Electric cars are becoming increasingly popular as people become more aware of their environmental impact. As technology advances, so do the capabilities of electric vehicles (EVs).
The year 2023 promises to be a great year for EVs, with several models on the market that offer amazing performance and features.
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at six of the best electric cars available today. We’ll go over each car’s specs and features, along with its pros and cons. By the end, you should have a good idea which EV is right for you!
So let’s get started!
Key determiners for evaluating electric vehicles
Before delving into the models, it’s important to know what we are basing our ratings on. For us and many other EV drivers, the key factors that determine an electric vehicle’s greatness are: range, charging, performance, design and price.
Range: battery life and distance capabilities
Here we are looking at the maximum distance an EV can travel on a single battery charge. We want to know just how far we can go before needing another charge.
Charging: speed and infrastructure
This is an important factor, as it determines how quickly and conveniently you can get your car charged up when the battery runs low. We like to see fast charging options available, along with an extensive infrastructure network of charging stations to make refuelling easy.
Performance: speed, acceleration and handling
Electric cars are known for their incredible power and performance capabilities. We measure this by the speed and acceleration an EV can achieve, as well as its handling and agility on the road.
Design: interior comfort and exterior style
Whether the vehicle is designed for a comfortable ride, with plenty of legroom and headspace, or if it has aerodynamic lines to improve range and performance, design plays an important role when choosing an electric car. We consider how comfortable it is inside, with features like spacious seating, climate control and modern infotainment systems helping to make a great impression. Exterior design is also a factor, as we want our cars to look good and stand out in the crowd.
Price: affordability and value for money
Finally, we take into consideration the price of electric vehicles. We want to make sure that any EV we look at is great value for money, offering features and capabilities at an affordable cost.
Best Electric Cars of 2023
Now that we’ve covered those criteria, let’s take a look at some of the best electric cars available in 2023.
1) Hyundai Ioniq 5
Introduction of the Ioniq 5 in 2021 has fulfilled Hyundai’s desire to enter the luxury market, and it is now making competitors like Audi Q4 e-tron and Tesla Model Y uneasy. The Ioniq 5 is a remarkable vehicle that displays cutting-edge technology for electric cars, as well as effective performance and charging capabilities; it’s an impressive car in all aspects.
This EV has two battery options and three power outputs. The first option is the entry 58kWh battery, which comes with a single 168bhp motor that drives the rear wheels. It can go from 0 to 62mph in 8.5 seconds and has a range of 238 miles. The mid-spec version of the car has 214bhp and a 73kWh battery, which allows it to travel up to 280 miles on a single charge. The top-spec version also has a 73kWh battery but adds a second motor at the front, which increases its power to 301bhp and 605Nm of torque. This model can go up to 267 miles on a single charge, but it has better performance with a 0-62 time of 5.2 seconds.
The Ioniq 5 has an excellent infotainment system and comes with generous standard equipment. The available space is also surprisingly spacious. It’s a comfortable car, so you’ll enjoy driving long distances.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is one of the best electric cars available in the UK today. It has a starting price of £43,000, and depending on the battery and power output options chosen, it can go up to around £54,000. As with all EVs currently, there are various government grants available that could reduce the purchase price.
Range – 7
Charging – 6
Performance – 8
Design – 9
Price – 8
2) Kia Niro EV
The all-new electric Niro by Kia sticks to its successful formula from its predecessor, which was both practical and reasonably priced, while also offering a respectable range for longer trips.
The vehicle still has the same 64.8kWh battery as before, which provides a slightly longer range of 285 miles. The 201bhp front-mounted motor remains unchanged, but its response has been adjusted to reduce the previous traction control issues.
However, the previous model was let down by its unappealing appearance and somewhat unstable driving, which have been the focus of improvement in the new version.
The Niro EV has a unique appearance with its sharply angled LED running lights and the option of a colour-matched C-pillar treatment. It is not conventionally attractive for a SUV-type car, but it succeeds in being distinctive where the previous model was more ordinary.
Compared to its predecessor, the interior of the Kia Niro EV has increased space for both passengers and cargo. The dashboard has a sleeker design and features a larger and more user-friendly touchscreen infotainment system with ample connectivity options.
The Kia Niro EV is an incredibly popular electric car in the UK, and it has a starting price of around £42,000. This makes it one of the most affordable all-electric vehicles currently available on the market. The top-spec model has a maximum price tag of around £40,000, depending on the features
Overall, the Niro EV is a comfortable and easy car to drive, with good composure and accuracy on the road. It may not be particularly fun or frivolous, but it is spacious, has decent range and boasts a new refined design, making it appealing for families looking for an EV.
Range – 8
Charging – 6
Performance – 6
Design – 7
Price – 8
3) Nissan Ariya
Nissan Ariya is a great choice for those in the market for a capable electric family SUV. Its impressive qualities make it a compelling option for families considering switching to electric vehicles.
Ariya range has two battery options. The first one is a 63kWh battery with a 215bhp electric motor that can travel up to 250 miles. The second option is an 87kWh battery with the choice of either a 239bhp single-motor or a 302bhp dual-motor e-4ORCE powertrain. The dual-motor option has a 0-62mph time of 5.7 seconds.
But the Ariya isn’t just about the numbers, we rate it so highly because it performs strongly across the board.
