Best Electric SUVs Worth Considering In 2026
The electric SUV market has evolved dramatically as we enter 2026, with manufacturers across the automotive industry embracing electrification to meet both consumer demand and government regulations. From compact crossovers perfect for urban driving to spacious seven-seater family vehicles, there's now an electric car to suit virtually every lifestyle and budget.
This comprehensive guide explores 10 of the best electric SUVs for 2026, spanning various price points and sizes to help you make an informed decision. We'll examine crucial factors including size, storage capacity, family suitability, electric car range, charging infrastructure compatibility, and crucially, salary sacrifice costs.
Whether you're a first-time EV buyer curious about why you should switch to an electric car, or looking to upgrade your current vehicle through The Electric Car Scheme, this guide provides the detailed information you need to find the perfect electric SUV for your requirements.
Tesla Model Y
| Model | Range | Efficiency | Boot Capacity | Salary Sacrifice Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tesla Model Y | 373 miles | 4.1 miles/kWh | 425 litres | From £487 per month |
The Tesla Model Y remains the UK's most popular electric SUV in 2026, and for good reason. Following the successful 2025 refresh (codenamed "Juniper"), this mid-size SUV continues to set the benchmark for electric vehicle performance, technology, and value through salary sacrifice schemes.
The Model Y's impressive storage capacity includes a 117-litre front trunk (or "frunk") plus a spacious 425-litre boot, providing ample room for weekly shopping, luggage, or even your four-legged family members. This practical cargo space makes it one of the best electric family cars available today.
Three powertrains are available: Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive, Long Range All-Wheel Drive, and Performance All-Wheel Drive. The Long Range variants deliver up to 373 miles on a single charge using the WLTP testing cycle, effectively eliminating range anxiety for most UK driving scenarios. This makes the Model Y equally suitable for daily commutes and weekend getaways.
The Model Y's compact yet spacious dimensions make it easy to navigate urban environments while offering comfortable seating for five adults, with an optional seven-seat configuration available for larger families. One of the vehicle's key advantages is access to Tesla's extensive Supercharger network, providing fast and reliable public charging options across the UK and Europe.
Through The Electric Car Scheme's salary sacrifice programme, employees can access the Model Y from just £487 per month based on a 40% taxpayer earning £50,000 annually, with 10,000 miles per annum over a three-year lease. This represents significant savings compared to traditional leasing or purchasing, thanks to the current 3% Benefit-in-Kind rate for electric vehicles.
Hyundai Ioniq 5
| Model | Range | Efficiency | Boot Capacity | Salary Sacrifice Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Ioniq 5 | 238 - 354 miles | 3.4-3.9 miles/kWh | 520 litres | From £398 per month |
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 continues to turn heads in 2026 with its distinctive retro-futuristic design, characterised by sharp angles, pixel-LED lighting, and a truly unique road presence. As one of the most efficient electric cars in its class, it competes directly with the Volkswagen ID.4 and Ford Mustang Mach-E.
Space is where the Ioniq 5 truly excels. The boot offers an impressive 520 litres of capacity, expandable to 1,580 litres with the second-row seats folded flat. Additionally, a 57-litre frunk provides convenient storage for charging cables and emergency equipment. These capacities vary slightly depending on trim level, but all variants offer exceptional practicality.
Range capabilities depend on your chosen specification, spanning from 238 miles in the entry-level model to an impressive 354 miles in the top-spec Long Range variant. Two battery options are available - 63kWh and 84kWh - paired with either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations. The vehicle supports ultra-rapid 800V charging technology, enabling 10-80% charges in just 18 minutes at suitable chargers.
The Ioniq 5's interior is a masterclass in thoughtful design for families. The innovative sliding centre console features two large cupholders alongside generous storage compartments and trays. Rear passengers benefit from abundant headroom and legroom thanks to the flat floor design, meaning even adults can sit comfortably in the middle seat – a rarity in this segment.
