Quality electric cars tips and tricks
High quality electric vehicles reviews right now? BMW has delivered some fine electrified models over the years, with the revolutionary i8 sports car and more mainstream i3 supermini standing out as superb examples of the German manufacturer’s engineering skill. Following on from the more recent introductions of the all-electric iX3 SUV and i4 Gran Coupe, the iX is the first of BMW’s battery-powered SUVs to be built on a dedicated EV platform. There are three versions currently available: the first is the 332bhp xDrive40 with a 71kW battery that’s good for a range of up to 257 miles, while the other two versions are the 516bhp xDrive50 and the upcoming 611bhp M60. These more powerful variants up the battery size to 105kW and will achieve a claimed maximum of 380 and 357 miles respectively. All versions of the BMW iX feature a four-wheel drive, dual-motor setup and, although this contributes to a rather hefty kerbweight of over 2,400kg, the iX handles surprisingly well and grips reassuringly through corners. The ride is incredibly refined, too, with the suspension doing an excellent job of absorbing the vibrations and bumps of even the most pothole-riddled roads. Make your way inside and you’ll be greeted by a plush, distinctively-styled cabin filled with high-quality materials. Not only does it look and feel good, it performs well, too, with a dual-screen infotainment setup featuring the latest version of BMW’s iDrive. Discover extra info on electric motors.
As a near six-figure car new, the Model X’s used values are unreasonably high at the moment – but you get a unique, technically advanced car with unparalleled abilities and futuristic design throughout. If you think that at this price a car should drive itself, too, it comes close. Find a model with Enhanced Autopilot and motorways will usually be relaxing – as long as it works. CAR verdict: ‘This is an SUV that’s all about performance in both senses; it’ll show-off at the Supercharger, and show up many supercars. But the driving experience is detached, and as digital as the tech behind it’ Such is the power of Elon Musk’s Tesla brand, it comes close to taking a Veblen good and making it a household name for all electric cars. Close, but no cigar, as until recently Tesla has lacked the kind of mass-market reach that made people call all vacuum cleaners Hoovers. Don’t believe that can still happen? Just google it.
You’ll pay upwards of £32,000 for a new Kia e-Niro (after the government grant) and, because the e-Niro ticks the boxes in so many ways, there aren’t many discounts to be had by looking towards the used market. That said, a pre-registered model can be picked up from around £30,000, and you can skip the waiting list by doing so. Still not convinced? Maybe a seven-year warranty will bring out your inner Nigel… The Renault Zoe has been a bit of a slow burner. It arrived way back in 2013, when electric cars were still very much the preserve of early adopters and ecomaniacs. The original had a small 22kWh battery, giving it a useable range of around 80 miles or so in the real world. If you only cover low miles and want an affordable electric car that won’t break the bank, the Renault Zoe is one of the best used electric cars out there. But the Zoe was given a significant update in late 2019, with a new 52kWh battery and 136PS motor providing an official range of 245 miles and making it much more useable in the process. Combine that with a thoroughly refreshed interior and improved driving experience, and it’s better than ever.
Starting at just under £37,000, the Ioniq 5 features a superb infotainment system and generous standard kit, while the available space has to be seen to be believed. It’s comfortable, too, so you’ll relish the chance of racking up the miles. We certainly did, which is why we named the Hyundai Ioniq 5 our Car of the Year for 2021. The Kia EV6 is the sister vehicle to the Hyundai Ioniq 5, so it’s a great pick if you love that model’s technology, but aren’t quite as sold on its retro-futuristic looks. The EV6 is arguably the more conventional of the two, and it’s a bit lower and more sporting. This is reflected in its handling, with slightly firmer suspension offering sharper responses. It’s offered in Long Range RWD, Long Range AWD and a high-performance GT version, and the entry-level version is our favourite. It not only offers the best range figure of up to 328 miles from its 77.4kWh battery, but we also found its 7.2-second 0-62mph time to be quick enough. See more info on https://evmotors.live/.
The Audi Q4 e-tron uses the same underpinnings as the Skoda Enyaq iV and the Volkswagen ID.4, so it has an impressive range of up to 316 miles and 125kW rapid-charging. This also means it’s Audi’s most affordable electric car at the moment, and it makes a great family car because it’s spacious inside and comfortable to drive. The Q4 e-tron’s interior is as upmarket as you’d expect from an Audi, and it’s more user-friendly than the ID.4’s cabin as well, without losing out on the amount of technology available. There’s lots of rear leg and headroom, even for adults, and a big boot. The Audi isn’t as good value as the Skoda, but if you want something a bit more upmarket, the Q4 e-tron is a great option. Read our full review to find out more, and make sure to check out our head-to-head twin test between the Q4 e-tron and the Tesla Model Y here.
