New car buyers in the U.S. seeking a practical electric SUV are currently faced with a wealth of options, as manufacturers rush to introduce attractive and compelling models catering to a wide range of needs.
Crossovers and SUVs offer numerous advantages, including slightly improved safety ratings, enhanced versatility, and ample interior space.
While electric drive components are heavier, their compact nature allows designers and engineers to maximize cabin space without compromising comfort or vehicle handling dynamics.
Reliability is a key consideration for any family car, especially if it’s your primary vehicle. Fortunately, electric cars tend to offer better reliability, thanks to their simpler configurations with fewer moving parts.
Manufacturers support this with extended warranty packages, some of which last up to eight years. However, certain EV models still face challenges in maintaining high reliability standards.
If you’re in the market for a dependable and spacious electric SUV, here are 10 of the most reliable and practical options available.
10. Audi Q4 E-Tron
Cargo Capacity: 24.8 Cubic-Feet
The Audi Q4 e-tron competes in the compact electric vehicle category but still offers a respectable 24.8 cubic feet of trunk space, which expands to 53 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded.
If you choose the Sportback variant, cargo capacity increases to 26.1 cubic feet. The Q4 e-tron is currently subject to two recalls. One recall is addressed with an over-the-air software update, while the other requires a replacement of the charging cable.
Performance Specifications
| Model | Q4 40 e-Tron | Q4 50 e-Tron | Q4 55 e-Tron |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | Rear Permanent-Magnet Motor | Rear Permanent and Front Asynchronous Motors | Rear Permanent and Front Asynchronous Motors |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Automatic | Single-Speed Automatic | Single-Speed Automatic |
| Horsepower | 201 HP | 295 HP | 335 HP |
| Torque | 229 LB-FT | 313 LB-FT | 401 LB-FT |
| Driveline | Rear-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
| 0-60 MPH | 7.9 Seconds | 5.8 Seconds | 5.0 Seconds |
| Top Speed | 99 MPH | 112 MPH | 112 MPH |
| Towing Capacity | 2,200 Pounds | 2,650 Pounds | 2,650 Pounds |
| Payload Capacity | 1,300 Pounds | 1,300 Pounds | 1,300 Pounds |
The Q4 e-tron holds a 48/100 predicted reliability score and a 2/5 predicted owner satisfaction rating from Consumer Reports. J.D. Power is equally critical, giving the model a 63/100 quality and reliability rating.
Pricing for the Q4 e-tron starts at $55,200, with the Prestige trim reaching as high as $62,200 before adding options and additional packages.
Also Read: Top 10 Retro-Inspired Cars That Blend Nostalgia With Modern Tech
9. 2024 Jaguar I-Pace
Cargo Capacity: 25.3 Cubic-Feet
The Jaguar I-Pace is one of the pioneers in the electric SUV market. It offers an impressive 25.3 cubic feet of trunk space, which expands to 50.7 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down.
There are two recalls currently associated with the 2024 I-Pace. A software update resolves the missing turn signal failure warning, while a more serious recall for an overheating high-voltage battery can also be addressed with an over-the-air update.
Performance Specifications
| Model | Jaguar I-Pace |
|---|---|
| Engine | Dual Permanent-Magnet Motors |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Automatic |
| Horsepower | 394 HP |
| Torque | 512 LB-FT |
| Driveline | All-Wheel Drive |
| 0-60 MPH | 4.5 Seconds |
| Top Speed | 124 MPH |
| Towing Capacity | 1,653 Pounds |
| Payload Capacity | 1,184 Pounds |
The I-Pace has a 30/100 predicted reliability rating and a 2/5 predicted owner satisfaction score.
Despite being on the market for a while, Jaguar prices the I-Pace starting at $73,875, without factoring in any options. It is offered in a single trim option, keeping things simple for buyers.
