Consumer Reports Rates Top EVs of 2024: BMW iX Leads the Pack
Consumer Reports (CR) recently evaluated around 50 electric vehicles (EVs) to identify the top performers of 2024. Out of the extensive list, only 14 EVs stood out, with models from Korea and Germany dominating the ranks and only a single representative from Tesla making the cut.
The rigorous testing by CR included standard assessments for performance, range, comfort, and quality. Specifically for EVs, CR introduced a unique 70-mph highway range test. This test revealed that some vehicles fell short of their claimed EPA ranges by up to 50 miles, while others managed to surpass their advertised mileage.
BMW iX Leads in Luxury Electric SUVs
Topping the list with the highest score of 84/100 was the BMW iX. We’ve had the chance to test multiple variants of the iX, and it consistently impressed us with its performance and luxurious feel. This achievement places the iX at the forefront of luxury electric SUVs, followed by the Genesis GV60 with a score of 75, the Lexus RZ at 74, and the Audi Q4 E-Tron and Q8 E-Tron with scores of 71 and 70, respectively.
BMW i4 and Korean Models Excel
Coming in close behind the iX, the BMW i4 scored an 83, making it a top competitor in the luxury electric car segment. The Porsche Taycan also made a notable appearance with a score of 76. Among mainstream electric cars, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 shared the second-highest overall rating of 83, outpacing competitors. The Kia Niro EV also earned a respectable score of 71.
Dominance of Korean EVs
In the two-row SUV category, the Kia EV6 emerged as the leader with a rating of 77. It was followed by the Tesla Model Y with a score of 72 and both the Nissan Ariya and Ford Mustang Mach-E, each scoring 70. The three-row SUV category was represented solely by the new Kia EV9, which garnered a score of 78.
The key takeaway here is the exceptional performance of Korean EVs. Hyundai and Kia have proven their capabilities with several models making the cut, including the Kia Niro EV, a non-bespoke EV platform that excelled despite the competition in the compact electric crossover segment.
BMW’s Balanced Approach
BMW’s strong performance in CR’s evaluations highlights both their bespoke EV, the iX, and their repurposed internal combustion engine (ICE) model, the i4. The i4, essentially a 4 Series Gran Coupe with an electric twist, impressed us back in 2021 with its agility and handling despite its substantial weight.
Surprising Absence of the Revamped Tesla Model 3
While it wasn’t unexpected to see the revised Porsche Taycan among the top 14 due to its enhanced sporty appeal, it’s interesting to note that Tesla didn’t fare as well. The only Tesla model that made the list was the Model Y, and it didn’t achieve a particularly high score. This raises questions about why the updated Tesla Model 3, which has received positive reviews, didn’t make it to Consumer Reports’ list of top EVs for 2024.
Conclusion
This year’s Consumer Reports evaluations underscore the growing competitiveness in the EV market, especially among Korean and German automakers. BMW and Korean manufacturers like Hyundai and Kia have set a high standard, showcasing their ability to produce vehicles that are not only efficient but also luxurious and practical. As the EV landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how other manufacturers respond to these benchmarks set by the leaders.
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