The 2022’s Best Electric Vehicles. To say that this guide is out of the norm for us would be an understatement. Our overall philosophy has been “the more cylinders, the better,” with the exception of small-displacement turbocharged engines. High-power, peak-efficiency dinosaur burners have and will always have a particular place in our hearts. That being said, the year is 2022, and the times are a-changin’!
And it’s difficult to argue with the development achieved in the Electric Vehicle space, particularly in the last few years. EVs are now the most practical, versatile, and efficient they have ever been. We have to acknowledge, with some hesitation, that there are some fairly great EV alternatives out there. This applies to both performance and the overall driving experience.
Beyond the cutting-edge technology in modern EVs, infrastructure is starting to catch up. Fast chargers are becoming more common, and the time it takes to charge a modern EV is shrinking considerably. On this path, charging your EV will soon take the same amount of time as filling your tank. And you won’t have to pay a quarter of your salary to do so.
In this guide, we’ll look at some of the most popular EV alternatives on the market today and analyze their benefits and drawbacks. While nothing on this list will provide you with a visceral V8 audio, EVs make up for it in other ways.
Considerations for the Best EVs of 2022
With the exception of the Prius, EVs have just recently swept the world by storm, thus it is fair to say that the EV format is still in its infancy. Having said that, electric vehicles have grown in scope and versatility in recent years. Previously, electric vehicle options were highly limited in terms of size, shape, and function. Nowadays, you can choose between cars, SUVs, and trucks.
Aside from simply having more EV options to select from, EVs are becoming more cheap. In 2022, the average price of a new EV is around $54,000, which is around $10,000 more than the average price of a new gas-powered automobile. However, the federal government of the United States, as well as many state governments, provide large rebates and tax credits to new electric vehicle buyers.
In the sake of order and keeping things tidy, we’ll go over the finest EVs of 2022 by category. When it comes to a new EV, everyone wants something different, and there are now enough possibilities to divide them into categories.
Electric SUVs are the best EVs for 2022.
SUVs are without a doubt one of the most popular types of vehicles in today’s world. The fuel inefficiency of SUVs, particularly full-sized SUVs with big V8 engines, has long been a source of contention among the green camp.
Several manufacturers have made significant strides in recent years in providing the general public with a diverse range of premium EV SUVs to select from. Despite the presence of electricity, the overall mission remains the same. EV SUVs, like most regular SUVs, are geared at the family dynamic. The golden trifecta that most manufacturers are focusing on with their EV SUVs is comfort, practicality, and plenty of seats.
Several of the EV SUVs on our list, in addition to fulfilling SUV responsibilities well, also have a peripheral focus on performance. That isn’t always the case with classic, gas-powered, modern SUVs. The incredible torque provided by battery power opens up a world of possibilities for all-terrain driving and on-street performance. As a result, you’ll discover that most manufacturers are attempting to capitalize on this. Here are our top recommendations for Best EVs of 2022 in the SUV category.
1) Best 2022 EVs – BMW iX xDrive50
The starting MSRP is $84,195.
EPA Combined/City/Highway Fuel Economy: 86/86/85 MPGe
315 mile range
BMW has been at the forefront of the EV trend since its inception. Some may be surprised to learn that BMW has been riding the electric wave since the early 1970s. Their first all-electric vehicle was a 1972 BMW 2002 powered by 12 12-volt batteries with a 37-mile range. Since then, BMW has been working to perfect the electric automobile, and the iX is a compelling case in point.
BMW iX Models and Key Features
Overall, the BMW iX fulfills all of the requirements of a BMW SUV. It’s opulent, roomy, sporty, and dazzling all at the same time. It’s not just a terrific BMW; it’s also a great EV. To address possibly the most crucial component of an EV SUV, the iX xDrive50 has a massive 105.2-kWh battery pack that allows the iX to go 324 miles on a single charge. That’s enough to drive from Los Angeles to Las Vegas with an extra 50 miles to spare. The iX employs two electric motors to deliver 516 horsepower to all four axles. This results in a 0-60 time of 4.0 seconds.
The iX includes DC rapid charging, which can charge from 10% to 80% in less than 35 minutes. It can also be charged at BMW EVgo charging stations, a variety of alternative charging networks, or at home using a Level 2 home charging station.
Of course, you’ll receive all of the modern features you’ve come to expect from BMW, including as a large 14.9″ infotainment display and a 12.3″ programmable digital gauge cluster. The iX is outfitted with so many gadgets and safety features that we can’t even begin to describe them all. Just know that BMW has you covered there.
In terms of size, the iX is comparable to BMW’s other large SUVs, particularly the X5. This means that there is ample of space not only for people but also for freight. The interior of the iX can be wrapped in either imitation or premium leather, and it is absolutely everywhere. The iX is difficult to top in terms of luxury.
