Best Electric Hatchbacks of 2022

Characteristics of an Electric Hatchback

While the model list of the best electric hatchbacks 2022 isn’t particularly long, there are still some impressive names on it. In our top five are the following:

• Size: Hatchbacks are some of the smallest cars on the road, and while this has some advantages in comparison to larger ones, including a lower cost of ownership and high maneuverability, it has unfortunately led to their decline in popularity. Buyers want more practicality, and it’s not just about trunk space, which is actually a strong suit of hatches. This is why SUVs and crossovers have displaced the humble hatch.
• Powertrain: Though there are a few hot hatches out there with more power than they know what to do with, most are more conservative. Naturally, electrification means a boost in straight-up performance, especially acceleration, but EV hatches are still not really meant to be raced around. They want to take advantage of their lower weight and get the most distance out of their batteries. These are usually on the small side in order to fit comfortably within the smaller body style.
• Appearance: Electric cars generally try to look a little more futuristic and quirky; it’s one of their key selling points but not everyone can appreciate that. In fact, many automakers are now trying to tone back their styling to be more traditional. However, the few EV hatches that remain in the US are still quite quirky little cars.
• Price: Though EVs are still a little pricier than gas-fed vehicles, prices are dropping quickly to make them more accessible to the masses. The smaller size of the hatch body helps to keep costs down, as well as maximize the benefits of improved fuel economy that come with electric power and low curb weight.

What to Consider Before Buying an EV Hatch

Unlike their plug-in hybrid cousins, every car in this segment relies completely on electricity for power. The powertrain configurations generally consist of a single battery pack connected to one or more motors, which power the wheels. So, what are the advantages of departing from traditional combustion engines?

Pros

• Unbeatable mileage figures
• No carbon emissions
• Near-silent running
• Decent amount of horsepower and torque
• Tax rebates in certain states of the USA

Cons

• Maximum range is much lower than traditional vehicles
• No engine soundtrack to accompany peppy performance
• Once you’re out of “gas”, you’re basically dead in the water
• Charging times are longer than just filling up the tank

Some of the Best Electric Hatchback Cars

While the model list of the best electric hatchbacks isn’t particularly long, there are still some impressive names on it. Here are some recent examples:

• Chevrolet Bolt - With an affordable price tag, this little EV boasts an impressive full-charge distance of 259 miles as well as a modern cabin with a respectable trunk.
• BMW i3 - While the small machine does not boast the same opulent luxury of the brands’ larger automobiles, it is still quite stylish, especially inside. As such, it only offers 15.1 cubic feet of cargo space. It also has a subpar max range of around 150 miles, or 200 with an additional two-cylinder gas engine. There aren’t any new models for 2022, so you’ll have to settle for a used variant.
• Nissan Leaf - With one of the lowest starting prices on the market, the Leaf remains one of the best ways to get into the EV segment, Its cabin is spacious, if a little nondescript, and it isn’t entertaining by any margin.
• Mini Cooper Electric Hardtop - Mini’s second attempt at an electric vehicle, the latest Cooper Electric offers great driving dynamics, iconic design, and a lovely (albeit cramped) interior.
• Hyundai Ioniq EV - The fully electric variant of the Ioniq line-up, alongside the hybrid and plug-in electric hybrid, Hyundai’s EV has a range of only 170 miles despite getting the best mileage figures of 145/121/133 MPGe over the city/highway/combined cycles.

FAQs about Electric Hatchbacks