Considering the popularity of crossover SUVs in the past, automakers’ attempts to cash in on that trend with crossover electric SUVs are only logical. One organization lists two electric SUVs as best buys among 2022 EV models. So let’s take a closer look. 

Best 2022 EV models

Consumer Guide lists two crossover electric SUVs, the 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the 2022 Mustang Mach-E, in its 2022 Best Buy: Electric Vehicles section. However, consumer Guide recognizes that the EV class covers a “wide range of sizes and prices,” so it limits its “Best Buy” selection to “regular production models.” Also, the contenders must be “pure EVs” operating only on battery power without an onboard gasoline-powered engine. 

2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5

The four-door hatchback Hyundai Ioniq 5 starts at $39,950 for the base model and up to $55,000 for a top-line version, though it likely qualifies for some tax incentives, so be sure to check with your tax professional. It features horsepower ratings ranging from 168 to 320, an EPA-estimated 87 to 114 MPGe, and either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, depending on which version you choose. In addition, the Ioniq 5 offers two battery options, 58-kWh or 77.4-kWh. The smaller battery pack delivers an estimated 220-mile driving range, while the larger battery pack provides an estimated range of 303 miles for the rear-wheel drive model or 256 miles when equipped with all-wheel drive. 

The 2022 Ioniq 5’s low price and driving range aren’t the only variables that make it a Consumer Guide’s Best Buy. The Ioniq 5 is also a “practical everyday commuter vehicle that’s engaging to drive” and “an exceptionally well-rounded EV.”

The Ioniq 5 includes some premium standard features, including:

• A digital instrument cluster
• A 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment panel
• Heated front seats
• A comprehensive suite of safety features

In addition, Limited models feature a “Vehicle-to-Load (V2L)” system that supplies up to 3.6 kWh to “charge or power other electric devices, appliances, and vehicles.”

2022 Mustang Mach-E

The 2022 Mustang Mach-E is another four-door hatchback electric SUV crossover. The Mach-E’s price ranges from $42,895 to $59,995, but some tax credits may apply. While the Mach-E is more expensive than the Ioniq 5, it’s also more powerful, with horsepower ratings ranging from 266 to 480 and a little less economical with an EPA-estimated 84 to 108 MPGe. The 2021 Mach-E received EPA-estimated range ratings of 211 miles for the all-wheel drive standard battery model and 305 miles for the rear-wheel drive “California Route 1” version. The 2022 Mach-E features slightly larger battery packs in both versions which should equate to higher range estimates once the data becomes available. 

Standard equipment on every Mustang Mach-E includes:

• A digital instrument panel
• A 15.5-inch touchscreen with navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto
• Ford Co-Pilot360 active safety technology

The Mach-E GT features:

• 480 horsepower
• All-wheel drive
• Sport-tuned suspension
• Sport front seats
• 20-inch wheels

What makes these electric SUVs a ‘Best Buy’?

The driving factors behind the 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the 2022 Mustang Mach-E ranking as “Best Buy” electric SUVs for 2022 include their relatively low starting price, adequate range, and overall usefulness as commuter vehicles. While it’s true that neither crossover SUV will receive much praise for low cost, exceptional battery range, or luxury commuter accommodations, both vehicles do enough things adequately to make them sort of great.