Selecting the best can be challenging, as different cars excel in different areas. That’s why we’ve structured this list to highlight exactly what each car does best.
For instance, some electric vehicles stand out with their impressive range, while others shine in practicality, driving experience, or affordability.
But don’t worry: whether you’re after the most practical EV or one packed with enough technology to rival a Currys store, we’ve got something for you.
All things considered, we believe the Cupra Born is the best electric car currently available. Its combination of range, practicality, value for money, and enjoyable driving dynamics makes it a standout choice.
EVs With Long-Term Durability
As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to revolutionize the automotive industry, one question that lingers in the minds of many potential buyers is how well these cutting-edge cars will stand the test of time.
While the allure of eco-friendliness, instant torque, and lower maintenance costs are undeniable, durability remains a crucial factor in ensuring that EVs can offer long-term value. In this article, we dive deep into the world of electric vehicles, exploring the models that have proven themselves not only in performance but also in lasting power, reliability, and sustainability.
Whether you’re considering an EV for the first time or looking to upgrade to a newer model, understanding which vehicles truly stand the test of time can help you make a more informed and confident choice.
Cupra Born
The Cupra Born scores an impressive 9 overall, with individual ratings of 8 for design, 8 for interior, 9 for performance, 8 for ride and handling, and 9 for costs.
It comes with several strengths, including a well-tuned chassis that delivers a balanced ride and handling experience, engaging rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and a refined, classy interior.
However, it’s not without its drawbacks the stability control can be overly intrusive, the infotainment system is lacking in quality, and the price may be considered high for some buyers.
Best described as the most complete electric vehicle on the market, the Cupra Born has retained its crown in Autocar’s annual test of the best-handling and most enjoyable EVs, outperforming strong competitors like the MG 4 XPower and Abarth 500e.
The Born strikes an appealing balance between dimensions and usability, weight and performance, range and cost.
It delivers enough power to remain engaging without going overboard or compromising efficiency in more spirited driving conditions.
Its balanced, rear-driven chassis and well-controlled body movements provide an enjoyable driving experience, while its practical side is reflected in four usable seats and a decent boot.
With a real-world range of around 220 miles on a single charge, it’s perfectly suited for both daily commutes and weekend road trips, all while maintaining the composure and personality to make every journey enjoyable.
The Cupra Born offers a level of completeness that makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking to begin their transition to zero-emissions driving.
Remarkably, it feels more like a Volkswagen Golf GTI for the electric era than anything currently offered by Volkswagen itself.
Adding to its appeal, Cupra has introduced the Born VZ a high-performance hot hatch variant boasting 322bhp and 402lb ft of torque.
It accelerates from 0 to 62mph in just 5.7 seconds, making it more than a second quicker than the standard model and further enhancing its dynamic credentials.
The Cupra Born electric car, named after a district in Barcelona, is manufactured in Germany and has closer ties to Wolfsburg, Volkswagen’s headquarters. Beneath its exterior, the Born is essentially a VW ID 3, sharing the same five-door hatchback design and dimensions similar to a Ford Focus.
.However, Cupra has positioned the Born as a sportier version, offering sharper steering, improved brakes, firmer suspension, and more aggressive styling. The high-performance VZ model enhances these features further, adding a longer electric range.
The Born faces competition not only from the ID 3 but also from rivals like the Renault Megane E-Tech, the MG4 EV, and for those considering models in the Born VZ’s price range, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6.
The Born combines the best features of the VW ID 3 with a more refined interior and sharper handling. The entry-level 58kWh V1 version stands out as the most practical choice. While it is considerably more expensive than the MG4 EV, it offers better driving dynamics, refinement, and interior quality.
The Born’s range between charges is impressive, it offers fun handling, and the ride is quiet and smooth. However, it is priced much higher than the MG4, features frustrating touch-sensitive dashboard buttons, and has a slightly firmer ride compared to the VW ID 3.
The Born offers a choice of three battery sizes: 59kWh, 77kWh, and 79kWh, with a single rear-mounted electric motor. Following a 2024 update, all versions now feature a more powerful e-Boost motor, adding 27bhp over earlier models.
The 59kWh version accelerates from 0 to 62mph in 6.7 seconds, which is quicker than the Renault Megane E-Tech (7.5 seconds) but slower than the MG4 EV Trophy Extended Range (6.1 seconds). The 77kWh version takes 7.1 seconds, while the flagship VZ model (79kWh) cuts it down to a rapid 5.6 seconds.
