Now almost a fifth of new cars sold in the UK, electric cars have gone mainstream.More crucially, as rules limit the kind of vehicles allowed into major cities and we approach the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel models in 2035, their growth will only speed up.

More individuals are thus thinking about switching to an electric car, but how can you decide which ones belong on your shortlist? The main reason electric vehicles haven't sold in larger numbers historically is range anxiety, the worry you won't have enough energy to get to where you're going. Though many models go far longer than 200 miles between charges and many more are available, this is becoming less of a concern.

From our extensive testing—which covers every electric car available—the Tesla Model 3 ranks highest. To identify which new model offers the best all-around package, our knowledgeable team of road testers sets each one against a series of competitors.

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1 Tesla Model 3

Strengths

• Rapid and consistent charging available via Tesla's Supercharger network
• Long range of charges
• Oddly useful

Weaknesses

• Fiddly inside adjustments
• Not as exciting as the top gasoline-powered competitors in handling
• Vision is hampered by windscreen pillars.

The Tesla Model 3 has been one of our favourite electric cars since its 2019 introduction. Thanks to its most recent upgrade cycle, it is now the model to surpass not just among executive cars but also our preferred one.

Driven well, the Model 3 has sweeter handling than the competing Kia EV6 or Polestar 2. It's also shockingly pragmatic and speedy, very rightly in Performance guise.

Not everyone will find the near-complete absence of physical buttons and switches (even the indicator stalk has been replaced with haptic controls on the steering wheel) appealing, but the huge 15.4in centre screen is at least somewhat user-friendly.

Consider that the Model 3 is also reasonably priced; purchasing one provides access to the ultra-fast and handy Supercharger network of the brand and makes recommendations simple.

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2. BMW i4 

Strengths

• Brilliant performance
• Impressive official range
• Class-leading infotainment

Weaknesses

• Relatively expensive to buy outright
• M50 not as sharp as Tesla Model 3 Performance
• BMW lacks Tesla’s world-beating charging infrastructure

With certain variants able to hit 60mph from a standing start in under 3.8sec, the BMW i4 is quick. Particularly in slippery situations, the i4 is also more adept at downing its power than single-motor versions of the competing Polestar 2. Besides, it's rather quiet at high speeds and comfy on long distances.

Factor in a good range of up to 366 miles between charges, a wonderful infotainment system that's easy to get along with, as well as its comfortable cabin and it's a convincing alternative to a Tesla Model 3.

Still, it's worth considering that the Model 3 ensures access to the first-rate Tesla Supercharger network, which is vital if you drive a lot of highway miles. Furthermore, the i4 will cost more than most competitors whether you are purchasing on a finance plan or straight-forward purchase.

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3. Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo

Strengths

• Incredible point-to-point pace
• More spacious rear seats than in the coupé
• Wonderful interior quality

Weaknesses

• You might want to include a few reasonable alternatives.
• Range is not remarkable.
• Rivals not electrified have larger boots.

If you want something really fun to drive yet are looking for all the usual electric car benefits, the Porsche Taycan is the car for you.

Although range-topping Turbo versions have up to 751bhp – enough for a 0-62mph sprint pace of under 2.8sec, even entry level cars have 322bhp. With a very low centre of gravity and amazing manoeuvrability, the Taycan feels pretty agile. Regarding grip, the only Audi E-tron GT that fits you to the front wheels is the exactly same Mercedes EQS.

Not about range either; all Taycan versions should be able, in practical terms, get you 200 miles between charges.

Especially if you choose with the estate-like Cross Turismo type we are recommending here, the Taycan is astonishingly useful and very attractive inside too. For this reason, the Taycan is worth every cent even if it is not inexpensive.