10 Best Small Electric Cars in the UK (2025 Update)

In 2025, compact EVs are becoming the go-to choice for eco-conscious drivers. However, the world of EVs can feel overwhelming, especially with the constant influx of new models. To help you out, we have curated a selection of the 10 best small electric cars in the UK.

Whether you’re after affordability, range, or features, our list ensures you’ll find the perfect match. Let’s dive into the future of urban mobility and discover the best electric small cars!

1. MG 4 EV

Top Range: 281 miles

Starting Price: £28,758

There were a lot of contenders for the number one spot on this list. However, MG 4 EV stands out as the best small electric car in the UK today. There’s no match for the value of money this car provides. At its price point, we think this is the best small electric car with the longest range.

MG EV 4 is available in three different trim levels. The SE starts at £28,758, offering a solid 218-mile range, while the Long Range pushes that to an impressive 281 miles.

The maximum charging speed for the base model is 117 kW, whereas the Long Range takes it a notch higher to 135 kW. As a result, you get an extremely quick charge time of just 35 minutes.

The MG 4 EV boasts a sleek design and a spacious interior for its size. It comes with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, and advanced driver-assistance systems.

The Trophy trim adds luxuries like a heated steering wheel and panoramic roof. On UK roads, the MG 4 feels planted and responsive, with a suspension that soaks up bumps effortlessly.

What we like:

• Excellent range for the price.
• Fast charging capability.
• Spacious and well-equipped interior.

What we don’t like:

• The infotainment system can feel sluggish at times.
• Rear visibility is slightly compromised due to the design.

2. BYD Dolphin

Top Range: 265 miles

Starting Price: £26,195

Next up, we have an original Chinese offering. China is leading the charge in the EV revolution, and there’s no denying that. BYD is one of the most formidable EV brands to come out of China.

BYD Dolphin might be a newcomer to the UK’s market. However, it’s a tried and tested EV in many other countries. Starting at £26,195, it’s an affordable option with a range of up to 265 miles. Charging from 10-80% takes around 30 minutes on a fast charger, which is quite impressive.

Its quirky design stands out, and the interior feels premium. The Comfort trim adds a rotating 12.8-inch touchscreen, vegan leather seats, and ambient lighting. The Dolphin is also packed with smart features, including voice control and adaptive cruise control.

What we like:

• Competitive pricing.
• Extremely powerful in its class.
• Good range for urban and suburban use.

What we don’t like:

• The ride can feel a bit firm on uneven roads.
• Boot space is smaller than some rivals.

3. Renault 5

Top Range: 252 miles

Starting Price: £22,995

The Renault 5 is possibly the most anticipated small electric car to arrive in the UK in 2025. It has already won the small electric car of the year award in the UK for 2025. And rightly so!

Renault has done an amazing job reviving an icon. Its design is eye-catching, drawing attention like supercars that cost ten times as much. It’s perfect for city driving, offering a nippy and fun experience with a top-class infotainment system.

You can choose between 40 kWh and 52 kWh batteries, providing WLTP driving ranges of 194 and 252 miles, respectively. Renault 5 packs a punch that everyone wants in their car. It’s one of the most affordable new EVs and offers great value for your money.

What we like:

• Tempting price.
• Comfortable and tech-savvy interior.
• Highly reliable on the UK roads.
• Good range for its price.

What we don’t like:

• Rear legroom is limited.

4. Hyundai Inster

Top Range: 229 miles

Starting Price: £23,495

The Hyundai Inster is a compact EV that has earned its spot on this list. It’s an electric car that perfectly balances affordability, practicality, and tech. Its boxy design maximises interior space, and the build quality feels solid. The car also has a host of advanced safety features.

The Inster comes in three trims: SE, Premium, and Ultimate. The SE is a budget-friendly option. It includes a 10.25-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Premium variant adds heated seats, a sunroof, and a better sound system.

The Ultimate trim tops it off with a 360-degree camera, wireless charging, and adaptive cruise control. If you’re after value, the Premium hits the sweet spot. However, if you are a techy and like to have some extra features in your car, the Ultimate is great.

What we like:

• Affordable price tag.
• Practical and spacious interior.
• Strong safety features.

What we don’t like:

• Range could be better.
• The design might not appeal to everyone.

5. Renault Zoe

Top Range: 250 miles

Starting Price: £29,995

The Renault Zoe has been a favourite for years, and the electric update of 2025 keeps it relevant. The extremely lucrative price tag of Renault Zoe makes it a great entry point for first-time EV buyers. Its compact size and tight turning circle make it perfect for city driving.

The Zoe offers a real-world range of 250 miles, which is on par with its rivals. Charging is not the fastest, but still, it’s good enough. A 50 kW rapid charger gets you to 80% in just over an hour. The price difference between top and base trims is less than £2,000. So, you get a real chance at upgrading the options and maximising the value for your money.

The Zoe’s regenerative braking is smooth, making it easy to drive in stop-start traffic. However, it’s not perfect. The interior feels a bit plasticky compared to the premium Honda e. The ride can be firm on uneven UK roads. But for the price, the Zoe is hard to beat.

What we like:

• Proven reliability.
• Compact and easy to drive.
• Comfortable interior.

What we don’t like:

• Charging speed is slower than newer models.
• Boot space is limited.