2) Best 2022 EVs – Ford Mustang Mach-E
The starting MSRP is $46,695.
EPA Combined/City/Highway Fuel Economy:
- 90/96/84 MPGe as a starting point
- MPGe performance: 82/88/75
- 270 miles (base) / 220 miles (performance).
This one is undoubtedly surrounded with controversy, and we can see why. Ford, are you serious? You choose the name Mustang? Oh well, that’s their marketing department’s fault. Without getting too caught up in the moniker, it’s difficult to dispute with the Mach-E’s real stats and performance. Actually, it’s quite stunning.
Range and Notable Features of the Ford Mustang Mach-E
The 2022 Mustang Mach-E comes in several trim levels, including basic, GT, and GT Performance. The typical power pack is a 70.0-kWh battery pack with a range of approximately 211 miles. If you need extra range, there is a 91-kWh pack available in the GT and GT Performance variants. The larger pack extends range by a significant amount, allowing for around 305 miles on a single charge. The base model Mach-E produces between 266 and 346 horsepower and 317-428 pound-feet of torque. GT and GT Performance variants have 480 horsepower and 634 pound-feet of torque. Those are some serious Mustang stats.
Furthermore, depending on the configuration, the Mach-E is available in all-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive. The rear-wheel drive Mach-E has more range, but it’s generally agreed that the all-wheel drive type is the better choice. The Mach-E may be charged at a public Level 2 charging station or with the bundled 120-volt residential charger. The Level 1 residential charger is excruciatingly slow, charging only approximately 3 miles per hour. As a result, charging at a public Level 2 station is far more efficient.
In terms of the interior of the Mach-E, it is apparent that Tesla’s influence was felt. That isn’t always a terrible thing. The Mach-E has a huge digital instrument cluster as well as an even larger vertical touch-screen infotainment panel. Because the Mach-E’s battery is situated beneath the floor, there is a plenty of luggage and passenger room. When the seats are pulled down, the Mach-E features 60 cubic feet of storage space in the back. There’s enough room for 5 full-sized humans with the seats folded up.
3) Volkswagen Identification Number.4
The starting MSRP is $41,203.
EPA Combined/City/Highway Fuel Economy:
- MPGe for rear-wheel drive is 97/104/89.
- MPGe for All-Wheel Drive: 96/103/88
- RWD/AWD range: 280 miles / 240 miles
Volkswagen has always been a car for the public, and this is the impression they are seeking to convey with their new electric crossover SUV. The ID.4 is aimed at a very specific clientele in the United States: people wishing to make the transition to electric without sacrificing practicality. Price is another compelling reason to choose the ID.4. There aren’t many cheaper options in the sector, with a starting price of $41,203.
The ID.4’s performance leaves something to be desired. It is available in both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, with the latter being significantly more powerful. The rear-wheel drive ID.4 is powered by a single electric motor that generates 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque. The majority of those who have driven the rear-wheel drive model believe that it is underpowered for the amount of weight it carries. The all-wheel drive model gains a second motor and 100 horsepower. That is the one to use.
The single-motor ID.4 base model has an EPA range of 260 miles, while the all-wheel drive ID.4 Pro has a range of 240 miles. While there are other EV SUVs that can outrun the ID.4, the ID.4’s range is still competitive. The ID.4 includes DC rapid charging, which may deliver up to 70 miles of energy in under 10 minutes. Obviously, a conventional 120-volt household charger is incapable of even approaching those figures.
At such a cheap starting price, you won’t get the same degree of luxury and attention to detail as you would in a BMW iX or even a Mach-E. The ID.4 does, however, have a modern interior with plenty of modern equipment and comforts. There’s also plenty of cargo room in the back, with 64.3 cubic feet available with the seats folding.
Best EVs in 2022: Electric Vehicles
The Prius was first, then Tesla, and now it appears that every manufacturer has an EV sedan in production or on the way. We’re not complaining; more options for us, right? While electric SUVs and trucks are all the rage right now, people looking for EVs with a smaller form factor have plenty of options. Here are our top recommendations for Best EVs of 2022 in the sedan/car category.
1) The Polestar 2
The starting MSRP (single/dual motor) is $47,200 / $67,400.
EPA Combined/City/Highway Fuel Economy:
MPGe for a single motor: 107/113/100
Dual Engine: 130/135/125
270/230 miles (single/dual motor)
Polestar is no stranger to the finer things in life. As a result, both inside and out, the Polestar 2 is one of the most intriguing EVs on our list. It surely has an unusual shape. It’s classified as a compact SUV, but we were hesitant to classify it as one since, well, it doesn’t really look like one. Having said that, it is a four-door with a hatchback, so it has some usefulness.
