Every electric car ranked: Road testers' definitive countdown of 161 EVs reveals the best… and worst

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Today marks World EV Day, an annual ‘global celebration of electric mobility’ championing electric vehicle adoption.

It’s not a date everyone circles on the calendar, especially petrolheads with little interest in electric cars.

But the reality is EVs are becoming an increasingly common sight on Britain’s roads.

Registrations surpassed the one million mark by the middle of last year, according to official figures. 

And charging app Zap-Map estimates there were around 2.1million battery-powered cars on UK roads by the end of August.

That’s because the choice of EVs has expanded dramatically in recent years, ranging from diminutive two-seat quadricycles such as the £7,765 Citroen Ami to ultra-luxurious grand tourers like the £350,000 Rolls-Royce Spectre.

Between these two extremes sits an ever-growing selection of battery-powered family cars, with every mainstream manufacturer accelerating its transition away from fossil fuels as the 2030 ban on the sale of new pure petrol and diesel cars approaches.

But which electric cars are the best… and which are the worst?

We’ve teamed up with Auto Express to reveal its top ten EVs, as well as its definitive ranking of all 161 electric models currently on sale.  

Every electric car ranked: Auto Express has furnished us with their road tested order of EVs on the market today based on price, comfort, practicality and performance

Every electric car ranked: Auto Express has furnished us with their road tested order of EVs on the market today based on price, comfort, practicality and performance

With the selection of electric cars growing faster than ever, finding the right model is becoming increasingly difficult.

To help buyers cut through the noise, Auto Express’s team of expert road testers, who have driven every EV on sale, assessed each vehicle on the factors that matter most to motorists.

These include price, range, comfort, practicality and performance.

Their individual rankings were then combined to give every model an overall average position, which we reveal below to mark World EV Day 2026.

Steve Walker, of Auto Express, said: ‘We wanted to create the ultimate guide for drivers, helping them understand which electric cars stand out and which fail to meet the required standard, all in one place.

‘Our ranking also demonstrates the incredible breadth of choice now available to EV buyers. 

‘Even beyond the 161 models featured, there are countless body styles, powertrain configurations and trim levels, meaning there truly is an electric car for almost everyone.’ 

The Daily Mail and This is Money have singled out the ten highest-rated models. Below, we’ve listed the full ranking of all 161 EVs.

The top-rated EV, according to Auto Express road testers, is the third-generation Nissan Leaf, which is produced at the Sunderland factory in the U

The top-rated EV, according to Auto Express road testers, is the third-generation Nissan Leaf, which is produced at the Sunderland factory in the U

1. Nissan Leaf 

Price (from): £28,849

Powertrain: 52kWh battery, 1x e-motor

Power/torque: 174bhp/345Nm

0-62mph/top speed: 8.3s/100mph

Range: up to 386 miles

Charging: 105kW (10-80 per cent in 35 mins)

Class: Mid-size SUV

When it launched 15 years ago, the British-built Nissan Leaf was the world’s first purpose-built mass-market electric car and was in a class of its own.

Today, EVs are everywhere, yet the all-new third-generation Leaf has once again risen to the top, according to Auto Express’ road testers.

‘It’s an outstanding electric family car that offers excellent value and hits the sweet spot in every area,’ Auto Express said.

‘With up to 386 miles of range, almost four times that of the original Leaf and 147 miles more than the second-generation model, it can travel from Cambridge to Edinburgh on a single charge, while a 10 to 80 per cent top-up takes just over half an hour.

‘It also brings plenty of style, large, clear screens and an intuitive Google-powered infotainment system, while there’s enough space in the back for six-foot adults and a 437-litre boot for family life.

‘Discounted by the Government’s £3,750 Electric Car Grant, prices start from £28,849 for the entry-level 52kWh version, which offers 280 miles of range.’

The BMW iX3's 500-mile range showcases just how far EVs have come in the last decade

The BMW iX3’s 500-mile range showcases just how far EVs have come in the last decade

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2. BMW iX3

Price (from): £53,250

Powertrain: 82.6kWh battery, 1x e-motor

Power/torque: 315bhp/500Nm

0-62mph/top speed: 5.9s/124mph

Range: up to 500 miles

Charging: 300kW (10-80 per cent in 21 mins)

Class: Premium SUV

The BMW iX3 is testament to just how far electric cars have come in the past decade.

It combines the German brand’s latest Neue Klasse design language with a fresh approach to interior styling and seriously impressive technology, creating one of the most convincing electric SUVs on sale.

‘The headline figure is a remarkable range of up to 500 miles, while rapid charging means you can add around 230 miles in only 10 minutes, making long-distance journeys easier than ever,’ the road testers said.

‘The styling gives a nod to some of BMW’s most iconic models, while the uncluttered interior puts important information exactly where the driver needs it.

