Given the variety of electric SUVs and crossovers now available in Canada, The Car Guide has chosen to split them up by price so you can make a decision based on your budget.

Then, looking at all the models available on the market with a starting price of under $50,000, our team has identified the ones that represent the best buys for 2025.

1. Hyundai Kona Electric

If you can’t quite afford an IONIQ 5, Hyundai’s second-generation Kona Electric is still packed with desirable attributes and proves to be our top pick in this price range. The lack of all-wheel drive and the significant drop in torque following the 2024 redesign will hold some buyers back, of course, but with a range of 420 km, precise steering and a smooth ride, the driving experience turns out to be pretty satisfying.

The interior is conveniently laid out and practical, and there’s plenty of room for cargo, with a 723-litre trunk that expands to 1,803 litres when the rear bench seat is folded. An additional 27 litres of storage can be found under the hood.

When it comes to content, Hyundai knows how to deliver plenty of bang for your buck. Along with that comes generous vehicle and powertrain coverage. Trend, Ultimate and N Line packages are available, but the latter two push the price beyond the $50,000 mark.

2. Chevrolet Equinox EV

The Equinox EV benefits from a large 85kWh battery enabling a range of up to 513 km in front-wheel-drive configuration. Unlike the other two electric crossovers in our top 3, it offers the option of all-wheel drive (but for more than $50,000), which increases output from 213 to 288 horsepower while still delivering 459 km of range.

Simply put, pricing and equipment are similar to those of the Kona Electric, while performance could be compared to that of the IONIQ 5. DC fast-charging capacity is also higher at 150 kW, and in-vehicle technology impresses with a 17.7-inch touchscreen.

On the other hand, the larger wheels have a negative impact on ride quality and energy consumption. Also, despite being longer than our No. 1 pick, the Equinox EV’s maximum cargo space is smaller at 1,620 litres, plus there’s no frunk beneath the long hood.

3. Kia Niro EV

Rounding out our podium at an even more affordable price, the Niro EV shares much in common with its Hyundai cousin, including the motor, battery and FWD-only configuration. Its official range is slightly shorter at 407 km, but just like the Kona Electric it proves highly efficient on the road. During our tests, we easily managed to beat the rating announced by Natural Resources Canada.

Yes, the extra weight over the regular Niro (hybrid) is considerable, and maximum torque isn’t as generous, but it’s delivered more instantaneously while the lower centre of gravity ensures pleasant handling. Inside, the cabin is well thought-out, and we like the way the displays are integrated into the dashboard.

Just remember that Kia will arrive in early 2026 with the all-new EV3, a condensed version of the larger EV9 with more advanced features and technologies than the Niro EV.

For more information and ratings, don’t miss our Best Buys section.