Drive Car of the Year 2025: Best Urban Electric Vehicle Under $100K
Electric vehicles (EVs) are reshaping urban mobility, and the Best Urban Electric Vehicle Under $100K category for the Drive Car of the Year 2025 awards showcases the most stylish and capable options for city living. This category caters to buyers seeking cutting-edge EVs that balance innovation, practicality, and premium features for urban environments.
What Makes This Category Unique?
Unlike budget-focused or family-oriented EV categories, the Best Urban EV category prioritizes:
- Urban Versatility: Compact and efficient for city streets.
- Style and Innovation: Aimed at those who appreciate design and technology.
- Price Range: $50,000 to $100,000 before on-road costs.
Defending Champion: Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3, winner of the category’s inaugural award in 2024, returns to defend its crown. Following a significant facelift, the Model 3 has become even more compelling with:
- Updated Design: Sleeker exterior and more luxurious interior.
- Enhanced Driving Comfort: Improved ride quality and extended range.
- Competitive Pricing: A lower price point in 2024, further strengthening its value proposition.
For 2025, the Model 3 Performance variant adds a sporty edge to Tesla’s urban-friendly lineup.
Challengers for 2025
The 2025 competition features a broad and diverse field of contenders, from nimble city cars to stylish SUVs and executive sedans.
New Entrants
- Volvo EX30: Making its debut after missing last year’s awards, the EX30 blends Scandinavian design with compact practicality.
- Smart #1 and #3 SUVs: The revived Smart brand offers a modern take on electric SUVs, moving away from its city car origins.
- BMW i4 eDrive 35: A more accessible variant of BMW’s electric sedan, priced under the Luxury Car Tax threshold to enhance affordability.
- Abarth 500e: A sporty electric hatch for city dwellers craving driving excitement.
- Mini Cooper and Countryman Electric: The next generation of Mini EVs promises iconic design with a modern electric twist.
Returning Favorites
- Mercedes-Benz EQA: A compact luxury SUV with premium features.
- Renault Megane E-Tech: A stylish hatchback with European flair.
- Tesla Model 3: The category’s defending champion, with updated features and variants.
Emerging Brands
- Zeekr X: A high-tech compact EV from Geely’s premium brand, aiming to challenge established players.
- Jeep Avenger: Jeep’s first electric offering, combining rugged design with city-friendly dimensions.
Selection Criteria
To compete in this category, EVs must:
- Be all-new or significantly updated.
- Commence customer deliveries by December 31, 2024.
- Be available for Drive’s road testing before the cut-off date.
- Fall within the $50K–$100K price range (before on-road costs).
What’s Next?
The finalists for the 2025 Drive Car of the Year – Best Urban Electric Vehicle Under $100K will be announced soon, followed by the winner in February 2025. Judges will evaluate contenders based on urban functionality, technological innovation, value for money, and overall driving appeal.
Stay tuned to discover which EV will claim the title and redefine urban driving for the future!