Words: Jonathan Wells
The SUV sector is abuzz with electrifying releases. Next year alone, Porsche will unveil its much-anticipated Macan EV, the Polestar 3 will be launched and the Mercedes-Maybach EQS will finally make it to the market. And, by 2024, the first all-electric Range Rover will motor majestically onto our roads.
And that’s not all. Mercedes are also planning an all-electric G-Wagen — and there are silent, sustainably-powered rumblings across the pond, too. Hummer has announced an electric version of its iconic motor, set to launch next year. Cadillac will begin selling its luxurious EV-SUV, the LYRIQ, from 2023. And new players Rivian are really leading the charge; delivering two ‘electric adventure vehicles’ to customers by the end of this year.
But, if you’re based in Britain and ready to invest now, what are your best options? We’ve taken a long look at the emerging EV market to discover the best bets for budding SUV drivers. From Jaguar’s reliable, time-tested I-PACE to a new low-slung looker from Ford, these are the best all-electric SUVs currently on the market…
Jaguar I-PACE 21MY
What makes it special? The I-PACE has always been special. But this revamped edition — revealed last year — is the best yet, with improved charging speeds, a fresh infotainment system and very welcome heated seats.
How fast can it go? Not only does it charge quickly (a full charge takes only 8.6 hours), the I-PACE 21MY can also shift. Expect a top speed of 124mph — and a nifty 0-60mph acceleration time of 4.5 seconds to get you there.
Is it worth the money? From £65,195, it’s not the cheapest option on this list — but it’s far from the most expensive. With powerfold mirrors, 360 surround cameras and a top-line nav system as standard, we’d say it’s worth it.
Audi e-tron Sportback 55 Quattro ‘Vorsprung’
What makes it special? The trim level. The ‘Vorsprung’ is the tip-top, top-line e-Tron; an already good car. But this model comes with 22-inch alloys, orange brake callipers, cameras instead of door mirrors and a Bang & Olufsen sound system.
How fast can it go? It’ll do 0-60mph in just under six seconds, and is electronically limited to 124mph. It’ll also fast-charge in just 50 minutes, and is compatible with ‘Ultra Rapid’ public chargers.
Is it worth the money? At £84,025, it’s a little steep — considering you could pick up two Range Rover Velars for that price. And, with a range of 261 miles, there are cheaper cars that will get you further. Sadly, probably not worth it.
Tesla Model X
What makes it special? Its heritage. Elon Musk’s pioneering, electrifying car company has been motoring around longer than almost any other EV manufacturer. The Model X continues to be refined and improved; and is now leading the charge among its competitors.
How fast can it go? Fast. Very fast. 0-60mph in 2.5 seconds. It’s got over 1,000 horsepower, a range of 340 miles and a top speed of 155mph. These, if you’re not familiar with electric cars, are impressive statistics.
Is it worth the money? It’s a tricky one. The Model X is £98,980 — which is unavoidably a lot of money. But the safety features, spacious cabin, 17-inch cinematic touchscreen and 22-speaker sound system just about justify it.
Mercedes-Benz EQC 400 AMG
What makes it special? It was the first Mercedes of an all-new, all-electric generation. And it’s a cracking initial attempt. Our favourite feature? The smart ‘MBUX’ infotainment system. It feels like you’ve got an extra AI passenger on board — and is truly futuristic.
How fast can it go? It’s got an oddly specific, somewhat underwhelming top speed of 111.8mph — but the impressive range (up to 445km) goes some way to make up for that. It’ll also get you to 60mph in under five seconds.
Is it worth the money? The ‘AMG Line’ edition is still at the cheaper end of the EQC spectrum, at £67,715 (prices rocket to almost £75k). It’s a lot, considering most of the AMG extras are superficial; floor mats, alloys, sports seats etc.
Ford Mustang Mach-E
What makes it special? Those looks. Angular, angry and exceedingly handsome, Ford’s first all-electric SUV is stuffed with state-of-the-art technologies and boasts a Tesla-beating range of up to 379 miles.
How fast can it go? The GT Model will get you from 0-62mph in just 3.7 seconds. That’s not quite Tesla quick — and nor is the top speed of 112mph. At least the DC fast-charging with controlled boosts means you can charge at a rate of 73 miles per 10 minutes.
Is it worth the money? As Ford’s Mustang SUV starts at a mere £41,330 (that’s around the same price as a Kia e-Niro), it is definitely worth the money — if not for those head-turning, swathe-cutting looks alone.
BMW iX xDrive50 M Sport Ultimate
What makes it special? Available from November in the UK, the BMW iX is a mixed bag. The entry-level xDrive40 (£69,905) is worth neither your time nor money. This ‘xDrive50 M Sport Ultimate’, however, looks to be a new star on the EV scene.
How fast can it go? 0-62mph in 4.6 seconds — and 380 mile range. But this one’s more about the luxury than the specs. Inside, for example, a Bowers & Wilkins sound system plays a unique Hans Zimmer-composed soundscape every time the car starts up.
Is it worth the money? At £115,695, probably not. Which is a shame, because there are some blinding features — including a ‘Sky Lounge’ panoramic glass roof and ventilated massage seats. If only it snuck in under £100k.
Volvo XC40 Recharge
What makes it special? That reliable Scandi simplicity. Volvo’s electric offering is impressively strong, has a mid-range range of 259 miles and is controlled with one-pedal drive. It’s not changing the world; but it’s an excellent introduction to the world of EVs.
How fast can it go? That’s not really the point here. It’s electrically limited to 112mph, and will still motor up to 60mph in less than five seconds, but the only figure you really need to worry about is the one below; the very reasonable price.
Is it worth the money? At £49,950, it’s another of the cheaper options on this list. But, where the Ford above might be style-over-substance, and the Volkswagen below perhaps hasn’t been in the EV game long enough, Volvo is a tried, tested — and most importantly — trusted player in the sector.
Volkswagen ID.4 GTX
What makes it special? ‘GTI’ may mark out fuel-driven Volkswagens as special; but ‘GTX’ does the job for the German carmaker’s electric range. This, the ID.4 GTX, is an all-wheel drive delight — that can be rapid-charged to 190-mile capacity in just 30 minutes.
How fast can it go? It’s a little slower than some of our other choices; trundling up from 0-62mph in 6.2 seconds. And, despite those futuristic 20-inch alloy wheels looking the part, they’ll only carry you to a top speed of 111mph.
Is it worth the money? At £48,470, the Volkswagen ID.4 GTX is another impressive family car. It lacks the luxury of Jaguar and Mercedes’ offerings, but will do the stellar, dependable job of the Volvo or Tesla.
Looking for something more vintage? Here are the best retro 4X4s currently on the market…
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