Electric Hatchbacks vs Electric Crossovers Size Matters When Choosing an EV

Best EV Hatchbacks

Early EV Hatchbacks

The original hatchback style can be traced back to the 1930s (nearly 100 years old!) and has been marketed worldwide on cars ranging in size from superminis, to executive, and even sports cars.

When the electric vehicle first took off, several models were initially hatchbacks. Early EV ventures used existing platforms and arranged electric powertrains to squeeze into where gas engines had previously resided. Working on existing platforms, or non-native electric platforms, limited designers abilities to position the battery and motor in sustainable ways. Some early EVs stacked batteries under the rear seat, which is why early EVs sometimes offered less legroom or cargo space than their gas competitors.

Modern EV Hatchbacks

It wasnt until 2017 that designers agreed the non-native electric platform was inefficient. Now new EVs tout interiors with smooth panels, floating center consoles, roomier seating, and no more ups and downs between the seats.

Unlike gas vehicles, EVs arent designed around a front-mounted engine. With empty spaces under the hood and behind the rear seat, automakers are expanding wheelbases and pushing cabins forward, ensuring roomier interiors than gas cars of the same size. Hello extra cargo storage!

Pros

There are several notable perks to EV hatchbacks.

First and foremost, they are incredibly roomy for their size. One of the best features of a hatchback is not only the wide-opening hatch itself, but the additional room made available when the second row seating is folded down. Whether youre planning a road trip, headed off to college, or simply a car shopper who likes extra space for daily driving, the hatchback model offers exceptional cargo space.

Hatchbacks are also nimble, easy to drive, and remarkably easy to park. They are ideal city cars, especially for those who dont want the cumbersome experience of trying to park a large sedan on a crowded street.

Cons

To put it gently, hatchbacks are not the sexiest of cars. For EV shoppers who are looking for a car that makes a bit more of an aesthetic statement or a car with some visual pizzazz, they may opt towards a SUV, sedan, or pickup truck model, rather than a hatchback.

Hatchbacks also lack the weight distribution that a sedan might, perhaps leading to somewhat more discomfort when taking corners at higher speeds.

Whats on the Market

When it comes to entry-level EVs, there are three hatchbacks you cant miss: the Nissan LEAF, Chevy Bolt, and Hyundai Kona. Theyve given every other competitor a good run for their money, setting the pace with a brilliant selection of specs and robust performance at very competitive prices. Building on the success of these early hatchbacks, there is a newer generation of hatchbacks that are often marketed as crossover SUVs, such as the ID.4, Mach-E, and Model Y.

Nissan LEAF

The Nissan LEAF, released in 2011, is generally considered the first widely available EV. It was also the worlds best selling EV until the Model 3 took the crown in 2020. Although the original range was only around 70 miles, it has come a long way. The MSRP has hovered around the $30k mark for a new LEAF, and depending on the model year, used ones can be very affordable. However, EV batteries and range do degrade with age, so the inexpensive price point of an older LEAF has to be balanced against how much range you need. Starting in 2018, the LEAF was revamped to include a larger, 40 kWh battery, and the option to upgrade to the Plus version, which has a 62 kWh battery and comes close to the range seen in the Bolt and Kona.

Chevrolet Bolt

The Chevy Bolt got a lot of coverage last year due to a highly publicized battery recall, but the opinion of most owners is still that its a great, reliable car. It was released in 2017 with a range of 238 miles that was really only matched by Teslas, at the time. That made it a great choice for drivers who wanted to go electric but needed more range flexibility than the LEAF. As a reminder, in 2017, the LEAF range was only 107 miles. Even in 2018 and 2019, there were still few competitors, and while the second generation LEAF offered 151 miles of range and 226 miles with the Plus upgrade, the Bolt won over many new drivers. Now, it is offered both in the traditional hatchback, as well as a crossover EUV option.

Hyundai Kona

The Kona nameplate has been around for longer than the Kona EV. It is also a popular gas and hybrid powered car. The all-electric version was introduced in Korea in 2018 and made its way to the US in 2019. It already had name recognition and offered a healthy 258 miles of range - just enough to challenge the Bolt and slightly out-distance the LEAF Plus. Moreover, the Kona appealed to drivers who didnt want to drive a car that was obviously electric. It blends in with the crowd, and you have to look closely to tell its all green.

If youre having trouble deciding between these entry-level hatchbacks, we have a deeper dive into a full comparison.

Volkswagen ID.4

The Volkswagen ID.4 is an EV for the masses. With an EPA estimated range of 275 miles, the ID.4 has a 77.0 kWh battery that can be charged at home on 110- or 240- volt connections, or DC fast-charging. The ID.4 touts smooth and refined ride quality and a quiet cabin. On the outside, clean aerodynamic lines make for a striking presence on the road. On the inside, plenty of room makes for a spacious, comfortable cabin. The ID.4 offers contemporary design with high-tech features, ambient lighting, and generous cargo space that gets even roomier with the rear seats folded. The 2023 US ID.4 will be produced in a new facility in Chattanooga, Tennessee, bringing minor changes to the cars center console, and a new battery supplier. The 2023 model range is unaffected, and will start around $35k.

