The Renault 5 has been named the best small electric car on sale in the UK, according to Autocar’s latest ranking of the class, which is based on ratings from its expert road test team. The French hatchback starts at £21,495 and offers a range of between 192 and 248 miles, placing it among the strongest all-round choices for drivers looking to move away from petrol superminis.
The ranking reflects a wider shift on British roads. Small electric cars are gaining share as costs fall, battery technology improves and government incentives make them more accessible. Autocar argues that these models are now credible alternatives to conventional small petrol cars rather than compromised niche products. The guide is intended to help buyers weigh up that choice, and it covers the models currently available to order in the UK.
The Fiat Grande Panda is priced at £20,995 and offers a range of 199 miles along with a 361-litre boot. Its retro styling sets it apart in a segment often dominated by anonymous designs, and it sits among the cheapest entries on the list. The Citroën ë-C3 is cited for providing comfort at a budget price, while the Hyundai Inster is praised for its clever ergonomics and practical packaging, which make the most of the space available in a small footprint.
For buyers prioritising distance, the MG 4 EV stands out. It costs £29,995 and offers between 251 and 338 miles of range, making it the strongest option on the list for long journeys and the one most likely to suit drivers who cover large annual mileages. The Mini Cooper E, priced at £25,465, provides between 179 and 250 miles of range and a 211-litre boot, combining the brand’s familiar character with electric running. The Nissan Micra EV, at £21,495, offers 196 to 257 miles and is noted for its mature ride quality, which gives it a settled feel that some rivals lack.
Autocar also points to upcoming competition. The Volkswagen ID Polo and the Fiat Grande Panda are flagged as rivals likely to shape the market further, suggesting the segment will become more crowded in the coming period. For existing owners and prospective buyers alike, that growing choice is expected to put continued pressure on pricing and specification across the class.
Readers should note that the range figures quoted are official WLTP claims rather than real-world results, and that real-world range is typically lower depending on temperature, driving style and load. Prices are UK starting prices and may change. Buyers are therefore advised to treat the figures as a starting point when comparing models and to check current pricing and specification before making a decision.