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Jun 17, 2023

The Best EV Brands for 2023

If you're in the market for an electric vehicle, Tesla is no longer your only

If you're in the market for an electric vehicle, Tesla is no longer your only solid option, though it's still the one to beat.

We've seen a flood of new EVs this year from familiar brands such as Chevrolet, Ford, and Kia, as well as newcomers like Rivian. In this inaugural edition of the Best Electric Vehicle Brands, we rank the companies leading the transition to battery power. But since every car maker has a different approach to EVs, we're examining car brands as a whole rather than ranking individual EVs.

In the next 10 years—the average amount of time people are holding on to their vehicles—dashboard technology, autonomous capabilities, and battery performance will radically change, so it's important to know which company you're investing in.

And while the industry is changing fast and next year's winners are likely to look a bit different, we want to highlight brands that have EVs available right now—no vaporware allowed. Here are our top-recommended brands if you're in the market for an EV in 2023.

To create this scorecard, we drew from PCMag's EV reporting, time spent at auto shows, and vehicle test drives. We also spoke to industry experts who have decades of experience reviewing gas-powered—and now, electric—vehicles. From this, a few key areas emerged as most pertinent to EV shoppers today:

Does the brand make at least one EV? Some automakers didn't make the 2023 list simply because they do not offer any fully electric vehicles. Honda and Jeep launch their first EVs next year: The Honda Prologue and Jeep Recon and Wagoneer S. Other popular brands offer EVs, but they are sold out for 2023, such as the Volkswagen ID.4 and Cadillac Lyriq. (We do, however, note upcoming launches, in case it's worth the wait.)

Price: EVs are more expensive than gas cars on average, so we give extra points to brands that offer multiple models under $40,000. Certain vehicles also qualify for up to $7,500 in federal tax credits.

Selection: We looked at the quantity and variety of models each brand offers (sedan, SUV, pickup truck).

Range and Charging: We considered each brand's battery technology and the range of its vehicles. All EVs on the list can charge on public fast chargers and at home, but some brands, like Tesla and Rivian, make proprietary chargers optimized for their vehicles.

Technology: These days, best-in-class vehicles must have the technology trifecta of a sophisticated dash screen, autonomous driving features, and over-the-air (OTA) updates for consistent feature upgrades.

The three brands every shopper should consider first are Tesla, Kia/Hyundai, and Mercedes (if it's in your price range). Tesla holds the top spot as the overall winner, mostly due to its unparalleled Supercharger network, but Kia and Hyundai are increasingly turning buyers' heads with their striking design and lower-priced options compared to Tesla. We've combined Kia and Hyundai because they share a parent company, along with the higher-end Genesis brand, and run on the same sophisticated battery technology.

When it comes to luxury interiors and a higher-end feel, Mercedes comes out on top. It offers five EVs, the most of any brand on the list, and a mix of sedans and SUVs. Mercedes also stands out in its mission to convert its lineup to 100% electric(Opens in a new window) by 2030, and its investment in building a charging network powered by all clean energy.

Beyond our three winners, we've listed the top 10 brands and scored them based on how many of the five criteria listed above they meet, using stats from the base models of their lineups. Note that all of them deliver OTA software updates.

Tesla Model 3 (PCMag Editors' Choice): $40,240 (before $3,750 federal tax credit), 272-mile range

Tesla Model Y (PCMag Editors' Choice): $47,490 (before $7,500 federal tax credit), 279-mile range

Tesla Model S: $88,490, 405-mile range

Tesla Model X (PCMag Editors' Choice): $98,490, 348-mile range

Upcoming Launches: Cybertruck (TBD launch date, 2024 or 2025)

Even as Tesla faces growing competition, it still leads by a mile in terms of sales. The Model 3 and Model Y made up 62% of total EV sales in Q1 2023, CleanTechnica reports(Opens in a new window), fueled by several price drops, while the Model Y was the best-selling car overall in Q1, the first time an EV has topped a gas-powered vehicle. Both vehicles are a greater value than they used to be, especially considering Tesla's charging network and the cars' relatively high range for the price.

