Though SUVs might dominate the sales charts these days – particularly when it comes to electric cars – not everyone wants one of these high-riding models.
It’s why there’s still a place for smaller electric hatchbacks, which are often better to drive and sleeker as well. There’s an increasing number of options on the market too, ranging from smaller city cars to more practical family-suited options. Let’s look at the best electric hatchbacks on sale today.
MG4
Electric cars now make up a big chunk of MG’s sales, and that looks set to only grow with the introduction of the impressive new MG4. Based on an all-new platform, it’s a fantastic electric hatchback and has the scope to attract plenty of new buyers to the brand.
Boasting a sharp new design, it brings generous equipment levels and a good driving experience. A Long Range version even offers an electric range of 281 miles, which is generous for a car of this size. With prices starting from £25,995, it represents terrific value for money too.
Cupra Born
Cupra’s Born uses the Volkswagen ID.3 as its basis but manages to improve on the VW in a number of areas. For starters, it looks the part with its more aggressive design, while thanks to its lower sports suspension, it’s better to drive as well, almost offering a hot hatch feel from behind the wheel.
All Borns come with a generous level of standard equipment too, while the high-tech interior makes the Cupra feel particularly modern. A range of powertrains is available, with the largest 77kWh battery model offering a seriously impressive electric range of up to 340 miles.
Nissan Leaf
Though the Nissan Leaf might be getting a bit old compared to others on this list, it’s still able to hold its own. Produced at the firm’s Sunderland factory, the Leaf offers a smart, fuss-free design inside and out, while its practical interior and large boot make it an ideal choice for families.
Prices starting from £28,995 are competitive too, as all models feature a suite of safety kit, an eight-inch touchscreen and reversing camera to name just a few highlights. Choose the E+ model if range is important, as this is able to travel up to 239 miles on a charge.
Peugeot e-208
Peugeot’s line-up of EVs has grown significantly in the past couple of years, and the e-208 supermini has been one of the most welcome additions. Sitting alongside petrol and diesel versions of this hatchback, the e-208 is good to drive and boasts an electric range of up to 225 miles.
Peugeot has also really upped its design in recent years, with the e-208 being one of the most striking-looking small cars on the market, while the interior gets an upmarket finish too. Its 100kW rapid charging capability also means its battery can be topped up to 80 per cent in just half an hour.
Mini Electric
If you want a fun EV, they don’t come much better than the Mini Electric. Based on the 3-door Hatch, it brings all the style and quality you’d expect from a Mini, just with a more modern electric powertrain.
Though the 145-mile range limits its appeal to those doing lots of motorway miles, it should still be plenty for those living in a town and city, while the responsive powertrain makes the Mini Electric huge fun to drive.
Fiat 500
Fiat’s 500 has been a popular choice in cities for the best part of 15 years, and the introduction of a new electric model is only enhancing its appeal further. Using a new platform, it’s much better to drive than petrol versions, while getting an array of new technology and driver assistance features.
Yet the same charming style inside and out that the 500 is known for remains, while the claimed electric range of up to 199 miles is excellent considering its dinky size. On top of the three-door hatchback, a convertible is also offered.
Citroen e-C4
Citroen’s e-C4 takes a slightly different approach to other models on this list, with its crossover-inspired design giving it more of an SUV appearance, yet still retaining the perks of a regular hatchback. Using the same powertrain as the Peugeot e-208, it boasts a range of up to 219 miles.
The main focus here, though, is comfort, and it’s an area where this Citroen really excels, and is ideal for those doing lots of miles or struggling to get comfortable in their existing car.
