At SMMT's Drive Live event near Worcester, a reporter tested eight electric vehicles in a single day. The electric MINI Cooper emerged as the clear winner, while the Polestar 4 finished last.
Test Background and Market Context
Contemporary electric vehicles are available in numerous configurations, and their popularity continues to surge. America's persistent conflict with Iran has caused fuel costs to soar to unprecedented levels throughout the UK, compelling drivers to explore electric alternatives.
Last month witnessed a 12% increase in the new electric car sector—marking the 10th successive month of expansion—according to SMMT figures. With such an extensive selection available, the reporter tested eight models at the Drive Live event to identify the best choice.
Rankings: From Eighth to Fourth
The Polestar 4 (RRP £55,750) came eighth. While competent with excellent handling, efficiency, and technology, it ranks bottom due to practical frustrations. Every adjustment must be executed through the oversized central touchscreen, and the rear-view mirror is also a screen. The wireless charging pad fails to secure phones adequately, ejecting them during vigorous acceleration.
The Jeep Compass (RRP £34,635) placed seventh. Despite a decent selection of switches and comfortable seating, nothing feels distinctly 'Jeep' about it on the road. The Genesis GV70 (RRP £66,815) came sixth. Its cabin featured white leather and plastics, with a peculiar display showing the French Open leaderboard. The suspension felt compliant and refined.
The Nissan Leaf (RRP £37,999) ranked fifth. This third-generation model moves from hatchback to SUV, sharing characteristics with the Qashqai. It's straightforward to operate with numerous physical controls, and it remains composed and sure-footed. The Fiat Grande Panda Electric (RRP £20,495) came fourth. It felt less agile than its hybrid counterpart but exhibited less body roll. Its range is just under 200 miles.
Top Three: Citroen, Kia, and Mini
The Citroen Ami Buggy (RRP £10,496) took third. It's technically a quadricycle with a maximum speed of 28mph, and its doorless design highlighted colder conditions. The reporter needed to pause mid-test to don a bobble hat and neck warmer.
The Kia EV2 (RRP £27,995) came second. It had won Car of the Year and Best Small Electric Car at the RAC New Car Awards. It felt solid and purposeful, conveying confidence and greater agility than many rivals. In a group test against the Polestar and Nissan, it emerged as the reporter's personal choice.
The electric MINI Cooper (RRP £26,905) took first place. Despite an enormous central touchscreen and minimal physical buttons, the reporter was thoroughly won over. It remains compact and agile, with precise steering and taut yet responsive suspension. The touchscreen is frustrating, but as a pure electric driving experience, it stands out from all eight vehicles.
