Top Performing EVs in the UK

The EV market has expanded rapidly in recent years, with most major car manufacturers now offering fully electric models. And if you’re in the market for an electric car, you’re spoilt for choice. You might also be thinking ‘Which EV do I go for?’. Some people still know very little about the electric car market and might have reservations in terms of what to go for…. 

Here we look at some of the best and most popular EVs on the market right now to help you choose a little easier.

Tesla Model 3

The Tesla Model 3 has been one of the stand-out electric vehicles since its launch. The Californian manufacturer put EVs firmly on the map in many people's minds with their sleek, tech-focused vehicles. The Model 3 is their most affordable car, starting from around £42,000 brand new. It offers up to 348 miles of range, rapid charging capacity and Tesla's latest self-driving features. Being a Tesla, the interior feels modern, minimalist and advanced to many other EVs on the market. Performance is exceptional too, with the Long Range model sprinting from 0-60mph in under 5 seconds.

Kia e-Niro 

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For buyers seeking value for money, the Kia e-Niro ticks many boxes. Priced from around £34,000, the family-sized e-Niro can manage up to 282 miles between charges. The 64kWh battery pack can replenish to 80% in as little as 54 minutes when using rapid chargers. Kia's expertise with crossover vehicles shines through in the e-Niro's comfortable, practical interior and perky driving dynamics. It's not as flashy as a Tesla inside, but does provide everyday usability for families.

 
Nissan Leaf 

The Nissan Leaf is one of the world's best-selling EVs, having pioneered affordable electric driving since 2010. Now in its second generation, the Leaf starts at under £27,000 and provides up to 239 miles. The real-world range is likely to be a little less, but the Leaf excels as an economical small commuter car with its hatchback shape maximising carrying capacity. Nissan has packed the Leaf with driver assistance and connectivity technology, although cabin plastics feel cheap in places, however, the performance and handling suit everyday driving and the Leaf shouldn't be overlooked.

 
MG ZS EV
 

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Chinese-owned MG Motor is aiming to shake up the EV market with the MG ZS EV. This neatly-styled, small SUV comes with a 7-year warranty and starts from only £26,495 after the government plug-in vehicle grant. The ZS EV boasts space and comfort that rivals gas-powered SUVs, while its 44.5kWh battery allows up to 273 miles between charging stops. Performance is modest but perfectly adequate for regular driving, while fast charging from 10-80% takes just 40 minutes, perfect for families on the go. With its competitive pricing, long warranty and well-equipped nature, the ZS EV is a compelling choice.

 
Volkswagen ID.3

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The ID.3 sees Volkswagen enter the dedicated EV market, having been adapted from the ground up to maximise battery-powered usability. In mid-range spec, it costs around £33,000 and provides a range of over 200 miles. Expect upgraded interior fixtures and technology compared to VW's conventional hatchbacks like the Polo and Golf. If you’re expecting the same, you’re in for a shock. Acceleration up to 99mph is brisk, while handling balances comfort and agility. Rapid charging to 80% takes around 35 minutes, supporting longer journeys. The ID.3's roomy interior and boxy, minimalist styling is perfect for families.

 
Hyundai Ioniq Electric

Hyundai's Ioniq range has offered hybrid, plug-in hybrid and all-electric variants since 2016. The Electric model provides up to 194 miles range, which is less than most rivals, but starts at a very affordable £27,250. You still get lots of equipment and a pleasingly upmarket cabin for this money. Performance is modest but perfectly fine for commutes and city driving. Efficiency is excellent too, aided by regenerative braking to recoup energy. For drivers covering lower miles or wanting a city runaround, Ioniq Electric is ideal. Supporting rapid charging, it's still usable for longer trips.

 
BMW i3

BMW's i3 hatchback pioneered an innovative approach to EV motoring when launched in 2013. Its bodywork features extensive use of carbon fibre to offset the weight of its battery packs, while the modern architecture maximises interior room. Since launch, BMW has released the i3 in various forms, with the current 120Ah model starting at over £36,000. All i3 models offer brisk performance thanks to instant torque delivery. The smallest battery allows 193 miles range, best for urban environments rather than long journeys. 

Fiat 500 Electric
 

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The latest version of Fiat's ever-popular 500 city car is electric-only, the 500e. The absence of a growling engine hasn't been lost on its cheerful, chic styling that evokes La Dolce Vita. Drive remains at the front wheels, with the main clue to its EV credentials being a tightly shut grille. The range stands at 199 miles, supporting most city drivers' needs. Rapid charging takes just 35 minutes. Thanks to clever design, interior space nearly matches the regular 500, while performance zips to 62mph in 9.0 seconds. It's not cheap, with prices starting at over £27,000, but this stylish Italian EV oozes personality.

When it comes to raw performance, the Tesla Model 3 is arguably the top electric vehicle in the UK at present. Tesla has been at the forefront of making EVs desirable, combining excellent driving ranges with blistering acceleration. The Model 3 showcases the best of the brand's capabilities in a more affordable package compared to the larger Model S and X. The range-topping Model 3 Performance version sprints from 0-60mph in a supercar-beating 3.1 seconds. This instant torque combined with precise steering and dynamic handling gives the driver extremely responsive control. Not only fast in a straight line, the Model 3 stays remarkably composed through sweeping curves too. No other EV can provide the same blend of stunning speed, agility and 315 miles of range in the UK for a similar price. That's why the Model 3 remains the performance EV benchmark for now.

The UK now boasts an extensive range of excellent electric vehicles spanning various price points and sizes. Whether you seek outright luxury and technology, maximum economy or just everyday usability, the EV takeover means battery models can now compete with traditional cars. Falling prices and improving charging infrastructure strengthen the case to go electric with each passing year.