Skip to main content

Electric vehicle (EV) options have historically been quite limited – especially for SUVs. Fortunately, that is changing, and there are now several great choices, ranging from smaller cars to larger SUVs. And, as EV technology continues to improve, these vehicles’ prices are becoming more accessible and affordable for the average consumer. Currently, there are now four electric SUV options that have a price tag under $40,000. Here is a closer look at each option:

A silver-gray 2023 Chevy Bolt EUV compact electric SUV model parked outside of a home on a cobblestone road
2023 Chevy Bolt EUV | Chevrolet

The Chevy Bolt EUV actually starts at less than $30,000

The Chevy Bolt EUV proves to be as conventional and capable as any other Chevy SUV. Measuring just over 6.3 inches longer and 0.2 inches wider / taller than the Bolt EV hatchback, the EUV’s SUV-like proportions open up more passenger and cargo space.

Under the hood is the same electric drive unit as the EV. It features a 65.0-kWh battery pack that promises 247 miles of range. According to Chevrolet’s pressroom, it starts at around $28,195 for the LT trim and $32,695 for the Premier.

The interior is quiet and comfortable, with plenty of high-tech features like a 10.2-inch touchscreen display and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration.

The Hyundai Kona Electric offers great standard features for less than $40,000

From South Korean automaker Hyundai, the Kona Electric is an electrified version of the company’s smallest SUV. It comes with a 64.0-kWh battery pack and an electric motor that produces 201 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque.

When fully charged, the Kona Electric has a range of up to 258 miles. The base trim features standard equipment, such as automatic emergency braking, forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection, lane-keeping assist, and an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen. You can get into the Kona EV at a starting price of $34,845, according to Car and Driver.

The Kia Niro EV has a lot in common with its Hyundai cousin

When space, style, and EV range are key, the Kia Niro EV comes in as a top pick. According to Kia Media, you only need $39,450 to get your hands this all-new electric crossover SUV. It boasts a healthy range of 239 miles from its 64.8-kWh lithium-ion battery.

Kia’s EV is also one of the quickest in its class, with a 0-60 mph time of just 7.8 seconds. The powertrain setup features a 201-horsepower electric motor, which is more potent than its hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions.

Inside, the all-new Niro EV appears very different from its predecessors, with a new digital gauge cluster and a 10.3-inch infotainment touchscreen display that supports both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A distinctive two-spoke design steering wheel also helps give the EV its unique look and feel. There is more legroom and large door storage pockets for rear passengers.

Don’t sleep on the all-new Mazda MX-30

The Mazda MX-30 marks the first EV offering from the company. It comes with a 35.5-kWh battery pack and an electric motor that drives the front wheels. The MX-30 has a range of approximately 100 miles per charge. This is one of the shortest ranges on the EV market, which is something to keep in mind if you are looking for an EV SUV with a longer range.

However, MazdaUSA stated the starting price for the Mazda MX-30 is $33,470. Although it doesn’t have the longest range, it comes with a sleek and stylish design unique to Mazda. In addition, its sharp steering and eager handling make for an engaging and fun driving experience.

The interior is also very well appointed, with high-quality materials used throughout. The 7.0-inch infotainment touchscreen display may be on the small side, but it supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You also get a full suite of driver assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams.

RELATED: 5 of Our Favorite Features on the 2023 Lexus RX 350h

Related

The Mazda MX-30 Is Bringing Back a Classic Engine