by Design and Convenience Update
The 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E has received an important, albeit minor, exterior update that was requested by owners themselves. All trim levels of the electric vehicle are now equipped with conventional physical handles on the rear doors.
For drivers who have been forced for years to press a tiny electronic panel and awkwardly pull the edge of the door, this will be a significant improvement in daily comfort. In fact, this update might be even more important than the introduction of the new California Special package.
Response to Criticism
Ford has long faced criticism over the rear door opening system on the Mach-E. Previously, to access the rear seats, one had to touch a small electronic button on the C-pillar.
All 2026 model year Mustang Mach-Es receive a rear door handle as standard equipment. This change was part of our continuous improvement process and was made based on feedback from our customers who wanted to have a physical handle both front and rear. The rear doors still use the same electronic latch release mechanism with a button on the door, but now the door can be opened by pulling the handle.
As a Ford representative clarifies, the core mechanics remain unchanged. Users simply no longer need to insert their hand into the door gap to open it. The design change simplifies what was previously a rather complicated system.
Return of the California Special and Price Changes
In addition to the new door handles, Ford announced the return of the California Special package in a new execution. While it doesn’t offer any performance advantages over the base GT trim, the package includes numerous visual enhancements.
The main novelty is the Rave Blue color—a shade of blue with a purple tint that changes depending on lighting, reminiscent of the Pacific coast. The 20-inch wheels feature unique GT/CS graphics and aerodynamic inserts. The interior has gained blue and silver accents, as well as special Navy Pier ActiveX + Miko sport seats.
Prices for the 2026 model year have decreased slightly. The Mustang Mach-E GT now starts at $53,395, which is approximately $1,100 less than last year. The California Special package adds $2,495 to the price. The base Mach-E for the new model year starts at $37,795, which is $200 lower than the previous year.
The implementation of conventional door handles on the rear doors might seem like a small detail, but it clearly demonstrates how automakers are beginning to reevaluate some technological solutions in electric vehicles under pressure from feedback from real users. It’s a step back from excessive automation towards simplicity and reliability, which is especially important in the context of broader discussions about the safety and accessibility of electric vehicles in emergency situations. The price reduction, even a minor one, against the backdrop of such updates could make the model more attractive in the competitive electric crossover market.
