Looking for the best electric cars in Australia?
Well, there is a decent chance that your next car might run on batteries. With international manufacturers ramping up electric car production alongside global electrification to fight climate change, there has never been a better time to consider an EV.
In Australia, consumers are lucky enough to have dozens of electric cars for sale, with tons of options at every size, style, and price point available Below, we’ll jump into 15 lighting-fast electric car reviews to help you find the best choice for driving around your part of the word.
The Best Electric Cars, Vans, & SUVs – for Australians
Electric vehicles range from stylish sports cars to practical vans and SUVs. Although they may come with a higher sticker price than most vehicles on the market, saying goodbye to gas is typically worth it for most first-time EV purchasers.
To begin this inside look at the industry, let’s first turn our attention to the brand that has nearly become synonymous with modern electric vehicles: Tesla.
Tesla Model 3 – The Best Choice for Sporty Electric Cars
Owned and operated by notorious billionaire Elon Musk, Tesla has done so much successful marketing in the EV industry, that it is easily one of the most known electric vehicle brands. As their best-selling product to date, the Tesla Model 3 is one of Australia’s most stylish and widely available electric sports cars.
Here’s the Tesla Model 3 at a quick glance:
- 0 to 100 km/hour in 3.3 seconds
- 547 km driving range
- Dual motor with AWD
- Supercharged battery in 15 minutes
Attached to the world’s largest network of superfast electric charging stations, the Tesla Model 3’s huge driving range and fast acceleration make it easy to go anywhere in style. Plus it is one of the safest vehicles available today and with so many on the road, EV mechanics will be more easily able to help fix future issues on popular brands like Tesla.
Learn more at https://www.tesla.com/en_au/model3
Image source: https://www.hyundai.com/content/dam/hyundai/au/en/models/kona/2021/01/kona/Hyundai_Kona_Front34-AtlasWhite_1000x667.png
Hyundai Kona EV – Most Reliable EV
Of course, Tesla is far from the only electric vehicle option on the Australian market today, and the Hyundai Kona EV shows us that practical transportation and electrification have finally become one. Without running yourself completely bankrupt, the Hyundai Kona EV is a great vehicle for practical use in cities, suburbs, and rural areas Down Under alike.
Fast facts about the Hyundai Kona EV:
- Australia’s first all-electric small SUV
- Driving range of 484 km with its150kW extended range
- Gear shifting and braking at the push of a button
- Included 8-year battery warranty
Complete with a stylish interior, regenerative braking, and plenty of other bonus features, the compact Hyundai Kona EV is one of Australia’s most versatile electric SUVs. Currently for sale in “Elite” and “Highlander” models, the Kona EV blends luxury and practicality into one fun-to-drive package.
Learn more about the Hyundai Kona EV here: https://www.hyundai.com/au/en/cars/suvs/kona/kona-electric
Image source: https://www-asia.nissan-cdn.net/content/dam/Nissan/AU/Images/vehicles/LEAF/overview/Leaf_19_F34_GarageCharge_White_RGB-(1).jpg.ximg.l_12_h.smart.jpg
Nissan LEAF – The Best Small Electric Car in Australia
Leading the way in global electric vehicle manufacturing for the past decade, the Nissan LEAF is another well-known make and model for transportation of the future. After continuous improvements in performance and safety, Nissan LEAF’s complete package of features make it a great choice for saving money in the city with a battery-powered car.
Nissan LEAF specifications:
- One pedal “e-pedal” acceleration and braking system
- Ride and trace controls for smoother driving
- Battery saving mode, eco-mode, and other use settings
- 385 km total driving range
Packed with luxury features in an unassuming sedan body, the Nissan LEAF is an accessible EV for a lot of Australians. Ideal for use in all of the country’s sprawling cities, the LEAF’s performance and 8-year battery warranty will keep motorists happy for a long, efficient product lifespan.
To learn more about the Nissan LEAF, visit https://www.nissan.com.au/vehicles/browse-range/leaf.html
Image source: https://www.tesla.com/xNVh4yUEc3B9/04_Desktop.jpg
Tesla Cybertruck
Did you think we were going to finish this list of EV reviews without mentioning Tesla again? After tackling the world EV sports car market, American-owned Tesla is now looking to corner the electric truck industry as it grows in front of our eyes.
Here’s what to know about the Tesla Cybertruck:
- Durable “EXOSKELETON” frame with armor glass
- Adaptive air suspension and flexible interior
- Vault-like storage and large towing capacity
- “Better utility than a truck and more performance than a sports car”
Although its boxy appearance may make it look like it is a part of a video game from the 90s, the Cybertruck’s rigid design is completely intentional both for performance and safety. Currently available for pre-order, Australians can expect to see these unique electric trucks on the road in the next few years.