The Polestar 2 2022 adds a new front-wheel drive configuration to the mix. The single motor style offers a longer range of 270 miles than the all-wheel type, but much less power. The Polestar 2 has a 249-mile range but an additional 177 horsepower. That trade-off, in my opinion, is worthwhile. The Polestar 2 Performance package includes extras such as Ohlin adjustable suspension and Brembo brakes. However, this is only worthwhile on the dual-motor variant.
On paper, the Polestar 2 in front-wheel drive develops 231 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque. The all-wheel-drive variant produces 408 horsepower and 487 pound-feet of torque. With a $4,000 price difference between the two, it’s difficult to see why anyone would choose the FWD model. Especially given the FWD model only gets 21 more miles per charge. Charging is comparable to the other vehicles on the list, with 150-kilowatt fast-charging available. The Polestar 2 can be charged from zero to 80 percent in 40 minutes using a Level 2 fast charger.
The Polestar 2’s cabin obviously recycles a lot of Volvo assets, but that’s not always a negative thing. The interior of the Polestar is simple but exquisite, with eco-friendly materials and a huge central display.
2) Lucid Air 2022
The base MSRP (Pure) is $89,050.
EPA Combined/City/Highway Fuel Economy: 111/111/110 MPGe
451 mile range
When Lucid appeared on the scene, Tesla fanboys all around the world mocked them. Many saw them as a dollar store Tesla clone company doomed to fail. They were sorely mistaken. Lucid will provide the EV community with one of the most powerful EVs with the longest range in 2022. The situation with the air is not amusing.
Notable Features and a Clear Air Range
In terms of performance, the Air comes from a distinguished lineage. Lucid has been delivering Formula E batteries since 2018, working with McLaren and Sony. Their sophisticated battery technology is not being used on a commercial basis with the Air. Aside from its incredible power and unrivaled range, the Lucid Air is also one of the most nimble and performance-oriented sedans on the market. The Lucid Air is powered by batteries ranging in capacity from 112-118 kWh, providing unprecedented range.
The Air’s range and excellent power figures truly distinguish it in our minds. Even the base model “Pure” trim has an astounding 480 horsepower and a range of 406 miles. The Pure is the only model that features a single rear-mounted motor. The other three trims available have two motors and even higher power and range figures. The all-wheel drive Touring model has 620 horsepower and the same 406-mile range. With 1,111 horsepower on tap and a 520-mile range, the top Air models, such as the Dream Performance, took the phrase power to a whole new level. That’s about as good as it gets for EVs right now.
In terms of charging, Lucid does an excellent job of incentivizing electric power by including three years of free fast charging with every purchase. The Air clearly includes DC fast charging as a standard feature. When connected to a DC fast charger, the Air can regain 300 miles of range in 20 minutes.
The interior of the Air clearly indicates that it is aimed at the luxury market. The glass roof and large digital cluster/infotainment screen scream sophistication. Overall, it’s a lovely location to be.
3) Model 3 Tesla
The starting MSRP (Long Range / Dual Motor) is $49,690 / $66,190.
EPA Combined/City/Highway Fuel Economy: 116/120/112 MPGe
310 mile range
You had to have predicted this one. There’s a reason why the phrases EV and Tesla are often used interchangeably. They’ve been doing it for a long time, and it’s finally paying off. The Model 3 is the first chance for most individuals to invest in the Tesla brand without selling their firstborn child, so it’s an appealing concept. The good news is that it’s a very solid pick, especially for the price.
Tesla Model 3 Range and Highlights
Since its release, the Model 3 has been a fan favorite in both the EV and luxury car segments. Aside from being a terrific EV, the Model 3 is a good car in general. While it’s difficult to forget you’re driving an electric vehicle, the Model 3 performs everything you’d expect from a standard gas-powered sedan. Its selection is also a great selling feature. The Model 3 Long Range variant, which starts at $59,400, has a range of 358 miles. The standard Real-Wheel Drive model, which has a single electric motor, also offers a respectable 272 mile range.
Tesla is recognized for its cutting-edge automobile technology, and the Model 3 is no exception. Heated seats and GPS are included on all Model 3s. But those aren’t the features for which Tesla has become famous. The Model 3, like the Model S, includes Tesla’s Autopilot technology, which is a big selling point for many consumers.
In terms of performance, the Model 3 exemplifies what a well-balanced EV can do. Because the Model 3’s batteries are situated beneath the floor, it has a relatively low center of gravity, allowing it to change directions easily and predictably. Another great inclusion that provides another degree of customizability is adjustable steering weight.