Through Hyundai salary sacrifice schemes, the Ioniq 5 is available from £398 per month for 40% taxpayers, making it an affordable option for those seeking a stylish and practical electric SUV. The package includes comprehensive insurance, maintenance, and breakdown cover, representing excellent value when compared to traditional vehicle finance.
Kia EV9
| Model | Range | Efficiency | Boot Capacity | Salary Sacrifice Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kia EV9 | 349 - 315 miles | 2.9 miles/kWh | 333 litres | From £751 per month |
The Kia EV9 stands as Kia's flagship electric offering and one of the most impressive seven-seater electric cars available in 2026. Following its record-breaking 2024 launch year with over 22,000 units sold, and its "Best Large Car" award at the Autocar Awards, the EV9 has firmly established itself as the go-to choice for larger families seeking electrification.
Three trim levels are available: Air, GT-Line, and GT-Line S, with ranges spanning from 315 to 349 miles depending on specification and driving conditions. The EV9's impressive fast charging capability means you can add 60 miles of range in just six minutes using a 350kW charger, whilst achieving 10-80% charge in under 30 minutes – perfect for longer family journeys.
The six-seater configuration, available on the top-specification GT-Line S, offers unique advantages including swiveling middle seats that facilitate easier third-row access and enable a conference-style seating arrangement – ideal for family activities or entertaining rear passengers. However, prospective buyers should note that manoeuvring these seats requires some effort.
Alternatively, the seven-seater configuration provides maximum practicality with an additional seat and adjustable legroom throughout. The flat floor ensures ample foot space for all passengers, whilst the outer seats offer impressive comfort and adjustability. Storage is generous, with 333 litres available with all seats in use, expanding to 828 litres with the third row folded, and a cavernous 1,818 litres with both rear rows stowed.
The EV9 represents a significant investment through salary sacrifice electric car schemes, starting from £751 per month for 40% taxpayers. However, for families requiring genuine seven-seater practicality, extensive range, and cutting-edge technology, the EV9 delivers exceptional value whilst benefiting from the low 3% BiK rate for electric vehicles.
Porsche Macan Electric
| Model | Range | Efficiency | Boot Capacity | Salary Sacrifice Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Porsche Macan | 381 - 399 miles | 2.9 - 3.6 miles/kWh | 480 - 540 litres | From £958 per month |
The fully electric Porsche Macan continues its award-winning streak into 2026, having secured Top Gear's Performance SUV of the Year award. This represents a complete reinvention of Porsche's best-selling SUV, delivering the brand's characteristic driving dynamics in an all-electric package with genuine everyday practicality.
Two variants are available: the Macan 4 and the range-topping Turbo, both featuring dual-motor all-wheel drive systems. The Macan 4 produces 402 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, whilst the Turbo unleashes an impressive 630hp and 833 lb-ft. These figures substantially outperform the combustion-powered Macan models they replace, with the Turbo achieving 0-62mph in just 3.3 seconds.
Range capabilities are impressive for a performance-focused SUV, with the single-motor variant delivering up to 399 miles, whilst the Macan 4 offers 381 miles. The vehicle supports ultra-rapid charging at up to 270kW, enabling 10-80% charges in just 21 minutes – amongst the fastest charging times in the segment. Home charging at 11kW takes approximately 10 hours for a full charge.
Practicality hasn't been sacrificed for performance. The boot offers between 480-540 litres depending on specification, sufficient for four large suitcases. The boot floor sits flush with the load lip, simplifying loading and unloading. Additionally, an 84-litre "frunk" provides convenient storage for charging cables and smaller items. The rear seats split 40/20/40, offering flexible cargo configurations.
The interior exemplifies Porsche's attention to detail, with premium materials throughout, supportive sports seats, and an advanced infotainment system featuring multiple high-resolution displays. The driving position is commanding yet sporty, with all controls perfectly positioned for an engaging driving experience.
