Introduction
The electric vehicle (EV) market has matured rapidly, and the best EVs of 2022 show how far battery-powered cars have come. From long-range sedans to capable electric trucks and stylish crossovers, these models deliver real-world range, fast charging, advanced tech, and practical usability. This article highlights the standout 2022 EVs, focusing on range, performance, interior features, and why each earned a spot among the year’s top choices. The primary keyword for this piece is “best EVs 2022.”
How we evaluated the best EVs 2022
- Real-world and EPA-rated driving range
- Charging capability (including DC fast-charge performance)
- Driving dynamics and performance figures
- Interior quality, space, and tech features
- Practicality (cargo, passenger room) and ownership value
- Expert testing and editorial awards (Editors’ Choice)
BMW iX — Luxury electric SUV with long range
The 2022 BMW iX is BMW’s first dedicated battery-electric SUV and showcases a balance of range, refinement, and upscale cabin design. It uses dual electric motors for standard all-wheel drive and benefits from lightweight body materials to keep efficiency competitive.
Key highlights:
- EPA-rated maximum range: up to 324 miles
- Notable features: curved digital instrument panel, spacious premium cabin, carbon-fiber-reinforced-plastic body panels
- Strengths: refined interior, long range for its class
- Who it’s for: buyers seeking a luxurious, tech-forward electric SUV
Alt text: 2022 BMW iX front exterior showing sleek SUV profile and headlights
Title text: BMW iX photographed in 2022, highlighting exterior design and front fascia
Ford Mustang Mach‑E — Sporty, tech-rich crossover
The Ford Mustang Mach‑E blends sporty character with crossover practicality, pairing engaging driving manners with an attractive interior and useful storage solutions. Performance variants deliver brisk acceleration while range-tuned trims provide long-distance usability.
Key highlights:
- EPA-rated maximum range: up to 314 miles
- Notable features: roomy back seat, cargo space, modern infotainment and driver-assist tech
- Strengths: engaging drive in sport trims, wide model range for different needs
- Who it’s for: buyers wanting a sporty EV with everyday practicality
Alt text: Ford Mustang Mach‑E GT driving on road illustrating sporty stance and motion
Title text: Mach‑E GT tested by reviewers for performance and handling in 2022
Hyundai Ioniq 5 — Futuristic design and rapid charging
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 stands out for its distinctive styling, roomy and flexible interior, and strong charging capability. With architecture that supports very high DC fast-charging rates, the Ioniq 5 is practical for longer trips when public chargers are available.
Key highlights:
- EPA-rated maximum range: up to 303 miles
- Notable features: up to 350 kW charging capability, reclining front seats with footrests, tech-centric cabin
- Strengths: charging speed, innovative interior packaging, modern design
- Who it’s for: buyers who value charging convenience and a futuristic cabin
Alt text: 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 parked, showing boxy modern silhouette and wheel design
Title text: Ioniq 5 photographed in 2022 showcasing distinctive exterior and hatchback layout
Hyundai Kona Electric — Compact, efficient, and value-oriented
The Kona Electric converts a familiar compact SUV platform into an efficient EV package that keeps many of the Kona’s practical traits while adding strong warranty coverage and an appealing ownership proposition.
Key highlights:
- EPA-rated maximum range: up to 258 miles
- Notable features: 201-hp motor, 64-kWh battery, excellent warranty and complimentary maintenance
- Strengths: affordable entry to EV ownership, nimble handling for urban use
- Who it’s for: drivers wanting a compact EV with solid range and lower ownership costs
Alt text: 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric front three-quarter view showing compact SUV proportions
Title text: Kona Electric in 2022 illustrating compact footprint and energetic styling
Mercedes‑Benz EQS — Flagship electric luxury sedan
The EQS represents Mercedes‑Benz’s push into full-size electric luxury. It emphasizes aerodynamic efficiency, a sumptuous cabin, and advanced infotainment (including the optional Hyperscreen), while offering competitive range for its segment.
Key highlights:
- EPA-rated maximum range: up to 350 miles
- Notable features: optional glass-covered Hyperscreen, large 107.8-kWh battery, luxurious appointments
- Strengths: refinement, cutting-edge interior tech, long-range capability
- Who it’s for: buyers seeking the most luxurious, tech-laden electric sedan
Alt text: Mercedes‑Benz EQS front exterior with smooth aerodynamic lines and illuminated grille
Title text: EQS photographed in 2022, highlighting design and front-end styling
Porsche Taycan (Sedan and Turismo) — Performance-first electrified Porsche
The Porsche Taycan is the choice for driving enthusiasts who prioritize handling and acceleration. Available as a sedan and Cross/Sport Turismo, the Taycan blends Porsche’s dynamic DNA with high-tech electric drivetrains and unique features like a two-speed rear transmission on some variants.
