Every new EV ranked 161 to 1: the complete guide to UK electric cars

Welcome to the definitive guide to every electric car on sale in the UK right now. If you’re buying an EV and want to understand where it sits in the marketplace, this is the page for you. 

We presented our expert road testers with a complete list of every UK market electric car available to buy and asked them to rank each model on its merits. The ordered lists of 161 cars ranked from best to worst were then used to calculate the average position for each model and generate the complete 161 to 1 ranking that you now see before you. 

If you want to understand which electric cars stand out and which models fail to meet the required standard, this guide is an invaluable tool. It also very succinctly highlights the huge range of electric car choice that car buyers are now faced with. Consider all the different bodystyles, powertrain variations and trim levels offered on these models, and it’s clear that the EV market has reached an unprecedented scale. In 2026, there really is an electric car to suit everyone and we’re here to help you find yours. Let’s get started…  

1. Nissan Leaf 

Once the only mass-market EV, now the one to rule them all

• Price (from): £28,849 
• Powertrain: 52kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 174bhp/345Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 8.3s/100mph
• Range: 280 miles
• Charging: 105kW (10-80% in 35 mins)
• Class: Mid-size SUV

Being the first purpose-built, mass-market electric car, the Nissan Leaf was virtually all alone in a class of its own when it launched back in 2011, at a time zero emissions seemed more like a novelty to the majority of motorists. How times have changed. 

Today, there are EVs everywhere and they come in all shapes, sizes and price points, as this list has comprehensively proven. However, the all-new third-generation Nissan Leaf stands head and shoulders above them all in our eyes. In fact, we think this outstanding electric family car that offers excellent value-for-money and manages to hit the sweet spot in every area – it’s the best new car on sale. EV or not. 

Which is why we named it the 2026 Auto Express Car of the Year, as well as the Small Company Car of the Year and our Affordable Electric Car of the Year. 

The new Nissan Leaf transformed the trailblazing EV from a humble hatchback into a svelte, head-turning and trendy fastback, bringing plenty of style to the family car arena. Meanwhile, the interior features big, clear screens and an intuitive, Google-packed infotainment system; overall, it’s a nice place to be. 

Even with the sweeping roofline, there’s enough space in the back even for six footers and the 437-litre boot should suffice for most families. The new Leaf might be fun to fling around a back road, but this car is quiet, calm and comfortable, and shines while cruising on the motorway.

Especially with its range of up to 386 miles, which is enough to get from Cambridge to Edinburgh on a single charge. For context, the previous Leaf offered 239 miles of range at most, while the original was good for just 109 miles. The new model can not only travel almost four times farther, it can charge three times faster, with a 10 to 80 per cent top-up taking a little over half an hour. 

Thanks to the Government's £3,750 Electric Car Grant, prices start from just £28,849, undercutting numerous key rivals. The entry-level version does feature a smaller, 52kWh battery, but it still provides 280 miles of range, and comes with plenty of standard kit. 

Capping off one of the biggest success stories in EV history so far, the new Nissan Leaf was designed, engineered and is manufactured right here in Britain. 

2. BMW iX3

Groundbreaking BMW iX3 marks a bold start to brand’s bright future

• Price (from): £53,250
• Powertrain: 82.6kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 315bhp/500Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 5.9s/124mph
• Range: 395 miles
• Charging: 300kW (10-80% in 21 mins)
• Class: Premium SUV

The new BMW iX3 shows the true potential of a clean sheet of paper. From the revolutionary Panoramic iDrive interior design to the state-of-the-art architecture underneath, everything about this astonishing EV represents the pinnacle of what’s possible with electric cars today. 

Powered by the sixth evolution of BMW’s EV powertrain technology, the iX3 combines extra energy-dense cylindrical battery cells with more efficient e-motors to deliver an headline-worthy 500 miles of range. Meanwhile, thanks to an 800-volt electrical system, it can charge at up to 400kW, allowing drivers to add 230 miles of range in just 10 minutes; not much longer like a typical splash-and-dash. 

The iX3’s retro-futuristic styling honours some of the icons of BMW's past, and its cockpit design banishes clutter, putting all the vital information precisely in the driver’s line of sight. Then on the road, this high-end SUV is as agile, engaging and deft as a BMW should be. Simply put, the Neue Klasse era this car kicks off could not have got off to a better start. 