‘On the road, it’s comfortable, responsive and engaging to drive. Simply put, the iX3 is a hugely impressive start to BMW’s new era.’

Skoda's Elroq is highly rated because it keeps things simple - and relatively inexpensive

Skoda’s Elroq is highly rated because it keeps things simple – and relatively inexpensive

3. Skoda Elroq

Price (from): £32,470

Powertrain: 61kWh battery, 1x e-motor

Power/torque: 201bhp/350Nm

0-62mph/top speed: 8.2s/99mph

Range: up to 371 miles

Charging: 165kW (10-80 per cent in 26 mins)

Class: Mid-size SUV

Auto Express says the Elroq’s appeal lies in its simplicity.

The compact SUV takes the best elements of the larger Enyaq, including its emphasis on space, comfort and value, and packages them into a smaller, more affordable vehicle.

It looks smart, while the spacious, well-built interior offers a generous 470-litre boot, plenty of technology and Skoda’s trademark Simply Clever features designed to make everyday life easier. There’s even an umbrella tucked into the driver’s door and an ice scraper hidden inside the tailgate.

‘The Elroq is also comfortable, efficient and easy to drive, so it’s no surprise we named it Auto Express Car of the Year in 2025 before awarding it Best Mid-size SUV in 2026,’ the road test team said.

The Cupra Raval's high ranking is primarily due to its bags of personality with the small Spanish car proving that EVs can have character

The Cupra Raval’s high ranking is primarily due to its bags of personality with the small Spanish car proving that EVs can have character

4. Cupra Raval

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/99mph

Range: up to 277 miles

Charging: 88kW (10-80 per cent in 24 mins)

Class: Supermini

The Cupra Raval is one of the latest small EVs to arrive on the market, but its appeal goes far beyond affordability.

Its lofty ranking is largely down to the way it drives, proving electric cars can still be packed with character and personality. In many ways, it’s the rebel of the supermini class.

Even in standard form it has a sharp design and playful attitude. Choose the hot VZ version and performance is even more impressive.

‘It isn’t all about the fun, though. The Raval also offers an impressive 272 miles of range, a large boot and a roomy, technology-filled cabin, all at attractive prices starting from £25,495,’ Auto Express said.

‘What’s more, the Raval is just the first in a hugely important new generation of small EVs from the Volkswagen Group.’

The electric Mercedes CLA has an impressive range of up to 438 miles in its longest-distance spec

The electric Mercedes CLA has an impressive range of up to 438 miles in its longest-distance spec

5. Mercedes CLA

Price (from): £39,150

Powertrain: 58kWh battery, 1x e-motor

Power/torque: 221bhp/335Nm

0-62mph/top speed: 7.5s/130mph

Range: up to 483 miles

Charging: 200kW (10-80 per cent in 20 mins)

Class: Mid-size exec

The Mercedes CLA has gone from a relatively overlooked model in the German marque’s line-up to one of its headline products, largely thanks to electrification.

The sleek saloon and more practical Shooting Brake estate sit on an all-new platform capable of accommodating both petrol and electric powertrains.

In EV form, the CLA delivers impressive efficiency and a range of up to 483 miles, while charging speeds of up to 320kW mean lengthy charging stops are unlikely.

‘Add in a comfortable ride and excellent refinement and you have a seriously capable and relaxing long-distance cruiser,’ Auto Express said.

Kia's PV5 is the best electric MPV on the market right now and could lead to a rejuvenation of the people carrier segment

Kia’s PV5 is the best electric MPV on the market right now and could lead to a rejuvenation of the people carrier segment

6. Kia PV5

Price (from): £31,695

Powertrain: 51.5kWh battery, 1x e-motor

Power/torque: 120bhp/250Nm

0-62mph/top speed: 12.8s/84mph

Range: up to 258 miles

Charging: 150kW (10-80 per cent in <30 mins)

Class: MPV

The MPV segment has been shrinking for years, with seven-seat SUVs luring buyers away from traditional people carriers. However, electrification could help revive the class, and the Kia PV5 demonstrates exactly why.

‘SUVs aren’t for everyone and, for those looking for a spacious and practical alternative, the Kia PV5 is one of the most compelling options currently on sale,’ Auto Express’s road test team says.

‘Thanks to its nippy electric motor and comfortable ride, the PV5 doesn’t feel like a basic van to drive. Unlike many early electric people carriers, it’s far more car-like in the way it behaves on the road.

‘It also offers the sort of creature comforts buyers expect from a family SUV, including heated seats and a powered tailgate. Open the latter and you’ll find a cavernous 1,300-litre load bay.’

