Top 10 best electric cars 2024

Electric cars have come a long way, and today we’re spoiled for choice. From city cars to SUVs, and even quirky family MPVs like the Volkswagen ID.Buzz, there’s now a wide variety of EVs on showroom floors, with new models constantly being added. Plus, whether it’s Lotus, Jeep or even Rolls-Royce, almost every manufacturer now offers an EV, and with more exciting new electric cars coming out soon, there’s plenty to look forward to. This makes the search for the perfect electric car more challenging, but our test team is more than up to the task. 

Electric cars not only offer a more relaxed driving experience, thanks to their silent powertrains and instant torque, but they also deliver zero emissions and low running costs, making them particularly appealing to company car drivers. The UK’s charging infrastructure is also growing, with more rapid and ultra-rapid electric-car chargers appearing nationwide, making it easier to live with an electric car and cover long distances.

Best electric cars on sale now

Read on to find our list of the best electric cars currently available in the UK, all chosen by our team of expert testers. If you’re after an EV with a bit more of a performance edge, then take a look at our list of the best electric sports cars.

1. Kia EV9

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• Prices from £65,025
• Maximum WLTP combined range: 349 miles

Forget everything you know about Kia; the EV9 is representative of how far the brand has come in the last few years. Available with up to seven seats, the Kia EV9 is incredibly spacious, yet it’s packed to the brim with all the latest technology. We like Kia’s three-screen infotainment system – even if it does lag sometimes – and are pretty impressed by the quality of the materials used around the cabin. Of course, that’s without even mentioning the brand’s industry-leading seven-year warranty.

Entry-level Kia EV9 models are able to cover an impressive 349 miles on a charge, while Dual-Motor cars offer pretty substantial levels of performance. Starting from around £65k, it is rather expensive for a Kia, but few rivals offer this level of space, comfort and technology for the price. With that in mind, we think the Kia EV9 is thoroughly deserving of the prestigious title of DrivingElectric Car of the Year for 2024.

Read our full review of the Kia EV9 to find out more.

2. Tesla Model 3

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• Prices from £39,990
• Maximum WLTP combined range: 421 miles

Although it may not be able to match its SUV sibling in the sales charts, a recent facelift means the Tesla Model 3 no longer exists in the Model Y’s shadow. Thanks to some refinements in efficiency, Long Range cars can now cover an impressive 421 miles on a single charge. It’s the base Rear-Wheel Drive model we’re most taken with, though; few EVs offer the same level of range, performance and tech – especially for under £40,000.

Like all Tesla models, the Model 3 gets full access to Tesla’s Supercharger network, as well as a heap of technology as standard. As before, there’s a 14-inch screen in the front, loaded with features, games and gizmos, however there’s now also an eight-inch display in the back for the rear-seat passengers, making longer journeys a breeze. This, alongside the Model 3’s decently sized boot is why we gave the Tesla the Best Family Electric Car award for 2024.

Read our full review of the Tesla Model 3 to find out more.

3. Renault Scenic

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• Prices from £37,495
• Maximum WLTP combined range: 379 miles

Proof that being taller makes you more attractive, the Renault Scenic has recently been transformed from a dowdy people carrier to a hip and high-riding SUV and we’re in love. Building on the already solid foundation set by the electric Megane hatchback, the new Renault Scenic is even more spacious, full of neat family-friendly features, and has one of the best infotainment systems we’ve ever tried. Powered by Google software, the display is pin-sharp and snappy, plus it’s packed with features and begs the question why more manufacturers don’t leave in-car tech to tech companies.

Another big reason to choose the Scenic is its powertrain; no, it’s not the fastest, nor the most exciting SUV to drive, but we think most buyers will care more about its class-leading 379-mile range. What’s more, the Renault manages to undercut its Tesla Model Y rival on price by a significant margin, plus with a bucketload of standard kit included, we see little reason to shell out on anything other than the well equipped base Techno model. Tres bien, Renault.

Read our full review of the Renault Scenic to find out more.

4. Jeep Avenger

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• Prices from £34,999
• Maximum WLTP combined range: 248 miles

From a brand with roots firmly planted in serious off-roaders such as the Wrangler, the Jeep Avenger brings something entirely different to the table. The Avenger has been built with the purpose of navigating through the city streets rather than the California Mojave desert. With its rugged looks, a surprising amount of storage and a decent 248-mile range, it adds up to a really practical family car. At times the Avenger feels a little short of performance, but a comfortable ride and easy handling in the city still make it a solid choice. 

