The last year has seen the number of electric cars on offer increase dramatically.
In fact, most manufacturers now offer at least one EV, and due to the popularity of SUVs, it’s this market segment that has an especially wide range of electric versions. We’ve already looked at the best electric SUVs on offer, but what about more compact models? Here are our top picks.
BMW iX1
BMW now has one of the widest ranges of electric cars of any manufacturer, and one of the most recent additions is the new iX1. Sold alongside petrol, diesel and hybrid versions of BMW’s most compact SUV, this is an especially impressive model.
Despite its relatively compact size, it offers a huge amount of interior space, including for rear-seat passengers and boot volume. It’s good to drive as well, while getting all of BMW’s latest in-car technology, including its Curved Display. The iX1 features twin electric motors, allowing all-wheel-drive, and offers a range of up to 270 miles.
MG ZS EV
It was MG’s ZS EV that really helped to get this brand noticed, and establish it as a key player when it comes to affordable electric cars. That continues to this day, with the ZS EV benefitting from a recent update that brought a more modern look, more equipment and additional technology.
With prices starting from £30,495, it undercuts many of its rivals by some margin, yet still offers a practical interior that makes it well suited to family duties. There are two powertrains available, with the ‘Long Range’ version able to travel up to 273 miles on a charge.
Jeep Avenger
The Avenger arrives as Jeep’s first electric car, and it’s already taken the market by storm, having recently been named as overall European Car of the Year. It is a hugely important car for Jeep too, and is expected to increase its sales dramatically.
It will likely succeed too, as the Avenger is a very competitive product with its good driving experience, generous equipment levels and fun, ‘rugged’ looks. It’s also quick to charge, well-priced and offers a claimed range of up to 250 miles.
Kia Niro EV
Kia’s original e-Niro was a very big seller for this South Korean firm, and this second-generation – now named the Niro EV – is an equally compelling product. It’s a great EV for those making the switch to an electric car, owing to its easy driving experience and a good range of up to 285 miles.
This new Niro EV also boasts a far more modern interior with new digital displays, while it’s impressively spacious too – offering a large boot and loads of rear seat space.
Peugeot e-2008
Peugeot now has an especially wide range of electric models, and its e-2008 is an especially popular choice. This compact electric SUV stands out with the way it looks, while the interior is also well-finished with plenty of technology included as standard.
Though the e-2008 might not be the most spacious electric crossover, it still offers enough room for a small family. Its 50kWh battery also allows for a claimed range of 214 miles.
Hyundai Kona Electric
Hyundai is another well-established player in the world of electric cars, and though its new ‘Ioniq’ sub-brand might be garnering the most praise, its older Kona Electric still deserves plenty of recognition.
Its show-topping attribute is its 300-mile range, which is quite reliable too owing to the Kona Electric’s impressive efficiency. You also get a five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty and generous equipment levels to sweeten the deal.
Volvo XC40 Recharge
If you want an upmarket compact electric SUV, a great choice is Volvo’s XC40 Recharge. The EV version of the firm’s best-selling model, it offers a roomy interior and plenty of technology, including the excellent Android infotainment system that features various Google services built into it.
Recent changes to the XC40 have also seen its range given a boost, with Volvo claiming up to 311 miles from a charge. The all-wheel-drive version also boasts a mighty 402bhp, allowing for a 0-60mph time of just 4.7 seconds.
