Henry Ford II unveiled the original Mustang in 1964 at the World’s Fair. The car designed as the working man’s Thunderbird became an instant sensation and remains popular among enthusiasts. Ford’s longest-produced model is the original pony car, and though the automaker has slightly adapted the Mustang over the years, it has maintained its unique aesthetic. But the long-standing line has seen an exciting recent addition: the Mustang Mach-E electric crossover SUV.

And some observers find that problematic. Here’s what they say is the issue with this brand-new EV.

The Ford Mustang Mach-E at a glance

The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E gives drivers a thrilling ride. It continues the Mustang’s high-performance history with the chops to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, Ford claims.

The EV also boasts plenty of advanced features, such as the Ford Co-Pilot360 2.0 suite of driver assists. And though not luxurious, the interior features — “such as the fabric-trimmed sound bar running across the dash — feel modern and considered,” CD reports. In fact, it has already snagged 2021 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year honors.

By most accounts, the Mach-E is set to be a runaway success. But some enthusiasts are balking.

Car and Driver put the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E to the test

Despite some car enthusiasts’ reluctance to buy into Ford’s take on the Mustang-inspired EV, all signs still point to success. The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E‘s speed, high-end interior, and reasonable starting price under $50,000 are just a few of the pluses, Car and Driver reports.

Though it might be considered an about-face for Ford, the Mach-E, with its familiar sloping hood and pony badge, has channeled much of the classic Mustang while also embracing change. Though these changes make the model more accessible, not all observers view that quality positively. 

The problem with this Mustang is that it’s for everyone

Car and Driver offers high praise for the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E. Indeed, this crossover boasts a tremendous number of remarkable features. But something about it still doesn’t quite sit right, CD reports. The unease stems from the Mustang’s iconic image and reputation. Ford has dubbed the new model a “Mustang,” but is this SUV deserving of the legendary moniker?

“Whether you end up thinking the Mach-E is worthy of the Mustang name will depend a lot on why you like Ford’s pony car,” Car and Driver says. Since the new model’s release, many have spoken out, and the consensus shows that many aren’t keen on the Mach-E being considered a Mustang. By making its new EV much more appealing to the masses, Ford has tarnished the pony car’s exclusivity.

Car and Driver senior editor Tony Quiroga bluntly says he doesn’t believe the Mach-E is a Mustang and goes so far as to add, “A better name for a Ford EV with a 300-mile range would have been the Galaxie 300.”

Though there’s nothing glaringly wrong with the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E, by slapping the Mustang name on an electric SUV, Ford has upset some people.