A Bit of Context
Tesla has had an undeniable and significant impact on the Electric Vehicle (EV) Market. Without their first steps into large-scale production, proving that not only are EVs possible but also showing legacy automakers that this is how things can be, we might not have all of the options we have in the market today. Brands from Porsche to Kia now offer EVs covering a variety of price points and vehicle styles catering to a vast market.
Tesla has garnered much attention recently, not necessarily for the best reasons. Many Cartelligent clients have asked us what other cars they should consider as they look to buy or lease a new EV. If you’d like some help in your search, feel free to arrange a time to chat with one of our car experts HERE.
Why Even Consider EV Alternatives?
Since the release of the Model S in 2012, Tesla has revolutionized the EV market. Their early innovations helped mainstream electric vehicles, proving they could be both practical and desirable. Over the years, Tesla’s influence has driven other automakers to invest heavily in electric mobility, resulting in a market offering a diverse range of EVs suited to different needs and preferences.
While Tesla remains competitive in performance and range, their charging infrastructure is what has kept many people in its product ecosystem, however this is changing quickly as more automakers are compatible with Tesla Supercharger stations. With a more diverse range of EV options in 2025, many buyers are beginning to explore alternatives. Some Tesla owners have reported issues with build quality, software glitches, and inconsistent service experiences. Additionally, the company’s limited service network and long wait times for replacement parts have frustrated some customers (CNBC).
For others, Tesla’s CEO, Elon Musk, has become a polarizing figure, prompting once-loyal buyers to consider brands that better align with their values. While Tesla’s influence on the EV industry is undeniable, the growing competition has provided consumers with more choices than ever before.
In recent years, the EV market has seen remarkable advancements, with new models offering improved luxury, refined build quality, diverse design options, competitive pricing, and a more reliable ownership experience. Brands like Porsche, Audi, BMW, Ford, Hyundai, and Kia have all introduced compelling EVs that rival and beat Tesla in features, range, comfort, and technology.
Choosing the right electric vehicle can feel overwhelming as the EV landscape evolves. At Cartelligent, our team of industry insiders can help guide your search and take the stress out of researching and buying a new car. We are car lovers at heart who want you to feel good about whatever car winds up in your driveway. To help you navigate the options and find the best fit for your needs, let’s explore some key factors to consider when selecting your next EV.
Things to Keep in Mind When Buying an EV
- Range: How far can the vehicle go on a full charge? This can be impacted by city vs highway driving and also by ambient temps depending on climate. We get a lot of questions about this, stay tuned for a more in-depth article!
- Charging Infrastructure: Where are you going to recharge the battery? Ensuring access to public charging infrastructure or a home charger will enhance the ownership experience.
- Performance: How fast is it? Does it handle well? What is the overall driving experience like?
- Technology & Features: This can make or break your experience. Does the car have a good user interface and the driver assistance features you require?
- Price: This will be both the initial cost and also the potential savings with reduced maintenance/fuel savings during your ownership period
- Design and Comfort: Interior and exterior build quality, space, and design
Let’s Check Out the Latest Alternatives!
The following list includes some of our favorite EVs and ones that are most often chosen by Cartelligent clients. We wanted to cover a variety of options catering to different needs, and if there are any questions, our team is eager to help!
Audi – Q6 e-tron
Overview: The Q6 e-tron is a versatile and easy-to-live-with daily driver. For 2025 the car solves the range complaints of its predecessor, the Q8 e-tron, with up to 321 miles of range. If you are looking for a comfortable all-rounder that does the job with style, the Q6 e-tron is soothing without being boring.
Key Features:
- 307-321 mile range with AWD and RWD options
- Different body styles are on offer. If you want a sleeker look, go for the Sportback version, but you do sacrifice some trunk space
- Wide range of powertrains and features to fit your needs
- Price: $67,195-$73,495
BMW – i4
Overview: This is BMW’s performance-focused electric sedan. If you appreciate the dynamics of the iconic Bavarian brand, you will not be disappointed by the i4.
Key Features:
- The range is between 227 and 318 miles depending on which battery and trim you select
- Advanced tech focusing on safety and convenience
- The on-road manners you would expect from BMW
- Price: i4 starting at $52,800 to $75,875 for the M50 performance variant
BMW – iX
Overview: BMW’s performance-focused SUV (iX) blends luxury and performance. The interior feels like a bright future, with a great mix of textures and design that invites you to look closer and admire. While the exterior styling has been polarizing, consumers who drive these cars report the highest ownership satisfaction amongst all EVs on the market. The BMW iX is one of the EVs most often chosen by Cartelligent clients.
Key Features:
- Between 290-364 miles of range
- Advanced tech, including iDrive 8.5 infotainment system
- Great handling and driving dynamics
- Price: iX starting at $87,250
Cadillac – Escalade IQ
Overview: The Cadillac Escalade is an iconic luxury barge that has been on sale since 1999 and inspired many manufacturers to bring their own interpretations of a luxury SUV to the market. For 2025, Cadillac has electrified the Escalade, and the main takeaways is this car has a long list of big numbers. It has a massive range of over 400 miles, a 250KwH battery, and weighing in at 9134 pounds. Once inside you are surrounded by tech, leather, and an amazing sound system. A cool highlight is the rear wheel steering, which makes this car stable at high speeds but maneuverable at lower speeds. The turning radius is similar to a compact sedan despite being one of the largest cars our team has experienced. If you want it all, the Escalade IQ is a feast for the senses!
