Electric Cars Salon

EV Buying Guides

Best Electric SUVs: Top Picks by Range and Price

By Electric Cars Salon Editorial Team · Updated · 2 min read

Electric SUV for a family

Quick answerElectric SUVs are the heart of the market, with roughly six in ten US EV sales being SUVs or crossovers. Here is how to choose.

Data note: figures are approximate and come from the sources listed at the end. Prices, ranges and rules change often, so confirm with the manufacturer or the official body before you decide. Last reviewed Oct 30, 2026.

Quick picks

Category Pick Reported price / range (verify)
Best budget Chevrolet Equinox EV From ~$34,995; ~319 mi EPA (Chevrolet guide)
Best overall Tesla Model Y From ~$39,990; ~321–357 mi EPA (Tesla guide)
Best family / fast charging Hyundai Ioniq 5 From ~$36,600; ~318 mi (Hyundai guide)
Best three-row Kia EV9 / Hyundai Ioniq 9 EV9 from ~$56,545, ~305 mi; Ioniq 9 from ~$60,555, ~335 mi
Best long range (luxury) Lucid Gravity From ~$80,000+; ~450 mi EPA
Rugged / off-road Rivian R1S From ~$78,000+; ~371 mi

By budget

Budget What you get
Under $40,000 Compact crossovers with 250–320 miles of range
$40,000–60,000 Mainstream family SUVs with fast charging and more tech
$60,000+ Three-row, performance and luxury models with 350–450 miles

What to compare

  1. Real-world range: EPA is the benchmark; subtract 20–30% for winter and high speeds (long-range guide).
  2. Charging speed: look at 10–80% time and charger network access (EV charging guide).
  3. Space: cargo volume, rear-seat room, third row.
  4. Towing: if you tow, check ratings and the range penalty.
  5. Software and driver aids: quality varies widely.
  6. Efficiency: lower kWh per 100 miles saves money.

Compact vs mid-size vs three-row

Size Pros Cons
Compact Cheaper, efficient, easy to park Limited cargo
Mid-size Balanced space and range Higher price
Three-row Seats 6–7 Large battery, heavier, expensive

Europe and UK picks

Frequently recommended models in 2026 include the BMW iX3, Mercedes-Benz GLB, Volkswagen ID. Cross, Tesla Model Y, Skoda Enyaq, Leapmotor C10, Kia EV9, Vauxhall/Opel Frontera Electric and Renault 4 E-Tech. Check local pricing and WLTP range.

Environmental note

A big SUV, electric or not, has a larger footprint than a small car. If you want the greenest option, pick the smallest SUV that meets your needs and charge it with clean power. See Are Electric Cars Really Green?

FAQ

Which electric SUV has the longest range?

Trade press lists the Lucid Gravity (about 450 miles EPA) among the leaders.

Are electric SUVs good for towing?

They can tow, but range drops sharply while towing.

What is the cheapest electric SUV?

A base Chevrolet Equinox EV trim is often cited.

Sources consulted (2026)