Volkswagen ID.4

Best Electric SUVs Right Now

Based on current expert rankings from U.S. News, Edmunds, and Kelley Blue Book, here are the top picks across different categories:

🏆 Top Overall / Mainstream Picks

Hyundai Ioniq 5 – The consistent favorite across multiple outlets. It's a well-rounded, feature-packed and fun-to-drive electric SUV that just got a lot more affordable for 2026. Edmunds calls it their top pick, noting it's still their top pick, having won the Edmunds Top Rated Electric SUV award for 2026. Kelley Blue Book has it tied for #2 overall, praising it for its great value, starting at $35,000 with a $1,600 freight fee.

Hyundai Ioniq 9 (3-row family SUV) – KBB's #1 rated electric SUV. It's a spacious, comfortable, and upscale electric midsize 3-row SUV with over 300 miles of range in every configuration.

Kia EV9 – Another 3-row standout, earning a 4.7-star rating from Kelley Blue Book experts, tying it with the Ioniq 5.

Kia EV6 – A comfortable, efficient and powerful electric crossover SUV, standing out with its stylish cabin and excellent driving.

Ford Mustang Mach-E – Still a strong seller. There's no denying the electric Ford Mustang Mach-E has the performance and range to earn a spot near the top.

Chevrolet Equinox EV – A value leader. Stylish, roomy and well-equipped, if not exciting to drive, it offers 300-plus miles of range at a more accessible price point.

Volkswagen ID.4 – A roomy, five-seat electric SUV featuring solid performance and range, but it struggles to stand out against newer rivals.

💎 Luxury Picks

Rivian R1S – Bundles a luxe seven-seat interior, impressive on- and off-road performance and a wealth of standard equipment.

BMW iX – Its unique interior is easy to love thanks to distinctive design and ample space, with performance and range upgraded for 2026, the new xDrive45 producing 402 horsepower and an EPA-estimated range of 312 miles.

Cadillac Lyriq – Sleek, roomy and refined, a luxurious and fast EV cruiser that bests its direct rivals in many areas.

Genesis Electrified GV70 – The smooth, immediate acceleration of its dual-motor powertrain enhances what's already a top-rated small luxury SUV, though range is a weak point.

Lucid Gravity – Boasts amazing range, world-class power and a versatile interior, but glitchy software holds back its excellence.

Polestar 3 – An impressive and practical upscale electric SUV that's also powerful and fun to drive.

⚡ Fun/Performance Pick

Hyundai Ioniq 5 N – A genuine enthusiast's EV. Never mind electric SUVs — it's one of the best performance SUVs, period, dripping with character lacking in most other EVs, letting you "shift" simulated gears while listening to simulated engine noises and exhaust pops.

Bottom Line

If you want the safest mainstream choice, go Hyundai Ioniq 5 (or Ioniq 9 if you need 3 rows). For best value, the Chevy Equinox EV is hard to beat.

Here are the best electric SUVs people actually buy and drive right now, broken down by what you’re looking for.

🏆 Overall Best: Tesla Model Y

The Model Y is the best-selling electric vehicle in the world for a reason. It’s not the flashiest, but it nails the essentials:

• Great range (~310 miles)
• Massive supercharger network access
• Excellent software, safety, and resale value
• Available in Long Range and Performance versions
• Practical cargo space and low running costs

If you want one EV SUV that checks every box, this is it.

💸 Best Value / Best All-Around: Hyundai Ioniq 5

The Ioniq 5 is arguably the most popular "loved by owners" EV right now. It has:

• Retro-futuristic styling that turns heads
• Ultra-fast 800-volt charging (10–80% in ~18 minutes)
• Comfortable ride and roomy interior
• Great warranty (5-year bumper-to-bumper, 10-year battery)
• Now eligible for federal tax credit in many trims (US)

The Kia EV6 is its cousin and equally good — roomier, sportier looking, same platform.

🚙 Best Three-Row Electric SUV: Kia EV9

If you need 6–7 seats without going luxury price territory, the Kia EV9 is the pick:

• True third-row seating for adults (rare in EVs)
• 230–300 miles range depending on trim
• Striking design, loaded with family features
• Competitive price vs. Rivian and Tesla Model X

The Rivian R1S is the premium performance choice if you want luxury, off-roading, and serious power — but it costs a lot more.