"In my opinion, everyone should buy a Tesla Model 3. It's so much better than the competition in every way," says tech journalist and longtime Tesla owner Myriam Joire, who also gives the Kia EV6 GT and Hyundai Ioniq 5 and 6 high marks.

S&P Global Mobility estimates(Opens in a new window) there are about 16,822 Tesla Superchargers(Opens in a new window) and Tesla destination chargers(Opens in a new window) in the US. The former are for quick charges, especially on road trips, while the latter are found in hotels and office complexes for those who can plug in for longer periods of time.

Tesla's in-vehicle dash system and mobile app also offer the most high-tech feel of any brand on the list. OTA software updates continuously refresh the technology as well, as this YouTuber shows(Opens in a new window). While you don't get Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, the in-vehicle maps work similarly to Google Maps and drivers can connect their music via Bluetooth or log into services like Spotify on the dash screen.

Before you put down a deposit for a Tesla, however, there are a few downsides to note. For one, the company's "Full Self-Driving" Autopilot technology costs $15,000. (It can be added after the fact via an OTA update or accessed via a $99- or $199-per-month subscription(Opens in a new window).) A pared-down version is available for $6,000.

But neither makes the car truly autonomous. At best, FSD traffic and stop sign control "identifies stop signs and traffic lights and automatically slows your car to a stop on approach." Otherwise, Teslas come with just a few "autonomous-light" features, like smart cruise control and autosteer.

With the exception of the upcoming Cybertruck, meanwhile, Tesla hasn't really mixed things up in the design department lately. "Tesla is facing more competition than ever before, and the majority of its products have been on the market for years now," says automotive journalist Tim Stevens. "They've had manufacturing improvements and software updates along the way, but for those who already have a Tesla and want another EV, Tesla doesn't have much to offer."

This may be a symptom of CEO Elon Musk's divided attention between Tesla, SpaceX, Twitter, and other ventures like Neuralink and The Boring Company. That multi-tasking, and Musk's outspoken political stances, have already irked Tesla investors. Will it also dissuade people from buying into the brand, and lead them into the hands of Kia and Hyundai?

Kia Niro: $39,550, 253-mile range

Kia EV6: $48,700, 310-mile range

Hyundai Kona Electric: $33,550, 258-mile range

Hyundai Ioniq 5 (PCMag Editors' Choice): $41,450, 220-mile range

Hyundai Ioniq 6: $45,500, 240-mile range

Upcoming Launches: 2024 Kia EV9, 2024 Hyundai Kona

Kia, Hyundai, and the upscale Genesis brand may not have Tesla's charging network (though they can use any other public network) and carry slightly higher prices for the range, but some buyers may prefer a Kia or Hyundai over Tesla for a few reasons.

"The brand that's offering the most variety and the most interesting products right now is Hyundai, and that's where I would push buyers first," says Stevens. The PCMag Editors' Choice-winning Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a top-seller in the US.

For one, the sporty design of Kia and Hyundai EVs may appeal over the rounded curves on a Tesla. "The Kia EV6(Opens in a new window) is such a beautiful car, you’re going to get a reaction from people when you’re in it," says PCMag's primary car reviewer, Doug Newcomb, who has tested more than 180 hybrids and EVs.

Similarly, Joire describes the Hyundai Ioniq 6 as "really, really hot." The design of these vehicles certainly stood out when we saw them amongst the hundreds of cars at the New York Auto Show.

The top-of-the-line Kia and Hyundai EVs are powered by the e-GMP battery platform, "my second favorite platform of mass-produced EVs after Tesla," Joire says. "It's a masterpiece. Up to 800-volt architecture, 350kW charging. It supports the balls-to-the-wall craziness of the EV6 GT down to the more economy, efficiency models that can go far on a relatively small, 77kW battery." It also supports bi-directional charging.

Standardizing the platform across many vehicles benefits drivers by making it easier for the brand to release frequent software updates. "This is the advantage of a big company that has so many brands and vehicles to test new features," Stevens says. "The more standardization, the more widespread testing and updates at lower cost. It also makes it easier for them to put out new vehicles faster."