3. Skoda Elroq

The Skoda Elroq is a well polished and brilliant family SUV

• Price (from): £32,470
• Powertrain: 61kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 201bhp/350Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 8.2s/99mph
• Range: 279 miles
• Charging: 165kW (10-80% in 26 mins)
• Class: Mid-size SUV

Sometimes the simplest ideas are the best, and the Skoda Elroq proves it. Rather than trying to break the mould or rewrite the laws of physics, this mid-size family SUV delivers the same strong focus on value, space, functionality, refinement and comfort as its big brother, the best-selling Skoda Enyaq. Just crammed into a more compact, more affordable package.

The surprisingly striking styling certainly makes a strong first impression, as does the well-built, almost cavernous interior that includes a 470-litre boot, plenty of tech and some of Skoda’s thoughtful ‘Simply Clever’ features that help make life just that little bit easier. There’s a handy umbrella hidden in the driver’s door, for instance, and an ice scrapper tucked into the tailgate. 

On top of that, the Elroq delivers a polished well-rounded driving experience, with comfort, handling, performance and efficiency all good. No wonder it won the coveted title of Auto Express Car of the Year in 2025, and remains extremely difficult to beat or fault, taking our award for Mid-size SUV of the Year for 2026 as well. 

4. Cupra Raval

Not the cheapest small EV, but it’s fun and has plenty of attitude

• Price (from): £25,495 (including £1,500 Electric Car Grant)
• Powertrain: 37kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 133bhp/264Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 7.1s/160mph
• Range: 203 miles
• Charging: 88kW (10-80% in 24 mins)
• Class: Supermini

The 2026 Auto Express Supermini of the Year, the Cupra Raval is like the bad boy of the small-car class, with its rebellious attitude, razor-sharp design and hot VZ version packing a serious amount of wallop. However, this pocket rocket is not just fun to drive. It also offers an impressive 272 miles of range, a big boot and roomy cabin filled with tech at an attractive price. The Raval is the first in a hugely important new line of small EVs from the Volkswagen Group, marking the promising debut of an exciting new era. 

5. Mercedes CLA

Cutting-edge mile-muncher combines sleek design and tech with superb refinement

• Price (from): £39,150
• Powertrain: 58kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 221bhp/335Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 7.5s/130mph
• Range: 328 miles
• Charging: 200kW (10-80% in 20 mins)
• Class: Mid-size exec

The new Mercedes CLA has taken the three-pointed star from flagging behind its rivals in the world of electric cars to leading the pack, in the blink of an eye. The super-sleek saloon and dashing (and slightly more practical) Shooting Brake estate sit on an all-new architecture and are capable of delivering incredible levels of efficiency. The result is a range of up to 483 miles and astonishingly fast charging speeds of up to 320kW. Combined with a comfortable ride and superb refinement, the new CLA is a relaxing and remarkable long-distance cruiser.  

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6. Kia PV5

Proof that an SUV isn’t the only option for those seeking practicality

• Price (from): £31,695
• Powertrain: 51.5kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 120bhp/250Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 12.8s/84mph
• Range: 183 miles
• Charging: 150kW (10-80% in <30 mins)
• Class: MPV

Not everyone wants an SUV, and the Kia PV5 is perhaps the most compelling alternative for buyers wanting something that majors on space and practicality. Unlike early electric people carriers, the PV5 doesn’t feel like a rudimentary van to drive; nippy electric motors and a comfortable ride make it feel almost car-like from behind the wheel. Plus trim is the sweet spot here, packing all of your typical family SUV luxuries like heated seats and a powered bootlid, with the latter opening up to reveal a cavernous 1,300-litre load bay.

7. Volvo EX60

A calm, cosseting interior pairs well with the EX60’s class-leading range

• Price (from): £56,860
• Powertrain: 83kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 369bhp/480Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 5.9s/112mph
• Range: 380 miles
• Charging: 175kW (10-80% in 25 mins)
• Class: Premium SUV

EV technology has made leaps and bounds in recent years, and the Volvo EX60 is one of the handful of recent models that feel truly ‘next-gen’. It’s an elegant-looking thing inside and out, with fine materials that, in some places, surpass even that of the EX60’s main competitor, the BMW iX3. A maximum range of 503 miles is far more than most buyers could ever conceivably need, while cushy suspension and cutting-edge ADAS tech will get you to your destination in comfort and safety.

