These Electric Cars Have the Word "reliability" Written All Over Them
Switching to an EV is exciting. But what happens when you have an electric car that is more often at the shop than on the road? Thankfully, certain models have a reputation for reliability. These EVs can handle the miles, and you’d make fewer trips to the shop. Want to know which EVs are more reliable? Keep reading!
Mini Electric (2020–present)
The Mini Electric adds battery power to the brand’s go-kart feel. With about 145 miles of range, it definitely won't win you any road tripping awards, but it's hard to beat when you’re driving around the city.
Nissan Leaf (2019–present)
The Leaf is the OG of affordable EVs, and the new generation maintains is just as reliable as previous ones. With great reliability and low cost of ownership, the Leaf is an everyday commuting favourite.
BMW I4 (2021–present)
The i4 is a great combination of practicality and style. Offering up to 365 miles of range, it runs just like a “real” BMW without the gas stops. Drivers love that it delivers everyday usability and dependability while still being a sporty car.
Renault Megane E-Tech (2022–present)
Renault’s Megane E-Tech shows that you don’t need a luxury brand to feel secure. It has a good range, a cool design, and reliability is there. Owners rate it on practicality and low running costs, making it a family-friendly EV that doesn’t say “science experiment”.
Volkswagen E-Up (2013–2023)
The e-Up’s 160-mile range makes it a city specialist. Faults are rare beyond occasional charging port quirks. Its simple design means fewer moving parts to fail, which explains its decade-long run. Sometimes, less is more when it comes to reliability.
BMW I3 (2013–2022)
The i3 proved BMW could think outside the box and still deliver reliability. Its carbon-fiber body, funky design, and solid electric drivetrain made it a winner. Its quirks include squeaky interiors and the occasional 12V battery issue, but the main drivetrain is incredibly reliable. It’s a city car that turned skeptics into EV believers.
Cupra Born (2022–present)
The Cupra Born adds some spice to the EV market with sporty styling and reliable performance. Built on Volkswagen’s proven MEB platform, it combines fun driving dynamics with everyday reliability. It’s the rare EV that feels playful without being high maintenance, so it’s a smart choice for style-conscious drivers.
MG 5 Electric (2020–present)
The MG 5 meets all your needs with its 250-mile range, making it very practical. It’s one of the few electric estates, and it does not hold back. Owners praise the practicality and the ease of running it.
Tesla Model 3 (2019–present)
Tesla’s best seller has a reputation for reliability to match its popularity. It has a good range, regular software updates, and fewer service headaches than early Teslas. Still retaining all that futuristic flair, but at its heart, it’s simply reliable transport, with an electric twist.
Polestar 2 (2020–present)
The Polestar 2 shows you can fit style, tech, and everyday reliability into one package. The most common faults are random infotainment freezes, but the drivetrain and safety tech, which are both from Volvo, are reliable.
Renault Zoe (2013–2024)
There’s a reason the Renault Zoe became one of Europe’s most popular EVs. The dependable battery tech and easy driving proved that electric cars could be both practical and reliable. Although there are some complaints that the infotainment is outdated and the charge rate is slow, the reliability of the driveline is unrivaled.
Peugeot E-208 (2019–present)
This EV has built a reputation for itself as a reliable vehicle. Its electric platform provides consistent performance and stable range, which makes it a great option for everyday needs.
Volkswagen ID. 3 (2020–present)
The Volkswagen ID.3 is the brand’s all-electric hatchback, designed to be the new “People’s Car”. Early models had some minor software glitches, but this EV has proven to be mechanically solid.
Hyundai Ioniq (2016–2022)
The original Hyundai Ioniq was ahead of its time, being one of the most efficient and reliable EVs on the road. It was consistent, while giving drivers confidence in range and durability. Even years later, it’s a testament to Hyundai’s early EV reliability.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 (2021–present)
The Ioniq 5 can go up to 315 miles and has a cool and retro-futuristic style. Families and commuters love the great range and powerful battery technology. Hyundai’s careful engineering shines here, showing that reliability can come in standout style.
Porsche Taycan (2020–present)
The Taycan blends Porsche’s legendary build quality with electric innovation. Although it’s had some infotainment issues, the electric motors and batteries are extremely durable. It's entertaining to drive and impressively reliable for a high-performance electric vehicle.
Vauxhall Corsa Electric (2019–present)
The Corsa Electric is one of the UK’s most popular EVs, thanks to its low price and solid reliability. It’s easy to drive, efficient, and designed with everyday use in mind. Its reliability comes from shared Stellantis components used across multiple models.
MG 4 (2022–present)
The MG 4 has rapidly gained a reputation as one of the most reliable budget EVs around. With an impressive range, good performance, and simple engineering, it offers a lot for your money. It's dependable and fun, which shows that you don't have to pay a fortune to drive a reliable electric car.