The Model 3 offers many charging options and is anticipated to have the most support in the United States. The first option, of course, is to utilize one of Tesla’s Supercharging stations. Otherwise, an adaptor for use with other public DC fast chargers is included. Finally, there are home charging stations available.
Electric Trucks are the best EVs for 2022.
When pickup trucks get the EV treatment, you know the electric wave is really starting to take shape. Trucks have long been America’s workhorse, and with battery power, more fascinating truck applications are emerging. While there aren’t as many EV trucks as there are SUV and Sedan possibilities, there are a few worthy mentions. Here are our top recommendations for Best EVs of 2022 in the truck category.
1) Best Electric Vehicles of 2022 – Ford F-150 Lightning
MSRP (Pro) starting at $41,769
EPA Combined/City/Highway Fuel Economy:
Typical Range: 68/76/61 MPGe
Range Extension: 70/78/63 MPGe
Standard/Extended Range: 230 miles / 300 miles
Ford’s announcement of an all-electric pickup truck may come as a surprise to some. After all, they are famed for their large-displacement V8 engines. Having said that, people familiar with Ford will know that they have been leaning in this direction for some time. Ford faced a lot of flak when they launched the EcoBoost F-150, but it appears that the community as a whole is liking the electric version.
Notable Ford F-150 Lightning Range and Features
The F-150 Lightning is a well-known vehicle. That’s because it looks and feels exactly like a conventional F-150. The F-150 formula is well-established at this point, with the chassis in production for nearly five decades. The Lightning is offered in a variety of trim levels, ranging from the entry-level Pro model to the Platinum Extended Range variation. The biggest differences between the versions are range and personal comforts. All-wheel drive is standard on all F-150 Lightning variants.
The Lightning is actually a better truck than most normal, gas-powered trucks. Torque is always available with electric power. Because torque is one of the most crucial parts of towing, the F-150 Lightning is a fantastic performer. The Extended Range variant delivers up to 775 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels. It’s difficult to dispute with those figures. Extended range variants can pull up to 10,000 pounds.
Overall, its range is quite astounding. The original 98.0-kWh battery has a range of up to 230 miles per charge, however the enhanced 131.0-kWh extended range battery has a range of 320 miles. The F-150 Lightning can be charged from 15 to 80 percent in 44 minutes using a fast charger. The Lightning will charge at a much slower rate with the bundled 110 and 210-volt home chargers.
2) Rivian R1T – Best EVs in 2022
The base MSRP (Pure) is $89,050.
EPA Combined/City/Highway Fuel Economy: 70/74/66 MPGe
314 mile range
If you’re looking for an all-electric vehicle and have been researching your alternatives, you’ve probably come across the Rivian R1T. Rivian has undoubtedly made an impression on the EV arena since introducing the world to its R1S and R1T electric vehicles. Because of their unusual design and off-road prowess, they have become one of the most talked-about EV trucks on the market.
With a length of 215.6 inches, the R1T is classified as a mid-sized truck. Having said that, the bed is certainly long enough to store a lot of cargo at 55.1″. Aside from the bed, the Rivian includes storage under the front hood and behind the rear seats. There is obviously an emphasis on off-road performance, with air suspension standard on all variants.
The Rivian, like the Ford Lightning, delivers the tough, truck-like performance that you’d expect. One of the Rivian’s strong suits is its towing capacity, which is 11,000 lbs. Individual electric motors supply power to each of the Rivian’s four wheels. The Rivian’s all-wheel drive technology efficiently transfers all 835 horsepower to the ground, resulting in a 0-60 time of 3.3 seconds. Rivian plans to introduce a dual-motor version in the coming years, which will likely have less power but will also be less expensive.
In terms of range, the Rivian is presently only available with a single battery pack size of 128.9-kWh. According to the EPA, that pack has a range of 314 miles on a single charge. That amount is highly disputed, particularly when towing large weights. Regardless, even if the R1T approaches the expected range, it is still usable.
Related : The Ultimate 3.5 EcoBoost Engine Reference
Summary of the Best EVs for 2022
A flood of extremely nice electric vehicles are ushering in the early 2020s, demonstrating that it isn’t a fad, but rather the future of transportation. At this point, we’ve accepted it and are content to recognize that there are plenty of cool EVs on the market. Previously, electric automobiles were inefficient, only existed in one configuration, and were not at all adaptable. With the launch of EV SUVs, EV trucks, and improved electric vehicles, there is now something for everyone.
If you are still unsure about whether EV is ideal for you, these additional resources may be useful, particularly when comparing on-paper numbers. The EPA is in charge of assigning a range rating to electric vehicles depending on the size of their battery packs. All of that information is archived on their website, which also includes a convenient tool for direct model comparisons. If you want to conduct more study, you can go to fueleconomy.gov, which has some extra options. As usual, drive safely!
