Experts test the top 10 longest range electric cars to see how far they can really go and no Tesla comes close
Published on May 21, 2026 at 5:27 PM (UTC+4)
by Ben Thompson
Last updated on May 21, 2026 at 5:27 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Mason Jones
These experts set out to test the 10 longest range electric cars to see which one came out on top – just don’t expect to see a Tesla up top.
The team over at What Car? wanted to try out the EVs that could banish range anxiety to the dustbin of history.
There were plenty of vehicles to drive, but a Tesla wasn’t in first place, which may surprise many.
One thing is clear – EVs have clearly upped their game in recent years.
These are the ten longest range electric cars on sale
For the sake of their experiment, What Car? ranked the top 10 longest range electric cars that were available for sale in the UK.
Officially, EVs have their range determined via the WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure).
But as noted by the host of the video, these ranges doesn’t entirely reflect real life driving conditions, and often relies on warm weather, gentle driving, and slower speeds.
So, with that in mind, here’s how each of these cars fared when What Car? put them to the test.
BMW iX (xDrive 60 Sport) – WLTP Range: 426 miles
The iX was described as a ‘smooth and controlled ride’.
Its real-world range came out short of that at between 285 and 350 miles.
The charging rate of 35 minutes was also described as ‘not amazing’, compared to the high standards of modern EVs.
Mercedes EQE (350+ AMG Line) – WLTP Range: 428 miles
It was a similar story with this entry, which was also estimated to have a real-world range of between 285 and 350 miles.
What Car? had its fair share of critiques about the EQE, describing the interior quality as ‘patchy’, while also criticizing the rear space for not being as generous.
Volkswagen ID7 (Pro S Match Plus) – WLTP Range: 433 miles
The ID7 also falls short of its WLTP range, but puts in a decent effort to get up to 355 miles.
“The ID7 is comfortable and quiet on long journeys,” the host said.
“It’s just a shame it isn’t a bit cheaper. This longest range version costs $73k (£55k).”
And in addition to that, the interior controls were ‘too fiddly’.
Peugeot E-3008 (Long Range, Allure) – WLTP Range: 434 miles
It took a long while for the right-hand drive version of these cars to make it to the UK.
But now that they’re here, they’ve placed at number seven on this line-up.
With a real world range of between 290 and 355 miles, the car was noted to be somewhat lacking in ride comfort.
But it was recommended for those looking for a family car which is ‘keenly priced and has a smart interior’.
DS 8 (Long Range, Pallas) – WLTP Range: 446 miles
Described as a ‘quirky Coupe SUV’, the DS 8 clocked in a real-world range of between 300 and 365 miles.
Despite clocking in a substantial range and being decently priced, the What Car? team weren’t all that impressed with it.
“Sadly, it is disappointing to drive, cramped in the back, and can’t charge that quickly either,” the narrator said.
“So even if you’ve fallen in love with its looks, we think it’s best avoided.”
Tesla Model 3 (Long Range RWD) – WLTP Range: 466 miles
Finally, a Tesla makes an appearance on the list.
Its real-world range is estimated to be up around 405 miles, which is a huge increase on the cars that came before it in this list.
However, there’s still four EVs out ahead of it, which kept it from snagging the coveted number one spot.
Audi A6 e-tron (Performance Sportback) – WLTP Range: 471 miles
With a real-world range of between 325 and 405 miles, the A6 e-tron ranks highly on this list.
But its interior falls short in the team’s estimation.
“But in most other respects, it’s a fine long-distance cruiser,” the host declared.
Mercedes CLA Electric (250+ Sport) – WLTP Range: 483 miles
The real-world range for this car is between 315 and 410 miles, although the host acknowledged that 350 might be ‘more realistic’ if cruising along a highway.
“While it isn’t very practical, the CLA does offer a comfortable ride,” the host said.
BMW iX3 – WLTP Range: 500 miles
The iX3 pulled in a estimated real-world range of between 350 and 430 miles, which is impressively close to its WLTP figure.
Its charging speed of 21 minutes also received praise.
“The iX3 is also practical and more fun to drive than any of its direct rivals,” the host declared.
Mercedes EQS (450+ Premium Facelift) – WLTP Range: 542 miles
In the almighty top spot was the Mercedes EQS, clocking in with a real-world range of between 360 and 455 miles.
“It definitely isn’t cheap,” the narrator noted.
“Prices at the Facelift model start at $123k (£92k) with the longest range 450+ premium version costing $140k (£104k).”
That definitely isn’t cheap.
Fortunately, there’s some more budget friendly options out there.
Want a cheaper alternative when it comes to electric cars? These guys have you covered
Three budget friendly options were offered.
First was the Nissan Leaf ($43,311/£32,249), with an official range of 386 miles.
Then there was the Renault Scenic Techno ($44,652/£33,245), with 382 miles of range.
And finally, the Kia EV2 Long Range ($33,581/£25,000) was put forwards, with 280 miles up for grabs.
It should be noted that these cars also benefited from a UK government EV grant.
The US used something similar to that, with its end coinciding with a drop in EV sale figures.
Following stints at LadBible, The Sun, The New York Post, and the Daily Mail, Ben joined the team full-time in February 2025. In his role as Senior Content Writer, his sparkling copy, the ability to sniff out a good story at 100 paces, and a GSOH quickly led to him becoming an integral and invaluable member of the writing staff.
