- We’ve been seeing an influx of new models into the market, making it easier than ever to find the best small electric cars for navigating narrow streets and tight parking spots.
- These compact EVs are typically more efficient and affordable than larger electric SUVs, significantly lowering the total cost of ownership for urban drivers.
- If you are looking for the perfect blend of range, manoeuvrability, and affordability, these are our top picks for the best small electric cars in 2025.
What are the best small electric cars to buy this year?
Renault 5
Renault’s fully-electric and modernised iteration of its old-school 5 model is arguably one of the most desirable small cars on the market. Despite its small footprint, the EV platform’s flat interior floor pays dividends here, giving generous space to seat five adults whilst offering a segment-respectable boot space of 326 litres.
In the UK, the Renault 5 is also eligible for the Electric Car Grant, helping bring its starting price down to only £21,495. Across the rest of Europe (and before accounting for local subsidies), the 5 starts at around €25,000.
When specified with the larger 52kWh battery pack, the Renault 5 can also manage up to 250 miles between charges, allowing this EV to also take on much longer journeys despite its city car origins.
Citroen e-C3
Despite its SUV-looking shape, the Citroen e-C3 still remains a small electric car that’s perfectly suited to urban environments. Standing out from the rest of the Stellantis EV crowd, the e-C3 also benefits from tailored suspension tuning and seats that help make the e-C3 a relaxing car to drive both on short and longer journeys.
In the UK, the e-C3 is another car on this list that qualifies for a £1,500 discount through the Electric Car Grant scheme, bringing its starting price down to £20,595. Across the rest of Europe, the e-C3 starts at around €23,300 for the base model.
BYD Dolphin Surf
The BYD Dolphin Surf is a relatively new addition to the European electric car market, and with a starting price of £18,650 / €19,990, it’s also one of the cheapest electric cars on the market.
At this price, the Dolphin Surf competes with some of the more affordable small electric cars such as the Leapmotor T03 and Fiat Grande Panda Electric.
Despite its small size and price tag, this model still carries bags of technology like we’ve come to expect from BYD’s other EVs.
Hyundai INSTER
Hyundai’s INSTER is the most compact and most affordable EV currently sold by the brand. Despite its compact footprint, the uniquely boxy shape gives a feeling of space inside that makes it feel like you’re sitting in a much larger car. All four seats including the front can be folded flat, to help load larger items or even turn the INSTER into a makeshift camping vehicle.
Base pricing for the INSTER starts at around £23,755 / €23,900.
Kia EV2
Don’t be fooled by its upright SUV shape: The Kia EV2, recently revealed and arriving later this year, is the brand’s smallest and most affordable electric model yet. Pricing is rumoured to start at £25,000 / €30,000.
When specified with the larger capacity battery pack, the EV2 will be able to travel an impressive 278 miles between chargers, whilst the car will also support vehicle-to-grid, allowing costs of ownerships to be reduced further when the car is combined with a V2G energy tariff.
Looking for a slightly larger electric vehicle? Check out our guide to the best electric SUVs here.