There are competitors like the Kia Niro EV offering more range and space, but there’s something about the Avenger’s personality that gives it an edge. And while off-road enthusiasts might want to hold out for the four-wheel-drive version, most people will be happy that the launch model delivers plenty of range and performance.

Read our full review of the Jeep Avenger to find out more.

5. Peugeot E-2008

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• Prices from £32,390
• Maximum WLTP combined range: 250 miles

The small electric SUV market is expanding quickly with numerous manufacturers trying to get their share, but the Peugeot E-2008 stands ahead of most with a decent real-world range and good practicality at a price that won’t break the bank. 

The 2008 isn’t terribly exciting to drive and the driving position itself may feel awkward to some. On the positive side, it offers reasonable charge times and the interior is a standout feature, especially after the 2023 facelift, which also improved the infotainment system.

Read our full review of the Peugeot E-2008 to find out more.

6. Hyundai Kona Electric

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• Prices from £34,995
• Maximum WLTP combined range: 319 miles

We fell in love with the Kia Niro EV when it first launched, but its sister car, the Hyundai Kona Electric, takes everything we love about that model to the next level. If you can get past its strikingly futuristic exterior, you’ll find the Kona is a practical electric family car that’s easy to live with. The Kona’s well built cabin features all the latest tech, yet Hyundai hasn’t forgotten ergonomics, meaning there’s plenty of tactile buttons that are easy to press whilst on the move. Its 466-litre boot is also up there with the roomiest in class, while supple suspension makes the Kona ideal for driving around town.

Speaking of town driving, the entry-level Hyundai Kona Electric starts from just under £35k and is ideal for urban-based buyers with its 234-mile range. Those looking to go further afield can upgrade to the 65kWh car with its 319-mile range, however both versions are capable of a 10-80 per cent rapid charge in around 40 minutes. Oh, and did we mention that, like all Hyundais, the Kona Electric gets a superb five-year, 100,000-mile warranty? We think that’ll do just nicely.

Read our full review of the Hyundai Kona Electric to find out more.

7. Skoda Enyaq

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• Prices from £36,970
• Maximum WLTP combined range: 348 miles

The Enyaq is Skoda’s first dedicated electric car, and undeniably one of the best on sale today. In typical fashion for the Czech brand, the Enyaq is all about space; its 585-litre boot is one of the largest of any electric family cars, while the flat rear floor means it’s easy to sit three adults abreast in the rear. That’s not forgetting all of Skoda’s signature ‘Simply Clever’ features which include an ice scraper built into the charging port flap, a folding crate in the boot and an umbrella hidden within the driver’s door – just like in a Rolls-Royce.

There are several versions of the Skoda Enayq to choose from, but we’d skip the base 60 model, unless you only plan to use the SUV for the school run. The mid-spec 85 Edition marks the sweet spot in the line-up, with a long list of equipment and, more crucially, a strong 348-mile range figure. If you’re after something to set your pulses racing, Skoda also offers the Enyaq in sleek Coupe form, as well as in high-performance vRS guise with over 330bhp.

Read our full review of the Skoda Enyaq to find out more.

8. Porsche Taycan

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• Prices from £87,145
• Maximum WLTP combined range: 421 miles

Porsche has a long history of building some of the most impressive and exciting cars on sale and with the Taycan, it doesn’t disappoint. The Porsche Taycan wows with its amazing driving experience and impressive battery ranges, making it one of the best electric cars there is. Solid German build quality adds to the appeal but it’s not all sunshine and roses – this premium ride comes with a hefty price tag, and backseat passengers might feel a bit cramped. Plus, be prepared for a bumpy ride over poor surfaces.

With a quoted range of up to 421 miles, depending on model choice, and quick charge times, it’s not just about performance. The Taycan’s interior is a showstopper, too, especially if you opt for fancy features like the optional passenger display and top-notch materials such as the full leather interior and optional trims, but these add to the cost. If you can stomach the price tag though, you will have a car that very few other EVs can touch.

Read our full review of the Porsche Taycan to find out more.