⚡ Best Sporty / Fun Electric SUV: Ford Mustang Mach-E

Ford’s Mach-E feels more like a hot hatch than a heavy SUV:

• Sharp handling and quick acceleration
• Great infotainment with built-in Google
• Multiple trims, including a 480-hp GT with ~3.5 sec 0–60
• Good range (up to ~310 miles)
• Tesla Supercharger access via adapter (NACS compatibility)

🧳 Best Luxury Electric SUV: BMW iX

If you want comfort, tech, and prestige:

• Stunning interior quality and silence at highway speed
• Range up to ~324 miles
• Fast DC charging (up to 195 kW)
• Gets less attention than Tesla but is a real "driver’s car"

Other luxury alternatives:

• Audi Q8 e-tron — premium comfort, slightly less range
• Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV — tech-forward, excellent cabin
• Volvo EX90 — minimalist, safe, family-focused (newer)

🛒 Best Budget / Practical Electric SUV: Chevrolet Equinox EV

The Chevy Equinox EV is one of the cheapest new EVs with genuinely useful range:

• Starting price under $35,000 (before tax credit)
• ~319 miles max range
• Comfortable, familiar SUV proportions
• Now with Tesla Supercharger access

Also consider:

• Nissan Ariya — good value, great ride quality
• Volkswagen ID.4 — roomy, often discounted, decent range
• Ford Mustang Mach-E — often has lease deals

🔋 Best if You Drive in the Cold: Kia EV6 / Hyundai Ioniq 5

Both use the 800-volt architecture, so they hold up better in winter and charge faster than most rivals. Heat pump is available on many trims, which helps range in cold weather.

Quick summary table

My honest take: If you just want "the best electric SUV" today, buy the Tesla Model Y. If you want to avoid Tesla and still get an outstanding EV, get the Hyundai Ioniq 5. If you need a third row, get the Kia EV9.

Tesla Model Y stands out as the clear favorite that people actually buy and use the most, followed by strong contenders from Hyundai/Kia, Chevrolet, and Ford.

Electric SUVs dominate the EV market due to their practicality, space, and higher seating position. Rankings vary by source (expert reviews emphasize driving dynamics, range, features, and value; sales data reflect real-world popularity and ownership). Tesla leads sales by a wide margin thanks to its Supercharger network, efficiency, performance, and software ecosystem, while Hyundai/Kia models often win head-to-head reviews for design, comfort, and charging speed. Affordable options like the Chevy Equinox EV have surged in popularity.

Top Recommendations (People Actually Use These)

Here are standouts based on 2024–2026 sales, expert rankings (e.g., U.S. News, Edmunds, MotorTrend, Car and Driver, Electrifying), and owner feedback:

1. Tesla Model Y (Most Popular Overall)
   The best-selling EV (and often one of the top-selling vehicles overall) in the U.S. and globally for years, with hundreds of thousands sold annually (e.g., ~318,000 estimated in the U.S. in 2025).

   • Why people use it: Excellent real-world range (up to ~350+ miles EPA depending on variant/config), quick acceleration, spacious cabin/cargo (including frunk), industry-leading efficiency, over-the-air updates, and unmatched Supercharger access (fast, reliable, widespread). Fun to drive with strong handling for an SUV. Refreshed models address prior criticisms.
   • Drawbacks: Variable build quality, minimalist interior (heavy reliance on the large touchscreen), and mixed reliability/service experiences for some owners.
   • Best for: Most buyers prioritizing range, tech, charging convenience, and resale. Starts around $40k–$50k+ depending on trim/year. Highly recommended as a daily driver.

2. Hyundai Ioniq 5 (Top-Rated Contender)
   Frequently ranks #1 or near the top in expert lists (e.g., U.S. News 9.4/10 for 2026; strong MotorTrend/Edmunds scores) and has solid sales.

   • Why people use it: Striking retro-futuristic design, comfortable and spacious interior (sliding/reclining rear seats), ultra-fast 800V charging (10–80% in ~18–20 minutes), strong performance, loaded features, and good value. Recent updates improved ride and affordability. Excellent warranty.
   • Drawbacks: Slightly less efficient/range than Model Y in some comparisons; rear cargo not class-leading.
   • Best for: Style-conscious buyers wanting a premium feel without luxury pricing. Often preferred over Model Y in livability/comfort comparisons. Starts ~$35k–$45k+. Sibling to the sportier Kia EV6.