8. Hyundai Ioniq 5
Cargo Capacity: 27.2 Cubic-Feet
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a mid-size electric SUV that offers 27.2 cubic feet of trunk space, which can be expanded to 56 cubic feet by folding down the rear seats.
The 2024 models are affected by a recall related to the charging unit, but Hyundai will replace this unit at no cost to the owner.
Performance Specifications
| Model | Ioniq 5 SE Standard | Ioniq 5 SE/SEL/Limited RWD | Ioniq 5 SE/SEL/Limited/D100 Platinum Edition AWD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | Single Permanent-Magnet Motor | Single Permanent-Magnet Motor | Dual Permanent-Magnet Motors |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Automatic | Single-Speed Automatic | Single-Speed Automatic |
| Horsepower | 168 HP | 225 HP | 320 HP |
| Torque | 258 LB-FT | 258 LB-FT | 446 LB-FT |
| Driveline | Rear-Wheel Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
| 0-60 MPH | N/A | 7.4 Seconds | 4.5 Seconds |
| Top Speed | 117 MPH | 117 MPH | 117 MPH |
| Towing Capacity | N/A | 2,300 Pounds | 2,300 Pounds |
| Payload Capacity | 1,257 Pounds | 954-1,168 Pounds | 948-1,120 Pounds |
Consumer Reports assigns the Ioniq 5 a 33/100 predicted reliability rating and a 4/5 owner satisfaction score. Additionally, it receives a 70/100 quality and reliability rating from J.D. Power.
The Ioniq 5 is one of the more affordable options on this list, starting at $41,800 for the base SE trim. The D100 Platinum trim, however, bumps the price up to $59,400.
7. Toyota bZ4X
Cargo Capacity: 27.7 Cubic-Feet
While some critics view the Toyota bZ4X as a product born out of necessity rather than innovation, it is generally considered a well-executed electric crossover in terms of its design.
The vehicle offers 27.7 cubic feet of trunk space, which can expand to 56.1 cubic feet by folding down the rear seats.
The 2024 model is free from the major recalls that plagued the 2023 version, such as the issue with the spontaneously detaching wheel.
Performance Specifications
| Model | Front-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Single Permanent-Magnet Motor | Dual Permanent-Magnet Motor |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Automatic | Single-Speed Automatic |
| Horsepower | 201 HP | 214 HP |
| Torque | 196 LB-FT | 248 LB-FT |
| Driveline | Front-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
| 0-60 MPH | 7.1 Seconds | 6.5 Seconds |
| Top Speed | 99 MPH | 104 MPH |
| Towing Capacity | 1,500 Pounds | 1,500 Pounds |
| Payload Capacity | 1,169 Pounds | 1,156 Pounds |
Consumer Reports gives the bZ4X a 47/100 predicted reliability score and a 2/5 predicted owner satisfaction score, indicating there is room for improvement. J.D. Power also rates its quality and reliability at 64/100.
If you’re interested in purchasing the bZ4X, the base XLE trim starts at $43,070, while the Limited trim is priced at $45,180.
Also Read: 11 Vehicles With Exceptional Cargo Space for Family Road Trips and Comfortable Travel
6. Audi Q8 E-Tron
Cargo Capacity: 28.5 Cubic-Feet
The Audi Q8 e-Tron strikes a solid balance between practicality and reliability, offering 28.5 cubic feet of trunk space, which can be expanded to 56.5 cubic feet by folding the rear seats.
The 2024 model has no recalls, investigations, or complaints at the time of compiling this list, making it a relatively safe choice.
Performance Specifications
| Model | Q8 e-Tron |
|---|---|
| Engine | Dual Permanent-Magnet Motors |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Automatic |
| Horsepower | 402 HP |
| Torque | 414 LB-FT |
| Driveline | All-Wheel Drive |
| 0-60 MPH | 5.4 Seconds |
| Top Speed | 124 MPH |
| Towing Capacity | 4,000 Pounds |
From a reliability perspective, the Q8 e-Tron is another electric vehicle that could benefit from some improvement.
