Top 10 best small electric SUVs 2024
Small electric SUVs are steadily increasing in popularity thanks to low running costs, practicality and more choice. We run down the best ones for 2024
Small electric SUVs are cars that sum up the current automotive market perfectly. Fashionable SUVs and crossovers have been a massive hit with buyers for some time, while electric cars are also seeing a strong growth in sales numbers in the shadow of the looming combustion car sales ban.
The best small electric SUVs are targeted at eco-conscious families that require increased space and practicality over electric superminis. Their electric powertrains can provide rock bottom running costs - especially when these models are used as company cars. It’s no surprise that a growing number of car manufacturers now produce a small electric SUV to cater to the growing demand for these zero-emission vehicles.
Best small electric SUVs on sale
See below the list of the best small electric SUVs chosen by our team of expert road testers. If you’re looking for an EV SUV of the more compact persuasion, then check out our list of the best electric SUVs.
1. Hyundai Kona Electric
- Prices from £34,995
- Maximum WLTP combined range: 319 miles
There are few cars that can do it all, but out of all the small electric SUVs currently on sale, the Hyundai Kona Electric comes the closest. The previous Kona Electric was already one of our favourite EVs, but this new one is much more refined out on the road and we love the new car’s modern, yet ergonomic interior. Entry-level cars represent superb value-for-money – especially given how spacious the Kona is compared with similarly-priced rivals – while top-of-the-range cars are capable of over 300 miles on a charge, meaning you can take the electric Hyundai away on a family holiday without worrying about charging up all the time. There’s even a five-year warranty, so what’s not to like?
Read our full Hyundai Kona Electric review to find out more.
2. Kia Niro EV
- Prices from £37,325
- Maximum WLTP combined range: 285 miles
Another car that improves over an already-polished predecessor, the Kia Niro EV refines the formula further with its striking design, roomy cabin and long list of standard kit. All cars get a twin-screen infotainment system with built-in Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while a 285-mile range and 451-litre boot should make it a hit with family buyers. Light steering and somewhat supple suspension make it a doddle to drive around town, while the Niro EV’s regenerative braking function is more than strong enough for one-pedal driving. It’s just a shame you have to pay extra for a heat pump – a worthwhile extra for gloomy British winters.
Read our full Kia Niro EV review to find out more.
3. Dacia Spring
- Prices from £14,995
- Maximum WLTP combined range: 140 miles
The Dacia Spring is the tiniest of all of the small electric SUVs on our list and by far the cheapest, starting from just £14,995, it is currently the cheapest electric car available in the UK. Dacia has approached the Spring with a ‘keep it simple’ mentality, there isn’t any high tech wizardry but the car has the basics most people would need, such as air-conditioning, parking sensors, cruise control, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Without the masses of tech seen on other electric cars and with help from its sub-one tonne weight, the Spring has impressive efficiency. Dacia states that the Spring can achieve a range of 140 miles from its 26.8kWh battery, which works out as 5.2 miles per kilowatt-hour. During our testing, however, we achieved a steady 4 miles per kWh, which is still impressive for a small electric SUV.
Read our full Dacia Spring review to find out more.
4. Jeep Avenger
- Prices from £34,999
- Maximum WLTP combined range: 248 miles
While Jeep has built a reputation over the years for building rough-and-tumble off-roaders, its latest model is a thoroughly modern small electric SUV called the Avenger. Its range of 248 miles might not be class-leading, but the Avenger is good to drive nonetheless and is perfect for the city, as well as tight country lanes. Speaking of venturing outside town, the Avenger may be front-wheel-drive – a four-wheel-drive model is due in the future – but several off-road-specific drive modes mean it’s more capable than you might expect. If you live in a rural area but are able to make use of an electric car, Jeep’s first EV could be the perfect choice.
Read our full Jeep Avenger review to find out more.
5. Peugeot E-2008
- Prices from £32,390
- Maximum WLTP combined range: 250 miles
The Peugeot 2008 has been one of the most popular and enduring small SUVs of the past decade, so it makes a lot of sense that the electric E-2008 would be one of the better options for those looking for a small electric family car. As you’ve probably noticed, the E-2008’s striking looks help it stand out from the crowd, but it’s not just skin-deep because the car also has a fantastic interior with plenty of tech, lots of space for the family and a decent boot. Aside from its average 250-mile range our biggest gripe is the seating position, which could be a dealbreaker for some. Regardless, the E-2008 is still capable of a 10-80% charge in half-an-hour and is a great option for those who want to stand out from the crowd.