Through salary sacrifice schemes for electric cars, the Macan Electric is available from £932 per month for 40% taxpayers. Whilst positioned at the premium end of the market, the combination of Porsche performance, everyday usability, and the 3% BiK rate makes it an attractive option for driving enthusiasts seeking an engaging electric SUV.
Polestar 3
| Model | Range | Efficiency | Boot Capacity | Salary Sacrifice Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Polestar 3 | 348 - 390 miles | 2.2 - 2.6 miles/kWh | 484 litres | From £481 per month |
The Polestar 3 established itself as a formidable contender in the premium electric SUV segment following its 2024 UK launch. Sharing its advanced platform with the Volvo EX90, the Polestar 3 delivers on its promise: "Yes, it's an SUV. And it drives like a sports car." With a 0-60mph time of 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 130mph, performance is genuinely exhilarating.
Two powertrains are offered for 2026: the Long Range Dual Motor and the Performance variant. The entry-level model achieves up to 390 miles of WLTP range, whilst the Performance specification delivers 348 miles. Both variants support ultra-rapid charging at up to 250kW, enabling 10-80% charges in approximately 30 minutes at suitable public charging stations.
Boot capacity measures 484 litres, expandable to 1,411 litres with the rear seats folded. Whilst there's no frunk, the boot features a deep underfloor storage compartment and an innovative moveable floor that can split in half – perfect for organizing charging cables and equipment. This thoughtful design maximizes usable space within the vehicle's sporty proportions.
The interior showcases Scandinavian minimalism at its finest, with sustainable materials throughout and Polestar's signature vertical infotainment display. Three rear seats provide the same level of support and comfort as the front seats – a rare achievement in this segment – whilst the completely flat floor ensures comfortable leg positioning for all passengers. The two outer rear seats can be specced with heating and individual temperature controls.
Technology in the Polestar 3 is cutting-edge, incorporating Google's Android Automotive operating system with built-in Google Maps, Google Assistant, and access to apps via the Google Play Store. Advanced driver assistance systems include Pilot Assist, blind spot monitoring, and cross-traffic alert. The optional Pilot Pack adds enhanced autonomous driving capabilities.
ThroughPolestar salary sacrifice schemes, the Polestar 3 is available from £697 per month for 40% taxpayers, representing strong value in the premium segment. For those seekinga driver-focused electric SUV that doesn't compromise on everyday practicality, the Polestar 3 delivers a compelling package.
Renault Scenic
| Model | Range | Efficiency | Boot Capacity | Salary Sacrifice Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renault Scenic | Up to 379 miles | 3.9 miles/kWh | 545 litres | From £456 per month |
The Renault Scenic E-Tech continues to impress in 2026 following its Geneva Motor Show Car of the Year award in 2024. Representing a complete reinvention of Renault's popular family model, the Scenic has evolved from a practical MPV into a stylish electric SUV offering exceptional range and versatility.
Four specifications are available: Techno Comfort Range, Techno Long Range, Esprit Alpine Long Range, and Iconic Long Range. The flagship Long Range variants deliver up to 379 miles of WLTP range from the 87kWh battery pack – amongst the longest ranges available in the mainstream electric SUV segment. This extensive range eliminates charging anxiety for most UK drivers.
Power output reaches 220hp across Long Range models, providing brisk acceleration and confident overtaking capabilities. Charging is impressively quick, with support for up to 150kW DC rapid charging, enabling 10-80% charges in approximately 35 minutes. Standard 11kW AC charging allows convenient overnight charging at home, with 22kW three-phase charging optional for faster replenishment.
The boot provides 545 litres of luggage space – more than adequate for family holidays and weekly shopping. With the rear seats folded, capacity expands to an impressive 1,490 litres. A large underfloor storage area accommodates charging cables and other equipment, whilst the flat loading floor simplifies loading and unloading. The only drawbacks are the slightly high bumper lip and the absence of a frunk.