With an official range of up to 503 miles, it's unsurprising to see the Volvo EX60 make the top ten in this ranking of EVs in showrooms today

With an official range of up to 503 miles, it’s unsurprising to see the Volvo EX60 make the top ten in this ranking of EVs in showrooms today

7. Volvo EX60

Price (from): £56,860

Powertrain: 83kWh battery, 1x e-motor

Power/torque: 369bhp/480Nm

0-62mph/top speed: 5.9s/112mph

Range: up to 503 miles

Charging: 175kW (10-80 per cent in 25 mins)

Class: Premium SUV

The range race remains in full swing, with manufacturers continuing to push the boundaries of how far electric cars can travel between charges.

For Volvo, that challenge is met by the new EX60, which boasts a remarkable claimed range in excess of 500 miles.

Auto Express says the Swedish brand’s latest SUV already feels a cut above many established rivals and delivers a genuinely next-generation driving experience.

‘Not only is it stylish, arguably even more so than its main competitor, the BMW iX3, but it’s also comfortable, packed with cutting-edge driver-assistance technology and exceptionally safe,’ the testers said.

‘It also boasts a maximum range of 503 miles, which is significantly more than most drivers are ever likely to need.’

Even after almost a decade in UK showrooms, the Tesla Model 3 remains one of the best small executive EV saloon options

Even after almost a decade in UK showrooms, the Tesla Model 3 remains one of the best small executive EV saloon options

8. Tesla Model 3

Price (from): £37,990

Powertrain: 60kWh battery, 1x e-motor

Power/torque: 279bhp/420Nm

0-62mph/top speed: 6.2s/110mph

Range: up to 436 miles

Charging: 175kW (10-80 per cent in 24 mins)

Class: Mid-size exec

No list of the best electric cars would feel complete without a Tesla, and it is the Model 3 that flies the flag for Elon Musk’s EV brand.

Almost a decade after it first went on sale, the Model 3 remains one of the default choices for buyers considering an electric car, underlining just how right Tesla got the fundamentals from the start.

Smooth, rapid and loaded with technology, the saloon has also benefited from improvements to material quality and driving refinement. Combined with competitive pricing and continuous updates, it remains extremely difficult to ignore.

‘With Tesla’s Supercharger network still offering reliable and affordable rapid charging, it’s little wonder the Model 3 topped the executive car category in the 2026 Driver Power customer satisfaction survey,’ Auto Express said.

While the Renault 5 has been stealing all the plaudits, Auto Express' road testers says the bigger R4 is the one that makes most sense for British buyers

While the Renault 5 has been stealing all the plaudits, Auto Express’ road testers says the bigger R4 is the one that makes most sense for British buyers

9. Renault 4

Price (from): £23,445

Powertrain: 52kWh battery, 1x e-motor

Power/torque: 148bhp/245Nm

0-62mph/top speed: 8.2s/93mph

Range: up to 249 miles

Charging: 100kW (10-80 per cent in 33 mins)

Class: Small SUV

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The Renault 5 has stolen much of the limelight for the French manufacturer, and deservedly so given its blend of cutting-edge technology and retro-inspired styling.

But Auto Express believes the Renault 4 is the smarter choice for many British buyers.

That’s because it retains the charm and nostalgic appeal of the Renault 5 while adding the practicality required of a small family car.

‘Thanks to its responsive electric motor, it’s fun and easy to drive, while decent rear-seat space, a 420-litre boot and up to 250 miles of range mean it’s practical too,’ the road test team said.

There’s also an added bonus. Buyers can specify Renault’s optional ‘Plein Sud’ power-folding fabric roof, adding a touch of open-air motoring.

The Kia EV is one of the coolest looking family cars on the market today. And against rivals, it's also one of the top performers in its segment

The Kia EV is one of the coolest looking family cars on the market today. And against rivals, it’s also one of the top performers in its segment

10. Kia EV3

Price (from): £31,555

Powertrain: 58.3kWh battery, 1x e-motor

Power/torque: 201bhp/283Nm

0-62mph/top speed: 7.5s/105mph

Range: up to 375 miles

Charging: 101kW (10-80 per cent in 29 mins)

Class: Small SUV

Just 15 years ago, Kia was rarely considered a major player in Britain’s family car market. Fast-forward to 2026 and it has firmly established itself as one of the industry’s leading EV manufacturers.

The EV3 is arguably the best example of that progress. Not only is it one of the most striking-looking family cars currently on sale, it is also among the strongest performers in its segment.

The cabin combines smart design with a well-judged mix of physical switchgear and digital functionality, while the boxy exterior styling allows for impressive interior space.

Auto Express said: ‘Thanks to its light steering and supple chassis, the EV3 is relaxing to drive, while big-battery versions offer up to 375 miles of range. 

‘It also supports rapid charging from 10 to 80 per cent in less than half an hour, making it one of the most usable family EVs on the market.’

