Each year Consumer Reports makes its top picks in every category. Previously, the Tesla Model 3 was CR’s favorite electric vehicle thanks to its excellent Tesla features without the expensive Tesla price. However, the Model 3 is no longer at the top, thanks to the Ford Mustang Mach-E. How did Ford’s new electric crossover overtake Tesla’s as Consumer Reports’ favorite EV?

Consumer Reports: Electric vehicle top pick

Historically, Tesla has dominated the electric vehicle category in Consumer Reports‘ top picks. For the last two years, the Tesla Model 3 held the title for EV top pick. Finally, the Tesla brand has been overtaken by another titan of the automotive industry. The Ford Mustang Mach-E is Consumer Reports’ electric vehicle top pick for the first time. Based on the overall score, road-test score, predicted reliability, owner satisfaction, and safety.

What makes the Mustang Mach-E the best overall electric vehicle? There are a few things, according to CR, that set it apart from competitors. Notably, the Tesla Model 3 is still an excellent overall choice for EVs. This change in placement for overall is score is more based on the Mustang Mach-E‘s excellence than the Model 3’s weaknesses.

What’s so good about the Ford Mustang Mach-E?

CR noted that the Tesla Model 3 has the latest technology, long-range, an impressive charging network, and a high-performance sports car-like driving experience. However, the Mustang Mach-E is also very sporty, but it’s easier to live with. The Mach-E’s immense amount of practicality gives it an edge over the most affordable Tesla sedan. Additionally, the Ford EV rides better and is quieter. While both models have large infotainment screens, the Mustang Mach-E is much easier to use.

Specifically, CR doesn’t like that the Tesla Model 3 (and other Teslas) require multiple steps to activate everyday features like defrosters. Secondly, after a year of use, the Mach-E beats out its rival in terms of reliability. That’s terrific news for those looking to buy and own one of these EVs long-term. While the Model 3 received about an average reliability score from CR, its members “have reported very few problems with the Mustang Mach-E so far.”

Ford Mustang Mach-E driver monitoring system is a big advantage

One of the Mach-E’s most notable advantages is its driver monitoring system. According to CR, it is newly adding two points to a vehicle’s overall score if it has an “active driving assistance system with an adequate driver monitoring system.” Thanks to the BlueCruise active driving assistance system, the Mustang Mach-E gained those two points. The system gives warnings when the driver’s attention wanders, which is an excellent way to increase safety for the driver and passengers.

Contrarily, owners can use the Tesla autopilot system if the driver is looking away or at a phone. However, at least one hand needs to be resting on the wheel. In comparison, the Mustang Mach-E is more intuitive overall, especially if you run into one of those situations where the Tesla autopilot doesn’t work correctly.

Mustang Mach-E beats out the Tesla Model 3 for electric vehicle top pick

What is the best electric vehicle you can buy? Overall, according to Consumer Reports’ ranking system, the Ford Mustang Mach-E is the best option on the market. After two years at the top, the Tesla Model 3 was overtaken by a more affordable alternative. The electric crossover is still relatively new but has excellent reliability, an excellent infotainment system, plus a top-tier driver monitoring system. However, there are loads of new EVs coming out over the next few years, so the competition will only become more fierce.