8. Tesla Model 3

The quintessential EV; the Model 3 is smooth, fast and loaded with gadgets and gizmos

• Price (from): £37,990
• Powertrain: 60kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 279bhp/420Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 6.2s/110mph
• Range: 332 miles
• Charging: 175kW (10-80% in 24 mins)
• Class: Mid-size exec

Almost a decade after its initial launch, the Tesla Model 3 remains one of the de facto choices for someone looking for an EV. This shows how undeniably great the fundamentals were; over the years, Tesla has improved material quality and drivability, while price cuts and added tech make the Model 3 hard to ignore. With the Tesla Supercharger network still offering reliable and cheap rapid charging, it’s no wonder that Musk’s executive saloon was the winner of the 2026 Driver Power customer satisfaction survey.

9. Renault 4

If you can overcome the R5’s inexorable charm, the R4 is perhaps the shrewder choice

• Price (from): £23,445
• Powertrain: 52kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 148bhp/245Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 8.2s/93mph
• Range: 249 miles
• Charging: 100kW (10-80% in 33 mins)
• Class: Small SUV

Often overshadowed by the smaller Renault 5, the Renault 4 is perhaps the more logical choice for most people. It retains the retro charm of its dinkier counterpart, but is actually usable as a small family car, with decent rear space and a 420-litre boot. It’s a peach to drive, with a nippy electric motor and a standard-fit 52kWh battery with around 250 miles of range. The cherry on the top, however, is an optional ‘Plein Sud’ power-folding fabric roof – who doesn’t love a convertible?

10. Kia EV3

Futuristic looks blend with decent space, range and comfort to make a fantastic family car

• Price (from): £31,555
• Powertrain: 58.3kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 201bhp/283Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 7.5s/105mph
• Range: 270 miles
• Charging: 101kW (10-80% in 29 mins)
• Class: Small SUV

If you told someone 15 years ago that Kia now makes one of the coolest-looking family cars, they’d probably look at you like you’ve got a melon on your head. Nevertheless, the Kia EV3 is here, offering superb value and striking cyberpunk-esque looks in abundance. The Kia’s interior balances physical and digital controls well, plus the boxy shape allows for plenty of space. Light steering and a supple chassis means it’s more on the relaxing side to drive, while big-battery models are capable of cross-country trips with up to 375 miles of range.

Click here for more detail and insight on our top 10 favourite electric cars

11. Renault 5

The Renault 5 has captured the hearts and minds of drivers with its retro styling and sporty drive

• Price (from): £21,495
• Powertrain: 40kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 118bhp/225Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 9.0s/93mph
• Range: 192 miles
• Charging: 80kW (10-80% in 32 mins)
• Class: Supermini

The undisputed it-girl of the EV scene, the electric reinvention of the Renault 5 is nothing short of a modern automotive icon. Not only does it look the part, but it ticks all the important boxes; it’s great to drive, with darty steering and a zesty electric motor, but it’s also got great interior tech and a usable electric range – particularly with the bigger 52kWh battery option. Most importantly, however, it represents great value, with the Electric Car Grant bringing it virtually in-line with the petrol Renault Clio.

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12. Tesla Model Y

The Model Y has sold strongly for years, thanks to its intuitive tech and strong efficiency

• Price (from): £41,990
• Powertrain: 60kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 292bhp/420Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 6.9s/110mph
• Range: 309 miles
• Charging: 175kW (10-80% in 25 mins)
• Class: Premium SUV

Brits have made several questionable decisions in recent years, but choosing the Tesla Model Y as the nation’s favourite EV isn’t one of them. Tesla’s SUV has more space than most people could ever need, while mid-spec models and above feel genuinely premium, with posh-feeling materials and more tech than a branch of Currys. Even entry-level cars have plenty of range and power for most, making Long Range and Performance models look like overkill. Bearing all of this in mind, problematic associations with Tesla owner Elon Musk quickly begin to seem less vital.

