Ford’s latest sales figures paint a fascinating picture of shifting consumer preferences. Five and a half years after the controversial launch of the Mustang Mach-E, it appears that the electric crossover has overtaken its gas-powered predecessor in popularity. While enthusiasts once feared the Mach-E would replace the traditional Mustang, the latest numbers suggest that reality is closer than ever.
Mach-E Overtakes Classic Mustang
The numbers speak for themselves. Ford’s registration data reveals that sales of the Mustang Mach-E grew by 21% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, rising from 9,589 units to 11,607. Meanwhile, sales of the gas-powered Mustang plunged by 31.6%, falling from 13,707 to 9,377. This marks a significant moment in Mustang history: for the first time, the Mach-E is outselling its iconic gas counterpart by a considerable margin.
The increase in Mach-E sales can likely be attributed to a combination of incentives, growing EV adoption, and the looming expiration of federal tax credits. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that all Ford vehicles are following the same trend.
Ford’s Overall Sales Performance
Despite the Mach-E’s success, Ford’s total vehicle sales declined by 1.3% in Q1 2025, with overall numbers dropping from 508,083 to 501,291. Internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles saw a 4.8% dip, while electrified vehicles—including hybrids and EVs—rose by 25.5%. The hybrid sector showed particularly strong growth, jumping 32.9%.
Among Ford’s most popular models, the Bronco stood out with a staggering 35.4% increase, reaching 32,595 units. The Bronco Sport and Escape also posted modest gains, while the F-Series trucks saw an impressive 24.5% boost. However, the electric F-150 Lightning experienced a 7.2% drop, suggesting that while Ford’s EVs are making gains in some areas, the market for electric trucks may not be expanding at the same pace.
What Went Wrong for the Gas Mustang?
The Mustang’s drop in sales isn’t entirely surprising given the broader market trends. With the Dodge Challenger and Chevrolet Camaro being phased out, the Mustang finds itself in a class of one. However, instead of benefiting from the lack of competition, it seems buyers are looking elsewhere for their automotive thrills.
While the high-performance $325,000 Mustang GTD is turning heads, the regular Mustang models may not have done enough to keep consumer interest alive. The lack of significant innovation beyond styling updates and performance tweaks might have contributed to the slump.
What’s Next for the Mustang?
Ford now faces a crucial decision. Should it double down on the Mach-E’s success and gradually phase out the gas-powered Mustang? Or should it find a way to make the traditional Mustang more appealing, possibly by introducing hybrid options, increasing performance, or even offering a four-door variant?
As the Mustang’s sales continue to decline, Ford will need to reassess its strategy. The numbers suggest that the Mach-E is here to stay, but whether the classic Mustang can find new life in a changing market remains an open question.
Ford Sales Q1 2024 vs Q1 2025
| Category | 2025 Q1 | 2024 Q1 | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Electrified Vehicles | 73,623 | 58,644 | +25.5% |
| – Electric Vehicles | 22,550 | 20,223 | +11.5% |
| – Hybrid Vehicles | 51,073 | 38,421 | +32.9% |
| Internal Combustion Vehicles | 427,668 | 449,439 | -4.8% |
| Total Vehicles Sold | 501,291 | 508,083 | -1.3% |
| SUVs | 201,527 | 241,891 | -16.7% |
| Trucks | 290,387 | 252,485 | +15.0% |
| Cars | 9,377 | 13,707 | -31.6% |
| Mustang (Gas) | 9,377 | 13,707 | -31.6% |
| Mustang Mach-E (EV) | 11,607 | 9,589 | +21.0% |
| F-Series (Trucks) | 190,389 | 152,943 | +24.5% |
| F-150 Lightning (EV) | 7,187 | 7,743 | -7.2% |
| Bronco | 32,595 | 24,066 | +35.4% |
| Bronco Sport | 33,363 | 31,565 | +5.7% |
| Escape | 37,357 | 36,595 | +2.1% |
| Lincoln Vehicles | 23,731 | 24,894 | -4.7% |
The fate of the gas-powered Mustang is still uncertain, but the numbers make one thing clear: Ford’s electrification strategy is reshaping its lineup, whether enthusiasts like it or not.
