As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to redefine the automotive industry, Top Gear has curated its top 20 electric cars of 2024, highlighting their performance, innovation, and sustainability. From compact city cars to luxurious electric SUVs, here’s a comprehensive overview of the best EVs on the market today.
1. Fiat 500 / Abarth 500e
The Fiat 500e is small but versatile, perfect for city driving while still being capable of longer journeys thanks to its impressive range. The Abarth 500e, a performance variant, pays homage to the 1950s Fiat models with a retro-modern design and a sound generator that mimics a petrol engine.
- Range: Ideal for urban and motorway trips.
- Design: Retro-inspired with modern electric tech.
2. Lotus Eletre
Lotus takes a bold step with the Eletre, a high-riding electric SUV that blends the brand’s performance heritage with future-forward electric technology. Built in China, the Eletre remains true to Lotus’ values of agility and excitement.
- Performance: Takes on electric giants like Tesla with ease.
- Lotus Heritage: Retains the essence of Lotus in an electric format.
3. Hyundai Kona Electric
A practical family crossover, the Hyundai Kona Electric impresses with its affordable pricing and substantial refresh. It remains competitive in a crowded market thanks to its efficient range and tech-packed interior.
- Affordability: Competitive pricing in the mid-£30k range.
- Interior: Button-filled, family-friendly design.
4. Renault Scenic E-Tech
The Scenic E-Tech offers a spacious alternative to Renault’s smaller Megane E-Tech, providing more rear room and a larger 87kWh battery for an impressive range of 391 miles.
- Space: Extended wheelbase for more rear legroom.
- Range: Upgraded to meet modern driving needs.
5. Hyundai Ioniq 6
Hyundai continues its electric vehicle momentum with the Ioniq 6, a smooth, comfortable cruiser that excels in range efficiency. It offers a fresh take on styling while delivering a relaxing driving experience.
- Smooth Driving: Effortlessly absorbs miles with low charge usage.
- Efficiency: Helps ease range anxiety with optimal power management.
6. Maserati GranTurismo Folgore
Maserati’s GranTurismo Folgore combines the brand’s signature luxury with electric power, delivering an opulent driving experience with exceptional engineering. The Folgore reflects Maserati’s growing investment in electric technology.
- Luxury: A premium driving experience that feels worthy of the Maserati name.
- Innovation: Blends tradition with cutting-edge EV technology.
7. Kia EV9
Kia’s flagship EV9 delivers robust performance, offering a spacious, family-friendly design and enough range and features to justify its premium price point.
- Family Focused: Tough and practical for daily life.
- Range: Impressive performance that rivals more established brands.
8. Volvo EX30
The Volvo EX30 takes sustainability seriously, with an audited CO2 footprint and a clean electric powertrain. Its environmental impact is half that of a traditional petrol car, making it a standout choice for eco-conscious drivers.
- Sustainability: Low CO2 emissions across the vehicle’s lifecycle.
- Efficiency: Smart use of energy for eco-friendly driving.
9. BMW i4
The BMW i4 blends traditional BMW driving dynamics with the clean efficiency of an electric vehicle. It rides well and offers deft handling, making it a solid competitor to the Tesla Model 3 and Polestar 2.
- Driving Experience: Seamlessly integrates BMW’s signature handling with electric power.
- Design: Sophisticated yet familiar, appealing to those who prefer a classic look.
10. Volkswagen ID.7
Volkswagen’s ID.7 checks all the boxes with its spacious interior, efficient range, and straightforward usability. It’s an accessible electric vehicle that’s less quirky than earlier VW models.
- Comfort: Spacious and designed for long-distance comfort.
- User-friendly: Simple and intuitive to operate.
11. Jeep Avenger
The Jeep Avenger is an excellent electric city car, offering smooth performance, manoeuvrability, and quick charging. It combines Jeep’s rugged design ethos with the practicality of an urban electric vehicle.
- City-Friendly: Perfect for urban driving with compact dimensions.
- Rugged Design: Retains Jeep’s signature tough look.
12. Polestar 2
The Polestar 2 stands out for its minimalist design, high build quality, and smooth driving experience. Its Single Motor variant makes it more accessible, while maintaining the brand’s reputation for quality.
- Design: Handsome and understated, with a focus on functionality.
- Build Quality: Top-tier craftsmanship for an elevated driving experience.
13. BMW i7
BMW’s i7 combines the luxury of the 7 Series with advanced electric technology. Inside, it boasts what might be the finest interior in the automotive world, and its driving experience is smooth, fast, and efficient.
- Luxury: Stunning interior design paired with high performance.
- Efficiency: Remarkably efficient for such a large luxury car.
14. Dacia Spring
The Dacia Spring offers simplicity and affordability in the electric vehicle market. It proves that electric vehicles can be light and low-impact, keeping the dream of accessible, affordable EVs alive.
- Affordability: A budget-friendly option in the electric market.
- Lightweight: Designed for efficiency without sacrificing practicality.
15. BMW i5
The BMW i5 is an all-electric version of the beloved 5 Series, combining dynamic performance with luxury. It rivals the Tesla Model S in handling, comfort, and quality, making it a standout in its class.
- Handling: The best in its class, rivaling performance EVs.
- Luxury: High-end features and comfort for a premium driving experience.
16. Tesla Model 3 / Model Y
Tesla’s Model 3 and Model Y continue to lead the market in innovation and design. Both models offer cutting-edge technology and a user-friendly experience, with the Model 3 being a benchmark for EVs worldwide.
- Tech-forward: Loaded with futuristic features.
- Range and Performance: Still among the best on the market.
17. MG4
The MG4 delivers exceptional value with strong performance, great range, and competitive pricing. It’s a practical choice for those seeking an affordable yet feature-packed EV.
- Value for Money: High-performance at an affordable price.
- Practicality: A well-rounded vehicle for daily use.
18. Porsche Taycan
Porsche’s Taycan combines sports car performance with electric efficiency. It offers the driving dynamics Porsche is known for, alongside cutting-edge EV technology.
- Performance: Unmatched sports car feel in an electric package.
- Luxury: High-end materials and top-tier engineering.
19. Rolls-Royce Spectre
The Rolls-Royce Spectre brings electric opulence to new heights. With its signature luxury, the Spectre is a galloping, indulgent masterpiece that maintains the spirit of Rolls-Royce while embracing the future of electric vehicles.
- Luxury: Unrivaled indulgence and craftsmanship.
- Electric Excellence: A smooth, quiet ride with state-of-the-art features.
20. Hyundai Ioniq 5 N
Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 N is a high-performance electric vehicle that offers playful handling and dynamic driving, making it as involving as a traditional petrol car. It’s packed with advanced features unique to the EV world.
- Performance: Blurs the line between electric and petrol-powered cars.
- Innovation: A game-changing entry in the electric market.
Conclusion
From compact city cars like the Fiat 500e to luxury offerings like the Rolls-Royce Spectre, these electric vehicles demonstrate the breadth and diversity of the EV market in 2024. Whether you prioritize sustainability, performance, or luxury, there’s an electric car on this list for every type of driver.
