The greatest electric cars are peaceful, affordable to maintain, and easy to use, so it’s no surprise that sales are soaring. But where are the most promising ideas, and where are the weak links? …
To the extent that over 18% of all newly registered vehicles were electric vehicles in February, the mainstreaming of electric vehicles is now well underway. As restrictions on the types of cars allowed in large cities are implemented and the deadline of 2030 for the end of sales of new petrol and diesel models approaches, their popularity is only expected to grow.
Range anxiety, or worrying that your battery won’t last long enough to get you where you need to go, is the key factor that has kept their sales from rising. However, this is becoming less of a concern as more and more models are being produced with ranges of over 200 miles per charge.
Which battery-powered automobiles are worth looking into further? Listed below are our top 10 recommendations, as well as a list of our top 5 recommendations for what you should definitely avoid.
10 – Kia e-Niro
With one of the finest statistics we’ve recorded so far, the e-Real Niro’s Range of 253 miles puts an end to range worry once and for all. Although costs have increased dramatically since 2019 when we selected the e-Niro our Car of the Year, you still receive excellent usability, performance, comfort, and equipment.
Pros
- 64kWh model’s 250-mile-plus real-world range
- Quick acceleration in 64kWh
- Tidy handling and comfortable ride
Cons
- A fair bit pricier than an MG ZS EV
- Doesn’t charge as quickly as a Tesla Model 3
- No Euro NCAP safety rating
9 – Volkswagen ID.3
The ID.3 is fun to drive because of its rear-wheel drive layout, precise steering, and excellent body control. Its expected resale value is high, and it will be inexpensive to operate for both business car drivers and individual customers. The only negatives are the clumsy infotainment system and the cheap-feeling plastics inside.
Pros
- Good electric range
- Sprightly performance
- Decent to drive
Cons
- Iffy interior quality, especially for the pricier versions
- Charging network weaker than Tesla’s
- Infotainment system needs some upgrades
8 – Audi E-tron GT
The E-tron GT may be a more relaxed take on the Porsche Taycan, but it leaves little room for question that this electric vehicle handles superbly. It’s quick, pleasant, and functional to a certain extent. Although the Tesla Model S is more swift and spacious for families, we like (by a hair’s breadth) the Taycan for its improved responsiveness.
Pros
- Potentially rapid charging
- Comfortable ride and great handling
- Very well equipped and strong resale values
Cons
- Ionity rapid chargers are few and far between
- Not as spacious as a Model S
- Low-speed motor whine and gearbox shunt
7 – Cupra Born
The Born incorporates the best features of the ID.3 and improves upon them with a more refined cabin and a more advanced multimedia system. The Born deserves a spot on your list of potential electric vehicles, especially if you go for the mid-range V2 58kWh model, which is competitively priced when compared to the ID.3.
Pros
- Good electric range
- Sprightly performance
- Decent to drive
Cons
- Charging network weaker than Tesla’s
- Touch-sensitive buttons are awkward to use
- Slightly firmer ride than ID.3
6 – BMW i4
At highway speeds, the i4 is quieter than a church at a funeral. When compared to the Tesla Model 3, it is a viable option because to its respectable range, excellent infotainment system, and luxurious cabin. If you plan on driving a lot of miles on the highway, though, the Model 3’s superior charging infrastructure is an important consideration.
Pros
- Brilliant performance
- Impressive official range
- Class-leading infotainment
Cons
- Relatively expensive to buy outright
- M50 not as sharp as Tesla Model 3 Performance
- BMW lacks Tesla’s world-beating charging infrastructure
5 – BMW iX3
The iX3 is virtually a BMW X3, which is a good thing, with the exception of minor design features and the fact that the combustion engine has been replaced with an electric motor. What this means is that you’re getting the most cutting-edge in-car entertainment system available in a stylish and functional SUV. That makes it easier to steer and control than the competition, and it also makes the ride more pleasant. The fact that it emits no pollution and can go far before needing a recharge are just benefits.
Pros
- Longer range than most direct rivals
- Great infotainment system
- Comparatively well priced
Cons
- Not as fast as rivals
- Audi E-tron is quieter
- Tesla Model 3 has a longer range and faster charging
4 – Skoda Enyaq iV
The Skoda Enyaq excels in the realms of utility, comfort, handling, and style. The pricing of the ’60’ version is competitive with other compact options like the Kia e-Niro, which is maybe the most striking aspect.
Pros
- Well priced
- Extremely practical
- Comfortable and easy to drive
Cons
- So-so performance by electric car standards
- A Volkswagen ID.3 is more fun to drive
- 80 and 80X versions don’t qualify for government grant
3 – Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo
The Porsche Taycan is the ideal vehicle for those who desire all the advantages of an electric vehicle but still need a spectacular driving experience. The inside is as elegant and luxurious, surprising in its functionality, especially in the estate-like Cross Turismo trim. To sum up, the Taycan isn’t inexpensive but well worth the investment.
Pros
- Incredible point-to-point pace
- More spacious rear seats than in the coupé
- Wonderful interior quality
Cons
- You will want to add a fair few options
- Range isn’t spectacular
- A Mercedes-AMG E63 has a larger boot
2 – Kia EV6
When compared to the Hyundai Ioniq 5, the Kia EV6 is an even better electric car. It is more fun to drive and has a somewhat more upscale interior. However, it shares the Ioniq 5’s extensive range and fast charging capabilities. Keep in mind that the speedier four-wheel drive versions aren’t necessarily the best economical option, while the cheaper rear-wheel drive EV6s are.
Pros
- Long range
- Fast-charging capability
- Long warranty
- Loads of rear legroom
Cons
- Shallow boot
- Not exactly cheap
- Slightly firm low-speed ride
1 – Tesla Model 3
The Model 3 was arguably the most anticipated automobile ever, and few vehicles can compare to it now that it’s finally available. The Model 3 is Tesla’s most cheap vehicle, and it’s a wonderful one. It’s fun to drive, full of cutting-edge features, quick (ridiculously so in Performance trim), and surprisingly versatile. When you consider its fast acceleration and low pricing, you have the greatest all-around electric car on the market right now.
Pros
- Savage acceleration – particularly in Performance version
- Long range between charges
- Surprisingly practical
- Fast charging via Tesla’s prolific Supercharger network
Cons
- Rivals are quieter on the move
- Handling not as entertaining as the best petrol-powered rivals
- Some may find the ride a touch firm