The Best Small Electric Cars 2023

We’re a nation of small car lovers here in the UK, fitting the lifestyles of country and city dwellers alike. Renowned for being cheaper to run and easy to manoeuvre, it’s no wonder they are so popular. In 2023, small electric cars started to gain a lot of interest as the country and the automotive industry makes serious commitments to reducing emissions. 

But with so many makes and models out there, choosing the perfect electric car can be a daunting task. So, we’ve done the hard work for you and compiled a list of our top 10! 

10 Best Small Electric Cars 2023

Thinking about switching to a small electric car? We’ve compiled a list of some of the best out there:

1. FIAT 500e

The FIAT 500e needs no introduction. A classic car but electrified for the modern driver. FIAT have done an excellent job at retaining the classic 500 look with a few tweaks, such as a slightly larger body plus a whole new range of colours inspired by nature.

Inside, FIAT have added some modern touches, such as seat covers made from recycled marine plastics (500e Icon), a 10-inch infotainment system and the FIAT app lets you monitor the cars charging status. Or if you want to upgrade, the 500e La Prima trim gets you leather embossed seats, a panoramic sunroof and wireless charging. 

It’s got a decent range too. 145 miles in the real world means you can get from A – B without breaking a sweat. 

But don’t just take our word for it. The 500e has won several accolades including What Car’s Best Small Electric Car for the City in 2021 & 2022, and Best EV City Car at the Great British Fleet Awards 2021.

Fancy a tour? EV Expert Josh presents a walk around of the Fiat 500e La Prima model. Watch the video below!

What We Love

An unmistakably fun driving experience, with a decent range and quick charge times makes the FIAT 500e the perfect small car for the city.

2. Peugeot e-208

Image Source: peugeot.co.uk

Like the Fiat 500e, Peugeot have electrified a version of their popular 208. It’s a compact hatchback and the perfect introduction into electric cars. Distinct sporty looks and a bright colour range really packs a punch, though perhaps not everyone’s cup of tea. 

Inside, Peugeot have included next generation technology with a 3D i-Cockpit which includes a heads-up display, 10-inch touchscreen, plus personalised interior LED colours depending on the trim you choose. 

Suffering with range anxiety? Not a problem with Peugeot’s rapid charging with up to 100 miles in just 20 minutes with a 100kW rapid charger. 

What We Love

We love the smooth driving experience and the parking assistance makes it a breeze to park into any space. 

3. Honda e

Image Source: honda.co.uk

The Honda e is one of the most eye-catching small electric cars out there. You’ve probably seen them (well, you wouldn’t have heard them) on our roads with their distinct door mirrors which have been replaced with cameras, viewable from inside the car. Trust us, you do get used to it! 

Inside the main event is the full-width colour display across the dashboard, from door-to-door. It makes for a wonderful user experience with all the driving functions you could wish for. The seats are exceptionally comfortable, plus there is plenty of legroom for all passengers. 

The one main downside of the Honda e however is the small battery, which means that the real-world range is only about 104 miles. Fine for city dwellers making short trips, but probably not the best option if you plan lots of long-distance trips. 

What We Love

The Honda e is a dream to drive, it’s smooth to handle and it has a turning circle 10ft less than a London taxi.

4. Vauxhall Corsa-e

Image Source: vauxhall.co.uk

The Vauxhall Corsa-e is an excellent all-rounder – designed to appeal to drivers ‘who just want a normal car’. It’s takes on the classic hatchback look and has a functional interior. Brilliantly unremarkable. It might not have all the bells and whistles when comparing to the Honda e for example, but it packs a decent real-world range of 170 miles for an affordable price tag.   

Inside, the seats are comfortable and there is plenty of room for the driver and front passenger. There’s also a little more head height – so that’s good for passengers on the taller side. Ideally though, the rear seats are better suited for children or occasional use. 

What We Love

The Corsa-e is the perfect all-rounder for drivers who want an affordable car that can go the extra mile. It’s got far more advanced tech than its predecessors, making it a great driving experience. 