The Ariya is a significant improvement for Nissan in terms of quality, engineering, and onboard technology. It feels comfortable and pleasant to drive. The coupe-SUV body also looks great. Additionally, the cabin is equipped with many practical features to make life easier.
The Nissan Ariya has a starting price of around £45,000 in the UK. Depending on the battery and powertrain options chosen, it can go up to around £60,000.
Range – 7
Charging – 8
Performance – 8
Design – 7
Price – 5
4) BMW I4
BMW i4 showcases the brand’s dedication to a future powered by electricity while still providing an enjoyable driving experience that aligns with their legacy. The remarkable handling skills of the i4 are its biggest advantage, as it maintains outstanding agility and precise steering feels despite weighing over two tonnes. Moreover, it is challenging to differentiate it from a fossil-fuelled car such as the 4 Series Gran Coupe, aside from the nearly silent movement.
BMW i4 is available in two versions: the eDrive40 with 335bhp and the i4 M50 with 536bhp from the M Division. The eDrive40 model is suitable for everyday driving with its 430Nm torque. The i4 M50 is the first electric car produced by M Division. The i4 comes with two trim levels: Sport and M Sport, both well-equipped. The M Sport trim has mostly cosmetic upgrades at an additional cost of £1,500. However, the optional equipment is expensive, and compared to competitors, the i4 may not offer as much value for money.
The BMW i4 is a top-end EV option and, as such, it has a much higher ticket price – between £50,000 and £70,000
Range – 7
Charging – 8
Performance – 10
Design – 9
Price – 4
5) Renault Megane E-Tech
The latest version of Renault’s popular Megane family hatchback is now purely electric and has a noticeable crossover design. It has similar technology to the slightly bigger Nissan Ariya, and its high-quality cabin, spacious trunk, and easy-to-use infotainment system are impressive.
The Megane E-Tech is a car only available in pure electric form. It shares the advanced CMF-EV platform with the Ariya, and it’s lighter than competitors such as the Volkswagen ID.3. It weighs 1,636kg, which is about 200kg less than the VW. This modest weight permits the 217bhp Megane to reach a 0-62mph speed of 7.5s and a maximum speed of 99mph. All models of this car have the same 60kWh battery and 280-mile WLTP range.
Mégane has a powerful 217bhp motor and a well-balanced chassis that offers both agility and a comfortable ride. It’s enjoyable to drive through corners and also provides a smooth, relaxing drive. While it’s not a hot hatch, the Renault still provides genuine pleasure for driving enthusiasts.
This EV also performs well for family needs and can comfortably fit five people with a spacious 440-litre trunk. The interior design is attractive and adequately finished, although not quite at a premium level.
With a starting price of £36,995 for the well-equipped entry-level Equilibre, the Mégane E-Tech is a great option to consider when shopping for an EV.
Range – 8
Charging – 7
Performance – 9
Design – 7
Price – 8
6) Peugeot e-2008
Peugeot’s e-2008 offering is an affordable electric vehicle that offers great looks, a decently roomy interior, good driving experience, and competitive pricing.
However, it fails to excel in any one area when compared to competitors. For instance, the Kia e-Niro, with a 64kWh battery, is more spacious and has a longer range, but is relatively more expensive. Similarly, other rivals offer better performance or more attractive designs. Nonetheless, the Peugeot e-2008 is a well-rounded option with good overall scores.
Under the bonnet we have a 134bhp motor located in the front and a 50kWh drive battery that is shared with the Peugeot e-2008 as well as the Vauxhall Corsa Electric. While the drivability is good, the performance is average at best and the range is between 150 and 170 miles depending on your driving route and style, which is pretty meagre in comparison to competitors.
Taken as a whole, though, what it has to offer is competitive for a five-seat crossover hatchback that costs less than £35,900 but it may not fulfil all your driving requirements.
Considering its price, the e-2008 has a pleasant interior and decent space. Additionally, its performance and handling have that signature French feel just like the Renault. Although it’s not a showstopper of an EV, it certainly shouldn’t be ignored.
Range – 6
Charging – 7
Performance – 8
Design – 7
Price – 9
Summary
So there you have it — the 6 best electric vehicles for 2023.
For those looking for an electric vehicle, the Nissan Ariya, BMW i4 and Renault Megane E-Tech offer a great combination of performance, design, and range. All three of these vehicles come with powerful electric motors and have a decent 0-62mph time. The Peugeot e-2008 is another good option, with a competitive price and adequate performance. However, it lacks the luxury features of the other vehicles and has a shorter range than its rivals. Then we have the Kia and Hyundai which are good value for money options with great range and charging capabilities.
Depending on your budget and requirements, each of these electric vehicles has something to offer.
The Best EVs of 2023 – a Guide by EV Solutions
No matter which EV you choose, it’s important to make sure that your charging infrastructure is up-to-date and reliable. If you’re looking for a comprehensive solution for powering your electric vehicle, then look no further than our team of experts at EV Solutions.
We offer a wide selection of chargers from leading manufacturers, so you can be sure that we have the right charger for your needs. Our knowledgeable staff are on hand to help guide you through the process and answer any questions about installation or usage.
Contact us today to get started with an efficient and affordable EV charging system!
