Electric vehicles are all the rage. These cars not only save you on gas costs, but also help protect the environment.
In addition, the federal government has thrown its weight behind these vehicles by offering a growing number of tax incentives to those who purchase EVs.
But which electric vehicle model is your best bet?
Recently, J.D. Power released a study that ranks a mix of 2022 and 2023 EVs based on 10 factors:
- Accuracy of stated battery range
- Availability of public charging stations
- Battery range
- Cost of ownership
- Driving enjoyment
- Ease of charging at home
- Interior and exterior styling
- Safety and technology features
- Service experience
- Vehicle quality and reliability
J.D. Power based its rankings on surveys of more than 7,000 drivers following their first year of ownership. Based on those responses, following are J.D. Power’s top choices for electric vehicles.
Rivian R1T
This model’s overall customer satisfaction index score: 794 out of 1,000 possible points
This model’s segment: Premium
Edmunds praises the Rivian R1T for its spacious cabin and quick acceleration. However, the website says the car’s touchscreen display responds slowly.
MINI Cooper Electric
This model’s overall customer satisfaction index score: 782 out of 1,000 possible points
This model’s segment: Mass market
Motortrend loves the MINI Cooper Electric‘s eye-catching design and describes the car’s handling as “plucky.” However, the car gets poor marks for its range.
Kia EV6
This model’s overall customer satisfaction index score: 762 out of 1,000 possible points
This model’s segment: Mass market
U.S. News & World Report gives the latest iteration of the Kia EV6 the top ranking among all electric SUVs and calls its range “impressive.” However, the publication is critical of the model’s small cargo hold.
Tesla Model 3
This model’s overall customer satisfaction index score: 759 out of 1,000 possible points
This model’s segment: Premium
Car and Driver says the Tesla Model 3 has great driving range for its price. However, the publication says the vehicle’s build quality could use some tweaks.
Ford Mustang Mach-E
This model’s overall customer satisfaction index score: 742 out of 1,000 possible points
This model’s segment: Mass market
Edmunds praises the Ford Mustang Mach-E for having a good touchscreen and “ample range.” However, the website says the car’s front-seat adjustments are limited.
Hyundai IONIQ 5
This model’s overall customer satisfaction index score: 738 out of 1,000 possible points
This model’s segment: Mass market
Car and Driver says the Hyundai IONIQ 5 rides well and charges fast. But when driving the car, the turning circle is “surprisingly wide,” according to the publication.
Volkswagen ID.4
This model’s overall customer satisfaction index score: 735 out of 1,000 possible points
This model’s segment: Mass market
Motortrend loves the Volkswagen ID.4‘s “cushy” seats and says the car is easy to drive. However, neither range nor recharging get top marks from the publication.
Kia Niro EV
This model’s overall customer satisfaction index score: 733 out of 1,000 possible points
This model’s segment: Mass market
U.S. News & World Report says the Kia Niro EV has a big cargo hold and roomy seating. However, the driving range is just so-so, according to the publication.
Wondering whether you should buy an electric vehicle? Check out Money Talks News founder Stacy Johnson’s take in “Should You Buy an Electric Car?”