5. Renault ZOE

The Renault ZOE is one of the most well-known small electric cars on the market. It’s been over 10 years since the first launch of the original Renault ZOE and a lot has changed. 

Gone are the days of under 100 miles of range, the Renault Zoe GT Line + model has an impressive real-world range of 193 miles due to a larger 52kWh battery. 

The inside has also had a makeover. Stylish interiors have been produced using recycled upholstery, there’s an upgraded infotainment system with a 9.3 inch tablet style interface, plus there’s plenty of space for front seat passengers. 

It’s comfortable to drive, albeit a little bouncy at times. Renault have also added ‘B’ mode to deliver one-pedal-driving to help save on battery when on the go. 

What We Love

The ZOE is one of the most affordable small electric cars on the market, with one of the highest real-world ranges – perfect for families who need to drive a little further before charging. 

6. MINI Electric Cooper

Image Source: mini.co.uk

The MINI Electric delivers the same feel-good drive that the original is famous for, but this time it’s electric! 

There are three trim levels, L1, L2 and L3 which as standard come with an 8-inch touchscreen, cruise control and Apple CarPlay. Each level comes with a few additional features – such as heated seats, self-parking system and a panoramic sunroof. 

The main concern for prospective MINI Electric drivers is the modest real-world range of 115 miles. However, depending on your lifestyle and driving habits this may suit you fine – particularly if you can easily charge up from home. 

What We Love

We think this is the perfect small electric car for the city – a joy to drive. MINI have really made a name for themselves for their high-quality premium feeling interiors, and the Electric is no exception. 

7. Nissan LEAF

Image Source: nissan.co.uk

One of the original modern day EVs, capturing the world’s attention when first released. Now in its second generation, the Nissan LEAF is an excellent all-rounder. The latest versions are faster, bigger and have a much larger real-world range of 140 miles or 199 miles if you opt for the e+ N-Connecta trim. 

The LEAF is comfortable to drive – particularly on the motorways. It can handle potholes well and there are minimal wind and road noises. It also features one-pedal driving (the LEAF started this trend!) which helps to reserve battery power. 

Inside, the LEAF comfortably fits five and maintains a high-end feel without the hefty price tag. Four way reversing camera give you a bird’s eye view of the car when you’re parked – great for parking in those tight spaces around the city!

What We Love

We think the LEAF is a perfect all-rounder, a great introduction into electric cars for an affordable price. 

8. Renault Twizy

Image Source: renaultgroup.com

The Renault Twizy is unique to say the least. A two-seated microcar (or quadricycle technically!) with open sides is as quirky as they come, measuring at just 2.3 over meters in length. Certainly not a great small electric car for families but could be right for short personal transportation in urban environments. 

Inside, space is very limited as you’d expect. Two seats, one behind the other is pretty much the extent of the Twizy. 

What We Love

If you often travel short distances alone in the city – then the Twizy could just be the perfect small electric car for you. 

9. Citroen Ami

Image Source: Citroen 

A new contender for 2023, the Citroen Ami has made our top 10 list! And how couldn’t it, being one of the smallest electric cars on the market at just 2.41m long, 1.39m wide and 1.5m high. Okay, well technically it’s a large quadricycle – but we still think it deserves a mention here. 

The Ami is made for the city – performing excellently in traffic and tight parking spaces. But its tiny size, means it also has a tiny battery. With just 46 miles between charging, you won’t get too far without needing a boost. We imagine, the Ami is best suited to those who make very short journey’s and have a home charge point. And possibly another car for when you need to travel further afield.  

What We Love

We love the Ami’s quirky looks and character. Great for those who want an upgraded motorbike and don’t need to travel far!

10. Volkswagen e-Up!

Image Source: volkswagen.com

The e-Up! is an electrified version of VW’s standard Up. It’s a great small electric car that’s cheap to run and easy to drive. It’s basic, there are certainly no flashy features to write home about. But for the price – it’s an excellent starter EV. 

Its small dimensions mean it’s great for navigating busy streets, plus it’s a breeze to park. With 125 real world miles – it’s probably best suited for the city. 

What We Love

The e-Up is an easy car to drive and a great choice if you’re looking for a city runabout. 

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