As fuel prices remain elevated in the UK following the United States' conflict with Iran and the subsequent closure of the Strait of Hormuz, an increasing number of motorists are considering a switch to electric vehicles. With a growing array of models available, choosing the right one can be challenging. Fortunately, the experts at Auto Express have compiled a ranking of the best electric cars currently on sale in Britain.
Skoda Elroq Takes Top Spot
Claiming first place on the list is the Skoda Elroq, an electric SUV priced from £32,000. It was commended for its spacious interior, excellent value for money, and a cabin that balances comfort with functionality. Journalists Steve Walker and Ryan Birch noted: “Skoda doesn’t tend to miss the mark when it launches new cars, and the Skoda Elroq, a small electric SUV, is no different. In fact, the marque has done such a good job with the Elroq that we named it our Car of the Year at the 2025 New Car Awards.”
However, the Elroq is not without its shortcomings. Reviewers pointed out that the brake pedal feels somewhat “spongy,” rear USB ports are absent on lower-spec models, and the energy-efficient heat pump is offered only as an optional extra.
BMW iX3 Secures Second Place
The Skoda Elroq outperformed the BMW iX3, another premium electric SUV starting at £59,500. Auto Express praised the BMW for its charging capabilities, ride quality, handling, performance, and efficiency. However, they noted that the car is let down by an “odd steering wheel” and a “limited range of powertrains.” The review concluded: “The ride might be slightly firm for some tastes, partly due to the standard 20” wheels, and the steering wheel design is certainly quirky, but otherwise the iX3 puts in a spotless performance.”
Renault 5 Rounds Out the Top Three
In third place is the highly acclaimed and award-winning Renault 5, competitively priced from £21,500. The reviewers highlighted its enjoyable driving dynamics across all conditions, strong value proposition, and user-friendly technology. On the downside, they noted that the ride can be “slightly bouncy at lower speeds” and that the boot lip is positioned somewhat high, which can make loading and unloading items less convenient.
The Renault 5 has also impressed beyond the pages of motoring magazines. During Goodwood’s Media Day, Reach plc’s car reviewer Christopher Sharp had the opportunity to drive the vehicle. He remarked: “To drive it is impeccable; it is a car that at road speeds rotates around your hips. I couldn’t believe it because from the outside it looks quite big, but on Britain’s potholed, bumpy roads it was all the clichés of driving excellence. Yes, it’s not the most powerful, it’s not rear-wheel drive, but of the modern cars I’ve driven it’s one of the best. Talking to others afterwards, we couldn’t quite believe what Renault had done, because it will take a lot for other small electric cars to feel this good.”