EVERY EV RANKED: 1-161

1. Nissan Leaf

2. BMW iX3

3. Skoda Elroq

4. Cupra Raval

5. Mercedes-Benz CLA

6. Kia PV5

7. Volvo EX60

8. Tesla Model 3

9. Renault 4 E-Tech

10. Kia EV3

11. Renault 5 E-Tech

12. Tesla Model Y

13. Renault Twingo

14. Audi A6 e-tron

15. Nissan Micra

16. Kia EV2

17. Honda Super-N

18. Skoda Enyaq

19. MG4 Urban

20. Hyundai Ioniq 5

21. Mercedes-Benz C-Class

22. Kia EV4

23. Volkswagen ID.7

24. Fiat Grande Panda

25. Renault Scenic E-Tech

26. Porsche Taycan

27. Cupra Born

28. Citroen e-C5 Aircross

29. Mercedes-Benz GLB

30. BMW iX

31. BMW i5

32. Mercedes-Benz GLC

33. Hyundai Ioniq 6

34. Ford Puma Gen-E

35. Polestar 5

36. Toyota C-HR+

37. Citroen e-C3 Aircross

38. Kia EV9

39. Porsche Cayenne 

40. Alpine A290

41. MG4

42. Peugeot E-5008 

43. Ford Explorer 

44. Audi e-tron GT

45. BMW i4

46. Volkswagen ID.3

47. Polestar 4

48. Citroen e-C3

49. Porsche Macan 

50. Volvo EX30

51. Kia EV6

52. Vauxhall Frontera 

53. Polestar 2

54. Hyundai Inster

55. Polestar 3

56. Audi Q4 e-tron

57. Hyundai Ioniq 9

58. Hyundai Kona

59. Volkswagen ID. Buzz

60. BMW iX1

61. Mini Cooper

62. Rolls-Royce Spectre

63. BMW i7

64. Audi Q6 e-tron

65. Cupra Tavascan

66. Mini Countryman

67. Smart #5

68. Alpine A390

69. Nissan Ariya

70. Lotus Emeya

71. Vauxhall Grandland 

72. Renault Megane E-Tech

73. Peugeot E-3008

74. Volvo ES90

75. Jeep Compass 

76. Kia EV5

77. Vauxhall Astra 

78. Mazda 6e

79. Volvo EX90

80. Vauxhall Corsa 

81. Ford Capri

82. MGS5 EV

83. BMW iX2

84. BYD Dolphin Surf

85. Volvo EX40

86. Peugeot E-308

87. MG IM5

88. Peugeot E-208

89. Genesis GV60

90. Jeep Avenger

91. Peugeot E-408

92. Volkswagen ID.4

93. BYD Seal

94. Peugeot E-2008

95. Lotus Eletre

96. Genesis GV70

97. BYD Dolphin

98. Smart #1

99. Fiat 500e

100. Toyota bZ4X

101. Maserati GranTurismo Folgore

102. DS No8

103. Aion V

104. MG Cyberster

105. MG IM6

106 Lexus RZ

107. Vauxhall Mokka 

108. Volvo EC40

109. Smart #3

110. Volkswagen ID.5

111. Alfa Romeo Junior

112. XPeng G6

113. Mercedes-Benz EQS

114. Lexus ES

115. MGS6 EV

116. Geely EX5

117. Abarth 600e

118. Toyota Proace City Verso

119. Mini Aceman

120. Genesis G80

121. Ford E-Tourneo Custom

122. Leapmotor B10

123. Mercedes-Benz EQE Saloon

124. Leapmotor T03

125. Fiat 600e

126. Citroen e-C4

127. Changan Deepal S05

128. BYD Atto 2

129. Subaru Solterra

130. Abarth 500e

131. BYD Sealion 7

132. DS No4

133. Ford Mustang Mach-E

134. BYD Atto 3 Evo

135. Vauxhall Combo Life

136. Mercedes G 580 with EQ Technology

137. Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV

138. Geely EX2

139. Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV

140. Ford E-Tourneo Courier

141. Dacia Spring

142. Maserati Grecale Folgore

143. KGM Torres EVX

144. Peugeot E-Rifter

145. Citroën ë-Berlingo

146. Jaecoo E5

147. Toyota Proace Verso EV

148. Omoda E5

149. Mercedes-Benz EQV

150. Peugeot E-Traveller

151. DS 3 E-Tense

152. Citroën ë-SpaceTourer

153. Vauxhall Vivaro Life

154. Leapmotor C10

155. Toyota Urban Cruiser

156. Changan Deepal S07

157. Suzuki e Vitara

158. Maxus Mifa 9

159. Maxus Mifa 7

160. Fiat Topolino

161. Citroen Ami

Source: Auto Express 




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