13. Renault Twingo

Cutesy electric revival of Renault’s fan-favourite city car is bursting with charm

• Price (from): >£17,000 (est)
• Powertrain: 27.5kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 80bhp/175Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 12.1s/81mph
• Range: 163 miles
• Charging: 50kW (15-80% in 30 mins)
• Class: City car

The Renault Twingo is a refreshing take on the electric city car, injecting much of what we love about the larger R5 into an even more compact and affordable package. In spite of its on-paper lack of grunt, the Twingo has plenty of get-up-and-go, with lively low-speed acceleration and light yet quick-witted steering. Inside, the Renault blends nostalgic nineties charm with impressive ergonomics and top-notch Google tech. A range of just 163 miles might limit its appeal, but as a low-cost city runabout, the Twingo is near-perfect.

14. Audi A6 e-tron

Posh electric exec makes a strong case for EVs as cross-country cruisers

• Price (from): £62,590
• Powertrain: 75.8kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 321bhp/435Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 6.0s/130mph
• Range: 383 miles
• Charging: 225kW (10-80% in 21 mins)
• Class: Large exec

Perhaps the ultimate autobahn or motorway mile-muncher, the Audi A6 e-tron is one of our favourite premium executive cars. Available in both Sportback saloon-hatch and Avant estate guises, the A6 e-tron oozes desirability, with a hi-tech interior that’s not only filled with posh-feeling materials, but feels superbly screwed together. It’s supremely quiet and comfortable on long trips, which are enabled by a 463-mile maximum range in the 100kWh Sport Performance and super-fast 270kW charging.

15. Nissan Micra

Just as competent as its Renault 5 cousin, but lacking its charm and authenticity

• Price (from): £21,495
• Powertrain: 40kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 118bhp/225Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 9.0s/93mph
• Range: 192 miles
• Charging: 80kW (10-80% in 32 mins)
• Class: Supermini

There's almost no practical reason that the Nissan Micra resides a few places lower than its Renault 5 cousin in our list. It shares all of its best qualities, such as a perky driving experience, excellent value, interior tech and a good range of battery options. But such is the power of the Renault’s raw desirability that its retro-modern charm makes the Nissan look and feel a little awkward and underwhelming. If you can get over that, it’s still a superb supermini. 

16. Kia EV2

Kia’s smallest electric model comes with big-car feels and loads of tech

• Price (from): £24,245 
• Powertrain: 61kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 133bhp/250Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 9.5s/100mph
• Range: 281 miles
• Charging: 127kW (10-80% in 30 mins)
• Class: Supermini

Kia continues to ride high in our list, this time just missing out on the top-15 ranking with its superb Kia EV2. Sitting somewhere between a traditional supermini and a crossover of the same size distinction, the EV2 appeals with its brilliant tech, solidity and excellent range. The Kia feels more substantial than most of its closest competition, but it also lacks some of the zippy energetic driving character they offer. It’s also more expensive than its aggressively priced rivals. 

17. Honda Super-N

Charming city-sized Honda is chock full of features and fun

• Price (from): £18,995
• Powertrain: 29.6kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 94bhp/162Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 10.0s/84mph
• Range: 128 miles
• Charging: 50kW (15-80% in 30 mins)
• Class: City car

Purely looking at the specs, the Honda Super N doesn’t have the numbers. Its 128-mile range is below the class average, the 50kW charging capability is weak and its boot is pretty tiny. However this little Japanese city car massively overdelivers on its promises thanks to a level of engineering polish and joyfulness that’s pretty rare in 2026. It’s brilliant fun to drive, and thanks to loads of standard kit and its impressively low price, does well on the value equation, too. 

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18. Skoda Enyaq

All the best of Skoda in a practical, electric package 

• Price (from): £39,520
• Powertrain: 58kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 187bhp/310Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 8.6s/99mph
• Range: 283 miles
• Charging: 165kW (10-80% in 26 mins)
• Class: Mid-size SUV

The Skoda Enyaq was one of the first truly brilliant electric family cars to hit the UK market back in 2020, combining all the practical benefits of its bespoke all-electric platform with the clever features Skoda’s known for. In large part this is still the case, but so fast is the advancement of its electric rivals that, for now at least, the Enyaq is no longer top of the class in terms of battery range, charging or value. It won’t take much for it to rocket back up the standings, but until that update comes it remains a good option, but not a class-leading one. 