The entire lineup is currently available, with two new EVs hitting dealers this fall: the 2024 Kia EV9 seven-seat SUV and refreshed 2024 Hyundai Kona. Keep in mind, however, that no Kia, Hyundai, or Genesis vehicles currently qualify for federal tax credits as they're built overseas. However, the future Kia EV9 will qualify since Kia plans to produce it in Georgia. Genesis vehicles are also only available in 22 US states.

EQB SUV: $52,750, 240-mile range

EQE Sedan: $74,900, 305-mile range

EQE SUV: $77,900, 279-mile range

EQS Sedan: $104,400, 350-mile range

EQS SUV: $104,400, 305-mile range

Upcoming Launches: 2024 Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV, 2024 AMG EQE SUV

Mercedes offers five EVs today in the US, the most of any automaker, which makes a trip to the dealership especially worthwhile. "You’re paying a premium for a Mercedes over a Tesla Model 3 or Model Y, but the interiors are just so much nicer, and the ride quality is much better," says Stevens. The EQS sedan and EQB SUV were top-sellers in Q1 2023, CleanTechnica reports(Opens in a new window).

The brand has also intertwined sustainability with luxury in a unique way. It's building a charging network with ChargePoint, which will use 100% clean electricity from solar and wind power. "If we cannot find a clean energy source in an area, we will not set up stations there," Markus Schäfer, Mercedes-Benz CTO, told PCMag at CES. It will be open to the public when it comes online in 2027, but Mercedes customers can reserve spots in advance. While that's a few years out, it's an added benefit those who buy now can look forward to.

The main downside of Mercedes is its dash technology, an issue it shares with competitor BMW. The price premium of over, say, a Tesla, of these brands comes in the form of upscale interiors—not better tech. "I tested the Mercedes EQS [in 2022], and it kept wishing me a Happy Halloween and I couldn't turn it off," Newcomb says. "Another time, it told me my car had been hit, but it was just a malfunction. These little things don't improve my life or make the car better." Still, he was impressed by the car's 400 miles of range.

Buyers who value dash technology may want to wait until late 2024/early 2025 when Mercedes begins rolling out its new operating system designed for EVs, dubbed MB.OS (Mercedes Benz Operating System). MB.OS will bring OTA updates, integrate Google Maps, and display more detailed information about charging levels.

In late 2024, we expect the 2025 electric G-Wagon to debut (though Mercedes has not yet confirmed.) It promises faster charging and more energy-dense silicon ion batteries(Opens in a new window) (a step up from current industry standard lithium iron). Also in 2024, Mercedes will become the first automaker in the US to operate level 3 autonomous vehicles in the state of Nevada, beating Tesla to the punch (FSD is level 2.)

Overall, Mercedes is an excellent choice for those looking for an EV with high range and premium interiors. "Mercedes is...doing a really good job," Joire says. But if the nameplate and interiors aren't worth it for you, she notes, "for now, the Kia EV6 is just as good."

Outside of our 2023 winners—Tesla, Kia/Hyundai, and Mercedes—many other brands have also committed to developing their EV lineups. The right one for you all depends on your driving habits, budget, and personal preference, so below we've included a deep dive on each brand, including expert commentary to tell you everything you need to know. They are likely to move up the list in future updates to this story as more of their EVs are released.

For easy navigation, use the drop-down menu above to select brands you're interested in.

Mustang Mach-E (PCMag Editors' Choice): $42,995 (before $3,750 tax credit), 250-mile range

F-150 Lightning (PCMag Editors' Choice): $59,974 (before $7,500 tax credit), 240-mile range

"Of the old-timer companies, Kia/Hyundai are nailing the transition to EVs. Ford is next," says Joire. Ford radicalized the perception of EVs when it electrified the F-150, America's best-selling pickup truck in 2022, and our Editors' Choice winner.

Now Ford has made another radical EV decision: It will be the first automaker to build its vehicles with Tesla's charging port starting in 2025, giving its drivers seamless access to a larger portion of the Supercharger network. This is a game changer for the Ford brand, although it's a few years out. If you buy a Ford EV today, all other EV chargers will power up the vehicle. Starting in 2024, an adapter will give you access to 12,000 V3(Opens in a new window) Superchargers.

