EVs are all the rage these days. As more consumers desire eco-friendly vehicles, automakers are racing to fulfill demand. Additionally, as lawmakers worldwide consider new environmental policies to combat climate change, automakers are also working furiously to self-regulate and improve their ecological footprint. Part of their strategy involves electrifying their fleets, supporting efforts to build charging infrastructure, and helping to juice demand by educating consumers about EVs. Now, there are multiple EVs in every segment – some as popular, if not more so, than their gasoline-powered counterparts. Enough EVs are being manufactured that it may be hard to distinguish those that are a cut above the rest. If you’re looking for the best midsize EV, though, a couple of models stand out.

What makes an ideal EV?

When we think of superior vehicles, we generally think about appearance, performance, price, space, features, safety, dependability, and total ownership costs. These general criteria are the same when evaluating EVs, with a few nuances. We’re looking for EVs that can generate similar or greater speeds and horsepower when we consider performance. We also must consider how far an EV can travel on a single charge, how long it takes to charge, and how easy it is to charge.

Often, high-performing EVs have large batteries and motors, limiting the EV’s cabin or cargo space. Of course, automakers should have designed the EV to be attractive even with an oversized powertrain. Most consumers also value affordability highly. Does the EV option of their brand they’re considering break their budget? Additionally, what if the EV breaks down? What does the warranty look like, and how easy is it to get the electrical components repaired?

Many automakers have done well by electrifying existing popular brands. However, the new EV era has spawned some EV-only manufacturers who’ve built popular models from scratch. In their evaluation, Roadshow found that the Tesla Model 3 took the runner-up slot in their recent “Here are the best electric cars for 2021” list.

What makes the Tesla Model 3 a top-tier midsize EV?

In their evaluation of the Tesla Model 3, Roadshow noted some non-automotive considerations such as its popularity and active owner community. However, what drove the Model 3 up the list was its fundamentals, including excellent performance, stylish appearance, formidable range, and generous space. Keeping it from clinching the top spot was a combination of three things. Tesla doesn’t have service centers in every area, making maintenance and repairs challenging. Roadshow also noted some build quality issues. Finally, the high price tag keeps it from first place.

The Model 3 is a luxury compact sedan, but the $39,990 MSRP will have some prospective buyers thinking twice. Still, buyers will land an EV that can take them 263 miles on a single charge. That figure is for the standard model with RWD. There’s also a Performance AWD variant that can cover 315 miles and a Long Range AWD one that can take you 353 miles on one charge. Acceleration is lightning quick at 5.3 seconds for the base model, and handling is athletic and fun.

Tesla’s signature giant touchscreen has controls for practically everything in the vehicle. A robust 15-inches, the Model 3’s touchscreen can also take over-the-air updates, ensuring that your software and electronic automotive features are always current. Additionally, the Model 3 boasts excellent safety features, available as a bundle at additional cost. These include lane-keeping assistance, front and rear automatic emergency braking, rear-cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and pedestrian detection. However, even with its performance and these features, the Model 3 cannot beat the Ford Mustang Mach-E.

The Mustang Mach-E takes the crown for midsize EVs

It’s not hard to see why the Ford Mustang Mach-E is Roadshow’s pick. It’s a fun car to drive, they note, and even though Ford has only recently entered the EV market, the Mach-E does everything well – from range to performance to space to technology.

Now, the Mustang Mach-E’s MSRP is $42,895, which is a bit higher than that of the Model 3. (Roadshow noted the Model 3’s expense with the driver assistance package included). For this price, though, you’ll be treated to an SUV that can cover 230 miles on one charge with RWD. A Premium variant, however, can deliver you 300 miles. Additionally, you can hit 60 mph in 4.8 seconds with the Premium model and in 6 seconds with the base model.

The Mustang Mach-E also has decent interior space with 29 cubic feet in the cargo area, 59.6 cubic feet with the back row folded down, and an additional 4.8 cubic feet in the frunk. Each model comes with a 15.5-inch touchscreen, a 10.2 digital instrument cluster, a wireless charging pad, and built-in navigation. Given Ford’s massive service center network, it also sports the same driver assistance features as the Model 3 and can be repaired quickly. Additionally, while the Model 3 does have a superior range and bigger buzz, the Mustang Mach-E does so much well that it edges Tesla’s sedan for best midsize EV.