However, models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N and the MG4 EV XPower are faster, achieving the same sprint in 3.4 and 3.8 seconds respectively. The Born’s official range varies: 264 miles for the 59kWh version, 342 miles for the 77kWh, and 366 miles for the VZ model, depending on trim. In real-world testing, the VZ model achieved 294 miles in a summer range test.
In terms of ride comfort, the Born strikes a balance, offering a reasonably comfortable experience while managing road imperfections well. Compared to the VW ID 3, its ride height is slightly lower, making it a bit firmer, but the difference is not significant.
The VZ version features adaptive suspension, allowing for adjustments in ride firmness through driving modes, offering good comfort even with its larger 20-inch alloy wheels.
While the Born’s ride is competitive with rivals, it doesn’t quite match the smoothness of non-electric family cars like the Seat Leon and VW Golf, as it can get a bit choppy over potholes and display some fidgeting at higher speeds.
When it comes to handling, the Born focuses on sportiness, delivering sharp and precise steering. It may not offer thrilling dynamics on every drive, but it’s easy to steer through city streets and navigate winding roads.
Its handling is more engaging than rivals like the MG4 EV, which tends to lose composure under hard driving, and the Renault Megane E-Tech. For the most engaging driving experience, the VZ model is the way to go.
In its sportiest mode, with firmer suspension settings, the VZ offers sharp handling and gives drivers confidence in corners, though it still doesn’t match the steering feel of models like the Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce.
The Born is impressively quiet at lower speeds, with only minimal suspension noise affecting the otherwise serene driving experience. At 70mph, it does generate more road and wind noise than the Megane, but it remains quieter than the MG4.
The brake pedal, though heavier and more naturally weighted than those in the ID 3 and Megane, provides smoother modulation of braking force. However, it still feels somewhat spongy compared to other top electric cars, like the Tesla Model 3.
The VZ version improves this feel with a more progressive brake pedal, but it still doesn’t match the smoothness of a traditional petrol-powered hot hatch, primarily due to the interaction of regenerative and mechanical braking.
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Renault 5
The Renault 5 stands out as a benchmark electric supermini, earning top marks with a design score of 10, interior 9, performance 8, ride and handling 9, and costs 8.
It beautifully merges retro-inspired styling with modern-day tech at a very accessible price point.
Inside, Renault has used high-quality materials and a colour palette typically reserved for more expensive vehicles, while also offering user-friendly technology, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Buyers can choose between two configurations: a 120bhp motor paired with a 40kWh battery or a more powerful 150bhp motor with a 50kWh battery, meaning higher trim levels offer both increased power and longer range.
Efficiency results were mixed during everyday testing with the long-range version, it returned 5.0mpkWh, translating to a 260-mile range that surpasses its WLTP estimate of 253 miles.
However, during motorway driving, efficiency dropped to 3.1mpkWh.
While the Renault 5 delivers exceptional design and practicality for its class, some downsides include lacklustre efficiency at high speeds, tinny-feeling doors, and a suspension setup that can get noisy at times.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 N
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is an exciting evolution of the brand’s electric crossover, scoring 8 for design, 8 for interior, 9 for performance, 9 for ride and handling, and 8 for costs.
Positioned as the EV that offers genuine sports car thrills, it stands out with its dynamic driving experience.
With a dual-motor setup that produces 641bhp and 549lb ft of torque, it can rocket from 0-62mph in just 3.4 seconds. Powered by an 89kWh battery, Hyundai claims a 278-mile range.
While it’s heavier and larger than a conventional sports car, Hyundai has added immersive features like a sound generator and synthetic gearshifts to evoke a traditional performance car experience.
These may sound gimmicky, but they’re more effective than similar efforts in rival EVs. Despite its size and 2.2-tonne weight, the Ioniq 5 N handles with remarkable agility and offers multiple drive modes to tailor the experience.
It may not be the most efficient EV, but it’s certainly one of the most exciting, making it a landmark model and a true driver’s car.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is already an impressive electric vehicle, but that hasn’t stopped Hyundai from pushing boundaries with the high-performance Ioniq 5 N. Designed for drivers seeking intense performance, the Ioniq 5 N stays true to the N performance division’s reputation for delivering thrills at a competitive price.
While it shares its underpinnings with the Kia EV6 GT, the Ioniq 5 N is no mere rebadge. Hyundai’s N engineers have conducted their own tuning to ensure it delivers a unique driving experience in terms of acceleration, braking, and handling.