Interior space is generous for families. Front seats offer excellent comfort and adjustability, whilst rear passengers enjoy substantial legroom and headroom sufficient for three adults. Clever storage solutions include large door bins, a spacious centre console, and useful areas under the armrest. Rear storage features door bins and pockets on the front seatbacks. Wide-opening doors facilitate easy installation of child seats, making it ideal for young families.
The cabin design is modern and attractive, featuring Renault's OpenR infotainment system displayed on a vertical 12-inch touchscreen. Google's Android Automotive provides seamless smartphone integration and voice control. The digital instrument cluster provides clear information, whilst ambient lighting creates a pleasant atmosphere. Build quality is solid throughout, with soft-touch materials and thoughtful design details.
Through Renault salary sacrifice schemes, the Scenic E-Tech is available from £456 per month for 40% taxpayers, representing excellent value considering its extensive range and family practicality. For those seeking an affordable electric family SUV with class-leading range, the Scenic deserves serious consideration.
Mercedes EQE SUV
| Model | Range | Efficiency | Boot Capacity | Salary Sacrifice Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mercedes EQE SUV | Up to 410 miles | 3.2 miles/kWh | 520 litres | From £798 per month |
The Mercedes EQE SUV brings the luxury and refinement of the EQE saloon into a more practical, family-friendly package for 2026. Sitting between the compact EQA and the flagship EQS SUV in Mercedes' electric lineup, the EQE SUV offers an compelling blend of technology, comfort, and Mercedes' renowned build quality.
Multiple powertrain options are available, ranging from the rear-wheel-drive EQE 300 to the performance-oriented AMG EQE 53 4MATIC+. The standard EQE 350+ delivers up to 410 miles of range from its 90.6kWh battery pack – one of the longest ranges in the premium electric SUV segment. This extensive range makes the EQE SUV ideal for longer journeys whilst maintaining the flexibility for daily commuting.
Charging capabilities are impressive, with support for up to 170kW DC rapid charging, enabling 10-80% charges in approximately 32 minutes. The vehicle also supports 11kW AC charging as standard, with optional 22kW three-phase charging for faster home charging where available.
The boot provides 520 litres of luggage capacity, expandable to 1,675 litres with the rear seats folded. Whilst there's no frunk, the boot features a powered tailgate, adjustable floor height, and useful storage compartments. The rear seats split 40/20/40, offering flexible cargo arrangements for various load requirements.
Interior luxury is where the EQE SUV truly shines. The cabin features Mercedes' latest MBUX Hyperscreen system (available on higher trims), encompassing three displays under a single curved glass panel stretching across the entire dashboard. Materials are exquisite throughout, with multiple leather and trim options available. The standard Energizing Comfort system coordinates various vehicle functions to enhance occupant wellbeing during journeys.
Rear passengers benefit from generous headroom and legroom, with comfortable seating for three adults. Climate control zones, heated seats, and ambient lighting are available throughout. The elevated seating position provides excellent visibility whilst maintaining Mercedes' characteristic ride comfort through sophisticated air suspension.
Through Mercedes salary sacrifice programmes, the EQE SUV is available from £798 per month for 40% taxpayers, positioning it competitively against rivals like the BMW iX and Audi e-tron. For those seeking premium comfort combined with extensive range, the EQE SUV represents an excellent choice.
Hyundai Ioniq 9
| Model | Range | Efficiency | Boot Capacity | Salary Sacrifice Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Ioniq 9 | Up to 385 miles | 3.1 miles/kWh | 620 litres | From £712 per month |
The Hyundai Ioniq 9, launched in late 2025 and now fully available in the UK for 2026, represents Hyundai's flagship electric offering and largest EV to date. This impressive seven-seater SUV builds on the success of the Ioniq 5, offering families genuine space, comfort, and Hyundai's proven 800V electrical architecture.
The Ioniq 9 is available with two battery options: a standard 110.3kWh pack delivering up to 385 miles of range, and a smaller 76kWh variant offering approximately 270 miles. Both powertrains benefit from the advanced E-GMP platform, enabling ultra-rapid charging capabilities. The larger battery can charge from 10-80% in approximately 24 minutes using a 350kW charger – perfect for minimizing stops on longer family journeys.