Hyundai IONIQ 5

The Hyundai IONIQ 5 is Hyundais newest electric car, built ground up on a new platform shared by the Kia EV6. It has won design awards around the world, has lightning fast charging, and has helped bring EVs into a more mainstream conversation. Notably, it is different from the previous Hyundai Ioniq Electric and Ioniq Plug-in. The IONIQ 5 comes with a 58 or 77.4 kWh battery and an estimated range of 220 or 303 miles. The Hyundai IONIQ 5 starts under $40K for the Standard Range version, and $44 for the Extended Range. It qualifies for the $7500 federal tax credit when purchased new, and is a great value EV with generous cargo space, efficient use of electricity, and advanced driving aids and technology.

Mini Cooper Electric Hardtop

The Mini Cooper Electric SE Hardtop is a two-door hatchback, with a starting price of around $29k. This hardtop only gets a mere 114 miles of range, though can go from 0-60 mph in 6.9 seconds and reach 80% charge in 36 minutes at a DC fast charging station. The Electric Hatch has upped the ante for exterior looks, reenergizing the design of the wheels, front and back grilles, ambient lighting, and new designs for the steering wheel and air vents. Though the range does not compare to its competitors, the two-door feature and sizable cargo given its small size is worthy of attention.

Ford Mach-E

The Ford Mustang Mach-E is now offered as a hatchback, though they are generally considered crossover SUVs (or large hatchbacks). The 2022 Mach-E is a handsome and sporty all-electric SUV crossover, offering both performance and range, especially when considering the well-appointed cabin and in-car tech. Zipping from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.2 seconds, this wagon-like hatchback/SUV crossover is pleasingly quick. In 2022 the Mach-E now offers all-wheel-drive, plenty of range with a larger battery pack, big center touchscreen that is easy to use, and a substantial amount of cargo space.

Tesla Model Y

Many have likened the Tesla Model Y to a Model 3 hatchback with an option for a child-sized third row. Another generally considered crossover SUV, the Model Y holds more cargo and has some extra interior space than its sedan counterpart. This dual-motor powertrain supplies plenty of zip, and the interior matches the standard Tesla-tech-lovers-dream. Unfortunately reviewers have been disappointed by its handling, which is less engaging than the Model 3, and seem to propose that the Model Y doesnt do enough to differentiate itself from the 3, other than its roomier cargo space. In 2022, the estimated driving range is a hefty 330 miles when equipped with the standard 19-inch wheels. Much like other models, the Model Y hosts nearly every function through the large, slim, infotainment display in the middle of the dashboard everything from climate control to the speedometer is shown on this display. Additionally, the Model Y offers Teslas advanced autopilot semi-autonomous driving system, including a self-parking feature and a summon feature, in which you can retrieve your model while you are standing outside it.

Whats Next for Hatchbacks

The newest hatchbacks combine the practicality of a compact style with progressive powertrains, enabling strong fuel economy figures while still maintaining an affordable price. While hatchbacks started as one of the first and most popular models for EVs, they have fallen somewhat off the market as shoppers favor EV SUV crossovers or pickup trucks.

To stay relevant, EV hatchbacks try to differentiate to compete. Take the BMW i3 for instance. Though discontinued in the US as of mid-2021, the BMW i3 touted upscale interior, with quirky rear doors that open backwards to give you more room for getting in and out of the car, and loading cargo. Larger hatchbacks are also gaining in popularity for the same reason.

Though SUVs, crossovers, and pickups are trending widely, its clear that EV hatchbacks remain a solid choice in the EV market, and are clearly here to stay.

10 of the best electric hatchbacks to buy in 2024

Combining interior space, lots of tech and smooth driving, these are the best electric hatchbacks to consider this year

Theres a wider choice of electric hatchbacks than ever before and, as various governments push for increasing sales of fully electric cars, the number of models available is only going to increase.

Whether youre after a cheeky little city car, a well-rounded supermini or a spacious family hatch, youll find plenty of great options. All with a smooth, quiet driving experience and a range thats long enough to only have to recharge every few days.

Browse our used electric hatchbacks

1. Cupra Born

Range: 265 miles

Charging rate: 120kW

Charging time (5-80%): 35 mins

Essentially a sportified version of the Volkswagen ID.3 which well get onto, the Cupra Born does a lot of things right. It looks the part, it boasts lovely materials inside and has enough legroom for giants. Also, its tremendously well-equipped, with adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera, sports suspension and internet-enabled sat nav all coming as standard. The Born is quick off the line and grippy through corners so you can drive pretty rapidly but drive more calmly and you could get from London to York without needing to stop to recharge.

