Tesla was once the top dog of the EV market.
At first, its cars were faster, more futuristic and drove further than anything the competition could muster. But there are now plenty of excellent alternatives if the brand's style – or its controversial CEO – aren't your cup of tea.
We've chosen 10 of our favourite Tesla rivals that deserve a spot on your shortlist. Almost all are available with big discounts as nearly new and used cars from Motorpoint.
Kia EV6
The Kia EV6 was the first model the brand released on its entirely ground-up E-GMP electric platform. That means it can fully take advantage of its engineless design – pushing the wheels all the way to the car's edges to free up more cabin space without giving the car a big footprint. Passenger space is excellent, with limo-like rear legroom, and the car's modern design and extensive standard equipment means it's an easy place to spend time. All this is enhanced by its refined, punchy EV setup and range of up to 361 miles.
Shop used Kia EV6 cars or read our Kia EV6 review
Volkswagen ID.7
The Volkswagen ID.7 occupies a spot in the market partway between the popular Tesla Model 3 and the pricier Tesla Model S. Its 436-mile maximum range figure is exactly the same as the longest-range Model 3, and means it can comfortably tackle even lengthy journeys. Like the American brand, Volkswagen sticks a massive touchscreen on the dashboard to handle most on-board functions, and several updates have made it easier to use than older versions – it also has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which the Tesla lacks.
See used Volkswagen electric cars or read our Volkswagen ID.7 review
BMW iX1
Unlike lots of plug-in cars on this list, the BMW iX1 is based on an existing fuel-powered car – the regular X1, which comes with petrol, diesel and plug-in-hybrid options. Despite this, you sense very little compromise in the iX1, with the kind of zippy off-the-line performance and hushed refinement we've come to expect from ground-up EVs. Up to 270 miles is possible on a full charge, so it won't quite compete with Tesla for outright range, but the iX1's plush materials and robust build quality feel a notch above its US competitor.
Browse used BMW iX1 cars or read our BMW iX1 review
Hyundai Ioniq 5
Another car made possible by the clever E-GMP platform, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 arrives with clean-cut '80s-inspired good looks and a deceptively large cabin. The interior space is thanks to its odd part-hatchback-part-SUV body style, and means you can happily sit a tall adult behind another one without major complaints. Its ride quality and handling are very well judged and most versions offer strong range and performance figures. Keep an eye out for the blisteringly quick Ioniq 5 N – arguably the most-convincing performance EV made so far.
Search used Hyundai Ioniq 5 cars or read our Hyundai Ioniq 5 review
Peugeot e-5008
The Peugeot e-5008 has the same broad-shouldered styling and seven-seat body as the petrol-powered 5008. Big-battery versions cover up to 414 miles – impressive for a car that wasn't exclusively designed as an EV. The interior is a particular highlight thanks to fashionable upholstery choices and an angular, avant-garde design flair. You'll also find the third row is better than anything Tesla sells in the UK, considering the Model Y's optional row is ridiculously cramped and the larger Model X is no longer sold here with right-hand drive.
Shop used Peugeot 5008 cars or read our Peugeot 5008 review
Cupra Tavascan
The Tavascan is a recent addition to the Cupra lineup, borrowing the same electric underpinnings that you'll find in cars like the Volkswagen ID.5 and Ford Capri. Here, however, they're draped in the kind of dramatic styling the Spanish brand's become known for, cutting a much sharper line on the road than its platform mates. Despite its flowing coupe-like roofline, there's very little compromise demanded of rear-seat occupants with lots of leg and headroom, plus a flat floor, which makes the centre-rear seat feel like less of a punishment.
Browse used Cupra cars for sale
Polestar 2
Polestar has since expanded its lineup beyond the saloon-like 2, adding the posh-but-pricey Polestar 3 SUV and the rear-windowless Polestar 4. That said, it's the 2 we keep coming back to – partially thanks to its clean, minimal styling, but also because updates through its life have substantially improved performance and increased range above 400 miles for big-battery versions. What's refreshing about the 2, however, is its focus on staying out of your way, with the interface being both simpler and more intuitive than an equivalent Tesla.
View used Polestar 2 cars or read our Polestar 2 review
Hyundai Ioniq 6
Typical naming conventions might lead you to expect the Hyundai Ioniq 6 to be a slightly larger Ioniq 5. While the two share electrical parts under the body, the Ioniq 6 actually has a dramatically curved coupe-like four-door body, which looks quite far removed from the more angular Ioniq 5. Stepping up to the Ioniq 6 means the wheelbase is stretched even further for copious amounts of passenger space, although the sloping roofline does end up eating into cargo space somewhat.
Check out used Hyundai Ioniq 6 cars for sale
Audi Q4 e-tron
The Audi Q4 e-tron is another vehicle based on the same electric architecture that underpins Volkswagen's ID electric cars. Here, however, the platform is outfitted with more desirable bodywork and a more premium interior, as befits the four-ring logo on the front. Ride comfort is better than some models that share the Q4 e-tron's platform, as is the infotainment system, which feels both more modern and easier to understand than the equivalent VW setup. Up to 342 miles on a charge means the Q4 e-tron can tackle long drives without hassle.
Browse used Audi Q4 e-tron cars for sale
BYD Seal
The BYD Seal may be a new addition to UK roads, but it hails from one of the most successful brands in China. As we've come to expect from a car designed for the Chinese market, its major focuses are passenger space, comfort and premium features. A fully charged range of 354 miles isn't to be sniffed at, and range-topping models can dash from 0-62mph in a supercar-like 3.8 seconds. The infotainment system not only includes smartphone pairing unlike Tesla models, but can also rotate between portrait and landscape orientations.
Huge discounts on nearly new electric cars
Find enormous savings on nearly new and used electric cars for sale at Motorpoint. For more choices, check out the best electic cars on sale.