Ford's EV lineup is currently limited to just two options: The Mustang Mach-E SUV and F-150 Lightning. They are viable alternatives to the Tesla Model Y and Rivian R1T, respectively.

The Mustang Mach-E is more affordable than ever (though still slightly more expensive than a Tesla Model Y), thanks to a recent $4,000 price drop and its $3,750 tax credit. The vehicle has aggressive styling, a large dash screen with infotainment options, and OTA updates. New buyers receive a complimentary 90-day subscription to BlueCruise autonomous technology(Opens in a new window). It's activated by pressing a button on the steering wheel when driving and helps keep the vehicle in the lane, adjust speed, and perform lane changes. If you like it after the trial, you can purchase a subscription for $200/year or $75/month. For a lower rate, you can purchase BlueCruise upfront for $2,100 for three years. The same functionality on a Tesla requires a $6,000 upgrade.

The F-150 Lightning has a cheaper starting price than Rivian R1T ($59,974 compared to $73,000), though premium trims easily boost the Rivian's price tag even higher. Ford also has a fanatic fan base. "Last year, I was driving a Ford F-150 Lightning and I couldn't go anywhere without people swarming around it," says Newcomb.

Ford's next EVs will be on the large side as opposed to smaller and more affordable models. A 3-row SUV and another pickup truck will debut in 2025.

Volvo C40 Recharge: $55,300, 226-mile range

Volvo XC40 Recharge: $53,550, 223-mile range

Polestar 2: $48,000, 270-mile range

Upcoming launches: 2024 EX90, 2024 EX30, 2024 Polestar 2, Polestar 3

Volvo has historically been more of a niche automaker with a loyal fanbase. Once a Volvo driver, always a Volvo driver. But those who have not purchased a Volvo before should consider its EV selection, especially if the price is within reach.

Volvo currently offers two electric vehicles: the XC40 Recharge and the slightly more premium C40 Recharge. "Volvo products are very good," says Stevens. "The C40 and XC40 Recharge drive really well and they’re incredibly quick. They’ve launched with high-performance vehicles priced at a premium over a Tesla, but they offer more luxury."

The range on Recharge cars is slightly less than the Model Y, Ioniq 5, and Mach-E. Depending on your driving habits, though, that might not be reason enough to rule it out.

Volvo is also investing in autonomous technology with the 2024 EX90 seven-seat SUV. "The EX90 is the next generation of ADAS systems found in the C40, XC40, and Polestar 2," says Ödgärd Andersson, CEO of Zenseact, which makes the autonomous technology embedded in the EX90. "It has higher-resolution cameras, LiDAR, and a solid foundation of powerful core compute that allows for the types of algorithms we need to introduce self-driving [in the future]."

Volvo has not revealed the price, though it's likely to be around $80,000. If that's not in your price range, the upcoming EX30 is a smaller, more affordable SUV likely priced below the Recharge cars, The Verge reports(Opens in a new window).

The Polestar brand, a partnership between Volvo and Chinese automaker Geely, also offers two high-end EVs with connected dash screens, comfortable interiors, and Android OS. "Polestar is doing a really good job with their EVs," says Newcomb, who awarded the Polestar 2 four stars in his review. "It's so similar to Volvo, but maybe better." The new 2024 Polestar 2 and new Polestar 3 will be available to US customers later this year.

Chevrolet Bolt EV: $26,500 (before $7,500 tax credit), 259-mile range

Chevrolet Bolt EUV: $27,800 (before $7,500 tax credit), 247-mile range

Upcoming launches: 2024 Chevrolet Equinox, 2024 Blazer, 2024 Silverado

At around $20,000 after the federal tax credit, Chevrolet's Bolt EV and Bolt EUV are the most affordable, most widely available EVs on the market. Newcomb gave the Bolt EV high marks in PCMag's review, and Stevens agrees: "The cost of the car is affordable and GM has lots of incentives. The car is reliable, great price, great range, nice to drive," he says.