2. MG 4

Range: 281 miles

Charging rate: 135kW

Charging time (10-80%): 35 mins

Beneath its sharp-yet-slightly-fussy exterior, the MG 4 is a seriously talented electric hatchback. Drive carefully and you can achieve nearly 300 miles between charges not all petrol cars offer that much range and the MG 4 can charge faster than many rivals, so therell be less time spent in motorway service stations. Like the Cupra, it offers a sporty driving experience and theres now an X-Power hot hatch version thatll embarrass most sports cars off the line. The MG 4 is fairly affordable and is great value compared to its nearest rivals.

3. Peugeot e-208

Range: 225 miles

Charging rate: 100kW

Charging time (10-80%): 30 mins

The Peugeot e-208 definitely stands out for its eye-catching styling, but it doesnt stand out as an electric car not in terms of its design, at least. Theres very little to tell it apart from the petrol-powered 208 so, if you dont have green number plates on yours, few will spot its an EV. And, while the petrol engine has been switched for a squeaky-clean, zero-emission powertrain with impressive refinement, you still get the fancy interior design that lifts it above rivals like the Vauxhall Corsa and Citroen C3.

4. Fiat 500e

Range: 199 miles

Charging rate: 85kW

Charging time (0-80%): 30 mins

The Fiat 500 has been on sale for more than 15 years now, highlighting just what a fantastic city car it is. After all, its shoebox-sized dimensions and city steering mode are ideal for congested urban streets. But, with a quiet electric powertrain that produces no exhaust emissions, the latest 500 is even better for city slickers. Get one with the larger 42kWh battery and youll manage nearly 200 miles between charges so theres no need to keep within city limits.

5. Volkswagen ID.3

Range: 264 miles

Charging rate: 120kW

Charging time (5-80%): 35 miles

Taking on the baton from the Golf, the Volkswagen ID.3 offers many of the same positives youll find across the VW range. The driving experience is whisper-quiet, incredibly refined and confidence-inspiring, and the build quality is top-notch. Rear-seat space is a particular highlight, with limousine-like legroom thatll leave a giraffe with room to spare. Charge it at home and theres a good chance that the ID.3 will cost less to run than a Golf, too.

6. Citroen e-C4

Range: 220 miles

Charging rate: 100kW

Charging time (0-80%): 30 mins

For a brand that focuses on comfort and cool, an electric powertrain is the perfect choice. Squidgy seats, no engine noise and lots of driver assistance tech make the Citroen e-C4 ideal for soaking up tired commutes home from the office or trips further afield. And, with a range of well over 200 miles from a full battery, long trips are definitely feasible.

7. Renault Zoe

Range: 238 miles

Charging rate: 50kW if fitted

Charging time (15-80%): 54 mins

One of the original mainstream electric cars, the Renault Zoe has become a small EV icon. This latest version has a great range of almost 240 miles, plus an airy cabin and a surprisingly big boot. Its size and electric power make it perfect for built-up areas but, like the other cars on this list, its not adverse to long cross-country trips or motorway jaunts, either.

8. BMW i3

Range: 188 miles

Charging rate: 49kW

Charging time (20-80%): 40 mins

A BMW like no other the BMW i3 is futuristic, quirky and brilliant. From its calm interior you might not see the clever chassis built with carbon fibre, but you can see a lot out of the wide windows. Slim seats free up visibility and passenger space, and theres no B-pillar so the rear doors open backwards and feature a dropped windowline means kids will be able to see out with ease. A small boot and a middling range figure mean it wont suit every driver but, if you mainly drive around town or are going to use it as a second car, the i3 is perfect. Buy one before they become a classic.

9. Volkswagen e-Up

Range: 162 miles

Charging rate: 40kW

Charging time (0-80%): ~60 mins

It may not have a super-long range or even a touchscreen, but the Volkswagen e-Up is one of the cheekiest, most cheerful cars on the road. Its also one of the cheapest modern EVs you can buy as we write this, our e-Ups are less than 200 per month. Sub-compact dimensions hide genuine space for four adults and a deep boot and, as the range-topping Up model, its well-equipped with things like heated seats and a reversing camera coming as standard.

10. Nissan Leaf

Range: 168 miles

Charging rate: 50kW

Charging time (20-80%): 60 mins

Last but not Leaft is a car that really pushed electric power into the mainstream. The second-generation Nissan Leaf packs in about as much space as a Ford Focus, but typically costs about as much as a Ford Fiesta as a used car. The Leaf no longer has awkward styling and comes with lots of lovely interior features mid-spec N-Connecta cars get luxuries like a heated steering wheel. Toasty!

Find the electric car for you

Browse our exciting range of used electric cars for sale, or read our guide on how to charge your electric car at home to find out if an EV is for you.