Skip to main content

Today’s EVs are as powerful as their internal combustion engine counterparts. You don’t even have to splurge on a luxury car if you want ample horsepower. All-electric models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 can be had for around $50,000 (or less) while offering up to 320 hp. Most EV batteries also provide 200 to 300 miles, alleviating drivers’ range anxiety. However, two electric cars still don’t get 200 miles of range. Are they worth buying?

These 2 EVs provide the best range

Luxury EVs typically have ranges of around 250 to 330 miles. But with 405 miles of range on the base trim, the Tesla Model S outperforms most rivals. According to Edmunds, it also has standard all-wheel drive and 670 hp.

Tesla claims the upgraded Model S Plaid makes 1,020 hp and can reach 60 mph in under two seconds. It costs $31,000 more than the standard Model S, but it’s surprisingly efficient, with 396 miles of range. However, exercising the Model S Plaid’s ample power will deplete the battery faster.

Lucid boasts that its Lucid Air Sapphire is even more powerful than the Model S Plaid. It generates over 1,200 hp with its three electric motors and reportedly gets over 400 miles of range. The Lucid Air Dream Edition is the most efficient model, with 520 miles of range.

Both models carry six-digit price tags, but the Lucid Air Pure costs a relatively reasonable $88,900. Edmunds says this model can go 406 miles on a full charge.

Now, let’s compare the above models with the following two EVs, whose standard models don’t even get 200 miles of range.

A bigger battery would boost the Mini Cooper Electric’s range

Mini Cooper Electric
Mini Cooper Electric | BMW Group

According to Mini, this small hatchback gets only 114 miles of range. It doesn’t even charge as quickly as some rivals with better range when connected to a DC fast charger. You’ll need at least 36 minutes to replenish 80% of the Mini Cooper Electric’s battery at 50 kWh.

However, Edmunds says this car has a decently powerful motor for its size. It generates 181 hp and 199 lb-ft of torque, paired with FWD. The regenerative braking system offers two drive modes, so you can switch between an electric-powered or a gas-operated braking feel.

This EV’s compact size no doubt makes it an excellent car for city driving, but the rear seat barely has room for two adults. The Mini Cooper Electric also has less than nine cubic feet of cargo space with every seat in use. Still, its abundant tech features help justify the $28,600 asking price.

How much range does the Nissan Leaf have?

The base Nissan Leaf S gets only 149 miles of range on a full charge. Its battery pairs with an electric motor for 147 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque, Edmunds reports.

Fortunately, Nissan offers the Leaf SV Plus for drivers who want more power and range. This model has 214 hp, 250 lb-ft of torque, and 212 miles of range. It also provides more safety features, built-in navigation, and heated seats.

Despite all the plastic cabin components and cloth upholstery, the upgraded SV Plus still retails for a relatively high $36,040. You could easily find an EV with a higher-quality interior and better range at that price point.

For instance, the $33,550 Hyundai Kona Electric gets 258 miles of range. The Nissan Leaf and Mini Cooper Electric aren’t terrible EVs, but their limited ranges detract from their overall value.

Related

6 Great Luxury EVs for Less Than $60,000