19. MG4 Urban

Competent, spacious and affordable, the MG4 Urban appeals on merit but not on spark

• Price (from): £23,495
• Powertrain: 42,8kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 146bhp/250Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 9.6s/99mph
• Range: 201 miles
• Charging: 87kW (10-80% in 30 mins)
• Class: Supermini

If your needs for a new car extend to requiring a spacious, efficient and low-cost daily driver, you could do a lot worse than the MG4 Urban. Priced almost at a level of the class below, but offering space inside above that of a traditional C-segment offering, MG has positioned its new model right at the apex of customers’ needs, and it comes with plenty of kit. However when it comes to its desirability, the MG4 Urban is found lacking because it’s about as interesting to drive or sit in as a concrete breeze block.

20. Hyundai Ioniq 5

Once the pinnacle of design and engineering, the Ioniq 5’s sheen has dulled, albeit only just

• Price (from): £40,695
• Powertrain: 63kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 167bhp/350Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 8.5s/114mph
• Range: 273 miles
• Charging: 195kW (10-80% in 18 mins)
• Class: Family car

It's clear that when Hyundai decided to go down the route of engineering its first, fully-bespoke electric car, it would also focus on making it as desirable as possible, and in this regard the Hyundai Ioniq 5 has certainly embodied that. From its steampunk styling and wild Hyundai Ioniq 5 N performance flagship, there’s a lot to enjoy. However its raw figures just don’t quite punch as hard against rivals as it did in 2020, and newer, slicker and more-efficient rivals operate at this price point.

21. Mercedes C-Class Electric

Technologically brilliant, but expensive, odd-looking and sloppy to drive

• Price (from): £57,995
• Powertrain: 94kWh battery, 2x e-motors
• Power/torque: 482bhp/800Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 4.0s/130mph
• Range: 452 miles
• Charging: 400kW (10-80% in 22 mins)
• Class: Mid-size exec

Mercedes has done a triumphant job creating its new Mercedes C-Class Electric, packing some incredible technology, top-level efficiency and lots of space into its relatively compact footprint. In reality, there are few more comfortable or comprehensively future-proofed cars as this one, but it’s also quite expensive and doesn’t drive with the alacrity you’d hope for in the compact executive class. If you’re after something that’s luxurious and loaded with tech, there will soon be better options. 

22. Kia EV4

Striking, yet somewhat more conventional than most European rivals

• Price (from): £30,995
• Powertrain: 58.3kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 201bhp/283Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 7.4s/105mph
• Range: 273 miles
• Charging: 135kW (10-80% in 30 mins)
• Class: Family car

Once again, Kia’s high standard of BEV engineering has its traditional C-segment hatchback at the upper end of our list, in this case it’s the impressive Kia EV4 and its EV4 Fastback cousin. Eccentrically styled, yet less upright than many of its European competition, the EV4 drives well and has good levels of technology inside, especially considering its price point. The EV4 is best when fitted with the bigger battery, offering very impressive range figures, but while it's a compelling car, it lacks the all-out brilliance of some rivals higher up in this list.

23. Volkswagen ID.7

It’s relatively expensive, but the ID.7 has range, practicality and refinement on its side

• Price (from): £51,445
• Powertrain: 77kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 282bhp/545Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 6.5s/112mph
• Range: 368 miles
• Charging: 185kW (10-80% in 27 mins)
• Class: Large exec

After the fairly uninspired first iterations of the ID.3, ID.4 and ID.5, Volkswagen showed us it was serious about the electric car game with the ID.7. Beyond the impressive range figure where even the base model will offer well over 350 miles, the ID.7 is also hugely refined on the move, as you’d expect with an electric alternative to the Volkswagen Passat. It’s also big inside, and with the option of a Tourer the ID.7 competes in that oddly rare electric estate genre. 

