Electric cars are rapidly gaining popularity, and it’s clear to understand why. The combination of lower running costs, impressive performance, and a smoother driving experience – boosted by supportive government policies – is attracting a growing number of car buyers to electric vehicles (EVs).
The UK market now offers a wide array of excellent EVs, with nearly 100 different models available across various categories. To help you navigate this expanding landscape, we’ve compiled a guide to the best EVs of 2022, highlighting the top choices for different budgets and needs.
Top 10 Electric Cars of 2022: Expert Picks
Below, we present our curated list of the top 10 electric cars available in 2022 in the UK. This selection is designed to provide you with the insights needed to make a well-informed decision when choosing your new EV.
Fiat 500 Electric
Starting our list with the most compact and budget-friendly option, the Fiat 500 Electric reimagines the iconic city car as a fully electric model. Offered with two battery sizes and slightly different power outputs, the longer-range version of the 500 achieves a range of nearly 200 miles.
While maintaining its famously small size, perfect for navigating city streets, the electric 500 delivers enhanced performance ideally suited for urban driving – its natural environment.
Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 is not just a best-seller; it’s the best-selling electric car in the UK, and for good reason. Offering a compelling mix of long range and impressive performance across all variants, the Model 3 serves as the accessible entry point into the Tesla family.
The long-range version boasts up to 360 miles on a single charge, and even the standard range model exceeds 300 miles. Coupled with Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network, the Model 3’s popularity becomes easily understandable, making it a top contender in the best electric cars of 2022.
Ford Mustang Mach-E
Ford has made a significant impact with its first serious EV, the Mustang Mach-E. This sporty SUV successfully embodies the spirit of the Mustang name without a traditional engine. Buyers can choose between single or dual electric motors, various battery options, and even a performance version, providing excellent choice.
The Mustang Mach-E offers a maximum range of up to 379 miles and features 150 kW DC fast-charging, adding around 70 miles of range in just 10 minutes. This blend of performance and practicality places it firmly among the best electric cars for 2022.
Jaguar I-Pace
The Jaguar I-Pace continues to stand out as one of the finest electric vehicles available. It combines a near-300 mile range, rapid charging capabilities, and all-wheel drive to create a highly capable powertrain.
Beyond the impressive specifications, the I-Pace strikes a perfect balance in size – neither too large nor too small – appealing to a broad range of buyers. Its exceptional driving dynamics, spaciousness, and practicality, coupled with a sporty feel, make it a uniquely appealing and one of the best electric cars of 2022.
Polestar 2
Polestar, while a relatively new entrant to the automotive market, has quickly established itself with the Polestar 2 as a compelling executive EV. Its distinctive Swedish design and performance make it a standout choice, and Polestar is set to expand its pure-EV lineup in the coming years.
Currently, the Polestar 2 offers three distinct versions, from a long-range dual-motor setup to single-motor options with standard or long-range batteries. The top range figure exceeds 335 miles, with even the standard range model offering a substantial 275 miles, cementing its place among the best electric cars of 2022.
Volkswagen ID.4
While the ID.3 was initially touted as a landmark model for VW, the ID.4 has become the more significant vehicle in their electric lineup. This family-sized SUV shares much with the ID.3, including battery options, powertrain, platform, and features. However, the ID.4 offers greater space and a more compelling character, making it a more attractive option for many.
The ID.4 range-topping models can achieve up to 322 miles and are equipped with ultra-rapid DC charging. Even the shortest-range versions still offer over 200 miles, making the ID.4 a versatile and practical choice in the best electric cars of 2022 category.
Porsche Taycan
The Porsche Taycan is the definitive performance EV on the market, delivering the exhilarating driving experience expected from Porsche. As an electric saloon, it’s fast, powerful, stylish, and exquisitely engineered.
Now available in Cross Turismo crossover-estate and Sport Turismo estate body styles, the saloon version remains a top choice for most. Offered in five configurations with two battery pack options, the Taycan can achieve over 300 miles on a charge and supports ultra-rapid DC charging at speeds exceeding 200 kW. For those seeking performance without compromise, the Taycan is undoubtedly one of the best electric cars of 2022.
Hyundai Ioniq 5
Hyundai had already established itself in the EV market with two excellent models before the arrival of the Ioniq 5, but this model is truly exceptional. With its concept car-like styling and spacious, airy interior, the Ioniq 5 spearheads the new all-electric Ioniq family with a diverse range of models.
Buyers can choose from two battery sizes and rear- or all-wheel drive configurations. Thanks to its innovative architecture, the Ioniq 5 boasts a remarkably spacious interior and supports an 800V electrical system. This enables ultra-fast charging at up to 220 kW DC, achieving a 10%-80% charge in just 18 minutes, making it a leader in charging technology and one of the best electric cars of 2022.
Mini Electric
The Mini Electric may not be the most practical or longest-range EV, but it’s undeniably one of the most enjoyable to drive. Rear passenger space is limited, and accessing the rear seats in the three-door hatchback can be tight, while boot space is also compact. However, for those seeking a fun and nimble city car, few alternatives are better.
Offering a range of up to 145 miles and rapid charging capability for quick top-ups, the Mini Electric excels in delivering the classic Mini driving experience in an electric format. The electric powertrain enhances the Mini’s renowned agile handling and responsiveness, making it a uniquely fun and one of the best electric cars for city driving in 2022.
Kia EV6
Kia has frequently featured the e-Niro in best-of EV lists, but the arrival of the next-generation EV6 elevates Kia’s electric offerings even further. The EV6 is an outstanding car, electric or otherwise. Its sleek styling and generous interior space position the EV6 as the new flagship in Kia’s plug-in vehicle lineup.
Achieving a range of up to 328 miles, the Kia EV6 is available in rear- or all-wheel drive configurations. It supports DC fast charging at over 200 kW and offers a Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function, allowing users to power external devices using a standard three-pin plug from the car’s battery. The Kia EV6 is a well-rounded and highly competitive model, firmly placing it among the best electric cars of 2022.
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