The Ioniq 5 N’s dual-motor setup generates 601 horsepower under normal conditions, but thanks to its N Grin Boost feature, power surges temporarily to 641 horsepower.
This all-wheel-drive electric SUV features a slew of aggressive upgrades compared to the standard model, such as a large rear diffuser, larger wheels, high-performance tires, beefy brakes, flared fenders, and a sportier front fascia. As one of the most exciting entries in its category, the Ioniq 5 N has also secured a place on the Editors’ Choice list for 2025.
Slated to join the Ioniq 5 lineup in March 2024 as a 2025 model, the N variant marks a major performance-focused addition. While it shares some characteristics with the Kia EV6 GT, it features an array of enhancements unique to Hyundai’s performance ethos.
The 2025 Ioniq 5 N carries a starting price of $67,675. Available in a single trim level with minimal options, the primary customization lies in choosing a paint color. Hyundai’s Performance Blue is a standout recommendation.
Every Ioniq 5 N is equipped with a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive layout. Most of the time, the system puts out 601 horsepower, but activating N Grin Boost temporarily spikes output to 641 horsepower.
Power can be shifted between the front and rear axles, and a dedicated drift mode makes tail-out driving a reality. Four selectable drive modes—Eco, Normal, Sport, and N—adjust the steering weight, suspension damping, and throttle response.
Additional Sprint and Endurance modes let drivers either maximize battery range or unleash the SUV’s full performance potential for tasks like drag racing or track days. To emulate the feel of a traditional gas-powered performance car, Hyundai has integrated a simulated gearshift function that mimics gear changes through steering-wheel-mounted paddles. This feature can be toggled on or off.
During initial testing conducted on a race circuit in South Korea, the Ioniq 5 N demonstrated strong straight-line stability and effective ABS braking, even on surfaces with varying grip.
Handling is balanced and predictable when needed, but drift mode provides an extra layer of excitement for those who want it. On public roads, the Ioniq 5 N retains the comfort of the standard Ioniq 5, while also transforming into a capable corner carver when its sportiest settings are engaged.
Hyundai estimates a 0–60 mph time of approximately 3.3 seconds for the Ioniq 5 N, but actual testing at the track revealed a quicker sprint time of 3.0 seconds flat. The quarter-mile was completed in 11.1 seconds at 123 mph, placing it among the top-performing EVs in its class.
Powered by an 84.0-kWh battery pack, the Ioniq 5 N supports fast charging at up to 238 kW on a DC connection. The EPA estimates its driving range at 221 miles per charge under mixed driving conditions. On our real-world highway test, the vehicle managed 190 miles before the battery was fully depleted.
According to Hyundai, the Ioniq 5 N can complete two laps of the Nürburgring Nordschleife without losing any performance. In Endurance mode, it can reportedly sustain 20 minutes of track time, recharge in 20 minutes, and then return for another 20-minute session.
EPA fuel economy estimates for the Ioniq 5 N stand at 84 MPGe in the city and 72 MPGe on the highway. During our own testing, however, it achieved just 69 MPGe. Those interested in more detailed fuel economy data can consult the EPA’s official website.
Inside, the Ioniq 5 N will feel familiar to anyone who has been in the standard model. However, several enhancements have been made to reinforce its performance credentials.
The cabin includes aggressively bolstered front seats for extra support during spirited driving and a unique steering wheel that provides access to drive modes, regenerative braking settings, and the N Grin Boost. Passenger and cargo space should be identical to the regular Ioniq 5, which previously accommodated up to 20 carry-on suitcases with the rear seats folded during testing.
Although Hyundai has not released complete infotainment specifications, images confirm that the Ioniq 5 N uses the same 12.0-inch touchscreen and 12.0-inch digital gauge cluster as the standard model. Therefore, it’s likely that it will also feature voice recognition along with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
When it comes to safety and driver-assistance features, Hyundai has not provided an official list for the Ioniq 5 N. Still, it’s expected to offer the same suite of standard and optional systems as the non-N model.
Hyundai backs the Ioniq 5 N with one of the industry’s strongest warranties. Coverage includes a five-year or 60,000-mile limited warranty, a 10-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty, and a 10-year or 100,000-mile battery warranty. Additionally, Hyundai provides complimentary scheduled maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles, adding further peace of mind for owners.
Volkswagen ID 7
The Volkswagen ID 7 makes a strong impression as a family-oriented EV, scoring 9 for design, 8 for interior, 8 for performance, 9 for ride and handling, and 8 for costs.
