12 Electric Cars That Leave Gas Guzzlers in the Dust

Electric vehicles are all the rage – sleek, environmentally friendly, and promising an exciting driving experience. But let’s face it: what good is the coolest car on the block if it’s stuck in the repair shop? Reliability is key, especially when it comes to EVs. If you’re diving into the world of electric cars, ensuring reliability is a must.

Luckily, Consumer Reports has done the homework, sorting through the maze of electric vehicles to highlight the shining stars in reliability. These standout EVs not only promise sustainability but also boast Consumer Reports’ stamp of approval for their reliability. So, if you’re eyeing an EV but concerned about dependability, consider these top picks to electrify your ride without the worry.

Tesla Model S

Tesla’s Model S, a renowned name in the realm of electric cars, showcases innovation, yet it isn’t immune to issues. While it remains a forerunner in the industry’s technology frontier, concerns about its reliability persist. Despite the electric powertrain’s durability, the Model S suffers in terms of its air suspension, significantly affecting its reliability score, rated at a mere 25.

Owners have reported multiple issues ranging from body hardware to trim, alongside recalls encompassing transmission and electronic systems. The Model S, while advanced, still grapples with maintenance costs, averaging around $1,047 annually.

Hyundai Kona Electric

Unexpectedly, the Hyundai Kona Electric faces reliability challenges, marking a notable drop from its previous year’s score. Regarded as one of the finest EVs under $50,000, it offers commendable acceleration and comfortable access, with a swift 0-60 sprint.

Yet, alarming incidents involving fires due to battery defects and charging system issues have triggered massive recalls and replacements, spotlighting broader concerns within the EV landscape. The projected maintenance cost over ten years stands at $7,871, reflecting the gravity of these challenges.

Volkswagen ID.4

Despite Volkswagen’s diminishing spotlight, the ID.4 proves its mettle in the EV arena, securing a spot in the reliability discussion. While boasting a robust drivetrain and stellar safety ratings, scoring an IIHS Top Safety Pick +, the ID.4 faces hindrances with its infotainment system.

Consumer Reports flags issues with its sluggishness and erratic behavior, leading to driver distraction. Three recalls, notably for electrical system risks and malfunctioning cameras, have contributed to a reliability score of 32. With an average yearly maintenance cost of $676, the ID.4 faces challenges despite its safety accolades.

Ford Mustang Mach-E

The Ford Mustang Mach-E, rising as a formidable competitor in the American EV market, previously hailed as one of the most reliable EVs. However, its position has drastically shifted this year, plummeting from an impressive score of 82 to a concerning 35 in terms of reliability.

The Mach-E, now entangled in reliability concerns, has been fraught with issues reported by current owners since its release. Models from 2021 and 2022 faced recalls for software updates alongside complaints about electrical malfunctions, battery pack problems, and screen freezing.

Tesla Model Y

Contrary to expectations, the Tesla Model Y, an iteration with enhanced ground clearance from the Model 3, displays greater reliability woes compared to its sedan counterpart. Despite its similarities, the Model Y’s reliability score dwindled to a mere 38, citing numerous concerns reported by owners.

Issues spanning electric motors, transmission, brakes, power equipment, and electrical systems, coupled with a significant count of six recalls, cast a shadow over its ownership costs, highlighting potentially higher repair expenses compared to gasoline counterparts.

Genesis GV60

Marking Genesis’s maiden electric car designed from scratch, the GV60 garnered commendation from Consumer Reports for its impressive luxury and performance attributes. Lauded for smooth acceleration, respectable range, and superior comfort, it demonstrated a promising start.

However, given its newness, limited consumer feedback exists, although identified recalls related to seat belts point to areas for refinement in the upcoming model years, hinting at potential challenges that need manufacturer attention.

BMW i4

The BMW i4 emerges as a transformed version of the 4 Series Gran Coupe, retaining its hallmark interior luxury and tech features while ditching harmful emissions with its electric powertrain. Notably, it encapsulates the best of both worlds, maintaining exceptional exterior allure and performance.

Consumer Reports, in its evaluation, predicts a reliability rating of three out of five for the i4, juxtaposed with an impressive overall score of 84 out of 100. However, this rating draws from past models’ issues and the i3, so a genuine assessment might require a few more years of real-world experience.

Toyota bZ4X

Toyota’s latest bZ4X, developed in collaboration with Subaru, debuts as an affordable alternative to its sibling, the Solterra. Offering variants with a single or dual motor for front or all-wheel drive, respectively, this model impresses with a Consumer Reports test drive, highlighting an enjoyable driving experience.

As is common with debut vehicles, feedback might be scarce, but the bZ4X’s sole recall pertains to loose lug nuts on wheels, a minor concern unrelated to its EV systems.

Kia Niro EV

Exhibiting an ardent commitment to environmental preservation, the Kia Niro EV sets itself apart by embracing sustainability within its design. Beyond its zero-emission electric capabilities, the interior incorporates recycled materials, showcasing a dedication to reducing its ecological impact.

As the Niro EV has been in circulation for several years, owners’ feedback is notably positive for recent models, with minimal issues reported for the 2023 version and only minor EV motor problems logged for the previous year, indicating Kia’s steady progress in refining this eco-conscious model.

Nissan Leaf

The Nissan Leaf stands as an iconic contender in the EV market, akin to stalwarts like the Toyota Prius or Tesla Model 3, having garnered an esteemed reputation over years of production. Consumer Reports deems it one of the oldest and most authentic EVs currently available, citing minimal issues with batteries, electric motors, or charging, attributing to its commendable reliability.

While this doesn’t guarantee a completely trouble-free experience, the Leaf promises greater dependability compared to less reliable counterparts. With a starting price of $28,000 and an impressive range of up to 212 miles, the Leaf maintains its appeal as an affordable and reliable electric vehicle.

Tesla Model 3

As one of the top-selling electric vehicles, the Tesla Model 3, despite experiencing a drop in reliability score from 79 to 58, remains a favored choice among consumers. Data collected from over 1,000 owners indicates that the Model 3 exhibits average or superior reliability in comparison to several other EVs, though it retains some common issues typical of Tesla models. While owners have reported concerns related to batteries, electric motors, and charging, the Model 3’s range reaching up to 358 miles in its highest trim keeps it a popular choice in the market.

Kia EV6

Earning the distinction of being the most reliable EV with an impressive score of 84, the Kia EV6 emerges as a promising entrant in the electric vehicle segment. However, it’s crucial to note that unlike other models in this report, the EV6 has been available for only a year, making it challenging to foresee potential long-term issues.

Consumer Reports, known for its cautious ratings, rarely attributes a five out of five for reliability unless warranted. While the EV6 has showcased primarily trouble-free performance, concerns about in-car electronics were noted in 2022, indicating potential areas for improvement. With three trims available starting from $48,700 and a range spanning from 206 to 310 miles, the EV6 offers an enticing package in the EV market.