Unfortunately, General Motors will stop producing both Bolts at the end of this year as it launches its updated EV lineup with the new Ultium battery platform. That includes the Chevy Equinox (expected to be ~$30,000), Blazer, and Silverado. All will qualify for the full, $7,500 federal tax credit. However, no one's been able to test the vehicles yet, leaving the brand's future uncertain.

"I’m struggling to recommend the future of GM until I see what the new EVs are like, and they're taking away Android Auto and Apple CarPlay," Stevens says. (Tesla and Rivian also do not offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.)

Outside of Chevrolet, General Motors' EV lineup consists of the Cadillac Lyriq (sold out for 2023), the supersized $85,000 GMC Hummer, and the upcoming $300,000 2024 Cadillac Celestiq. It has committed to selling only EVs for all brands by 2035.

"Ironically, the GMC Hummer is a great car that shows me what GM can do technically," Joire says. Tech reviewer Enobong Etteh of BooredAtWork(Opens in a new window) agrees. "I'm impressed with the Hummer EV's nimble driving ability, making it feel light on its feet," he tells PCMag. "Other than that, I'm staying gas powered"

Notably, GM is heavily investing in bi-directional charging that will interest buyers looking for more energy independence. A new division called GM Energy will help drivers use their vehicles to power their homes and intelligently manage power between the car battery and the electrical grid. "They're supporting electrification more widely," says Newcomb. "They're basically trying to become an energy company."

Nissan Leaf: $28,040, 212-mile range

Nissan Ariya: $43,190, 216-304 mile range (8 battery options)

The Nissan Leaf launched in 2010 and became the best-selling EV in the world over the next decade; it's still available today at an attractive, sub-$30,000 price.

"You have to respect Nissan for being so early to the EV market, and the Leaf is still a good choice if you’re looking for a value EV with a hatchback design," says Stevens.

Nissan's second EV, the 2023 Nissan Ariya, offers a stunning interior, a rearview mirror with camera mode, and autonomous tech(Opens in a new window) that puts it in a more premium class than the Leaf.

"The Ariya is a very different and a good option if someone is looking for something with a bit more premium styling and ride quality than a Tesla Model Y," says Stevens. However, the Ariya has limited availability at this point. The website recommends interested buyers "contact your local dealer for inventory information."

i4: $52,000, 256-mile range

iX: $87,100, 307-mile range

i7: $119,300, 318-mile range

Upcoming Launches: 2025 BMW i5, BMW iX2

BMW's three electric models offer premium interiors(Opens in a new window), Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and high electric range, making them luxury options worth exploring.

"The BMW i4 and iX are fantastic to drive," say Stevens. Newcomb also gave the iX high marks in PCMag's review as a compelling alternative to the Tesla Model X. Later this year, BMW will reveal a refreshed iX as well as a new EV, the iX2, InsideEVs reports(Opens in a new window).

Like Mercedes, BMW's dash software has improved in recent years but there's more work to do. At CES 2023, BMW unveiled a humanoid concept car named Dee to showcase the advanced head-up display and voice technology. While future Bimmers aren't likely to talk to the drivers and change colors, like Dee does, the stunt signaled a new era of software development for the brand. It's rolling out by 2025, likely first to the i7 Series and X7 range.

"BMW is finally getting it," says Joire. "A year ago I had mixed feelings since they were taking gas cars and making them electric, but now they’re doing the clean slate approach of building EVs from the ground up."

Joire recently reviewed(Opens in a new window) a BMW iX60 and noted the software felt slightly dated—for the price, it still doesn't beat Tesla's dash—but the interiors and ride quality feel more upscale.

Rivian R1T (PCMag Editor's Choice): $73,000 (before $3,750 tax credit), 270-mile range

Rivian R1S: $78,000 (before $3,750 tax credit), 260-mile range

This California-based, pure EV newcomer offers some of the best tech and craftsmanship around. Long wait times have hampered the availability of its first two vehicles—the R1T pickup and R1S SUV—but production has ramped up and more off-the-shelf options are available in the R1 Shop.

