Best Small Electric Cars in 2025

Some of the best electric small cars are also the most practical, and 2025 is set to bring even more great options to the EV market. Small electric cars aren’t just more affordable. They’re also perfect for city driving. They’re easy to park, quick off the line, and make the most of their battery power. Regenerative braking helps recharge the battery as you drive, and the instant torque makes getting around town effortless.

Choosing one of the best small electric cars means you get all the benefits of an EV with fewer compromises. If you’re thinking about going electric, now is a great time to make the switch.

What Defines a Great Small Electric Car?

Great small electric cars should be affordable, practical, and efficient.

• They need enough battery range for daily driving — many newer models now go over 200 miles on a charge.
• Fast charging makes top-ups quick and easy, especially in cities where stations are common. If you’re dealing with a small battery, fast charging becomes even more important.
• A small electric car should also be easy to park but still have a roomy, well-designed interior.
• Features such as smart storage, modern infotainment systems, and low running costs make these cars even more desirable for those doing a lot of city and suburban driving.

Plus, they’re especially efficient in stop-and-go traffic, so you get the most out of every charge.

Best Budget Small Electric Cars of 2025

If you’re currently shopping for a car, these are the best small electric cars to consider.

Renault 5

The Renault 5 may have a classic name, but it’s one of the best small electric cars on the market. The entry-level model is well-made, but mid-range versions add premium features like a 10.3-inch display and 10.1-inch touchscreen. Unlike some rivals, it keeps physical climate controls for easier use.

The 52kWh battery provides up to 253 miles of range. 100kW fast charging boosts the battery from 15% to 80% in 30 minutes.

Hyundai Inster

The Hyundai Inster has a rugged look, but being a compact electric car, it’s affordable to run, especially with home charging. The standard battery offers 203 miles; the Long Range version boosts that to 229.

With soft suspension, the Inster smooths out rough roads, and its precise steering makes city driving easy. In 02 trim, sliding rear seats add extra legroom, though this small EV only comes with space for two in the back.

Citroën ë-C3

The Citroën ë-C3 proves you don’t have to spend a fortune to get one of the best small electric cars. It has an SUV-style design, practical space, and an official range of 200 miles with a price tag that’s within reach. It has a surprisingly premium interior, which creates a space that feels far more luxurious than its price suggests.

The 10.25-inch touchscreen isn’t the most advanced, but you still get everything you need to stay connected.

Dacia Spring

The Dacia Spring keeps things simple. It starts with a 44bhp electric motor that takes a relaxed 19.1 seconds to reach 62mph. For a bit more punch, the 64bhp version cuts that time to 13.7 seconds. It’s not exactly fast, but it’s on par with a small petrol city car.

Both versions use a 26.8kWh battery and offer 137 miles of range; however, the limited range goes up to 186 miles with careful city driving. Despite its low price, it comes well-equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen, electric windows, cruise control, and rear parking sensors as standard.

Small EVs That Offer More Than Just Affordability

If you’re looking for a small EV that goes beyond just saving money, these models stand out. Here are some of the best small electric cars that cost a little more.

Fiat 500e

Fiat has kept the 500’s retro charm while making it one of the best small electric cars. With a 42kWh battery, the claimed range on paper is 199 miles, though the real-world range is closer to 140 miles. There’s a cheaper 24kWh version, but its short range makes it less practical. With 117bhp, it’s quick and fun in the city, especially with its light steering, good grip, and stable handling.

Cupra Born

Few small EV models are as fun to drive as the Cupra Born. The entry-level model packs a 58kWh battery and offers up to 264 miles of range and enough power to hit 0-60mph in 7.0 seconds, which is quicker than many of its rivals. For more range and speed, there’s a 79kWh version that cuts the sprint time to 5.6 seconds, but the standard model is sufficient for most drivers.

Peugeot e-208

The Peugeot e-208 is a compact electric car that combines style, practicality, and a fun driving experience. It has a decent range, quick acceleration, and a well-built interior that feels a step above most in its class. Inside, the cabin is modern and inviting, with plenty of space for everyday use. On the road, it’s smooth and responsive.

BYD Dolphin

The BYD Dolphin may have a fun name, but it’s a serious electric car. With the larger battery, it offers up to 265 miles of range. The Boost model is quick, too, hitting 0-60mph in 7.5 seconds. It’s also comfortable and spacious, with soft suspension for a smooth ride and plenty of legroom in the back seat space. Add a decent-sized boot, and the Dolphin is both fun and practical.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Small EV

You already know what makes a good electric car. But when it comes to the best small electric cars, there’s more to consider.

Battery Range and Charging

The range of electric vehicles varies depending on the model and battery size. Entry-level options like the Dacia Spring offer around 140 miles per charge, but long-range models such as the Peugeot e-208 or Cupra Born can exceed 250 miles.

If you’re considering a small battery, fast charging is key. Many EVs can regain 80% charge in 20-30 minutes using rapid DC chargers. Even though home charging is the most convenient and affordable way to recharge overnight, an expanding public charging infrastructure is making longer trips easier. Ultra-fast chargers deliver 100+ miles of range in under 15 minutes.

Running Costs and Incentives

The best small electric cars are efficient, and they’re also cheaper to run than petrol and diesel cars. Electricity costs much less per mile than petrol or diesel, and EVs have fewer moving parts, which leads to lower maintenance expenses. For example, there’s no need for oil changes, exhaust repairs, or timing belt replacements.

The government supports the adoption of electric cars with incentives.

• For example, EV owners in the UK can benefit from lower Benefit-in-Kind tax rates. EVs are subject to a 2% BiK rate, which is significantly lower than the 20-37% rates for petrol or diesel vehicles.
• Also, electric car owners benefit from reduced congestion charges and free or discounted parking in some cities.

Practicality and Interior Space

Small electric cars are designed to be compact, but their interiors are often more spacious than expected. Models like the Hyundai Inster, for example, maximise space with flat floors and clever storage solutions. The BYD Dolphin and Renault 5 offer rear seats designed for adult passengers, not just children.

If boot space is a priority, the Cupra Born provides 385 litres of cargo capacity, as much as a Volkswagen Golf. Electric car buyers should also check seating flexibility, rear seat space, and underfloor storage, especially if the car will be used for more than just city commuting.

Flexible Financing Solutions for Buying a Small Electric Car with Carplus

Buying a small electric car doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Carplus offers different ways to pay for those who prefer spreading the cost or leasing a vehicle. We work with various dealerships to help you find a deal that fits your budget so you’ll be able to make the switch to an affordable electric car without the stress. With straightforward financing and fair rates, driving electric is more within reach than you might think. Let’s get started!

Conclusion

The best small electric cars of 2025 offer great choices for all kinds of drivers. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly EV, the Dacia Spring and Citroën ë-C3 keep costs low. The Fiat 500e and Renault 5 add stylish design, and the Cupra Born and Peugeot e-208 deliver extra performance.

With better batteries and more charging stations, small electric cars are now a practical and affordable alternative to petrol vehicles. They cost less to run, come with tax benefits, and have more models to choose from than ever. Hopefully, some of these choices have caught your interest, and you’re now one step closer to finding the right car for you.