As the brand’s first electric saloon and with the ID 7 Tourer serving as its first electric estate it’s a versatile and practical choice.
Under the hood, it comes with a single-motor setup producing 282bhp and 402lb ft of torque, while an 86kWh battery enables a range of over 400 miles and supports 200kW fast charging.
For such a large and heavy car, the ID 7 drives remarkably well it might not offer the sporty edge of a Tesla Model 3 or BMW i4, but it’s composed, agile, and comfortable.
With 532 litres of boot space and generous rear-seat legroom, it excels in practicality. Material quality has improved compared to older Volkswagen EVs, though the infotainment system still has room for refinement.
While not the most exciting EV on the market, the ID 7 is incredibly well-rounded and an excellent choice for families.
Porsche Taycan
The Porsche Taycan brings electric performance to the next level, earning 9 for design, 9 for interior, 9 for performance, 8 for ride and handling, and 7 for costs.
It may be an EV, but it still feels every bit like a Porsche in how it handles and performs.
Its precision and linear body control in corners make it a joy to drive, while its straight-line speed is nothing short of brutal especially in Turbo S form, which does 0-62mph in just 2.4 seconds.
The Taycan’s range depends on the model, but the top-spec version with the largest battery can cover up to 422 miles on the WLTP cycle.
In real-world tests, it returned 3.7mpkWh, which equates to around 360 miles a highly respectable figure for a high-performance EV.
Despite its substantial size, interior space especially in the second row feels somewhat limited, and access isn’t as easy as expected for a luxury grand tourer.
Nevertheless, the driving ergonomics are flawless, and its dynamic capabilities solidify its place as one of the most refined and enjoyable electric cars to drive.
While it comes at a premium, the Taycan successfully blends Porsche pedigree with cutting-edge electric performance.
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Most Potentially Unreliable EVs
The all-electric vehicle segment is expanding rapidly, with more automakers introducing new EV models and an increasing number of consumers transitioning from internal combustion engines to electric power.
As this shift continues and more electric vehicles appear in showrooms and on driveways, potential buyers naturally have questions about the reliability of these models especially since most EVs have only been in production for a relatively short time.
Those exploring the EV market must weigh a variety of factors before committing to a purchase, including range, charging speed, day-to-day usability, onboard features, warranty coverage, and pricing.
However, when it comes to reliability, things become a bit more complicated. Because the EV sector is still relatively new, there is a limited amount of long-term data available to assess reliability with confidence.
Nevertheless, among the models for which data does exist, Consumer Reports has identified the electric vehicles it predicts will be the least reliable.
This list spans a diverse range of vehicle types from compact hatchbacks and pickup trucks to high-performance sports cars.
It’s important to highlight that some 2023 model-year EVs, even those that generated significant buzz, have yet to be evaluated by Consumer Reports. These include the BMW i7, Fisker Ocean, Hyundai Ioniq 6, and Lucid Air.
The following content has been revised to ensure the information is accurate and to clarify the distinction between overall scores and predicted reliability ratings.
2023 Polestar 2
Predicted Reliability Rating: 2/5
The 2023 Polestar 2, a luxury hatchback from Volvo’s electric vehicle subsidiary, finds itself among the least reliable EVs according to Consumer Reports.
It offers a variety of powertrains delivering between 231 and 476 horsepower and boasts a notable range of up to 260 miles.
With a starting price of $48,400, the Polestar 2 competes directly with the Tesla Model 3 in terms of cost, performance, and range.
While Consumer Reports assigns it an overall score of 53 out of 100, its predicted reliability rating is only 2 out of 5. This rating is largely due to Polestar’s limited production history, despite over 100,000 units having already been built.
As more of these vehicles accumulate miles on the road since their debut in the 2021 model year, the reliability rating may either improve or decline. The brand’s broader reliability image will also become clearer with the release of upcoming models like the Polestar 6.
The 2023 Polestar 2 offers an attractive alternative to the ever-popular Tesla Model 3 for those shopping in the compact electric vehicle segment. Much like the Model 3, the Polestar 2 is available in both single- and dual-motor configurations.
The single-motor version prioritizes range, while the dual-motor model delivers quicker acceleration at the expense of some driving distance. Polestar, Volvo’s all-electric performance offshoot, shares much of its EV technology and underpinnings with the Volvo XC40 Recharge SUV, which gives the Polestar 2 a strong foundation rooted in a proven platform.