In isolation, however, these pricey vehicles are outstanding. "The Rivian R1T just blew my mind, and I'm not a truck person," says Joire. "It drives like a sports car, it's comfortable, great tech." It earned a PCMag Editors' Choice Award.

The dash screen is just as good or better than Tesla's, depending on who you ask. Regular OTA updates bring dozens of improvements and new features every few months. All vehicles come with autonomous features under the Rivian Drive+(Opens in a new window) name. It includes lane assist, smart cruise control, and highway driving assist.

"Being electric, it's the quietest, most responsive, most efficient, and has the most space compared to any other SUV," YouTuber Marques Brownlee said of the R1S in a recent video(Opens in a new window). "If the mission is to make a great car that's the most fun for people who don't have a budget, I don't think there's much else I'd take over this one."

Both the R1T pickup and R1S SUV have identical front portions (seats, dash, distinctive headlights), but the R1S has another row of seats whereas the R1T has a traditional truck bed.

Rivian prides itself on its 10 drive modes, including an All Purpose Mode. On the dash screen, drivers can select options like Sport Mode to lower the vehicle clearance and unlock more agile handling. Snow Mode softens acceleration to avoid getting stuck. With Pet Comfort, press a paw print on the dash before exiting the vehicle, and the car sustains an optimal temperature for your furry friend and displays a message to concerned passersby.

Charging-wise, Rivian is building out its Adventure Network, which will ultimately offer 3,500 200kW chargers strategically located in outdoor recreational areas. Drivers can pinpoint them in the Rivian app, which also locks/unlocks the vehicle and remotely turns on the heat and AC.

Lucid Air Pure: $87,400, 410-mile range

Lucid Air Touring: $107,400, 425-mile range

Lucid Air Grand Touring: $138,000, 516-mile range

Upcoming Launches: 2023 Lucid Air Sapphire, 2024 Lucid Gravity SUV

Range, range, range—that's what you get with Lucid. This California-based EV company was founded in 2009, and it now offers three trims of its Lucid Air sedan with 400-500 mile range. Its fourth and final addition to the Air lineup, the Lucid Air Sapphire, arrives later this year.

The Air Grand Touring achieves a staggering 516-mile range and earned high marks from Newcomb in PCMag's review for its luxury feel, super speedy handling, and fast charging. Joire agrees: "The Lucid Air's gotta be the best EV I've ever driven. So, so good." While Lucid is among the most expensive EV brands on the market, its range outclasses competitors like the Porsche Taycan, driven by Bill Gates, which starts at $90,900 with half the range (208 miles).

Next year, Lucid diversifies its lineup with the new Gravity SUV, provided the money is there(Opens in a new window). "More aerodynamic than any SUV the world has ever seen, Gravity distances itself from the competition with a previously unattainable combination of supercar performance and seating for up to seven adults," Lucid says(Opens in a new window). "Lucid Gravity also promises more range than any other EV on the market—other than its stablemate, Lucid Air."

With an ever-evolving market, you may want to consider a lower commitment path to trying out new EVs. This is particularly helpful to get an accurate understanding of how much range your lifestyle warrants, which most buyers overestimate.

"It's important to not only look at range for the cost, or to think you have to buy the EV with the most range," says Stevens. "People should look at how often they drive and how far they go, and consider if they’re fortunate enough to charge at home. It's important to get out and see the cars and drive them if you can so you can find one that suits your personality."

The best way to do that is to lease instead of buying. You can even get the full $7,500 tax credit when leasing due to a loophole in the law, resulting in lower monthly payments. "Honestly, I recommend leasing. You don't want to keep an EV for more than 3 years because everything is changing so much," says Joire.

EV subscriptions, meanwhile, offer vehicles for just a few months instead of the typical two- to three-year lease period. PCMag learned a lot when driving a Tesla for a month via an Autonomy app subscription. Hyundai also offers a new EV subscription program, though with limited availability as the program is still growing.

Whether buying or leasing, it's an exciting time to try out an electric vehicle and to be an early adopter in this rare transportation revolution. If you're in the market, let us know which brand you'd consider in the comments.

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