As the electric vehicle market continues to grow, critics have more options to choose from when ranking electric cars, and lists are often very different. New entrants to the market like Rivian impress with their power and long-range potential, while some critics are less enthusiastic about the market leader Tesla then … in the past. With more EVs on the market, it may come as a surprise that a recent list of the best electric cars from iSeeCars put recognizable, old models at the top.
Nissan leaf
According to iSeeCars, the Nissan Leaf is the third best electric car currently available. Nissan’s signature compact hatchback has been a staple of the EV market for over a decade, and while it may lack the power or style of newer EVs, there’s still a lot to love about the Leaf.
An aspect of the Nissan leaf what sets it apart from almost every other EV on the market is just how available and affordable it is. Used Leaf models can go for as little as $16,987 according to the iSeeCars listing.
Unlike some other EVs, the Nissan Leaf also still qualifies for the $7,500 federal tax credit. This price makes the Leaf a great option for a driver considering switching to an electric vehicle but still on the fence.
Newer Nissan Leaf models are known for their excellent safety, particularly due to the Nissan Safety Shield 360 system. This active safety suite includes features such as rear cross traffic alert and automatic emergency braking.
If there’s anything bland about the Nissan Leaf, it’s the EV’s maximum range. The latest Leaf models can travel up to an estimated 226 miles per charge, but some models have been known to go as little as 240 miles. While this is a drawback, the Leaf is still an excellent entry-level electric car.
Tesla model 3
Critics’ opinions on Tesla cars are much more mixed than they used to be, but iSeeCars ranked the Tesla model 3 as the second best electric car available today. This publication isn’t the only fan of the Model 3 either, as it holds the title of the best-selling electric car in the United States.
The design of the Tesla Model 3 has become iconic since the electric sedan first hit the market, but visual appeal is only a small part of what makes the Model 3 so great. The top-of-the-line Model 3 can travel up to 334 miles per charge, and even the base 420-mile range is impressive.
Driving the Tesla Model 3 should be exciting and responsive. What’s more, all the optional features only make this more true. The Performance trim in particular is known for its exhilarating driving experience.
However, unlike the Nissan Leaf, the Tesla Model 3 is not as well known for its affordability. While the lowest MRSP for a Model 3 is $46,990, iSeeCars says buyers are more likely to spend more than that.
Tesla Model S
Even the harshest Tesla critics have to tip their hats to the Tesla Model S’s unparalleled capabilities to date. Considered by many to be the best electric car ever made, iSeeCars ranked the Model S as the best electric car today.
Even the basics Tesla Model S is known for its performance, but the real highlight is the top-end version of the Tesla Model S Plaid, which is known for its yoke steering and almost unbelievable acceleration.
Range is another area where the Model S stands out from competitors, as some Model S trims can go over 400 miles per charge, which is exceptionally rare for EVs. Even base model S cars come close to the 400 mile range.
However, the Tesla Model S is an expensive car. While the Model 3 is pricey, the Model S is a full luxury sedan with a base price of $104,990. For the performance of the Plaid trim, a buyer can expect to pay significantly more than this already high price.
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