Learn more about the Cybertruck on Tesla Australia’s website here: https://www.tesla.com/en_au/cybertruck
Image source: https://resource.digitaldealer.com.au/image/16372419362201017ba91f769889279_0_0.jpg
MG ZS EV – Best Value Electric Car in Australia
Next, let’s take a look at MG ZS EV, an eclectic vehicle from one of the most well known British automotive manufacturers. Although its 6-character name looks like it belongs on a license plate, the MG ZS EV is actually a very practical mid-size SUV that is 100% electric and available for less than $50,000.
Here’s some quick information about the MG ZS EV:
- Available in the Essence and Excite models
- 7-year customer care warranty
- Improved battery pack
- Includes MG Pilot assisted driving
Although there are no MG ZS EVs on the road right now, the company is currently allowing consumers to register their interest in the first 500 vehicles that will be manufactured very soon. In addition to a sporty stylish interior, the vehicles will also include some limited towing capacity.
Find out more about the MG ZS EV here: https://mgmotor.com.au/models/mg-zsev/
Image source: https://www.polestar.com/au/polestar-2/
Polestar 2
Swedish-owned and Chinese-manufactured, the Polestar 2 is an EV within its own class on the Australian electric vehicle market. As a 100% electric car, the Polestar 2 has set its sights on eliminating “range” anxiety, with 540 kilometers of driving in one single charge.
What’s included in a Polestar 2?
- Massive, industry-leading driving range
- 0 to 100 km/hour in under 5 seconds
- 1500 kg of towing capacity
- Single motor and dual motor options
Including drive trains designed specifically for short and long distances, consumers can customize their Polestar 2 to best fit an existing lifestyle. With pilot lite, premium, and performance pack options, designing your Polestar 2 is almost as fun as driving one.
Check out all of the features of the Polestar 2 on the company’s website: https://www.polestar.com/au/polestar-2/
Image source: https://www.kia.com/content/dam/kwcms/au/en/images/showroom/niro-ev/features/kia-niro-intro.jpg
Kia Niro EV
Next, the internationally recognized car brand “Kia” has also entered the EV playing field, and the Niro is a fully electric crossover SUV that combines style and efficiency. By leveraging today’s best technology and making it easy to use, the Kia Niro EV is a great choice for unbeatable versatility.
Included features in the Kia Niro EV:
- Outstanding electric range of 455 km
- Single pedal driving and single-speed transmission
- Regenerative braking and enhanced driver assistance
Without being too complicated, the Kia Niro EV delivers all of the latest driving safety and performance features in a stylish, intuitive vehicle. Currently available in “Niro S” and “Sport” models, drivers are welcome to build their dream EV with a variety of premium standard and custom features.
See pricing and other information on Kia Australia’s website: https://www.kia.com/au/cars/niro-pure-electric/features.html
Image source: https://www.hyundai.com/content/dam/hyundai/au/en/models/ioniq5/images/Hyundai_IONIQ5_Exterior_Side_Mobile_590x200.png
Hyundai IONIQ 5
Circling back to one of the world’s leading EV Brands, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 is the perfect electric SUV for those who need a bit more space than the KONA has to offer. Built with sustainable materials to create a luxury interior, the IONIQ 5 may just become the “iconic” electric SUV of the future.
Here’s what to know about the Hyundai IONIQ 5:
- Carsales – 2021 Car of the Year
- Good Design Awards Gold Winner in Automotive and Transport
- 430 km to 451km driving range
- Extremely fast charging possible
Pieced together in an aerodynamic design, the IONIQ 5 shows us that EVs can still have a spacious interior. Clad with many industry awards and complete with towing and SmartSense features, the IONIQ 5 is a great choice for going electric without making any real vehicular sacrifices.
Find out everything you need to know about the IONIQ 5 here: https://www.hyundai.com/au/en/cars/eco/ioniq5
Image source: https://www.volvocars.com/images/v/-/media/project/contentplatform/data/media/my22/xc40-fuel/xc40-comfort-0-16×9.jpg?iar=0&w=1920
Volvo XC40
Designed for the city and beyond, the Volvo XC40 is another great Scandinavian effort into the Australian EV market. With AWD, tons of safety features, and 0 to 100 km/hour acceleration in 6.4 seconds, the Volvo XC is exciting, convenient, and comfortable all at the same time.
Things to know about the new Volvo XC40:
- 360-degree parking view cameras
- Smartphone integration and other smart features
- 2022 Drive Car of the Year, Best Small Luxury SUV
Available in three distinct styles, the Volvo XC40 can be completely customized using the Momentum, Inscription, or R-Design template. Beyond the XC40, Volvo also sells the mid-size XC60 and compact XC40 Recharge to better fit your budget or space demands.
Learn more about the Volvo XC40 here: https://www.volvocars.com/au/v/cars/xc40
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Mercedes-Benz EQC – Best Luxury Electric Car
To say Mercedes-Benz is a sought-after brand name would be an understatement. After all, their website does not say that they have an electric vehicle for sale, instead, the company claims that “Electric now has a Mercedes.” Advertising slogans aside, there is a lot to love about this award-winning EV.
