The Best and Worst Electric Hot-hatches
Love it or hate it, eventually we're all going to be electric. However, these cars might make the experience bearable...
The best...
Volkswagen e-Golf
As it stands, I can't think of a nicer electric to own than a Golf. Set apart from the regular range by it's stylish 'e-design' features which include blue accents, advanced power-saving LED lights, 16" Astana alloy wheels and aerodynamic optimisations, the hot-hatch boasts the latest infotainment and driver assistance features, such as navigation and parking assist, an impressive 186 mile range, and thanks to an innovative electric powertrain, it hasn't lost any of its charm or fun. The Golf also delivers max torque and accelerates seamlessly thanks to its 1-speed gearbox giving it a mean 0-62mph time of 9.6 seconds.
Renault Zoe
I've only ever met one person with a Zoe, and he absolutely loves it. Despite not being able to charge it at home, he charges his at work every day and claimed he "would never go back" and as the highest selling European EV in 2017, he's not the only one who's fallen for Zoes charms. Available in 2 models, the Zoe is equipped with all of the technology you would expect for a £18,000 car, such as cruise control, navigation, rear parking sensors and ASR (traction control). Thanks to its new R110 engine, the Zoe has a top speed of 85mph and a reasonable 80hp. The only fault that I find with it is the fact that the front looks like a Clio giving me the evil eyes.
BMW i3
This is one that I'd love to hate but just can't, especially after I saw our own James May singing its praises in series 1 of The Grand Tour. The i3 was designed to offer the best style, handling, driving dynamics and battery power in one compact vehicle. With a top speed of 93mph and a 0-62mph acceleration time of 7.3 seconds, its hard not to admire the thought and design behind the 170hp electric. From the eDrive powertrain, use of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) in the body, to the sustainable materials in the interior, even if you don't particularly like the i3 its hard not to be intrigued by it and its more powerful S brother.
Tesla Model 3
I never thought I would see the day where I would be recommending a Tesla but here we here. With an outstanding 220 - 310 miles of range and an objective to attain the highest safety ratings, production of the Model 3 started in the US in 2017 and is set to arrive in early 2019. I wouldn't normally recommend a car that isn't even available yet but the 5.1 second 0-60mph power, high spec and seriously stylish design make it worth a mention. If only production was as fast as the car...
The Worst...
MINI Electric
Another concept that's currently under development, but needs to go back to the design board almost immediately. Back in 2008 Mini tested the waters with their Mini e, an all-electric hot-hatch based on the standard Mini design, by giving the car to 450 American residents for feedback. However, rather than sticking with the beloved signature design for the permanent model which is set to enter production next year, Mini created this....
I'm sorry Mini, I love your regular line and think they're one of the hottest hatches going but what even is that?! Please please please go back to the orginal design...
Nissan Leaf
When I first saw the Leaf I quite liked it, but like an irritating child, the more time you spend around it the less appealing it becomes. Now in its second generation, the Leafs handling and smooth, silent power have been praised by Top Gear but its 168 mile range is quickly eaten by hills and motorway journeys and its challenging exterior and e-pedal just don't do anything to impress me. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the concept of an 'e-pedal' it's simply ONE pedal which allows you to accelerate, brake and stop...because using two pedals is just too mainstream.
Hyundai IONIQ
Hyundais first attempt at an electric hasn't been a disappointment but it doesn't live up to its claims either. The bold design, high amount of spec and affordability serve it well but its rough ride, poor interior quality and uncomfortable body roll from poor steering to wheel communication make it an unsatisfying drive.
Smart fortwo cabrio
I had real trouble picking the worst smart car from the range, but eventually I settled on this one. I could tell you all about its 71hp, 5-speed transmission and Direct-Steer system with variable ratio which gives the car an impressive 'turning circle,' but if you ever get past the fact that you'd be driving in something that resembles a toddlers shoe then you can find all of that out for yourself.
Well, I hope you've found this interesting and somewhat informative but if you're still not satisfied with the range of electrics on offer, here's 10 reasons to fork out 8grand on a Twizy...
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Comments (29)
Fantastic write up as always, Aimee! ❤️ The Mini electric looks awful, and I really can't stand the Nissan Leaf haha!
Thank you Helene 😊 Yeah I really don’t know what Mini were thinking?! Haha
I think the Tesla is the best one it has the highest range, it is the fastest and it has also a great look, but the i3 would be my choice it is just so strange and (a bit ugly) that I like it 😂 but I have heard that the golf-e is very popular in Sweden it is the most popular electric car there and Volkswagen is delivering hundreds to Scandinavia because the get so much advantage if they buy an electric car. BMW planned to built the Mini in my Hometown, because they already have a big BMW factory here, but i have also seen an article about an classic e-mini which looks really cool
I have seen a video where someone is racing the i3 offroad and it looks like fun. Here is the link to it youtu.be/wSyhvNub1So nice article btw
Thanks Sebastian, I’m not a fan of the X but I totally agree with you on the Model 3. The i3 just has this charm about it that won’t let you hate it haha 😂 oh really? That’s pretty neat for an electric. I’ll check that out - sounds like a good laugh...
Read moreThe nice thing is that my future work place has a i3 maybe I can write an article about it soon when I start working after school 😁
I love the idea, but it’s not practical for everyone unfortunately. Hybrids are more than likely going to be the replacement I think. I’d take the Golf though if I had to have one. 👌
In agreement with everything you’ve just said haha 🙌🏻
A great article nonetheless and very interesting!
Unless you work relatively close and in a built up area, electric motors just aren’t a feasible option yet. Let’s just pretend global warming isn’t an issue and just keep the Petrol...
Read moreBMW I3 rex / (hate fashion choices but....) Tesla for me and my works GP for weekend rides.
I like the new Tesla but i definitely agree the production could be quicker! I still prefer the old Petrol and diesel cars! They go quicker