
Ditching Your Tesla? These Are the Best Electric Alternatives ... - PCMag
- by PC Magazine
- Mar 24, 2025
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Polestar 4
(Credit: Polestar)
Tesla's had a rough 2025 so far; sales are down and existing owners are ditching the brand. CEO Elon Musk's vocal support for Donald Trump and his work with DOGE are partly to blame, but the EV maker's lineup has also grown stale, prompting drivers to look elsewhere.
Right now is a great time to buy because the $7,500 federal EV tax credit expires on Sept. 30. Keep in mind you must have the car in your possession by then (versus having a pending order).
If you shop in person at a dealership, you have another advantage over Tesla since you can test drive the car. Kia, Hyundai, Ford, Chevrolet, BMW, and many others offer comparable vehicles in terms of range and price.
Tesla protest in Chicago on March 22 (Photo by Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Here are the best alternatives for each Tesla model, all of which will be able to power up at Superchargers by the end of this year, making it even easier to take the leap.
Model Y: Affordable SUVs Chevrolet Equinox EV (Credit: Emily Forlini)
Statistically speaking, if you're looking at this list, there's a good chance you drive a Model Y. Over 95% of Tesla's sales are the Model Y or Model 3, and the Y is the company's best-seller, so we'll spend some extra time on this section. There are also many compact electric SUV options, so settle in.
A refreshed Model Y arrived in March, starting at $44,990. There are compact electric SUV alternatives at that price or below to consider. The Hyundai Kona Electric starts at just $32,975, and the Chevrolet Equinox EV starts at $33,600—before the $7,500 federal tax credit! The Equinox earned a PCMag Editors' Choice Award for its price, good-looking interior and exterior, and Level 2 self-driving software. Its 319-mile range is close enough to the Model Y's 357-mile max range; you're not likely to notice a difference.
The Chevrolet Blazer ($44,600, before the tax credit) is a slight upgrade from the Equinox in terms of interior space and features. You'll want to try both at the dealer.
Honda Prologue (Credit: Honda)
Other roomy options are the Nissan Ariya ($39,770) and Honda Prologue ($47,400). The Prologue has earned rave reviews from buyers. It's developed a reputation for incredible leasing deals, sometimes below $200 per month, so check your local dealer.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 ($42,600) also got a major refresh this year, becoming the first non-Tesla EV to have a built-in charge port compatible with Superchargers. The Ioniq 5 has been one of the most popular Tesla alternatives for several years, earning a PCMag Editors' Choice award in 2022. As of this year, it even qualifies for the $7,500 federal tax credit.
The Ford Mustang Mach-E is also a crowd pleaser (and a personal favorite). It also got a refresh for 2025, including a reduced price (starting at $36,495), a range-preserving heat pump, and better performance. Notably, its Level 2, hands-free driving tech is a cheaper, compelling version of Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) package.
2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E (Credit: Emily Forlini)
Early adopters may be drawn to a newer brand; the Polestar 4, for example, is on sale now. Starting at $56,400, it's a bit more expensive, but it comes with a polished interior and innovative features like an HD camera feed instead of a rear-view window. Try it, if you dare!
The Volvo EX30 also came to the US this year ($45,000), with the Swedish brand's characteristically modern, fresh interior and safety features.
Volvo EX30 (Credit: Emily Forlini)
Another personal favorite is the Kia EV6 ($44,375), mostly because it's well-engineered, with an efficient battery (117 MPGe) that powers up in just 18 minutes on a fast charger. Kia also offers quick-accelerating GT trims that will satisfy adrenaline junkies and a generous 10-year warranty, versus the industry standard of about eight years, to put your mind at ease.
Lastly, on the higher end of this price range sits the Genesis GV60 ($52,350). Genesis makes some unique electric cars, but make sure they're available in your area. If so, you could be the next member of this niche brand with a passionate following.
Model X: Luxury SUVs
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