24. Fiat Grande Panda

A tiny car with big charm, the Fiat Grande Panda has substance to go with all that style

• Price (from): £20,995
• Powertrain: 44kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 111bhp/122Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 11.5s/82mph
• Range: 199 miles
• Charging: 100kW (10-80% in 27 mins)
• Class: Supermini

The formula for the Fiat Grande Panda is relatively simple, but brilliantly executed. Take the Citroen e-C3 (our Car of the Year in 2024) and give it a whole load more character, leaning heavily on Fiat’s Italian heritage while also keeping the price tag nice and low. It’s not quick, nor is it as efficient as some small EVs higher up on our list, but the Grande Panda is a terrific electric runabout that’s also surprisingly spacious inside. Go for the slightly more expensive La Prima trim and you get a decent amount of kit, too. 

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25. Renault Scenic E-Tech

Despite a slightly firm ride, there’s plenty here to make the Scenic a brilliant family EV 

• Price (from): £33,245
• Powertrain: 87kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 215bhp/300Nm
• 0-60mph/top speed: 7.9s/105mph
• Range: 381 miles
• Charging: 150kW (15-80% in 37 mins)
• Class: Mid-size SUV

After a brief hiatus, the Scenic name returned to the Renault range with pure-electric power and it immediately became one of the French firm’s best models. To go with the sharp exterior, the cabin has a great mix of modern technology and refreshing, user-friendly ergonomics. The Renault Scenic didn’t forget its family-friendly MPV roots, either, because you get all the space and equipment you could want as standard. The powertrain also impressed us with its real-world efficiency, even if it's not the quickest to charge.

26. Porsche Taycan

A genuinely aspirational electric car with style and quality by the bucket load 

• Price (from): £88,400
• Powertrain: 105kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 430bhp/420Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 4.8s/143mph
• Range: 421 miles
• Charging: 320kW (10-80% in 18 mins)
• Class: Large exec

With the rapid rate of technical progression in the EV sector, seven years is a lifetime – although despite being around for that long, the Porsche Taycan remains a truly excellent EV. A more efficient 105kWh battery is now standard and new motor set-ups have allowed it to stay competitive on range. It’s also still one of the most dynamically polished electric cars you can buy, with a genuinely Porsche-like feel to the handling. The option of the very cool, if not especially commodious, Turismo estate versions are a positive – although no matter which Taycan you opt for it’ll be pretty expensive. 

27. Cupra Born

Thought electric hatchbacks were boring? The Born is here to prove you wrong

• Price (from): £34,495 
• Powertrain: 58kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 187bhp/350Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 8s/99mph
• Range: 299 miles
• Charging: 105kW (10-80% in 26 mins)
• Class: Family car

Slightly overshadowed by the brilliant new Cupra Raval, the Cupra Born remains an appealing electric family hatchback with mid-life updates this year making it better than ever. We’d definitely go for the slightly more expensive higher-spec, larger-battery model because it not only adds a useful 89 miles of range but a 228bhp electric motor that suits the fun, rear-biased driving style of the Born much better. There’s also the rampant 322bhp VZ, but even at £45,995 it doesn’t offer much more sophistication to the chassis. 

28. Citroen e-C5 Aircross

Budget-friendly Citroen SUV doesn’t skimp on space, range or comfort

• Price (from): £32,585 (including £3,750 ECG)
• Powertrain: 73.7kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 213bhp/343Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 8.9s/106mph
• Range: 321 miles
• Charging: 160kW (20-80% in 30 mins)
• Class: Mid-size SUV

Having lived with one for several months, we know the Citroen e-C5 Aircross inside out. We had a few gripes: the wallowy ride made the big Citroen feel detached and weird, and the lack of a storage area up front is disappointing in a family EV of this size. However, helping the Citroen sneak into our top 30 is the fact is also very comfortable, massive inside (with a 565-litre boot) and cheap, thanks to every version being eligible for the government’s electric car grant. Which means the top-spec 421-mile version starts from just £35,205.  

29. Mercedes GLB 

The GLB is a great premium EV for families, but top-spec versions are expensive 

• Price (from): £46,100 
• Powertrain: 85kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 268bhp/335Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 7.4s/130mph
• Range: 380 miles
• Charging: 320kW (10-80% in 22 mins)
• Class: Premium SUV

Sharing the same MMA platform as the highly rated Mercedes CLA, the new Mercedes GLB was also going to be a big step on from the old EQB. The technical underpinnings are excellent, the maximum 380-mile range is available on the cheapest version, but if you go for the 349bhp dual-motor models, the range doesn’t fall off a cliff either. The overall styling, smattering of stars and massive screens inside might not suit all tastes, but there’s no denying the GLB feels like a quality product and there’s very little to match its seven-seat capacity at this price. 

