The longest-range electric cars 2026: top 10 revealed

Version 50 xDrive | Range 500 miles

The forthcoming Neue Klasse series of vehicles will help BMW reinvent itself — and the first, the all-new iX3, has got off to a blistering start by becoming our 2026 Car of the Year. It’s supremely comfortable, has acres of room for people and things, and swathes of tech that aids as opposed to stifles. 

But the crux of its credentials are in its numbers: primarily, a 500-mile range from a 108.7kWh (usable capacity) battery under official figures. The launch model – dubbed the 50 xDrive – also has a 463bhp dual-motor setup, which, paired with all-wheel drive, means 0-62mph is dispatched in 4.9secs. That’s quicker than any standard version of the Audi Q6 e-tron, and in a similar ballpark to the Tesla Model Y Long Range. 

The iX3 – which will also be the first BMW model built on 800V architecture – isn’t just efficient and quick, it’s adept in other key areas too. The brakes, for instance, feel natural in use and while the steering is light at lower speeds, it weighs up as you pick up the pace. It’s by no means a sports SUV akin to the Alpine A390 or Porsche Macan Turbo Electric, but as an all-rounder, the iX3 is head and shoulders above the competition. 

“The iX3 is the first BMW to get its new ‘soft stop’ feature, which uses the motors to remove that fore and aft rock you often feel as you come to a halt.” – Dan Jones, Senior reviewer

Read our in-depth BMW iX3 review

Version CLA 250+ EQ Tech Sport Edition 85kWh | Range 484 miles

In addition to replacing the current generation of petrol and hybrid models, the latest Mercedes CLA is the first to take on premium electric saloons, such as the BMW i4 and Tesla Model 3. Using the new Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) underpinnings, the new CLA 250+ is fitted with an 85kWh (usable capacity) battery. That’s smaller than that of most EVs on this list; however, thanks to a body that’s as aerodynamic as a Lotus Emeya, the CLA can still manage an official range of 484 miles.

While the CLA doesn't come with adaptive or air suspension, its soft setup is good at soaking up bumps but mostly prevents body lean around tight corners. There’s very little wind or road noise, which makes the new CLA the ideal motorway cruiser. Inside, there’s plenty of standard kit and plush materials. However, while the amount of boot and under-bonnet storage space is very reasonable, the sleek bodywork means rear passengers have limited space for the head and feet.

“It’s clear to me that ensuring a long range between charges has been at the front of everyone’s mind during the CLA’s development. As such, it has a sleek design and its two-speed gearbox, which is tech usually reserved for much more expensive cars, means it can use an efficient low-range gear at slower speeds.” – Dan Jones, Senior Reviewer

Read our in-depth Mercedes CLA review

Version EQS 450+ AMG Line Premium | Range 481 miles

One thing you immediately notice about the EQS luxury car is its distinctive shape, and that’s because it’s been designed to slip through the air with as little resistance as possible. It’s a similar story with the smaller EQE, and this is part of the reason why both cars have such long ranges.

In fact, with an official figure of 481 miles, the EQS 450+ is the top three longest range electric cars on this list – making it ideal for covering big distances.

Other factors in the EQS's favour include its refinement and effortless performance. The interior is also very luxurious, although the EQS suffers from the same slightly uncomfortable rear seating position as the EQE, making the regular Mercedes S-Class or BMW i7 a better choice for rear passengers.

“The EQS 450+ has offered exceptional range for a while now. I put this down to the the large 118kWh (usable) battery combined with some very aerodynamic bodywork.” – John Howell, Deputy Reviews Editor

Read our in-depth Mercedes EQS review

Version Long Range RWD | Range 466 miles

Since it first appeared in the UK back in 2019, the Tesla Model 3 has been a firm favourite among EV buyers. The car maker’s entry-level car has undergone a number of improvements in the meantime, however, meaning the Long Range RWD version now has an official range figure of 466 miles.

When you do eventually run out of charge in your Model 3, you can also take advantage of the extensive Tesla Supercharger network, plus it’s a surprisingly practical choice thanks to a considerably deep boot and rear passenger space. The all-wheel drive Performance model is also capable of sprinting from 0-62mph in around three seconds; although its range is considerably less at 354 miles. 

Not so good are the Tesla Model 3’s thick windscreen pillars, which restrict visibility, and the unusual interior, which forgoes the steering column stalks and reliance on the touchscreen for adjusting the mirrors and checking your speed takes some getting used to.

“While the entry-level car has a good enough range for most buyers, I can see why certain people would be more comfortable with the Long Range version. It's great if you want to get rid of as much range anxiety as possible.” – Oliver Young, Reviewer

Read our in-depth Tesla Model 3 review

Version Pallas 97kWh Long Range | Range 466 miles

The No8 is the flagship model in the DS range, rivalling respected electric executive saloons, such as the BMW i4 and Volkswagen ID 7.

There are three models in the No8 lineup, with the front-wheel drive ‘Long Range’ versions capable of covering the most miles. With a 97.2kWh (usable capacity) battery, the No8 can officially manage 466 miles from charger to charger – considerably more than the similarly-priced i4 eDrive35 (293 miles). 

The No8 offers similar performance to its two closest competitors and little in the way of road noise at speed. If you opt for adaptive suspension, which uses a camera to prepare for bumps, the ride is very settled, while the interior is comfortable. 