Space is the Ioniq 9's defining characteristic. Available in six or seven-seat configurations, it provides genuinely usable third-row seating suitable for adults, not just children. The boot offers 620 litres with all seats in use, expanding to 1,323 litres with the third row folded, and a massive 1,899 litres configured as a five-seater. This places it amongst the most spacious electric SUVs available.
The interior showcases premium materials and thoughtful design throughout. The six-seat configuration features captain's chairs in the second row with a central walkthrough, facilitating easy third-row access. Seven-seat variants provide a traditional bench in the second row. All seats feature individual USB-C charging ports, whilst front and second-row occupants benefit from heated and ventilated seats (depending on trim level).
Technology features include dual 12-inch displays, a sophisticated heads-up display, and Hyundai's latest driver assistance systems. Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability enables the Ioniq 9 to power external devices or even provide emergency power to your home, adding practical value beyond transportation.
The exterior design is distinctively modern, featuring Hyundai's Parametric Pixel LED lighting signature carried over from the Ioniq 5 and 6. Despite its substantial size, the aerodynamic form helps maximize efficiency and range. The elevated seating position provides commanding visibility, whilst the long wheelbase ensures a smooth, comfortable ride.
Through Hyundai salary sacrifice programmes, the Ioniq 9 is available from £712 per month for 40% taxpayers, positioning it competitively against the Kia EV9 and Mercedes EQE SUV. For larger families requiring maximum space without compromising on electric vehicle efficiency, the Ioniq 9 represents an excellent choice.
Volvo EX90
| Model | Range | Efficiency | Boot Capacity | Salary Sacrifice Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Volvo EX90 | Up to 375 miles | 3.0 miles/kWh | 655 litres | From £823 per month |
The Volvo EX90 represents Volvo's flagship electric SUV for 2026, offering Scandinavian luxury, cutting-edge safety technology, and impressive seven-seater practicality. As Volvo's electric successor to the popular XC90, the EX90 combines the brand's renowned safety credentials with sustainable electric mobility.
Built on the same advanced platform as the Polestar 3, the EX90 delivers up to 375 miles of range from its 111kWh battery pack, making it ideal for longer family journeys without frequent charging stops. The vehicle supports charging speeds up to 250kW, enabling 10-80% charges in approximately 30 minutes at suitable rapid charging stations.
Space and versatility define the EX90 experience. The boot offers 655 litres of capacity with all seven seats in use, expanding to an impressive 1,915 litres with the third row folded. When configured as a five-seater, the cargo area grows to a cavernous 2,130 litres – amongst the largest in any premium electric SUV. This makes the EX90 particularly suitable for active families or those requiring substantial cargo capacity.
The interior showcases Volvo's commitment to sustainable luxury, featuring extensively recycled materials whilst maintaining the premium feel the brand is known for. Seven adults can travel in genuine comfort, with heated seats available throughout and individual climate controls for all three rows. The third-row seats are notably more spacious than many competitors, making them suitable for adults on shorter journeys.
Safety technology in the EX90 is class-leading, incorporating advanced driver assistance systems, interior cameras that can detect driver drowsiness, and comprehensive passive safety features. The vehicle's sophisticated sensor suite includes LiDAR technology, providing enhanced detection capabilities for obstacle avoidance and autonomous driving features.
Through Volvo salary sacrifice schemes, the EX90 is available from £823 per month for 40% taxpayers, positioning it as a premium option that competes directly with the Kia EV9 and BMW iX. For families seeking the ultimate combination of space, safety, and sustainability, the EX90 represents an compelling choice.
How To Choose The Right Electric SUV For You
Selecting the right electric SUV is a significant decision with long-term implications for your daily life, family activities, and finances. Your vehicle will play a crucial role in your routine, impacting everything from your commute to weekend adventures. Careful consideration of your needs and preferences is essential before making this investment.
