Which electric SUVs offer the best value and range right now

The electric SUV market in 2024 includes models across three price ranges: under $45,000, $45,000 to $65,000, and above $65,000. Within each range, the trade-offs shift between driving range, charging speed, interior space, and available features. The vehicles that rank highest depend on what matters most to your situation — whether you need to tow, how far you drive between charges, or whether you want the latest technology.

This guide covers the SUVs currently in production, their real-world range based on EPA estimates, what they cost before incentives, and what each one does better than its competitors. It does not rank them as "best" overall, because the right choice depends on your budget, your commute, and whether you have home charging access.

Key Takeaways

  • The Tesla Model Y remains the highest-volume electric SUV, with a starting price around $43,000 and EPA range up to 330 miles depending on the model variant.
  • The Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 offer faster charging than most competitors and cost between $42,000 and $58,000 before incentives.
  • The Ford Mustang Mach-E and Chevrolet Equinox EV both start under $35,000 and may have access to for the full federal tax credit in most configurations.
  • Larger three-row electric SUVs like the Kia EV9 and Tesla Model X exist but cost significantly more and have fewer charging locations optimized for their size.
  • Real-world range in cold weather or highway driving is typically 15 to 25 percent lower than EPA estimates, so add that buffer to your decision.

Under $45,000: The most affordable electric SUVs

The Chevrolet Equinox EV starts at $35,000 and qualifies for the full $7,500 federal tax credit if you buy it new. The EPA rates it at 319 miles of range on the longer battery, and it uses GM's Ultium platform, which means it can charge on both Tesla Superchargers and other networks. The interior is basic but functional, and it seats five. The main trade-off is that it charges more slowly than competitors in the same price range.

The Ford Mustang Mach-E starts around $38,000 for the standard range model and also qualifies for the full federal credit. EPA range is 266 miles on the standard battery and 312 miles on the extended range. It has a sportier interior design than the Equinox and a more responsive driving feel, though the back seat is slightly tighter. Ford's charging network integration is improving but still lags Tesla's.

The Tesla Model Y starts at $43,000 for the rear-wheel-drive version with 260 miles of EPA range. The long-range version costs about $48,000 and offers 330 miles. It does not may have access to for the federal tax credit because Tesla's prices exceed the cap in most states. The Model Y has the fastest charging network (its own Supercharger system) and the most minimalist interior — some buyers prefer this, others find it stripped down.

$45,000 to $65,000: The fastest chargers and longest ranges

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 starts at $42,000 and uses 800-volt charging architecture, which means it can add 200 miles of range in 18 minutes at a fast charger. EPA range is 303 miles on the standard battery and 320 miles on the long-range. It qualifies for the federal credit in most configurations. The interior is modern and spacious, and it has a unique two-way charging feature that lets you power devices or even a home during an outage (with the right equipment).

The Kia EV6 is mechanically similar to the Ioniq 5 — same 800-volt charging, same range — but costs slightly more and has a sportier design. It starts around $44,000 and also qualifies for the federal credit. The EV6 has a more driver-focused interior and a slightly tighter back seat than the Ioniq 5, so the choice between them often comes down to design preference.

The BMW iX xDrive50 starts around $83,000 and offers 380 miles of EPA range. It is a luxury vehicle with a high-end interior, all-wheel drive, and a quieter cabin than most competitors. It does not may have access to for the federal credit. Charging is fast but not as fast as the Ioniq 5 or EV6. This vehicle appeals to buyers who prioritize comfort and brand over charging speed.

Larger three-row electric SUVs

The Kia EV9 is a three-row electric SUV that seats up to seven and starts around $55,000. EPA range is 304 miles on the long-range battery. It uses the same 800-volt charging as the EV6 and Ioniq 5. The third row is genuinely usable for children or short trips, though cargo space shrinks when all seats are in use. It qualifies for the federal credit in most configurations.

The Tesla Model X starts around $75,000 and offers up to 348 miles of range. It seats up to seven with optional third-row seats. The Model X has falcon-wing doors that open upward, which look distinctive but can be problematic in tight parking spaces. Charging is fast via Tesla's Supercharger network, but the vehicle's size means it uses more energy per mile than smaller SUVs.

Three-row electric SUVs cost more, weigh more, and use more energy per mile than two-row models. Choose one only if you genuinely need seven seats regularly. If you need extra cargo space occasionally, a two-row SUV with a roof rack or cargo carrier is more efficient.

What to check before you buy

EPA range estimates assume moderate driving conditions. In winter, range typically drops 15 to 25 percent. On the highway at 70 mph, range is usually 10 to 20 percent lower than EPA estimates. If you drive 200 miles regularly, buy a vehicle with at least 280 miles of EPA range to stay comfortable in all seasons.

Charging speed matters if you take long trips or do not have home charging. The Ioniq 5 and EV6 can charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in under 30 minutes at a DC fast charger. The Model Y and Mach-E take 35 to 45 minutes for the same charge. The Equinox EV takes closer to 50 minutes. If you charge only at home, this difference is irrelevant.

Check whether the vehicle uses Tesla's charging connector (now called the North American Charging Standard) or the older Combined Charging System connector. Most new vehicles use the Tesla connector, which has more chargers available. Older vehicles with the CCS connector still work fine but have fewer options in some regions.

Federal tax credit and state incentives

The federal tax credit is $7,500 for new vehicles that meet price and income caps. Most electric SUVs under $55,000 may have access to, but Tesla and BMW models often exceed the price cap. Some states offer additional credits or rebates — California, New York, and Colorado have their own programs. Check your state's energy office website for current programs, as they change year to year.

Used electric SUVs may have access to for a $4,000 federal credit if they are at least two years old and cost under $25,000. This applies to used Model 3s, Ioniq 5s, and other models from 2022 and earlier. The used credit has stricter income limits than the new vehicle credit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which electric SUV has the longest range?

The BMW iX xDrive50 has the longest EPA range at 380 miles, but it costs $83,000. Among vehicles under $65,000, the Tesla Model Y long-range and Hyundai Ioniq 5 both offer 320 to 330 miles. Real-world range in winter or highway driving is typically 15 to 25 percent lower.

Can I tow with an electric SUV?

Yes, but range drops significantly. The Tesla Model X and Model Y can tow up to 3,500 pounds, and the Kia EV9 can tow 2,500 pounds. Towing reduces range by 20 to 40 percent depending on the load and terrain. Most other electric SUVs in this list have no towing capacity.

What is the difference between the Ioniq 5 and the EV6?

They use the same platform and have nearly identical range and charging speed. The Ioniq 5 is slightly cheaper and has a more spacious interior. The EV6 has a sportier design and slightly better handling. The choice comes down to which interior and exterior design you prefer.

Do I need home charging to own an electric SUV?

No, but it makes ownership much easier. Without home charging, you rely on public chargers for longer trips and must plan around charging locations. For daily commutes under 100 miles, public charging alone is workable but less convenient. A Level 2 home charger costs $500 to $2,000 installed and adds 25 to 30 miles of range per hour.

Which electric SUV is cheapest to insure?

Insurance costs vary by your age, location, and driving history, not just the vehicle. The Chevrolet Equinox EV and Ford Mustang Mach-E typically have lower insurance costs than Tesla models because they are less expensive to repair. Contact your insurance company for quotes on specific vehicles you are considering.