Top 10 Electric SUVs of 2024

BMW's tagline "The ultimate driving machine" is evolving as the focus shifts from speed to comfort, especially with their electric vehicles. The BMW i7 recently won a luxury car test, and the BMW iX continues this trend with its smooth performance, great range, and a comfortable, lounge-like interior. The iX feels more luxurious and relaxed compared to BMW’s sportier past, and for the best experience, the xDrive50 model is recommended for its air suspension and extended range.

The Genesis Electrified GV70 is an often overlooked electric SUV, but it's worth considering for drivers seeking a luxury EV with traditional car vibes. It has a 77.4kWh battery, offering a range of 282 miles, which isn't class-leading but decent. With 483bhp, it’s one of the most powerful in its category, going from 0 to 62mph in just 4.2 seconds.

Inside, it boasts top-notch materials, great comfort, and excellent noise isolation. If the GV70 doesn't suit you, Genesis also has the well-regarded GV60 as an alternative.

Mercedes-Benz leads the way with adaptive cruise control, which has been refined since its 1999 debut. It slows down gradually when cars cut in, and its automatic steering is smooth. It even positions the car in traffic to allow motorcyclists or emergency vehicles to pass. Most of its driving aids, like lane keep assist, are easy to turn off if needed.

SUVs and EVs can be fun to drive, and Hyundai is proving it with the Ioniq 5 N, a performance version of their electric SUV. After impressing car enthusiasts with their petrol-powered hot hatches, the Hyundai i20 N and i30 N, they’ve brought that excitement to the electric era. The Ioniq 5 N offers more than just power and stiff suspension—it has a reinforced body, adaptive dampers, a limited-slip differential, and even an option to simulate a six-speed gearbox with petrol engine sounds.

The Tesla Model Y is set for a major update, but it currently leads the pack in efficiency among electric SUVs. Since its launch in 2021, it’s faced tough competition, yet it still delivers a solid range of 283 miles, or 331 miles in long-range models, with real-world efficiency that matches those numbers.

While Tesla’s minimalist design and driving experience might not appeal to everyone, the Model Y is spacious, offers good value, is quick, and can be fun to drive. Its sibling, the Model 3, has recently been updated to enhance efficiency and comfort, and similar improvements will eventually come to the Model Y.

The Kia EV6 is an impressive electric SUV that’s great for families. It offers a comfortable ride, impressive range of up to 361 miles in its most efficient model, and fast charging at 258kW. Power options start at 226bhp, with the high-performance EV6 GT delivering an incredible 577bhp.

Though it shares mechanics with the Hyundai Ioniq 5, the EV6 is generally more enjoyable to drive, featuring responsive steering and solid precision. If you want an electric SUV that handles like a coupe, has enough space for kids, and comes with a stylish interior without going for the larger, seven-seat EV9, the Kia EV6 could be the ideal choice for you. 

The Ford Explorer may not have the most eye-catching design, but it’s a solid electric SUV worth considering, especially after its delayed launch. Built on Volkswagen’s MEB platform, it’s more than just a rebranded ID 4 and outperforms many competitors, including the Tesla Model Y. The interior is spacious and well-designed.

Range is impressive for its class, starting at 239 miles with the 52kWh battery and reaching 374 miles with the 77kWh option—the best range from any VW-derived MEB vehicle so far. Power starts at 168bhp for rear-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive versions can hit 335bhp. With a starting price below £40,000, it offers great value.

The Explorer also comes well-equipped, featuring a large touchscreen, heated and massage seats, and a comprehensive safety suite as standard.

The Polestar 3 is the largest and one of the best electric SUVs available today, featuring a spacious interior packed with advanced technology and a unique design. It offers impressive power options ranging from 483bhp to 510bhp, thanks to its 107kWh battery, which provides a range of up to 390 miles (or 348 miles with the Performance Pack) and supports fast charging at up to 250kW.

Inside, the Polestar 3 is stylish and comfortable, with chrome accents and recycled soft-touch materials. It includes a large touchscreen with integrated Google Maps and supports wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Despite its hefty 2.5-ton weight, it handles exceptionally well at higher speeds, proving that large electric SUVs can be both fun and enjoyable to drive.

If you want an electric SUV for its spaciousness, the Kia EV9 is a top choice.

The EV9 makes excellent use of its space with a larger glass area, easily foldable seats, and a front trunk for storing cables. It’s not just roomy; it's also a well-performing EV, with strong dual-motor options and an upcoming single-motor model likely to be a favourite. The regenerative braking can be easily controlled with steering wheel paddles, and it boasts a stylish design, good luxury, efficiency, and range.

The Skoda Enyaq is considered the best electric SUV available today, thanks to its great balance of affordability, practicality, range, user-friendliness, and drivability. While it may not excel in one specific area, it’s a fantastic all-rounder. Since its 2021 launch, it has improved upon the Volkswagen MEB platform, outperforming the VW ID.4 and Audi Q4 E-tron, and recent upgrades have addressed its few weaknesses.

Our top choice is the 85 Edition, which offers a 348-mile range and comes well-equipped as standard. The updated multimedia system is now user-friendly, and the Enyaq’s short bonnet and square back provide ample interior space. Features like standard adaptive cruise control and regenerative braking paddles enhance its intuitive driving experience, while the chassis delivers a balanced ride, making it easy to handle.