6. Fiat 500 Electric

Top Range: 199 miles

Starting Price: £24,995

The Fiat 500 Electric is a stylish and fun-to-drive EV. You’ll love its retro-modern design, which turns heads while staying true to the iconic 500 heritage. But it’s not just about looks. The car delivers a real-world range of up to 199 miles, perfect for city commutes and weekend getaways.

Compared to rivals, the Fiat 500 Electric offers better value for money. Its starting price undercuts many competitors. You also get a faster charging time of just 30 minutes for an 80% charge using an 85 kW rapid charger. That’s slightly quicker than the Mini Electric SE.

The car has smart features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto that make life easier. Its compact size is ideal for UK roads, especially in busy cities.

What we like:

• Timeless design.
• Fun and engaging to drive.
• High-quality interior.

What we don’t like:

• Range is on the lower side.
• Rear legroom is not that much.
• Rear seats are cramped.

7. Peugeot e-208

Top Range: 254 miles

Starting Price: £28,200

Peugeot e-208 nails the brief for a small electric car. It’s stylish, nippy, and surprisingly practical.  Think of it as a chic city car, but electric. The sharp design and premium interior of the Peugeot e-208 set it apart. Its digital cockpit is user-friendly, and the driving experience is refined.

The all-new 2025 Peugeot e-208 gives a lot for your money. It can go as far as 254 miles on a single charge. Then there’s the fast charging capability at 100 kW. It allows you to rejuvenate the battery pack from 10-80% in just 30 minutes.

The e-208 offers decent value. It’s not the cheapest, but it’s not extortionate either. You get what you pay for. So, it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a small electric car.

What we like:

• Premium feel for the price.
• Good range and charging speed.

What we don’t like:

• Slightly higher price tag.
• Higher trims are even pricier.
• Boot space is average.

8. Vauxhall Corsa Electric

Top Range: 246 miles

Starting Price: £27,495

The Vauxhall Corsa Electric comes in a familiar shape. So, you’re not driving something that screams, “Look at me, I’m electric!”. This simple fact appeals to many. But that’s not all. The Corsa Electric is laced with powerful electric motors delivering a healthy 154 hp.

Vauxhall Corsa Electric handles tight corners well, making it ideal for urban driving. It’s quieter and has better build quality than many of its rivals. Compared to the Peugeot e-208, its sibling, the Corsa, offers a slightly softer ride, which suits UK roads better.

Lastly, its range is quite good too. The Vauxhall Corsa electric stands out with its excellent efficiency and achieves a range of around 246 miles between charges.

What we like:

• Practical and reliable electric car.
• Easy to drive and familiar design.
• Decent range for the price.

What we don’t like:

• Interior feels a bit basic.
• Ride quality could be better.

9. Volkswagen ID 3

Top Range: 344 miles

Starting Price: £30,850

Volkswagen ID 3 is a premium small EV with a focus on technology. It has been updated and also made more affordable over the years since its launch in 2019. However, it’s still not the cheapest small electric car to buy in the UK in 2025.

ID 3’s range is a key selling point. Its Pro trim delivers up to 344 miles on a single charge. This makes it one of the most capable EVs in its class. Even the entry-level Life trim offers 280 miles, which is more than enough for daily commutes.

Moreover, smart features like the augmented reality head-up display and intuitive infotainment system set it apart. You’ll also appreciate its minimalist design and spacious interior. The cabin feels modern, with sustainable materials adding to its eco-friendly appeal.

What we like:

• Spacious and tech-savvy interior.
• Punchy and powerful electric motors.
• Comfortable and quiet ride.
• Lots of standard safety features.

What we don’t like:

• Higher price tag.
• You may find the design too understated.
• Materials on the interior could be better.

10. Volvo EX-30

Top Range: 298 miles

Starting Price: £32,850

Last but not least on this list, we have the electric offering from Volvo, the all-new EX-30. It was slightly pricier than other cars on the list. Hence, we have kept it at last. However, when it comes to value for your money, Volvo EX-30 will give you plenty of it.

Volvo EX-30 is a masterclass in Scandinavian design, practicality, and innovation, all wrapped in a compact package. What sets it apart is its ability to deliver premium quality. It truly is one of the most comfortable cars in the UK that run on electric power.

With a WLTP range of up to 298 miles, the EX-30 is perfect for UK drivers who need a car for daily driving. Fast charging is another highlight of this car. A 10-80% top-up takes just 26 minutes on a 150kW rapid charger.

The EX-30 also shines with its smart features. The Google-built infotainment system is intuitive, and the Harman Kardon sound system is a treat for audiophiles.

What we like:

• Premium and sustainable design.
• Strong range and charging speed.
• Excellent safety features.

What we don’t like:

• Expensive compared to rivals.
• Boot space is smaller than expected.

Wrapping Up: Best Small Electric Cars in the UK

So, there you have it — the best small electric cars in the UK for 2025. Whether you’re a city commuter or an eco-enthusiast, there’s a perfect small electric car waiting for you.

However, please remember that choosing the best small electric cars in the UK is a personal decision. You can prioritise affordability, range, or a specific set of features. Nonetheless, choosing a small electric car will be your first step towards a greener, smarter driving experience.

We hope this guide helps you on your journey to finding the best electric small car for your needs.  The small EV market is constantly evolving, so stay tuned for similar updates as new models emerge. For more advice on car-selling and buying, check out our blogs and other free resources.