Comparing Electric SUVs: Affordable Options for 2024
Looking to go electric on a budget in 2024? While the average cost of a new car has risen over the years, there are still options available in the electric SUV market that are both competent and affordable.
Four electric SUVs were put to the test in this comparison: the Tesla Model Y Long Range, Volkswagen ID.4 Pro, Hyundai Kona Electric Limited, and Kia Niro EV Wave. Each vehicle was evaluated based on factors such as driving dynamics, charging speed, range, and overall value for money.
Editor-in-Chief Greg Migliore highlighted the importance of affordability in the electric vehicle market, as technology, value, and politics continue to intersect. The goal of the test was to analyze the merits of each vehicle from a consumer perspective and determine their strengths and weaknesses relative to cost.
Fourth place: Kia Niro EV Wave. $46,760; 155 points
The Kia Niro EV, while stylish and practical in some aspects, fell short in the test due to issues with charging performance, driving enjoyment, and utility compared to its competitors. Its strengths in design and tech interface were overshadowed by drawbacks such as limited fast-charging capabilities and lackluster driving dynamics.
Despite its shortcomings, the Niro EV offers a unique persona and user-friendly tech features, making it a viable option for certain lifestyles. However, its drawbacks in crucial areas like range and driving experience placed it in fourth position in the comparison.
2024 Hyundai Kona Electric Limited
Third place: Hyundai Kona Electric Limited. $42,420; 165 points
The Hyundai Kona Electric, while similar to the Niro EV, offers a more coherent tech interface and a better value proposition. With a refreshed design for 2024, the Kona Electric provides a comfortable ride and a feature-rich interior. However, it falls short in terms of driving dynamics and overall utility compared to some of its competitors.
Despite its limitations, the Kona Electric stands out with its physical interior buttons and exciting design elements. It offers a balance of practicality and technology, making it a suitable choice for many consumers’ lifestyles.
2024 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro
Second place: Volkswagen ID.4 Pro. $46,595 (w/tax credit $39,095); 177 points
The Volkswagen ID.4 Pro impressed with its value proposition, benefiting from a $7,500 tax credit and offering a competitive range of 291 miles. Despite its strengths in range and performance, the ID.4 Pro fell short in areas such as interior amenities and driving dynamics, with issues like manual seats and lackluster braking performance.
However, the ID.4 Pro stood out for its spacious backseat and cargo area, as well as its fast-charging capabilities. While it didn’t secure the top spot, the ID.4 Pro’s overall package and affordability made it a strong contender in the comparison.
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