What’s to know about the Mercedes-Benz EQC:
- Wheels Car of the Year 2020
- Complimentary charging for 5 years
- 430 km – electric-only range
- Built with sustainable components
With a stylish luxury appearance, EQC owners would never know that the car is actually built with many raw materials such as hemp, kenaf, wool, cotton, paper, and natural rubber. As a true showcase that environmentally-friendly vehicles can still be luxurious, the EQC is currently available for sale and lease across Australia.
Learn more about the Mercedes-Benz EQC here: https://www.mercedes-benz.com.au/passengercars/mercedes-benz-cars/models/eqc/explore/disclaimer.module.html
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Audi e-tron
Claiming the top prize as 2021’s Drive Car of the Year winner for “Best Electric Vehicle,” the Audi e-tron is another great luxury EV available in Australia. Built custom to fit exact consumer needs, the standard Audi e-tron 55 Quattro can achieve 0 to 100 km in 5.7 seconds.
Quick specs on the Audi e-tron:
- Single-charge range of more than 400 km
- An innovative energy recuperation system
- Optional virtual side mirrors for increased aerodynamics
Completely customizable inside and out, Audi allows EV drivers to experience the ideal levels of luxury, performance, and included equipment they need for the road. Including premium entertainment, safety, and security features, Audi lovers can seamlessly transition to an EV with the e-tron experience.
Find out more about the Audi e-tron here: https://www.audi.com.au/au/web/en/models/tron/audi-e-tron.html
Image source: https://www.jaguar.com.au/sdlmedia/637777541352695452IG.jpg?v=1#desktop__1600x900
Jaguar I-PACE
While we’re talking about luxury alternatives to a Tesla, the Jaguar I-PACE is an award-winning all-electric SUV from a premium British brand. Including 0-100km/hour acceleration in 4.8 seconds and a range up to 446 km, the performance-centric Jaguar I-PACE is one of the most powerful overall EVs on the Australian market today.
What to know about the Jaguar I-PACE:
- Spacious interior with multiple seating options
- Up to 127 km of range in 15 minutes of charging
- May be currently affected by global supply chain disruptions
Sweeping the 2019 World Car of the Year Awards with wins in World Car of the Year, World Car Design of the Year, and World Green Car of the Year categories, the Jaguar I-PACE is heavily sought after all over the globe. Australians are free to build their own online with many customizable features on the company’s website.
Learn more about the Jaguar I-PACE here: https://www.jaguar.com.au/jaguar-range/i-pace/index.html
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Renault Kangoo Z.E. – Best Electric Van in Australia
If you’re here to find the most practical EV rather than shop luxury cars, pay close attention to the Renault Kangoo Z.E., the best electric van in Australia. With a real-world range of 200km, the Kangoo Z.E. is a great urban vehicle for deliveries, contractors, and applications of all kinds.
What’s included in the Kangoo Z.E.?
- Standard 4 cubic meters of storage space
- Zero emissions and low cost of business
- Clever design and bonus storage features
- 33kWh battery and an energy-efficient 44kW electric motor
For companies looking to minimize their carbon footprint and energy costs, the Renault Kangoo Z.E. is a great fleet vehicle for the future of urban transportation. Packed with safety controls, cameras, hill-start assist, and other smart features, the Kangoo Z.E. is designed for practicality, efficiency, and the planet.
Find out more on: https://www.renault.com.au/vehicles/kangoo-ze/
Porsche Taycan
Slipping back into the more luxurious side of things, one look at a Porsche Taycan lets you know exactly how stylish EVs can become. Available in many different colours and models including the Turbo, GTS, Cross Turismo, Porsche fanatics can spend as much time as they’d like picking out the perfect battery-powered car.
What to expect from the Porshe Taycan:
- 0 to 100 Km as low as 2.8 seconds
- Performance Battery Plus for extra range
- Immersive, advanced cockpit with multifunctional sports steering wheel
If driving fast cars is your thing, every Porsche Taycan model can deliver a fun and safe experience with high-performance EV power. Complete with 800-volt architecture, its fast charging capabilities will also help minimize time spent off of the road, waiting to get back on.
Learn more about the Porsche Taycan line on: https://www.porsche.com/australia/models/taycan/taycan-models/taycan-4s-cross-turismo/
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MINI Electric
Finally, we’d love to leave you with one last little EV for the compact car lover in all of us. Extremely practical, stylish, and fun to drive, MINI has finally released its electric vehicles onto the Australian market, with intuitive features designed for the future of driving.
What to know about MINI EVs:
- Maximum range of 233 km
- 80% battery charging in as little as 36 minutes
- Smart deceleration and battery recharging features
Iconic and unparalleled in terms of brand identity, the MINI Electric is a practical choice for urban transportation. Together with the new MINI app integration, it has never been easier or more fun to drive one of these electric vehicles.
Find your MINI EV here: https://www.mini.com.au/models/electric