30. BMW iX

The next X5 will put the iX out to pasture, but for now it remains a top-class electric SUV

• Price (from): £75,405
• Powertrain: 94.8kWh battery, 2x e-motor
• Power/torque: 408bhp/700Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 5.1s/124mph
• Range: 374 miles
• Charging: 175kW (10-80% in 34 mins)
• Class: Premium SUV

It's difficult to make a case for the BMW iX now the technically superior BMW iX3 is on the scene, but even five years from its launch, the iX still has a lot going for it. The awkward styling hasn’t exactly softened over the years, and while the similarly-sized iX3 offers more range (though the iX’s maximum 426 miles should be fine for most), the iX fights back with a truly exceptional interior design. There are plush materials everywhere you look, with crystal switchgear and open-pore wood seamlessly incorporating various buttons too. It’s a comfy cruiser, too, but the hot M70 model isn’t fooling anyone. 

31. BMW i5 

It’s not the best-driving 5 Series, but the i5 is still a solid electric exec

• Price (from): £67,795 
• Powertrain: 81.2Wh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 335bhp/400Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 6s/120mph
• Range: 382 miles
• Charging: 205kW (10-80% in 30 mins)
• Class: Large exec

The current-generation BMW 5 Series is the first to get an all-electric alternative, but you wouldn’t know it because the long-running executive suits EV power perfectly. To drive, the BMW i5 feels a little less sharp than a 5 Series, but then it’s clearly been set up to use up all of its maximum 382-mile range with ease. There’s not as much real estate for screens inside compared to rivals from Audi and Mercedes (though you could argue the BMW looks classier as a result). The option of the Touring estate means you can have a 570-litre boot, but you do lose 17 miles of range. Even with 593bhp on tap the range-topping £97k M60 model is tough to recommend. 

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32. Mercedes GLC Electric 

The GLC enters a tough class at a tough time, but does just enough to keep pace

• Price (from): £60,350
• Powertrain: 94kWh battery, 2x e-motors
• Power/torque: 483bhp/800Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 4.3s/130mph
• Range: 405 miles
• Charging: 330kW (10-80% in 22 mins)
• Class: Premium SUV

In any given year, the launch of the Mercedes GLC Electric would be considered a triumph. It heralds an exciting new design language, comes loaded with interior tech, and has a range of more than 400 miles. It’ll even charge to 80 per cent in just over 20 minutes. But in 2026, following in the footsteps of the excellent BMW iX3 means it falls ever so slightly short in almost every regard. It’s still a brilliant family EV, though, and one we’ve no doubt would be a pleasure to own and run.

33. Hyundai Ioniq 6

Hyundai’s forgotten EV is brilliant to drive even in base form, but the 6 N is something else 

• Price (from): £47,050
• Powertrain: 77.4kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 228bhp/350Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 7.4s/115mph
• Range: 338 miles
• Charging: 233kW (10-80% in 18 mins)
• Class: Mid-size exec

The Hyundai Ioniq 6 has lived in the Ioniq 5’s shadow ever since it launched four years ago. Delays to the facelifted car due very soon haven’t helped matters, but don’t let that detract from what is an excellent electric exec. As an alternative to the BMW i4 or even a Tesla Model 3, the Ioniq 6 offers competitive range and charging numbers, plus driving manners that’d please even die-hard enthusiasts. The Ioniq 6 N is a different beast, and a true electric super-saloon.

34. Ford Puma Gen-E

Ford’s big-selling Puma’s gone electric, and lost none of its charm or dynamic edge in the process 

• Price (from): £26,245
• Powertrain: 46.8kWh (usable) battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 166bhp/290Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 8.0s/99mph
• Range: 259 miles
• Charging: 100kW (10-80% in 23 mins)
• Class: Small SUV

When it was first announced, the Ford Puma Gen-E sounded like a bit of a Friday afternoon botch job; Ford simply ripped out the petrol engine and replaced it with a puny battery and underwhelming electric motor. But in reality, this efficient, right-sized EV surprised us all. It’s lost none of its dynamic sparkle in the transition from ICE to electric, and its relative lightweight body means it’s remarkably efficient. It was also the first car to benefit from the Government’s full £3,750 Electric Car Grant, lowering the price to just over £26k.