Read our full Peugeot E-2008 review to find out more.
6. Volvo EX30
- Prices from £32,850
- Maximum WLTP combined range: 295.8 miles
The Volvo EX30 is the IKEA of small electric SUVs, being minimalist, constructed of recycled materials and competitively priced. Some may scorn the EX30’s simplistic design, but we think it gives off a very premium feel, similar to that of the larger and more expensive Tesla Model Y. It also drives pretty well, with powertrains ranging from punchy to preposterously potent for a crossover of this size. Speaking of which, if you can live with the Volvo’s rather cramped interior – a handy guide is engraved into the sides of the boot to help with luggage fitment – we think few small electric SUVs are as desirable and capable as the EX30. Being a Volvo, it should be incredibly safe, too.
Read our full Volvo EX30 review to find out more.
7. Mercedes EQA
- Prices from £49,750
- Maximum WLTP combined range: 349 miles
A rival to the larger BMW iX1, the Mercedes EQA is essentially an electric version of the petrol-powered GLA. However, in the transition to becoming zero emissions, Merc’s smallest SUV has become a lot more appealing; it’s fast, cheap to run and a range of up to 349 miles on facelifted models makes the EQA one of the longest-range electric cars on this list. On the inside, buyers can expect premium-feeling materials, swathes of ambient lighting and Mercedes' slick MBUX infotainment system with augmented reality navigation. Similarly-priced rivals are more practical, but the smooth and refined EQA is an excellent luxury option.
Read our full Mercedes EQA review to find out more.
8. Smart #3
- Prices from £32,950
- Maximum WLTP combined range: 283 miles
The Smart #3 stands out as a stylish coupe-SUV with refined driver assistance systems and a peppy electric motor. Equipped with LED headlights, a 12.8-inch touchscreen, panoramic glass sunroof, 360-degree camera, and heated seats as standard, it offers a compelling package. Despite improvements over the Smart #1, the driver assistance systems on the #3 can still be intrusive, and the regenerative braking setup isn’t the best we’ve encountered. Nonetheless, with sporty dynamics and only slightly less boot space than its sibling for similar money, the #3 shines among small coupe-SUV competitors.
Read our full Smart #3 review to find out more.
9. Honda e:Ny1
- Prices from £40,645
- Maximum WLTP combined range: 256 miles
The Honda e:Ny1 offers a compelling package with its tech-filled interior, enjoyable driving experience, and spacious cabin. Initially criticised for its high price point, a £5,000 reduction made it a lot more appealing. The Honda e:Ny1 boasts a range of approximately 256 miles and delivers a composed ride, agile handling, and brisk acceleration. Power comes from a 148bhp front-mounted motor with the e:Ny1 reaching 0-62mph in 7.6 seconds. However, its regenerative braking setup could use some refinement.
The spacious interior, with foldable rear seats expanding boot space to 1,176 litres, features a massive 15.1-inch touchscreen and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. The e:Ny1 is an enticing choice for buyers seeking a stylish and capable electric small SUV.
Read our full Honda e:Ny1 review to find out more.
10. MINI Aceman
- Prices from £31,800
- Maximum WLTP combined range: 251 miles
The MINI Aceman stays true to MINI’s quirky, fun roots, offering up to 251 miles of range in a compact SUV similar in size to the Jeep Avenger and Vauxhall Mokka Electric. The SE model packs a punch with 215bhp and a 0-62mph time of 7.1 seconds, plus MINI’s signature sharp handling, making it one of the most engaging small electric SUVs on the road.
Inside, the Aceman boasts a bold 9.4-inch circular OLED screen with MINI’s new virtual assistant, Spike, adding tech flair and functionality. Rear space is tight, with a boot holding 300 litres (1,005 with seats down), so it’s not the top choice for those needing lots of cargo space. But for those after a stylish, spirited small electric SUV with MINI’s distinctive character, the Aceman is hard to beat.
Read the full details on the MINI Aceman to find out more
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