Key Features:
- 450 miles of range
- Safety and convenience technology
- Ultra luxurious and fast
- Price: starting at $127,700
Ford – Mustang Mach-E
Overview: A sleek, sporty SUV that competes directly with the Tesla Model Y. While the Mustang name is more associated with the legendary V8 mile muncher, Ford has built an EV with a good blend of range, style, and performance that you will find very easy to live with on a day to day basis.
Key Features:
- Range of up to 312 miles in the most efficient configuration, RWD with the max range battery pack
- Ford’s SYNC 4A infotainment system. Which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Strong acceleration and handling in the performance-focused variants, the GT and Rally
- Price: Starting at $46,895
Hyundai – Ioniq 5
Overview: This futuristic, budget-friendly electric crossover has styling that looks retro and modern in the best way possible. It will not be lost in the crowd. The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 brings better charge times and access to Tesla’s extensive supercharging network. The Ioniq 5 is our overall top-seller among all new cars (gas and electric). Cartelligent clients love its ease of use and handling, which makes it feel more like a well-sorted sedan than an SUV.
Key Features:
- Up to 318 miles of range
- Innovative interior design with a spacious layout
- 800V charging architecture for faster charging
- Price: Starting at $43,975
Kia – EV6
Overview: A sporty and stylish electric crossover from Kia. This shares the same architecture as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 but is geared slightly more towards performance and sleek design. If you enjoy the Hyundai, you will have a great experience here. The GT version of the EV6 is wicked fast and offers a level of engagement that many EVs lack.
Key Features:
- Range of up to 310 miles
- Fast charging capabilities
- Sleek, modern design and user-friendly infotainment
- Price: Starting at $48,700
Kia – EV9
- Overview: The EV9 is a brand-new Kia offering ample interior space and a third row that adults can use. Kia has provided different drivetrain options, so you can choose between RWD and AWD and bigger battery packs if you decide to go on a road trip with friends and family. Also, including a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, you can enjoy peace of mind during your ownership. This full-size vehicle conceals its weight with a low center of gravity and lots of torque. This is an extremely versatile car if you have things to carry or tow!
Key Features:
- Range of up to 304 miles
- Fast charging capabilities
- Full-size 3-row that can haul your friends and family in comfort
- Price: Starting at $54,900
Porsche – Macan EV
Overview: The Macan EV is the newest offering from the legendary Porsche marque. Compact without being cramped, it can haul your things in comfort and style. The Macan 4 has a blend of performance, style, and a range of 308 miles, but if you are feeling the need for speed, you can select the Macan Turbo, with a 0-60 time of 3.1 seconds. Just be mindful of when and what you ate for lunch before using the launch control feature!
Key Features:
- There are tons of options to get exactly what you want, from color to performance upgrades
- Up to 308-mile range with the ability to charge from 10 to 80 percent in 20 minutes
- Beautiful exterior and interior design and a level of performance and engagement that you expect from a Porsche
- Price: Ranges from $77,295-$107,295
Volkswagen – ID.Buzz
Overview: Who doesn’t love a wild card? The Volkswagen ID.Buzz gives a tasteful nod to the past while still looking towards the future. I have never been in a car that receives so much positive attention. You will find space for your things, friends, and much more. With 234 miles of range, it will cover your commute and the occasional longer adventure. If you want to fly under the radar, look the other way, but if you’re going to add some fun to your life, our Cartelligent clients would agree this thing rocks!
Key Features:
- 234-mile range
- Lots of interior space and great visibility
- A vast array of color options inside and out that are guaranteed to turn heads!
- Price: From $59,995 to $71,545
Volvo – EX90
Overview: Scandinavian design, known for its clean and soothing aesthetic, seamlessly blends style with simplicity, a principle evident in their automotive creations. The Volvo EX90, the electric version of the popular XC90 SUV, exemplifies this. It prioritizes Volvo’s hallmarks: safety, comfort, and understated elegance. The interior, spacious and filled with natural light, features sustainable materials, ensuring a comfortable experience for both long trips and city driving. Our Cartelligent customers consistently praise the EX90, and for good reason!
Key Features:
- 310 mile range
- Thoughtful design inside and out
- Emphasis on safety
- Price: $81,290 to $90,640
Which Tesla Alternative is Right for You?
There are many factors to consider when choosing the right EV, and I hope this guide helps inform your search. Ultimately, nothing compares to seeing these cars in person and getting a feel for which one truly fits your needs. Car shopping can feel overwhelming, especially with so many great options on the market. Our advice? Get behind the wheel and test-drive some of these vehicles! Research is valuable, but experiencing the car firsthand—sitting in it, driving it, and understanding how it fits into your life—will bring much-needed clarity to your decision. If you’re considering making the switch, the Cartelligent team is here to help make the process seamless.
Unlike traditional dealerships, we don’t sell cars—we help clients have the best new car buying experience possible. Our team of professionals takes the time to understand your needs, offering expert knowledge and industry insights to help you find the perfect vehicle at a below-market price. Every year, we assist thousands of satisfied buyers in getting the car they want without the hassle. With over 500 five-star Google and Yelp reviews, a 98% client satisfaction rating, we take pride in making car buying easy, enjoyable, and stress-free.
Intrigued? Curious? Want some answers? Book a time to chat with one of our experts HERE, and we will help you take the next steps!