This article is part of a directory: Best Cars of 2024
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As we move past simple hybridization, EV cars are becoming all the rage, and the zippy electric hatchback car was one of the first forms these new evolutions took. They combine the practicality of the compact style with progressive powertrains, which allows them to deliver fuel economy figures while still retaining an affordable price tag. However, hatches have fallen out of favor as SUV crossovers carve out a larger place for themselves in the market. Therefore, there are not many hatchback models left anymore. Still, you need to know key facts about each contender, such as charging times, maximum range, and reliability ratings. We’ve done all the work for you so that finding the best electric hatchbacks of 2024 can be just as easy and carefree as driving them.

2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV
Base MSRP
$26,500
Fuel Economy
131/109 MPG
Horsepower
200 hp
2024 Nissan Leaf
Base MSRP
$28,140
Fuel Economy
123/99 MPG
Horsepower
147 hp
2023 Mini Cooper Electric Hardtop
Base MSRP
$29,900
Fuel Economy
119/100 MPG
Horsepower
181 hp
2024 Fiat 500e
Base MSRP
$32,500
Fuel Economy
TBC
Horsepower
117 hp

Characteristics of an Electric Hatchback

While the model list of the best electric hatchbacks 2022 isn’t particularly long, there are still some impressive names on it. In our top five are the following:

What to Consider Before Buying an EV Hatch

Unlike their plug-in hybrid cousins, every car in this segment relies completely on electricity for power. The powertrain configurations generally consist of a single battery pack connected to one or more motors, which power the wheels. So, what are the advantages of departing from traditional combustion engines?

Pros

Cons

Some of the Best Electric Hatchback Cars

While the model list of the best electric hatchbacks isn’t particularly long, there are still some impressive names on it. Here are some recent examples:

FAQs about Electric Hatchbacks

What is the best Electric Hatchback for 2024?

Small cars are all about value for money, and EVs double down on this philosophy. There aren’t many electric hatches left to choose from, but the Chevrolet Bolt still best embodies these strengths. Those with performance and aesthetics in mind may prefer the Mini Cooper EV, but the Chevy still wows with its 127/108/118 MPGe and maximum range of 259 miles. To top it all off, it's cheaper than it ever has been in 2022, and unless there are some upcoming EV hatches we haven’t heard about, it will be hanging onto its crown for another year.

Are there any affordable EV hatches?

Surprisingly enough, the cheapest electric hatch right now actually comes from a premium brand. As one of the most recent entrants into the EV world, the Mini Cooper Electric has a lot to prove, but its peppy performance and a perfect blend of retro and ultra-modern styling are hard to resist. It’ll set you back around $30k, but it isn’t the best value for that money. The interior is more cramped than competitors’ and its maximum range of 110 miles is laughable.

How long does it take to charge an EV battery?

Naturally, the time to fully charge a battery varies between makes, depending on a number of factors such as the type of charger and the size of the power pack. However, most of these automobiles achieve full power in around ten hours, give or take a couple of hours. Fast charging drops this substantially, with smaller batteries like those found on hatchbacks filling up in 15 - 30 min.