35. Polestar 5

Porsche had better watch out – the long-range Polestar 5 is here to take its lunch money

• Price (from): £89,500
• Powertrain: 112kWh battery, 2x e-motors
• Power/torque: 737bhp/812Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 3.8s/155mph
• Range: 421 miles
• Charging: 350kW (10-80% in 22 mins)
• Class: Large exec

The new Polestar 5 is a worthy flagship for the fledgling EV brand, which has just been forced to stop selling cars in the US because of new rules aimed at flushing out models with hardware and software linked to China. But America’s loss in Europe’s gain; the 5 is an achingly cool, super-luxurious four-door GT with seriously long legs – the base dual-motor model will officially do 421 miles on a charge, while lightning-fast top-ups mean a 10 to 80 per cent refill takes just 22 minutes.

36. Toyota C-HR+

Don’t confuse the C-HR+ with its hybrid sibling – the EV’s even better

• Price (from): £32,995
• Powertrain: 57.7kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 165bhp/269Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 8.4s/87mph
• Range: 284 miles
• Charging: 150kW (10-80% in 28 mins)
• Class: Mid-size SUV

Toyota missed the mark first time around with its lacklustre bZ4X, but the new Toyota C-HR+, which bears little relation to its hybrid-powered Toyota C-HR sibling, sets the record straight. Base models get a 57.7kWh battery, but even that’s good for almost 300 miles of range. Step up to the 77kWh car and that figure jumps to 376 miles, allowing it to outpace plenty of similarly priced competitors. It drives well, and if you get it serviced at a main dealer, you can keep the warranty running for up to 10 years or 100,000 miles.

37. Citroën e-C3 Aircross

The bigger and more practical e-C3 Aircross puts our former CotY in the shade

• Price (from): £24,315
• Powertrain: 44kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 113bhp/125Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 12.9s/89mph
• Range: 188 miles
• Charging: 100kW (20-80% in 26 mins)
• Class: Small SUV

Launched shortly after the Citroen e-C3 hatch (2024 Auto Express Car of the Year), the Citroen e-C3 Aircross arguably makes even more sense as a new or used car. This electric SUV still has a compact, urban-friendly footprint but with a useful amount more space – and a price increase that’ll be barely noticeable on a monthly PCP or lease deal. No version will set the world alight, but even the base car is peppy enough for the occasional out-of-town jaunt.

38. Kia EV9

It’s not cheap, but the EV9 exemplifies Kia’s rise through the upper mainstream

• Price (from): £64,995
• Powertrain: 99.8kWh battery, 1x e-motor
• Power/torque: 200bhp/350Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 9.4s/114mph
• Range: 349 miles
• Charging: 210kW (10-80% in 24 mins)
• Class: Large SUV

A decade ago we’d have scoffed at the idea of a £65k Kia, but today’s Kia EV9 is a genuine contender to the premium elite, many of which continue to trade on little more than badge appeal and a luxury interior finish. If you need to carry seven in complete comfort, want zero emissions but a long range, very little comes close to the EV9. The tech on board is extensive and easy to use, while underneath you’ll find the firm’s leading-edge 800-volt architecture – helping it to hit an 80 per cent charge in a little over 20 minutes.

39. Porsche Cayenne Electric

Dismiss the Cayenne Electric at your peril; this is a Porsche through and through

• Price (from): £83,200
• Powertrain: 113kWh battery, 2x e-motors
• Power/torque: 436bhp/835Nm
• 0-62mph/top speed: 4.8s/143mph
• Range: 399 miles
• Charging: 390kW (10-80% in 16 mins)
• Class: Premium SUV

Porsche's history with EVs has been tumultuous to say the least. The product has never been far shy of fantastic; it’s just that market appetite hasn’t kept pace. While the Porsche Taycan electric saloon set the benchmark, the Porsche Cayenne Electric raises the bar. It drives just as a Porsche should, while inside you’re greeted by a slick, hi-tech interior with a curved central screen and lashings of luxury materials. Under the skin there’s a whopping 113kWh battery capable of very nearly 400 miles of range.

Every EV ranked 1 to 39

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