AUTOMOTIVE
These Best Electric SUVs Actually Live Up to the Hype
March 26, 2025
A decade ago, the idea of an electric SUV that could match the power, range, and practicality of gas-powered models seemed like a far-fetched dream. Fast forward to today, and electric SUVs are not only catching up. They're leading the charge. I remember the first time I got behind the wheel of an EV SUV. It was silent yet powerful, gliding through the streets with an instant surge of torque that made me question everything I thought I knew about driving.
Now, with brands pushing the boundaries of performance, luxury, and sustainability, choosing the best electric SUV has become a thrilling challenge. Whether you need a family-friendly SUV with long-range capabilities, a high-performance model that can rival sports cars, or an off-road beast ready for adventure, the options are better than ever. In this guide, we'll explore the top-rated electric SUVs of 2025, breaking down their features, strengths, and what makes them the right fit for different drivers. Buckle up! The future of SUVs is electric.
Charge Ahead: The Ultimate Best Electric SUV Guide
1.Tesla Model X
The Tesla Model X remains one of the best luxury electric SUVs on the market, offering a combination of cutting-edge technology, long range, and thrilling performance. With its signature Falcon Wing doors, ultra-modern interior, and high-performance dual-motor setup, the Model X delivers a driving experience that few electric SUVs can match.
This best electric SUV option features two different trims:
- Tesla Model X Dual Motor AWD (Standard): 670 hp, 348 miles of range, 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds
- Tesla Model X Plaid: A beast with 1,020 horsepower, 333 miles of range, and an insane 0-60 mph in 2.5 seconds
Inside, the Model X has a futuristic cabin, complete with a yoke-style steering wheel, a massive 17-inch touchscreen, and a panoramic windshield that provides an immersive driving experience. The seating capacity of up to 7 passengers makes it a practical family SUV, while Tesla's Autopilot and Full Self-Driving package (optional) add an extra layer of convenience.
Why It Stands Out: The Tesla Model X is the best electric SUV 2025 for those looking for high performance, a tech-packed interior, and premium luxury. The acceleration is supercar-level, the range is excellent, and its futuristic design ensures it still looks fresh. However, it's also one of the most expensive electric SUVs on the market, making it a pick for luxury buyers and tech enthusiasts.
Price Range: $79,990 - $94,990
Best For: Luxury EV buyers, tech lovers, families needing a 7-seater SUV
Range: 333 - 348 miles (EPA estimated)
Horsepower: 670 hp (Standard) / 1,020 hp (Plaid)
Charging Time: 10-80% in 30 minutes (Supercharger)
Cargo Space: 92.3 cubic feet (including frunk & folded seats)
2.Rivian R1S
The Rivian R1S is a rugged, adventure-ready electric SUV that combines premium features with outstanding off-road capability. Unlike most luxury electric SUVs that focus solely on urban performance, the R1S is built to handle tough terrains while offering a smooth, tech-filled ride for daily driving.
Rivian offers the R1S in several configurations, with different battery packs and drivetrain options:
- Dual Motor AWD: 533 hp, 260-390 miles of range, 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds
- Quad Motor AWD: 835 hp, 321 miles of range, 0-60 mph in 3.0 seconds
One of the biggest advantages of the R1S is its off-road capability, featuring an adjustable air suspension system with up to 14.9 inches of ground clearance. It can ford water up to 3 feet deep, making it an ideal SUV for outdoor enthusiasts. Inside, the luxurious cabin includes vegan leather seats, a 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a spacious 3-row layout.
Why It Stands Out: The Rivian R1S is one of the best electric SUVs for adventure seekers and off-road lovers. It offers an impressive range, high performance, and premium build quality while being able to handle terrains that few EVs dare to tackle.
