What Are the Best Crossover EVs in 2023?
If you’re looking for an electric crossover, the choices are better than ever. Crossovers bring together the best elements of sedans and SUVs. They are low enough to feel like cars to drive with the high seating position and versatility that SUV drivers love – but without the off-road pretensions that add unnecessary weight, height, and air resistance.
Because they’re not designed to go off-road, many crossovers are available with a choice of two-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Going for two-wheel drive further improves efficiency and enhances range – three of our choices are indeed two-wheel drive versions, and we don’t think they’re any worse for it. With the exception of the compact Chevy Bolt, all of our choices also offer over 300 miles of EPA-estimated range.
Here are our best crossover electric cars for 2023.
Chevrolet Bolt EV
The Chevy Bolt is far and away, one of the most capable and well-rounded EVs on the market, full stop. It starts with range – thanks to a generous 65-kWh battery, the Bolt has range that rivals many more-expensive EVs. But its compact exterior dimensions, relatively low weight, and built-from-scratch EV architecture give it excellent efficiency. Because the Bolt uses its battery as a “skateboard,” its remarkably spacious cabin perches on a tiny footprint, making this a compact, maneuverable package that actually has big-car space as well as big-car range. We also like its interior, which is intelligently laid out, and all of the high-tech features are easy to use. If you’re willing to sacrifice a few miles of that excellent range, the Bolt EUV offers Increased ground clearance and some more attitude, as well.
EPA-estimated range: 259 miles
Starting MSRP before incentives: $26,500
Nissan Ariya Venture+ FWD
Nissan is one of the electric-car originals; the Leaf has been on sale for over a decade in America, so the brand knows its electrons. The new Ariya crossover was designed from the ground up as an EV – while it is similar in size to the popular Rogue, Ariya is far more spacious thanks its long wheelbase and electric powertrain. We really like the Ariya’s distinctive Japanese design, with a flowing roofline, and the choice of two-tone colors on the outside. The interior is also excellent. All Ariyas also come with the latest version of Nissan’s ProPilot Assist 2.0 suite of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, parking assistants, and other sensors and controls – making it easy and relaxing to drive in town. Compared to other similarly-priced crossovers, the Airya offers very fast Level 3 DC charging, and a range of over 300 miles according to the EPA, which is why it’s our current leader in this price category.
EPA-estimated range: 304 miles
Starting MSRP before incentives: $43,190
Ford Mustang Mach-E California Route 1
Ford’s new Mustang Mach-E is one of the hottest electric vehicles on the market right now. From the moment this electric sports crossover was announced, customer interest was very strong, and it’s not hard to see why. It looks great – low and sleek and sporty – while offering an amazing amount of space on its 117-wheelbase. Rear passengers have a lot of space to stretch out. We also really like the Mach-E’s controls. It has a giant screen for infotainment and climate control, but combined with physical switches for important functions. Maximum charging speed of 150 kW isn’t the best, but we really like the Mach-E’s driving experience. It handles beautifully and its regenerative braking isn’t too aggressive. Like almost every EV, the Mach-E has gotten more expensive for 2023, but its combination of features, performance, looks, and range make it tough to beat.
EPA-estimated range: 312 miles
Starting MSRP before incentives: $57,995
BMW iX xDrive50
We have to admit, we’re still getting used to the BMW iX’s controversial looks – it definitely doesn’t look like any BMW you’ve seen before, with its one-box shape, giant “grille” elements and skinny lights. But get past those looks and you find a remarkably well-rounded and capable crossover. The one-box shape is built from aluminum and carbon-fiber, to be as light as possible so that the iX can pack a massive 111.5-kWh battery, one of the biggest on the market. Even with all-wheel drive and 516 horsepower, plus a 0-60 time of just 4.4 seconds, the iX is rated by the EPA at up to 324 miles (depending on wheel choice), and it does even better in real-world conditions. But the best part of the iX is its interior. It has tons of space, as well as a design that doesn’t feel like a car interior at all, but more like a high-end living room, with big lounge chairs, a cinema-like dashboard screen, innovative recycled materials. This is one of the most clever, and most innovative, new products from the legacy German premium brands, and a more appealing vehicle than the Tesla Model X.
EPA-estimated range: 324 miles
Starting MSRP before incentives: $87,100
