Your options for a new electric vehicle in 2020 are more diverse than ever with an EV for nearly every vehicle type. But increased choice also makes it harder to choose. Edmunds has selected five top EVs that you’ll want to consider.
These vehicles have a range of at least 200 miles – which Edmunds’ experts have found to be easily sufficient for EV driving – and are on sale now or will be soon. We’ve arranged them in ascending order of price. All prices include destination charges and do not include any federal tax credits or state incentives.
2019 KIA Niro EV
EPA estimated range: 239 miles
Starting price: $39,545
While also available as a hybrid, the Niro EV is Edmunds’ preference for its smoother, quieter and more pleasant driving experience. It comes fully featured with excellent phone integration and safety technology. You can even get upscale features such as ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel.
The Niro EV is also surprisingly sporty. It accelerates quickly and is stable and nimble when driving around turns. You’ll have a lot more fun driving the Niro EV than a traditional fuel-efficient car.
On the downside, the Niro doesn’t offer much cargo space. Also, although Kia has marketed the Niro as a crossover SUV, all-wheel drive is not available.
2020 Tesla Model 3
EPA estimated range: 250-322 miles
Starting price: $41,190
While Tesla says its new Model Y SUV is coming for 2020, you also have to remember that the company has a poor track record for hitting its deadlines. That leaves the Model 3 as the most affordable and fun-to-drive Tesla that you can buy right now.
In many ways, the Model 3 also betters established luxury sedans such as the BMW 3 Series.
Another big advantage to buying the Model 3, at least compared to other EVs, is the greater ease of long-distance driving thanks to Tesla’s extensive network of fast chargers. But owning a Model 3 can be frustrating because of its touch screen control interface and lack of smartphone integration. Edmunds also has found Tesla’s range figures tend to be optimistic compared to what you’ll get in real-world driving.
2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E
Ford’s estimated range: 210-300 miles
Starting price: $44,995
The Mustang Mach-E is likely going to be the most popular new EV to debut in 2020. This sleekly styled SUV’s lineup ranges from a commuter-friendly long-distance configuration to a performance GT model with 459 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds. Rear-wheel or all-wheel drive is available.
Take a seat inside and you’ll find a large vertical central touch screen and digital display ahead of the steering wheel. Those screens will debut Ford’s latest iteration of its Sync infotainment system.
In terms of size, the Mach-E slots between Ford’s Escape and Edge SUVs, which means there’s plenty of space for people and cargo. This is a proper family SUV. Look for the Mach-E deliveries to start in the fall of 2020.
2019 Audi e-tron
EPA estimated range: 204 miles
Starting price: $75,795
You might be dismayed that the e-tron’s EPA-estimate range barely crests 200 miles. But this is still enough for most drivers’ needs. It’s also pretty easy to overlook considering the e-tron’s other attributes. Driving comfort is superb thanks to the supportive front seats, smooth ride and quiet interior. The e-tron also provides effortless acceleration when you need it.
Being an Audi, the e-tron is packed with technology and luxury features. The infotainment system can seem overly complex at times, but in return you get crisp-looking screens, a great sound system and plenty of functionality.
2020 Porsche Taycan
Range: 201 miles
Starting price: $105,150
The Taycan is Porsche’s first EV, and it’s a multitalented one. You can use it just like a regular luxury sedan thanks to its four doors and two trunks, or you can drive it like a sports car and enjoy its rapid acceleration and hunkered-down handling. It’s so good that Edmunds has come away thinking that it’s a better buy than the brand’s iconic 911.
Porsche is offering a few Taycan trim levels. The most powerful is the 750-horsepower Turbo S. Yet the base 4S trim level is so thoroughly satisfying that we question the need to spend more. All Taycans have a modern yet familiar interior design and offer enough room in back for 6-foot-tall passengers. Other enhancements, such as a charge port on each fender, make the Taycan compelling from an electric vehicle standpoint as well.
Edmunds Says
Constant improvements and introductions of new models ensure there’s an EV for every need, price and shopper.
Carlos Lago is a manager of feature content at Edmunds. Twitter: @carloslago.