If you’re thinking of switching to an electric car, there are more options than ever before. The EV market is expanding rapidly with new models entering the market all the time, from small, city car-sized EVs to luxury SUVs. And battery technology continues to improve, with many models now able to cover 200 miles or more between charges. This has helped to ease range anxiety – the main concern that has prevented electric cars from selling in bigger numbers than petrol and diesel vehicles.
The best electric cars combine next-generation battery tech with excellent driving dynamics, cabin comfort, safety and connectivity technologies and attractive styling. And some offer bidirectional charging, so you can draw power from your car while it’s parked and use the stored energy to keep home lights on or even to charge an e-bike or other household appliances.
In the mainstream EV segment, the Chevrolet Bolt and Kia Optima are our top picks. Both models have excellent predicted reliability ratings, superb road test scores and feature loads of standard equipment for their reasonable prices. The Optima is larger than the Bolt, making it more suitable for carrying passengers and cargo. It also has a sportier drivetrain and a smoother acceleration experience, but it’s more expensive.
Other models in our list of Best EVs include the BMW i3 and i5 sedans, which get exceptional road test scores with their zippy performance and responsive steering. The i7 is the luxury version of the i5, and it offers the kind of exhilarating EV driving experience that will make you want to swap your traditional sports car for one.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is another model to consider if you’re drawn to the idea of an electric car, but you aren’t quite sold on its futuristic looks. It offers lots of the same next-generation tech as other top-rated EVs, and its efficiency (measured in miles per kilowatt-hour) is enough to rival some premium models with higher driving ranges.
If you’re looking for an EV with a long range, the Porsche Taycan is our clear winner. It offers a luxurious interior, fast charging and outstanding driving capability, and it’s recently been updated to make it even more appealing.
MG’s brand ethos is all about value, and the ZS EV hits the spot with its great price tag, impressive cruising range and lengthy warranty. It doesn’t have the same high-tech features as some of the other cars in our list, but it does offer a spacious interior and a comfortable ride. There aren’t any other EVs in this price bracket with such an extensive warranty, so it’s a very worthy pick if you’re in the market for a practical family EV.