9. Hyundai Ioniq 5

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• Prices from £39,900
• Maximum WLTP combined range: 354 miles

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is an electric car that has something for every driver and is perfect for the current motoring world. If you're after a long-distance cruiser, its impressive range of over 350 miles and 350kW ultra-rapid charging, increasing from 10 to 80 per cent at peak charging speed in just 18 minutes, earned the Hyundai the DrivingElectric Best Long-Distance Electric Car award in 2022.

For those who want a car to set fire to their nether regions, the hot Ioniq 5 N delivers raw speed and power, with the precision to really attack every corner, making it a joy to drive. But if you’re not into speed or long-distance trips, the standard Ioniq 5 still has plenty to offer. Creature comforts like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a head-up display, and wireless charging are all included. It’s family-friendly, too, with sliding rear seats that let you adjust the balance between legroom and boot space. With 527 litres in the boot and an additional 57 litres in the ‘frunk’ under the bonnet, it’s practical enough for taller passengers, a dog, or anything else you need to carry.

Read our full review of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 to find out more

10. BMW i5

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• Prices from £67,695
• Maximum WLTP combined range: 356 miles

The BMW i5 does a fine job of showcasing the brand’s best qualities. It impresses with its premium feel and superb infotainment system - the BMW iDrive continues to deliver one of the best user experiences in the industry. Despite minor concerns about its urban manoeuvrability and a few rivals having slightly more range, the i5 provides an exceptional driving experience, offering ample performance and refinement. The price tag is high but the i5 proves to be one of the most well rounded electric executive saloons money can buy.

Read our full review of the BMW i5 to find out more.

Best electric cars to buy now

1. Kia EV9
2. Tesla Model 3
3. Renault Scenic
4. Jeep Avenger
5. Peugeot E-2008
6. Hyundai Kona Electric
7. Skoda Enyaq
8. Porsche Taycan
9. Hyundai Ioniq 5
10. BMW i5

How to choose the best electric car for you: top tips

1. There’s an electric car for everyone now

Electric cars have come a long way since the days when the G-Wiz and Nissan Leaf were the only EVs on the road. In 2024, the choice is immense. At one end of the spectrum you have budget-minded models like the MG4 EV and Kia Niro EV, as well as compact city cars like the Fiat 500, while at the other end are ultra-premium models like the BMW i7 and Mercedes EQS SUV. There's also more than a few high-performance flagships that casually boast power outputs close to 1,000bhp.

One thing they all have in common is a near-silent powertrain that can provide zippy performance and – more importantly for some – a relaxing driving experience previously reserved for the most luxurious cars on the road. With instant torque on tap, no gearchanges to deal with, and regenerative braking that can allow for one-pedal driving, there’s a lot to like about being behind the wheel of an electric car.

2. Make sure you can reliably top up your electric car 

There are many good things to like about owning an electric car, however you need to think about how you’re going to keep your zero-emissions pride and joy topped up. It’s not a problem if you have private off-street parking, because installing a home wallbox will allow you to recharge overnight, ready for the next day.

Don’t worry if you’re one of the many people who use on-street parking, because cities like London are now well served by public charging points, so you can get away with not having a charger at home or work. If you do less than 200 or so miles a week, one top-up from a public charging point every few days should be sufficient.

You may need to think twice about switching to electric if your average daily mileage exceeds the range of the car you’re considering. But, thanks to the growing number of rapid-charging points you can find dotted around the UK, particularly at service stations, longer journeys are now a cinch for most electric cars, too.

3. Low running costs make up for higher price tags

One unavoidable downside of switching to electric is the higher starting prices of EVs compared with their combustion-engine counterparts. For example, while the petrol-powered version of the Vauxhall Corsa hatchback starts from just over £18,000, the zero-emissions Corsa Electric is currently priced at just under £30,000.

But the real savings are to be made in running costs. Electric cars attract just 2 per cent company-car tax (although that percentage is set to gradually increase), require less frequent servicing and cost less to ‘fuel’, on average, than their petrol or diesel equivalents. Plus, all electric cars are zero-rated for VED (road tax) and exempt from the London Congestion Charge zone until 2025, so you’ll avoid those fees for at least another year.

4. Consider leasing an electric car

Due to the fact electric cars generally sport higher price tags than their petrol-powered counterparts, and because their features and technology are evolving quickly right now, leasing may be a better option for some. There are downsides, such as there being no option to own the car at the end of the contract, but manufacturers are keen to sell their electric cars right now, so there are plenty of deals out there, allowing you to get behind the wheel of the latest models for an attractive fixed monthly amount.