Price Range: $78,000 - $92,000
Best For: Adventure enthusiasts, off-road lovers, families needing a luxury 3-row SUV
Range: 260-390 miles (depending on battery pack)
Horsepower: 533 hp (Dual Motor) / 835 hp (Quad Motor)
Charging Time: 10-80% in 30 minutes (DC fast charging)
Cargo Space: 104 cubic feet (with all seats folded)
3.BMW iX
The BMW iX is BMW's flagship all-electric SUV, designed for those who want a blend of cutting-edge technology, premium comfort, and performance. Competing in the best luxury electric SUV category, the iX offers an ultra-modern interior, bold futuristic styling, and high-speed charging capabilities.
Two trims are available:
- BMW iX xDrive50: 516 hp, 324 miles of range, 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds
- BMW iX M60: 610 hp, 288 miles of range, 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds
The cabin is where the iX really shines. With a minimalist design, massive curved touchscreen, and high-quality materials, it feels futuristic yet inviting. It also includes BMW's iDrive 8 system, one of the most advanced infotainment systems in any SUV.
Why It Stands Out: The BMW iX is one of the best electric SUVs 2025 for those who want top-tier luxury and high-tech features. While the exterior design is polarizing, the interior experience and smooth ride quality make it a top choice for luxury buyers.
Price Range: $87,000 - $111,500
Best For: Tech enthusiasts, luxury EV buyers, BMW fans
Range: 288-324 miles (EPA estimated)
Horsepower: 516 hp (xDrive50) / 610 hp (M60)
Charging Time: 10-80% in 35 minutes (DC fast charging)
Cargo Space: 77 cubic feet (with seats folded)
4.Cadillac Lyriq
The Cadillac Lyriq is Cadillac's first-ever electric SUV, designed to blend luxury, performance, and affordability in one package. Competing against Tesla, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, the Lyriq delivers premium styling, a high-tech interior, and a comfortable ride.
Available in two powertrain options:
- Lyriq RWD: 340 hp, 314 miles of range, 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds
- Lyriq AWD: 500 hp, 307 miles of range, 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds
Inside, the 33-inch curved OLED display dominates the dashboard, offering a crisp, high-resolution interface for navigation, media, and vehicle controls. The whisper-quiet ride and spacious seating make it one of the most comfortable best electric SUVs in the market.
Why It Stands Out: The Cadillac Lyriq is one of the best luxury electric SUVs that doesn't come with an outrageous price tag. It offers premium materials, a tech-forward interior, and a smooth ride—making it a perfect alternative to German competitors.
Price Range: $58,000 - $64,000
Best For: Luxury SUV buyers, tech lovers, Cadillac fans
Range: 307-314 miles (EPA estimated)
Horsepower: 340 hp (RWD) / 500 hp (AWD)
Charging Time: 10-80% in 40 minutes (DC fast charging)
Cargo Space: 60.8 cubic feet (with rear seats folded)
5.Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV
The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV is the pinnacle of German luxury in the electric SUV segment. It brings S-Class levels of comfort, cutting-edge technology, and a whisper-quiet ride, making it one of the best luxury electric SUVs for 2025. Built on the EVA platform, it delivers high-range capability and an ultra-premium experience.
Available in multiple trims:
- EQS 450+ RWD: 355 hp, 305 miles of range, 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds
- EQS 450 4MATIC AWD: 355 hp, 285 miles of range, 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds
- EQS 580 4MATIC AWD: 536 hp, 285 miles of range, 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds
The interior is breathtaking, featuring MBUX Hyperscreen, a 56-inch curved glass display that spans the entire dashboard, premium leather seating, and a Burmeister 3D sound system. Rear passengers enjoy first-class treatment, with reclining seats, ambient lighting, and entertainment screens.
Why It Stands Out: The EQS SUV is the ultimate best electric SUV for those who prioritize comfort, technology, and status. It's the closest thing to an electric S-Class, making it an unmatched experience for those who love high-end luxury SUVs.