For the 2023 model year, the Polestar 2 benefits from a host of upgrades. The Long Range Dual Motor model gains 11 miles of additional driving range, bringing its EPA-estimated total to 260 miles per charge.
When equipped with the optional Performance Pack, the same model now delivers an impressive 476 horsepower and 502 lb-ft of torque, increases of 68 horsepower and 15 lb-ft respectively.
Polestar has also introduced the limited-production BST Edition 270, a special trim that boosts performance and adds rugged exterior styling. Only 270 units will be built globally, making it the rarest Polestar variant yet.
In addition to these performance improvements, Polestar has refreshed the vehicle’s design and comfort features. New wheel designs, paint colors, and interior materials are now available. A premium leather upholstery option debuts this year, which also brings ventilated front seats to the Polestar 2 lineup for the first time.
The Plus Pack has been upgraded with a more advanced air filtration system, aimed at improving cabin air quality. Moreover, the heat pump included with the Plus Pack now operates across a wider temperature range, helping to preserve driving range in colder climates—a common challenge for EVs.
Polestar is well aware of the increasingly crowded EV market, where Tesla no longer stands alone. The 2023 updates help the Polestar 2 remain highly competitive, reinforcing its place near the top of Edmunds’ rankings for electric vehicles.
The Polestar 2 earns praise for its quick and enjoyable acceleration, a well-balanced blend of agile handling and ride comfort, and a sleek, stylish interior. However, it is not without drawbacks.
It offers limited storage space for small items inside the cabin, consumes more electricity than many of its competitors, and, as a relatively new brand, Polestar lacks a long-term reliability record. That said, the enhancements introduced for 2023 go a long way in addressing concerns and elevating the Polestar 2’s appeal in the evolving EV market.
2023 Tesla Model X
Predicted Reliability Rating: 2/5
Another Tesla appears on Consumer Reports’ list of the least reliable EVs, with the 2023 Model X earning the lowest reliability rating among the automaker’s offerings.
This SUV has remained popular thanks to its upscale image and strong presence in the competitive SUV market, which still has limited EV options.
The Model X features a dual-motor powertrain that delivers 532 horsepower as standard, offering robust performance. However, for buyers prioritizing dependability and satisfaction, the Model X may fall short.
Consumer Reports awards the 2023 Model X an overall score of just 52 points and a predicted reliability rating of 2 out of 5.
2023 Chevrolet Bolt
Predicted Reliability Rating: 1/5
The Chevrolet Bolt has positioned itself as one of the most affordable ways to enter the EV market, especially as General Motors has continuously lowered its price since the vehicle’s 2017 debut.
The base 1LT model starts at just $27,495, appealing to budget-conscious buyers. However, despite its affordability, the Bolt has demonstrated serious reliability issues.
A 2020 recall affecting all Bolt models due to a battery fire risk significantly impacted its reputation. Consumer Reports gives the 2023 Bolt an overall score of just 49 out of 100 and a predicted reliability score of 1 out of 5.
These scores stem largely from past reliability issues related to the vehicle’s motor and electric systems.
2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV
Predicted Reliability Rating: 1/5
The Chevrolet Bolt EUV, the taller and more SUV-like version of the Bolt EV, continues to attract buyers seeking affordability with practicality.
It starts at $28,795 and features a 200-horsepower motor and a range of up to 247 miles. Despite these strengths, the Bolt EUV fares even worse in reliability ratings than its hatchback counterpart.
Based on data from the 2022 model year, Consumer Reports gives the 2023 Bolt EUV an overall score of 45 out of 100 and a predicted reliability rating of only 1 out of 5.
Similar to the Bolt EV, the primary reliability concern centers around the electric motor.
2023 Hyundai Kona Electric
Predicted Reliability Rating: 1/5
Topping Consumer Reports’ list of the least reliable electric vehicles for 2023 is the Hyundai Kona Electric, the fully electric version of Hyundai’s subcompact crossover.
The Kona EV offers an engaging driving experience, commendable handling, 201 horsepower, a 258-mile range, and DC fast-charging capabilities.
However, despite its appealing performance and features, it receives the lowest reliability rating among all currently tested EVs. Consumer Reports gives it an overall score of just 41 and a predicted reliability rating of 1 out of 5.
According to the publication, the Kona EV is expected to be “much less reliable than the average new car,” a conclusion based on data from the 2020 and 2021 model years.
The vehicle’s permanent-magnet synchronous motor has been identified as the most problematic component in terms of reliability.
