Best electric hatchback

Volkswagen ID.3

The Volkswagen ID.3 is an extremely popular electric hatchback because it excels as a strong all-rounder. It offers engaging driving dynamics from a rear-wheel-drive setup, a strong range of up to around 370 miles and a large 385-litre boot.

Where it stands out above other rivals, though, is in VW's attention to practicality.

Because it was built from the ground up to be an electric-only model, the battery and motor are packaged well. With the wheels pushed further out into the corners, you get near-Passat levels of space in a Golf-sized footprint.

MG4

We love the MG4 because it's very well priced against its competition. It's an excellent ID.3 alternative because it offers similar levels of interior space and a near-identical 363-litre boot.

This model stands out for its value for money: even entry-level models get the MG Pilot suite of systems, which includes adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist. Opt for a high-spec Trophy edition for a 360-degree parking camera, heated seats, a heated steering wheel and much more.

Dacia Spring

From spacious models to a much more compact model, the Dacia Spring is the type of car that you'll never have to worry about fitting in a parking space. It's only 3,701mm long and 1,583mm wide.

It has built itself a name as one of the most affordable EVs on the market, and that extends to running costs. The 65hp version has a claimed efficiency figure of 4.7mi/kWh – an exceptional feat that nets it 142 miles of range from a tiny 26.8kWh battery.

Peugeot e-208

Built on the same platform as the Vauxhall Corsa Electric, the Peugeot e-208 has much more going on inside in terms of design flair. With a sporting edge that's accentuated by the French brand's i-Cockpit design, it features a small steering to enhance agility.

It has a premium feel regardless of trim level, and you'll love the comfortable and refined ride quality. Pick from 136hp or 156hp, with battery sizes of 50-51kWh, because they'll all do over 200 miles of range.

Our motoring journalist, Ben Welham, said: "The 2024 Peugeot e-208 is a welcome improvement over the previous model. 

"With striking looks, a great range and plenty of tech, it’s hard to find another small electric car to recommend instead."

MINI Cooper SE

UK drivers have been loving the concept of a hot hatch since the 1980s for the ultimate blend of practicality and performance, and the MINI Hatchback has been at the forefront of this scene. Thankfully, it lives on into the electric era.

Pick from 0-62mph times of 7.3 seconds in the Cooper E or 6.7 seconds in the Cooper SE. Neither is slow, but if you're craving a bit more, why not go for the 258hp Cooper JCW Electric, which'll get to 62mph in 5.9 seconds. That performance won't impact the 250-mile claimed range with sensible driving, either.

Renault 5

From flying under the radar to being cinch's 'Most exciting car brand' in 2024, Renault has launched a plethora of new models in recent years, and the revived Renault 5 is worth every bit of your attention, retaining that retro-cool styling with a modern – and, of course, electrified – twist.

It promises to have fun, lively driving dynamics, over 250 miles of range with the bigger of the two batteries and space for up to five inside. The best part about bringing the R5 into the 2020s is that you get twin 10-inch displays powered by a Google operating system for maximum connectivity.

Fiat 500e

Another blast from the past, the iconic Fiat 500 already had one revival in 2007 when it got the modern makeover. In 2020, it got another total redesign, but this time, with a nippy electric motor at its heart.

It's an excellent city car with outstanding manoeuvrability and strong real-world efficiency. Compared to the petrol-powered Fiat 500, this 500e is much more refined, with a silent and smooth experience, and that extends to inside where you get a nice, wide 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

Sam Sheehan, motoring expert, said: "It’s one of the most popular electric city cars, and considering how glamorous the Fiat 500e looks, that's not surprising.

"It’s authentically Italian, quirky and great fun to drive. It’s also crucially, inexpensive to run."

Vauxhall Astra Electric

It might not be so iconic, but the Vauxhall Astra is as much a household name in the UK as MINI and the Fiat 500. In fact, it's often the go-to car for families, company car drivers... even the police. That's because of the perfect balance of interior space and boot space, which makes it extremely versatile.

As with previous generations, this Vauxhall Astra Electric is a strong all-rounder, with a decent range of over 250 miles, competent handling and good tech and safety features.

Best of all, it has the same familiar design as the combustion-powered Astra, so it's an easy switch to make for new EV drivers.