Price Range: $104,000 - $130,000
Best For: Luxury buyers, tech enthusiasts, long-range travelers
Range: 285-305 miles (EPA estimated)
Horsepower: 355 hp (450) / 536 hp (580)
Charging Time: 10-80% in 31 minutes (DC fast charging)
Cargo Space: 74 cubic feet (with seats folded)
6.Ford Mustang Mach-E
The Ford Mustang Mach-E brings the iconic Mustang name into the EV world, blending sporty styling with practicality and impressive performance. It's one of the best electric SUVs for 2025, thanks to its wide range of trims, competitive pricing, and solid driving range.
Key trims include:
- Mach-E Select (RWD/AWD): 264-250 miles of range, 266 hp, 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds
- Mach-E Premium (RWD/AWD): 306-290 miles of range, 290-346 hp, 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds
- Mach-E GT Performance AWD: 280 miles of range, 480 hp, 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds
Inside, the 15.5-inch vertical touchscreen runs Ford's SYNC 4A infotainment system, offering a clean, user-friendly interface. The fast-charging capability and engaging drive feel make it a great daily driver.
Why It Stands Out: The Mustang Mach-E is one of the best electric SUVs that balances price, performance, and practicality. It's fast, stylish, and offers plenty of tech, making it a great alternative to the Tesla Model Y.
Price Range: $43,000 - $64,000
Best For: Performance enthusiasts, daily drivers, Ford fans
Range: 250-314 miles (EPA estimated)
Horsepower: 266-480 hp
Charging Time: 10-80% in 38 minutes (DC fast charging)
Cargo Space: 59.7 cubic feet (with rear seats folded)
7.Hyundai IONIQ 5
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 is a retro-futuristic electric SUV that brings exceptional value, fast charging, and a roomy interior, making it one of the best electric SUVs for 2025. With a striking design inspired by 80s hatchbacks, it looks unlike anything else on the road.
Trims include:
- IONIQ 5 SE RWD: 303 miles of range, 225 hp, 0-60 mph in 7.1 seconds
- IONIQ 5 SEL AWD: 266 miles of range, 320 hp, 0-60 mph in 5.1 seconds
One of the fastest charging EVs, it can go from 10-80% in just 18 minutes using 800V ultra-fast charging. The spacious interior, with a sliding center console and reclining front seats, makes it ideal for long road trips.
Why It Stands Out: The IONIQ 5 is a top-rated electric SUV that delivers long range, ultra-fast charging, and unique styling at an affordable price.
Price Range: $41,000 - $53,000
Best For: Budget-conscious buyers, families, road trippers
Range: 266-303 miles (EPA estimated)
Horsepower: 225-320 hp
Charging Time: 10-80% in 18 minutes (800V charging)
Cargo Space: 59.3 cubic feet (with seats folded)
8.Kia EV9
The Kia EV9 is a full-size, three-row electric SUV, making it a great alternative to gas-powered family SUVs. It's one of the best electric SUVs for 2025 for those who need space, practicality, and modern tech.
Key trims include:
- EV9 RWD Long Range: 300 miles of range, 201 hp, 0-60 mph in 7.7 seconds
- EV9 AWD Dual Motor: 280 miles of range, 379 hp, 0-60 mph in 5.3 seconds
The boxy, rugged styling makes it stand out, while the spacious 3-row interior comfortably fits up to 7 passengers. It also supports ultra-fast 800V charging, adding 150 miles of range in just 15 minutes.
Why It Stands Out: The Kia EV9 is one of the best electric SUVs for families, offering impressive range, space, and tech without a premium price tag.
Price Range: $55,000 - $75,000
Best For: Families, road trips, three-row SUV lovers
Range: 280-300 miles (EPA estimated)
Horsepower: 201-379 hp
Charging Time: 10-80% in 20 minutes (800V fast charging)
Cargo Space: 81.7 cubic feet (with seats folded)
9.Chevrolet Blazer EV
The Chevrolet Blazer EV is an exciting addition to Chevy's growing EV lineup, bringing aggressive styling, impressive performance, and solid range to the electric SUV market. Taking design cues from the gas-powered Blazer, the Blazer EV has a sporty, muscular look that sets it apart from the more futuristic designs of its competitors.