Consumer Reports assigns it a 41/100 predicted reliability rating and a 3/5 predicted owner satisfaction score. J.D. Power offers a more optimistic outlook, giving it a 74/100 quality and reliability rating.
The Q8 e-Tron starts at $74,400 MSRP before additional options and packages, while the SQ8 e-Tron range starts at $89,800.
5. Genesis Electrified GV70
Cargo Capacity: 28.7 Cubic-Feet
The Genesis Electrified GV70 is a larger electric SUV that provides 28.7 cubic feet of trunk space. If you require more room, the cargo space can be extended to 56.5 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down.
However, it’s important to note that the model currently has two active recalls related to the charging unit and the transmission harness.
Performance Specifications
| Model | Electrified GV70 |
|---|---|
| Engine | Dual Permanent-Magnet Motors |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Automatic |
| Horsepower | 483 HP |
| Torque | 516 LB-FT |
| Driveline | All-Wheel Drive |
| 0-60 MPH | 4.2 Seconds |
| Top Speed | 146 MPH |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 Pounds |
| Payload Capacity | 1,345 Pounds |
Consumer Reports rates the Genesis Electrified GV70 with a 44/100 predicted reliability and a 4/5 predicted owner satisfaction score, which are among the better results on this list. J.D. Power rates its quality and reliability at 84/100, indicating strong overall performance.
As a luxury model, the GV70 offers competitive pricing with a starting MSRP of $66,450. Although the brand only offers one trim and drivetrain option, various packages are available, which may add a few thousand dollars to the price.
4. Ford Mustang Mach-E
Cargo Capacity: 29.7 Cubic-Feet
The Ford Mustang Mach-E earns its place on this list due to its combination of performance and practicality, being one of the few crossovers in the segment that is marketed with a performance-inspired edge.
The mid-size crossover offers a generous 29.7 cubic feet of trunk space. When you fold down the rear seats, the capacity expands to an impressive 59.7 cubic feet.
The 2024 model has no recalls listed by the NHTSA, which should provide peace of mind for many Ford enthusiasts.
Performance Specifications
| Model | RWD | AWD | GT | Rally |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | Single Permanent-Magnet Motor | Dual Permanent-Magnet Motors | Dual Permanent-Magnet Motors | Dual Permanent-Magnet Motors |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Automatic | Single-Speed Automatic | Single-Speed Automatic | Single-Speed Automatic |
| Horsepower | 266 HP | 266 HP | 480 HP | 480 HP |
| Torque | 317 LB-FT | 428 LB-FT | 600 LB-FT | 650 LB-FT |
| Driveline | Rear-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
| 0-60 MPH | 6.3 Seconds | 4.8 Seconds | 3.8 Seconds | 3.5 Seconds |
| Top Speed | 114 MPH | 114 MPH | 120 MPH | 120 MPH |
Despite a solid track record, Consumer Reports rates the Mach-E with a 45/100 predicted reliability score, along with a more favorable 4/5 predicted owner satisfaction rating. J.D. Power gives it a 69/100 quality and reliability score, indicating room for improvement.
The base Select rear-wheel drive Mach-E starts at $39,995, while the Rally edition, which is at the top of the range, comes in at $59,995 before options.
3. Tesla Model Y
Cargo Capacity: 30.2 Cubic-Feet
The Tesla Model Y impresses with a 30.2 cubic feet trunk capacity, surpassing many vehicles in its class. When you fold down the second-row seats, the space expands to a remarkable 72.1 cubic feet.
Additionally, there is a 4.1 cubic-feet frunk available for storing smaller items. The 2024 model year is free from any significant recalls, making it a more reliable and hassle-free option for those seeking a new electric vehicle.
