Ioniq, Bolt, Leaf give buyers alternatives toModel 3
The Tesla Model 3 has captured the interest of both mainstream car buyers and electric vehicle enthusiasts alike. The Model 3’s combination of sleek styling, long range and semiautonomous driving features gives theModel 3 an “it” factor that’s hard to resist.
But with a base price of $35,000, limited availability, and many of its most
2018 NISSAN LEAF
The Nissan Leaf was a game-changer when it debuted in 2011, so hopes are high for the redesigned 2018 model. The Leaf still doesn’t have the long-range abilities of theModel 3 and Chevrolet Bolt, but its low base price gives it a level of attainability that most competitors can’t match. In addition to its new look, the 2018 Leaf boasts a larger battery pack that increases maximum range from 107 miles to an estimated 150 miles.
Amore powerful electric motor bumps output from 107 to 147 horsepower for improved performance.
Two new features set the Leaf apart from its rivals. The first is called e-Pedal. It allows drivers to bring the Leaf to a complete stop merely by lifting off the desirable features on the options list, the Model 3 isn’t for everybody.
For buyerswho are interested in an electric vehicle but don’t want to wait around for the Model 3, several great alternatives are available now at a similar price point.
Somehave shorter ranges while others lack the latest driver assistance features, but if you’re interested in an electric car that won’t take as long to arrive, these EVs are worth a look. accelerator. It makes for a one-pedal driving experience that eases fatigue in heavy traffic.
The second feature, called ProPilot Assist, combines several driver aids to provide a semiautonomous driving experience.
Available on SV and SL models, ProPilot Assist maintains a set distance between the Leaf and the car in front, keeps the Leaf centered in its lane and steers through corners. Nissan notes that it’s called ProPilot “assist,” so drivers still need to keep their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road.
Base price: $30,875 Range: 150miles (manufacturer estimate)
Recharge time: 8 hours on a 240-volt charger
Availability: On sale early 2018 nationwide
2017 CHEVROLET BOLT
The Chevrolet Bolt EV is the Model 3’s closest rival. Not only can it travel 238 miles on a single charge — besting the standardModel 3’s estimated range by 18 miles — it’s also one of the quickest EVs on this list, needing just 6.8 seconds to hit 60 mph from a dead stop. It’s priced similarly to
2017 HYUNDAI IONIQ
Like the Leaf, theHyundai IoniqEVoffers solid range at a low starting price. It also has upscale cabin materials, which feel more substantial and durable than what others in the class use. The restrained interior also has a practical design, a bonus theModel 3, but the Bolt EV has a solid list of features for that price and is widely available at Chevrolet dealers nationwide.
■ Base price: $37,495 ■ Range: 238miles (EPA estimate)
■ Recharge time: 9 hours on a 240-volt charger
■ Availability: On sale now nationwide for buyers who want an EV that still feels like a conventional car.
Base price: $30,335 Range: 124 miles (EPA estimate)
Recharge time: 4 hours on a 240-volt charger
Availability: On sale now, California only
2017 VOLKSWAGEN E-GOLF
The Volkswagen e-Golf takes the Golf’s impressive handling and solid construction and adds an EV powertrain. Numerous improvementsforthe2017modelyear include an updated battery pack with increased range, a more powerful motor, a
2017 BMW i3
BMW’s i3 stands out in morewaysthanone. Itsfunky styling hides a frame made of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic, making it extremely tough yet lightweight. Inside, its cabin is decked out with natural materials, including real eucalyptus wood trim andleather treatedwith olive tree leaf extract. Thei3 is sold with a choice of two battery sizes: the base 60-amp-hour higher top speed, exterior stylingchanges, andthe addition of a midpack Limited Edition trim.
■ Base Price: $31,315
■ Range: 125 miles (EPA estimate)
■ Recharge time: 5.3 hours on a 240-volt charger
■ Availability: On sale now, select states version with 81 milesof range or the 94-Ahversion with 114 miles of range. The 94-Ah model is also available with a small gasoline engine to further extend the i3’s range when the battery runs out.
■ Base price: $43,395
■ Range: 81 to 114 miles (EPA estimate)
■ Recharge time: 4-5 hours on a 240-volt charger
■ Availability: On sale now nationwide