Key highlights:
- EPA-rated maximum range: sedan up to 227 miles; Cross Turismo up to 215 miles
- Notable features: athletic chassis, multiple body styles, high-tech interior options
- Strengths: exceptional driving dynamics, configurable performance
- Who it’s for: drivers wanting a performance EV that retains Porsche feel
Alt text: 2022 Porsche Taycan front view showing low-slung sports sedan profile
Title text: Taycan captured in 2022, emphasizing sporty stance and sleek headlights
Alt text: Taycan Cross Turismo showing wagon-style roofline and increased cargo practicality
Title text: Cross Turismo variant photographed to highlight longroof practicality and versatility
Rivian R1T — Electric truck with adventure focus
Rivian’s R1T blends pickup truck utility with EV range and on- and off-road capability. Its combination of a long EPA range and quick acceleration gives it broad appeal for outdoor-oriented buyers who want zero-emissions capability without sacrificing utility.
Key highlights:
- EPA-rated maximum range: up to 314 miles
- Notable features: crew-cab layout, truck-bed utility, adventure-focused accessories
- Strengths: range plus truck functionality, dynamic performance for an EV pickup
- Who it’s for: outdoor enthusiasts and truck buyers wanting electric capability
Alt text: 2022 Rivian R1T front profile showing rugged truck design and high ground clearance
Title text: Rivian R1T first edition photographed during editorial testing in 2022
Tesla Model 3 — Accessible long-range sedan
The Tesla Model 3 remains one of the most compelling EVs when weighing price, range, and performance. It offers multiple trims to balance cost and range, plus Tesla’s Supercharger network for broader charging access.
Key highlights:
- EPA-rated maximum range: up to 358 miles (long-range variants)
- Notable features: sharp acceleration in Performance trim, minimalist interior, strong charging network
- Strengths: range-to-price ratio, driving engagement for enthusiasts
- Who it’s for: buyers seeking a practical EV with wide charging infrastructure
Alt text: 2022 Tesla Model 3 front exterior showing clean nose and aerodynamic silhouette
Title text: Model 3 photographed in 2022 highlighting popular electric sedan design
Tesla Model S — Long-range electric flagship with supercar pace
The Model S continues to push range and performance boundaries for electric sedans. With versions offering exceptionally long EPA range and ultra-high-performance Plaid models, the Model S covers both grand touring and outright speed.
Key highlights:
- EPA-rated maximum range: up to 405 miles
- Notable features: Plaid variant with over 1,000 hp, large cargo and frunk space
- Strengths: class-leading range, blistering acceleration in high-performance trims
- Who it’s for: drivers wanting uncompromised range or extreme performance in one package
Alt text: 2022 Tesla Model S front view showing sleek sedan lines and low stance
Title text: Model S Plaid photographed to illustrate high-performance electric sedan presence
Volkswagen ID.4 — Comfortable, value-oriented electric SUV
The ID.4 aims to be a mainstream, affordable electric SUV offering comfortable cruising, practical space, and a modern interior. It prioritizes value and usability over sporty dynamics, making it appealing for everyday drivers.
Key highlights:
- EPA-rated maximum range: up to 275 miles
- Notable features: nearly fully digital dashboard, relaxed ride character
- Strengths: value, interior comfort, family-friendly layout
- Who it’s for: mainstream buyers seeking an easy-to-live-with electric SUV
Alt text: Volkswagen ID.4 profile showing compact electric SUV silhouette and modern design cues
Title text: ID.4 photographed in 2022 representing Volkswagen’s mainstream EV offering
Practical takeaways for prospective EV buyers
- Range matters, but charging access and charging speed are equally important for long trips.
- Consider the whole ownership picture: warranty, included maintenance, and local incentives can affect cost of ownership.
- Choose the body style that fits your lifestyle: sedans for efficiency and handling, SUVs/crossovers for space, trucks for utility.
- Test-drive to evaluate driving feel, cabin ergonomics, and infotainment usability—those factors vary widely across EVs.
Conclusion and call to action
The “best EVs 2022” list demonstrates the breadth of today’s electric-car market, from luxury sedans and performance machines to practical crossovers and capable trucks. Each model above earned its place by combining meaningful electric range, competitive features, and strong real-world usability. Which of these EVs suits your needs best? Share your thoughts or explore detailed reviews and pricing to find the right fit.
References
- Car and Driver. (2022). How We Test Cars. https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a32018270/how-we-test-cars/
- Car and Driver model reviews and specs pages referenced throughout (BMW iX, Ford Mustang Mach‑E, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Hyundai Kona Electric, Mercedes‑Benz EQS, Porsche Taycan, Rivian R1T, Tesla Model 3, Tesla Model S, Volkswagen ID.4).