZ4X is a new electric SUV generating buzz in the EV market. One of its main competitors, the Ford Mustang Mach-E, has also been a favorite among EV enthusiasts. However, the all-electric Mustang is a far cry from the sporty Ford Mustangs of the past.

With the popularity of EVs on the rise, many automakers are poised to take advantage of the electric revolution that has swept across the car industry. Previously unimpressive brands like Hyundai are now offering some of the best EVs available on the market, and car manufacturers are pouring billions into EV production. Toyota has been slow to make the transition, but it is coming out of the gate strong with the bZ4X.

How does the bZ4X stand up to the competition? Here are four reasons you should buy a Toyota bZ4X over the Ford Mustang Mach-E.

1. The Toyota bZ4X has a lower starting price than the Mustang Mach-E

The base MSRP for the Ford Mustang Mach-E starts at $43,895, and the base price of the Toyota bZ4X is $42,000. Additional options on the bZ4X can push the cost to a little over $48,000, which is still pretty reasonable considering all that you get.

However, the Mustang Mach-E can cost as much as $61,995 with options that include a bigger battery for a more extended range and more power. For example, you will pay $68,790 for the Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Extended Range model.

2. The bZ4X comes with more standard driving range

The Toyota bZ4X batteries offered in the standard model are a 63.4-kWh battery pack in the single-motor version and a 65.5-kWh pack in the upgraded dual-motor model. The bZ4X single-motor model can deliver 242 and 252 miles of range with the Limited and the XLE versions. Meanwhile, the AWD dual-motor versions will give you 222 and 228 miles. 

On the other hand, the Ford Mustang Mach-E comes standard with a battery pack with a usable capacity of 68.0 to 70.0 kWh, while the optional extended range pack has a capacity of 88.0 to 91.0 kWh. Even with a slightly larger battery, it only gets about 211 miles with the standard model, according to Car and Driver. You can upgrade the Mustang Mach-E for more driving range, though at a much higher price tag.

3. The Toyota bZ4X gets better fuel economy than the Ford Mustang Mach-E

According to Edmunds, the Toyota bZ4X has an EPA rating as high as 131 MPGe in the city and up to 107 MPGe on the highway. The Ford Mustang Mach-E has an EPA rating of 96 MPGe in the city and 84 MPGe on the highway.

One of the main reasons for the difference despite the Mustang Mach-E having a larger battery is weight. EVs are notoriously heavy due to reinforced framework and suspension and the metal armor surrounding the battery to protect it. The bZ4X only weighs about 4,465 lbs, while the Mach-E weighs 4,835 lbs. 

4. The bZ4X has more ground clearance than most EVs

Due to the placement of the battery underneath the vehicle, ground clearance is another issue that many EVs have. However, the Toyota bZ4X has an impressive 8.1 inches, one of the best clearances of all the electric SUVs on the market. Meanwhile, the Ford Mustang Mach-E only has a ground clearance of 5.8 inches. 

Although low ground clearance can enhance performance and efficiency, it isn’t ideal if you plan on doing some adventuring on the road less traveled. If you plan on doing some off-road adventuring, you will want the bZ4X to easily make it over rugged terrain without bottoming out.

Ultimately, it comes down to how you will use your EV. If you are looking for an EV that delivers performance, then the Mustang Mach-E might be a better choice. If you are looking for an EV for some outdoor adventures that is a bit more affordable, then the bZ4X may be a better choice for you.