Performance Specifications
| Model | Model Y | Model Y Long Range | Model Y Performance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Single-Permanent-Magnet Motor | Front AC Induction and rear Permanent-Magnet Motors | Front AC Induction and rear Permanent-Magnet Motors |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Automatic | Single-Speed Automatic | Single-Speed Automatic |
| Horsepower | 295 HP | 384 HP | 456 HP |
| Torque | 310 LB-FT | 376 LB-FT | 497 LB-FT |
| Driveline | Rear-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
| 0-60 MPH | 6.6 Seconds | 4.8 Seconds | 3.5 Seconds |
| Top Speed | 135 MPH | 135 MPH | 155 MPH |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 Pounds | 3,500 Pounds | 3,500 Pounds |
| Payload Capacity | 1,188 Pounds | 1,188 Pounds | 1,179 Pounds |
Consumer Reports assigns the Model Y a 41/100 predicted reliability score, but it performs better in the predicted owner satisfaction category, with a 4/5 score. J.D. Power gives it a more favorable 70/100 quality and reliability rating.
The base rear-wheel drive model starts at $44,990, while the Performance version is priced at $51,490 MSRP.
2. Lexus RZ
Cargo Capacity: 34.9 Cubic-Feet
The Lexus RZ may not receive as much attention as some other electric vehicles, but it stands out as one of the top choices for those seeking a spacious EV SUV.
This premium vehicle offers 34.9 cubic-feet of cargo space, which can be expanded to 55.6 cubic-feet by folding down the second-row seats. So far, the vehicle has shown excellent reliability, with the NHTSA reporting no recalls, investigations, or complaints.
Performance Specifications
| Model | RZ 300e | RZ 450e AWD |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Single AC Synchronous Electric Motor | Dual AC Synchronous Electric Motors |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Automatic | Single-Speed Automatic |
| Horsepower | 201 HP | 308 HP |
| Torque | 196 LB-FT | 321 LB-FT |
| Driveline | Front-Wheel Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| 0-60 MPH | 7.8 Seconds | 5.0 Seconds |
| Top Speed | 99 MPH | 99 MPH |
| Towing Capacity | N/A | 1,653 Pounds |
| Payload Capacity | 1,257 Pounds | 1,257 Pounds |
In terms of reliability, the Lexus RZ stands out with a 79/100 predicted reliability score from Consumer Reports, along with a 3/5 predicted owner satisfaction rating.
It is on the more expensive side for its category, with the RZ 300e starting at $55,150 and the flagship 450e Luxury priced at $65,580.
1. BMW iX
Cargo Capacity: 35.5 Cubic-Feet
The BMW iX is larger than most other models on this list, so it’s no surprise that it offers a more spacious 35.5 cubic-feet trunk.
The iX really shines as a practical luxury SUV when you fold down the second row of seats, which increases the cargo capacity to an impressive 77.9 cubic-feet.
However, there are currently two active recalls affecting the vehicle, including an issue with unintentional cruise control activation and a poorly secured high-voltage battery cell monitoring circuit.
A software update fixes the cruise control problem, but 31 units require a visit to the dealership to address the battery issue.
Performance Specifications
| Model | xDrive50 | M60 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Dual Permanent-Magnet Motor | Dual Permanent-Magnet Motor |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Automatic | Single-Speed Automatic |
| Horsepower | 516 HP | 610 HP |
| Torque | 564 LB-FT | 811 LB-FT |
| Driveline | All-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
| 0-60 MPH | 4.4 Seconds | 3.6 Seconds |
| Top Speed | 120 MPH | 130 MPH |
The BMW iX earns a 59/100 predicted reliability score and a 4/5 predicted owner satisfaction rating from Consumer Reports, with J.D. Power awarding it a 79/100 for quality and reliability.
These are among the highest ratings on this list, which reflects the iX’s premium pricing. The base model starts at $87,250, while the M60 is considerably more expensive at $111,500. BMW is expected to introduce more affordable rear-wheel-drive trims in the near future.