“While all models in the No8 range offer a relaxed driving style, I think the mid-range Etoile 97kWh Long Range version makes the most sense. If you opt for the smaller 19in wheels, you get the full 466-mile official range, plus there’s an adaptive suspension system that offers a very polished ride.” – Lawrence Cheung, New Cars Editor

Read our in-depth DS No 8 review

Version Performance | Range 464 miles

It’s no surprise to see the A6 Sportback e-tron on this list given that it’s the most aerodynamic production car Audi has yet made. Add to that the larger 94.9kWh (usable capacity) battery, and the Performance version has an official range of 464 miles – notably more than the BMW i5 (380 miles) and Mercedes EQE (429 miles).

The impressive range isn’t the only thing that makes the A6 e-tron a great choice for long-distance travel, because it provides a smooth ride when travelling at high-speed and low noise levels. You also get a sizeable boot and a good amount of standard equipment for your money.

That said, the A6 e-tron isn’t quite as enjoyable to drive as some of its rivals, whereas limited headroom for rear occupants means it’s hardly the most practical executive car, due to the A6’s sleek shape.

“The Audi A6 e-tron is a very appealing executive car, and not just for its long range. I find the suspension a touch too firm over potholes but it helps the A6 corner well.” – Lawrence Cheung, New Cars Editor

Read our in-depth Audi A6 e-tron review

Version Long Range | Range 441 miles

There’s a lot of choice available with the MG IM5: if you’re an adrenaline junkie, you can have a Performance model with 742bhp and a 0-62mph time of 3.2secs. That means this soft, comfortable cruiser is quicker off the line than a purpose-built BMW M3. Conversely, you can get yourself a Long Range version that serves up to 441 miles of range, under official figures, from a 96.5kWh (usable capacity) battery.

In other good news, the IM5 is also the fastest-charging EV on sale right now, accepting maximum speeds of up to 396kW. By comparison, an Audi e-tron GT won’t surpass 320kW, while the popular Kia EV6 tops out at 258kW. The best part is the IM5’s pricing structure: £39k for the entry-level car, £45k for the Long Range and £49k for the Performance. 

But tempting as this may all sound, there are some glaring holes with the IM5. Some rivals are more practical and quieter, and despite the scintillating straight-line pace, the mid-size saloon isn’t the most fun car for drivers. 

"It's great that the MG IM5 is so well equipped and can charge so fast, but I do worry about MG's reliability rating." – Will Nightingale, Reviews Editor

Read our in-depth MG IM5 review

Version Long Range Single Motor | Range 438 miles

Polestar is slowly but surely expanding its model line-up, with three new models set to land by 2028. But for now, the Polestar 3 is the firm's entry to the electric SUV class. 

It's an impressive offering, being sharp to drive, comfortable and competitively priced against key rivals. What's more, it trumps the BMW iX when it comes to official range, because the Long Range version can officially travel 438 miles, whereas the iX xDrive60 M Sport can manage 426 miles.

The interior design is very similar to the Volvo EX90 (both cars share the same underpinnings), so the dashboard is crisp, clear and very contemporary. There's an eclectic mix of materials, too, including plush leather (or wool, if you prefer), wood and repurposed aluminium trim.

“All versions of the Polestar 3 offer a long official range between charges. I'm drawn to the most powerful version, which produces 510bhp from its dual electric motors and can travel 395 miles between charges officially.” – Mark Pearson, Used Cars Editor

Read our in-depth Polestar 3 review

Version Electric 230 | Range 435 miles

Until recently, the longest-range electric cars were mostly luxury cars and luxury SUVs. Now, though, more workaday cars such as the Peugeot e-3008 offer very long official ranges.

Indeed, the e-3008 is based on new underpinnings that allow for multiple battery options. In this instance, the e-3008 has an enormous 97kWh (usable) battery that provides an official range of 435 miles, which is farther than the Renault Scenic (381 miles). Even the smaller 73kWh (usable capacity) battery version provides an official range of 326 miles. 

However, while the e-3008 appeals for its range and smart interior, it doesn't perform as well as the Scenic in areas such as comfort, space and practicality. It's also quite expensive, particularly with the larger battery fitted.

“If you want to regain lost energy when slowing down in the e-3008, there are three regenerative braking modes to choose from, with each being adjusted with the paddles behind the steering wheel. Unfortunately, though, I found that the highest setting isn’t strong enough to bring the car to a complete stop. This is something that’s possible in the Kia EV6.” – Lawrence Cheung, New Cars Editor

Read our in-depth Peugeot e-3008 review

Version Pro S Match | Range 434 miles

The ID 7 is Volkswagen's flagship electric car, and it rivals the BMW i5 and the Tesla Model 3.

Being an electric executive car, range and efficiency is very important, particularly on motorway journeys. As such, the ID 7 is available with a large 86kWh (usable) battery in Pro S form, which means it can travel 434 miles between charges under official figures. That's farther than a BMW i5 eDrive40 (380 miles) but less than the Tesla Model 3 Long Range (466 miles). A very aerodynamic shape helps to maximise the car's efficiency, too – much like the Mercedes EQS.

The Match element of the car's name refers to the trim level, and thankfully it's very well equipped. It comes with three-zone air conditioning, a head-up display, heated front seats (with massage function) and a heated steering wheel as standard. This is good to know, because the ID 7 is more expensive than Model 3, but cheaper than the i5.

“During our real-world winter range test, we used two VW ID 7s – both with the 77kWh (usable) battery. However, the main difference between the two cars was that one had a heat pump and the other didn't. This was proof to me of the value of this technology.” – Stuart Milne, Digital Editor

Read our in-depth Volkswagen ID 7 review

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