Available in multiple trims, it caters to both daily drivers and high-performance enthusiasts:
- Blazer EV LT AWD: 288 hp, 279 miles of range, 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds
- Blazer EV RS AWD: 325 hp, 320 miles of range, 0-60 mph in 6.2 seconds
- Blazer EV SS AWD (Performance Model): 557 hp, 290 miles of range, 0-60 mph in under 4.0 seconds
One of the highlights of the Blazer EV is its versatile performance capabilities. The SS trim is a true performance SUV, delivering blistering acceleration thanks to GM’s Ultium battery platform, while the RS and LT trims focus on offering a smooth, efficient ride with excellent range.
Inside, the modern and tech-focused cabin features a 17.7-inch touchscreen, a fully digital 11-inch driver display, and Google Built-In for seamless integration with Google Maps and voice assistant. The RS trim also adds sportier touches, such as ambient lighting and premium materials.
Why It Stands Out: The Chevy Blazer EV is one of the best electric SUVs for those who love aggressive styling, strong performance, and a solid range. It's also a great alternative to the Mustang Mach-E, offering competitive specs and a more traditional SUV design.
Price Range: $47,000 - $66,000
Best For: Performance enthusiasts, sporty SUV lovers, GM fans
Range: 279-320 miles (EPA estimated)
Horsepower: 288 hp (LT) / 325 hp (RS) / 557 hp (SS)
Charging Time: 10-80% in 35 minutes (DC fast charging)
Cargo Space: 59 cubic feet (with rear seats folded)
10.Volvo EX90
The Volvo EX90 is the flagship electric SUV from Volvo, designed to deliver Scandinavian luxury, safety, and sustainability in an all-electric package. As the successor to the gas-powered XC90, the EX90 brings Volvo's signature design and safety features into the EV era, making it one of the best luxury electric SUVs available.
Built on Volvo's next-generation EV platform, the EX90 comes in two powerful AWD configurations:
- EX90 Twin Motor AWD: 402 hp, 300 miles of range, 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds
- EX90 Twin Motor Performance AWD: 496 hp, 285 miles of range, 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds
Inside, the EX90 blends premium materials with modern technology, featuring a 15-inch center touchscreen, Google integration, and a 25-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system. The seven-seat configuration makes it a fantastic family-friendly SUV.
Safety is a major focus, with LiDAR-based autonomous driving capabilities and advanced driver-assistance systems.
Why It Stands Out: The Volvo EX90 is one of the best electric SUVs for families, offering three-row seating, top-tier safety features, and a premium driving experience. It's a practical yet high-end alternative to rivals like the Tesla Model X and Rivian R1S.
Price Range: $80,000 - $100,000
Best For: Luxury SUV buyers, families, safety-conscious drivers
Range: 285-300 miles (EPA estimated)
Horsepower: 402 hp (Standard) / 496 hp (Performance)
Charging Time: 10-80% in 30 minutes (DC fast charging)
Cargo Space: 67.6 cubic feet (with seats folded)
The Road Ahead: Choosing the Best Electric SUV for You
With so many incredible electric SUVs on the market, choosing the right one comes down to your budget, lifestyle, and driving needs. Whether you're looking for luxury, performance, off-road capability, or affordability, there's an electric SUV designed to fit your expectations.
For those who want top-tier performance, cutting-edge technology, and a premium experience, the Rivian R1S is the standout choice. It offers stunning power, long range, and off-road capabilities that few EVs can match, making it the best luxury electric SUV for those who crave adventure and versatility.
On the other end of the spectrum, if you're looking for an affordable yet practical EV, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 delivers great range, ultra-fast charging, and a spacious, futuristic interior at a lower price point. It's one of the best electric SUVs for the money, proving that you don't have to spend six figures for a top-notch electric SUV experience.
No matter what you choose, the future of electric SUVs is brighter than ever. Whether you prioritize performance, sustainability, or practicality, the best option is the one that fits seamlessly into your life. The electric revolution is here. Are you ready to take the wheel?