Budget & Salary Sacrifice Savings
Determine your price range and explore options within that bracket. Through The Electric Car Scheme's salary sacrifice programme, you can save 20-50% compared to traditional leasing or purchasing, thanks to the current 3% Benefit-in-Kind rate for electric vehicles. This means premium models become significantly more affordable.
Calculate your potential savings using our salary sacrifice calculator to understand your realistic budget. Remember that salary sacrifice packages typically include insurance, maintenance, breakdown cover, and road tax, providing excellent value and peace of mind.
Range & Driving Requirements
Assess your typical daily commute and long-distance travel needs. Modern electric SUVs offer ranges from 200 to over 400 miles, effectively eliminating range anxiety for most drivers. Consider:
Your daily mileage (the average UK driver covers just 20 miles per day)
Frequency of longer journeys
Access to home charging facilities
Availability of workplace charging
Public charging infrastructure along your regular routes
For those concerned about charging access, explore how to charge an electric car without a driveway or learn about The Charge Scheme, which enables salary sacrifice for EV charging costs.
Family Size & Space Requirements
Consider both your current family situation and potential future needs:
Number of regular passengers
Boot capacity for shopping, luggage, or sports equipment
Seven-seater requirements for larger families
Charging Infrastructure & Practicality
Evaluate your charging options:
Feasibility of installing a home charger
Types of home chargers suitable for your property
Best times to charge for cost efficiency
Access to workplace charging
Proximity to public charging networks
Test Drives & Real-World Experience
Always schedule test drives to experience:
Vehicle size and maneuverability
Comfort and seating position
Rear passenger space
Boot access and capacity
Technology interfaces
Driving dynamics and performance
Visibility and parking ease
Visit The Electric Car Scheme's website to explore our full range of available electric SUVs and use our quote tool to calculate your personalised savings through salary sacrifice.
Total Cost of Ownership
Consider the complete financial picture:
Government incentives and grants
Discover how much it costs to run an electric car compared to petrol alternatives, and explore the comprehensive cost comparison between electric and petrol vehicles.
Environmental Considerations
If sustainability is important to you, research:
Manufacturer's environmental credentials
Battery recycling programmes
Use of sustainable materials
Overall carbon footprint
Company ESG policies
By carefully evaluating these factors and taking advantage of salary sacrifice electric car schemes, you can ensure you choose an electric SUV that perfectly suits your lifestyle and driving needs whilst maximizing your financial savings.
Choosing Your Next SUV Through Salary Sacrifice
The electric SUV market in 2026 offers unprecedented choice, combining practicality, performance, and sustainability across all price points. From the affordable Volvo EX30 starting at £369/month to the luxurious Porsche Macan Electric at £932/month through salary sacrifice, there's genuinely an electric SUV for every requirement and budget.
The Electric Car Scheme makes premium electric SUVs accessible through salary sacrifice, enabling employees to save 20-50% compared to traditional leasing whilst benefiting from the current 3% BiK rate. With comprehensive packages including insurance, maintenance, and breakdown cover, salary sacrifice represents the most cost-effective route to electric SUV ownership in 2026.
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Last updated: 17/11/2025
Our pricing is based on data collected from The Electric Car Scheme quote tool. All final pricing is inclusive of VAT. All prices above are based on the following lease terms; 10,000 miles pa, 36 months, and are inclusive of Maintenance and Breakdown Cover. The Electric Car Scheme’s terms and conditions apply. All deals are subject to credit approval and availability. All deals are subject to excess mileage and damage charges. Prices are calculated based on the following tax saving assumptions; England & Wales, 40% tax rate. The above prices were calculated using a flat payment profile. The Electric Car Scheme Limited provides services for the administration of your salary sacrifice employee benefits. The Electric Car Scheme Holdings Limited is a member of the BVRLA (10608), is authorised and regulated by the FCA under FRN 968270, is an Appointed Representative of Marshall Management Services Ltd under FRN 667174, and is a credit broker and not a lender or insurance provider.
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