3. Chevrolet Equinox EV (Best Value/Popular Non-Tesla)
   Top non-Tesla seller (e.g., ~58,000 in U.S. 2025) and rising fast due to accessibility. Strong review scores for practicality.

   • Why people use it: Affordable starting price (~$35k), impressive range (up to ~300–320 miles), roomy comfortable cabin for families/commuters, smooth ride, and available Super Cruise hands-free driving. Practical everyday EV without quirks.
   • Drawbacks: Not the most exciting to drive; charging speeds lag some rivals; some early software/feature notes.
   • Best for: Budget-conscious buyers or those wanting a no-fuss family crossover. Often called one of the best “mass-market” EVs.

4. Ford Mustang Mach-E
   Consistent strong seller (tens of thousands annually) with enthusiast appeal.

   • Why people use it: Engaging/fun driving dynamics, good range options (up to ~300+ miles), available BlueCruise, large frunk, and distinctive styling. Feels more “car-like” and driver-focused.
   • Drawbacks: Polarizing Mustang branding; some touchscreen reliance; range varies by battery/config.
   • Best for: Drivers who want sportier handling in an EV SUV.

5. Kia EV9 (Best Three-Row/Family)
   Popular larger option with high marks for versatility; strong sales and review praise as a practical seven-seater.

   • Why people use it: Genuine adult-friendly three rows, bold styling, quick charging, vehicle-to-load (power other devices), spacious/luxurious interior, and solid range (~230–300+ miles). Feels premium yet relatively attainable.
   • Drawbacks: Larger size/price (starts mid-$50k+); efficiency not class-leading.
   • Best for: Families needing space. Pair with the Hyundai Ioniq 9 (newer three-row sibling, highly rated).

Other Strong Options People Use

• Rivian R1S: Adventure/off-road focused with premium cabin, impressive capability, long-range options (up to 400+ miles claimed in some configs), and strong performance. Popular among outdoor enthusiasts despite higher pricing and smaller volume. Great reviews for fun and utility.
• Kia EV6 / Hyundai Kona Electric / VW ID.4 / Honda Prologue: Solid midsize/compact alternatives with good real-world ownership feedback. ID.4 and Prologue emphasize practicality.
• Luxury/Premium: BMW iX (refined/luxurious), Cadillac Lyriq, Genesis models (GV60/Electrified GV70), Mercedes EQS/EQE SUVs, Tesla Model X (falcon doors, performance), or emerging Lucid Gravity. These appeal to buyers prioritizing comfort, tech, or status but see lower volume than mainstream options.
• Budget/Entry: Newer or refreshed small options like Chevrolet Bolt (returning), Volvo EX30, or equivalents.

Key Buying Factors

• Range & Charging: Model Y and some long-range variants lead efficiency. 800V architectures (Hyundai/Kia) charge fastest. Tesla’s network is a major real-world advantage (many non-Teslas now support NACS/adapters).
• Price: Equinox EV and base Ioniq 5/Model Y offer strong value; incentives vary by location/year (federal tax credit impacted sales post-2025 in some data).
• Size/Needs: Compact/midsize (Ioniq 5, Model Y, Equinox, Mach-E, EV6) for most; three-row (EV9, Ioniq 9, R1S, Model X) for bigger families.
• Reliability/Ownership: Varies—check latest Consumer Reports/J.D. Power data. Hyundai/Kia often score well on warranties/features; Tesla on software/range retention. Real owners praise low “fuel” costs and performance but note home charging is ideal.
• Real-World Use: Model Y dominates roads and used markets. Owners frequently cite Superchargers, acceleration, and tech as reasons they stick with (or switch to) Tesla; others prefer traditional interiors, dealer service, or specific designs from Hyundai/Kia/Ford/GM.

Recommendations by use case: Daily driver/most people → Model Y or Ioniq 5. Best value → Equinox EV. Fun → Mach-E or EV6. Family hauler → EV9. Adventure → R1S.

Test drive several, as preferences for ride, interior, and controls differ. Check current EPA ranges, local pricing/incentives, and charging infrastructure. The market evolves quickly with refreshes (e.g., updated Model Y) and new entrants, so verify latest specs. Popular models hold value better and have stronger owner communities/support.