With the environment and high gas prices being major concerns, more and more drivers are looking to electric vehicles. SUVs are as popular as ever, so it’s no surprise that the best electric SUVs for 2024 are seeing rapid growth and innovation.
As an automotive engineer passionate about green technology, I’ve taken a close look at the upcoming electric SUV models for 2024. Here are my picks for the best electric SUVs for Americans based on range, performance, tech, and overall value.
1. Tesla Model X
BEST ELECTRIC SUV
The Tesla Model X has been one of the few three-row electric SUV options for years now. It continues to offer class-leading performance and technology.
Depending on configuration, the dual-motor Model X can deliver up to 1020 hp allowing it to hit 60 mph in under 3 seconds. The range is estimated between 333 to 348 miles.
The falcon wing doors add a touch of additional personality to the Model X.
The Model X combines performance and utility but has a stiff ride and a minimalist interior design that may not appeal to everybody.
| Seats | Up to 7 |
| Range | 333 – 348 miles |
| 0-60 mph | As low as 2.5 seconds |
| Available | Now |
| Price | From $68,590 (After Federal Tax Credits) |
| Power | Up to 1,020 hp and 1,200 lb-ft torque |
| Charging | Supercharger network access |
| Key Features | Ludicrous acceleration, Latest Autopilot driver assist tech |
| Towing | Up to 5000 lbs |
Here’s an honest video review by an owner of the Tesla Model X (2023 model):
My Take On The Model X Electric SUV
With its class-leading acceleration and driver tech, plus access to Tesla’s widespread Supercharger network, the Model X takes the top spot for Americans seeking the ultimate electric SUV.
If instead, you prefer a softer ride and a more luxurious interior, then I would suggest looking at another EV SUV more down my list.
2. Rivian R1S
BEST Off-Road Electric SUV
The Rivian R1S has generated a lot of buzz as an electric SUV with legitimate off-roading capabilities. And in my opinion, it is the best luxury electric SUV available in the US, as well as being the best for off-road.
This mid-size EV is expected to deliver up to 8350 hp and 908 lb-ft of torque in its max configuration.
It also promises up to 300+ miles of range. With seating for up to 7 passengers, the 2024 Rivian R1S could be a compelling blend of performance, utility, and technology.
| Seats | 5 to 7 |
| Range | 300+ miles |
| 0-60 mph | 3 seconds |
| Available | Early 2024 |
| Price | $78,000+ |
| Power | Up to 835 hp and 908 lb-ft torque |
| Charging | Fast charging supported |
| Key Features | Legitimate off-road capabilities, Spacious interior, 104 cu ft of Storage |
| Towing | Up to 7,700 lbs |
Here’s a great review of the Rivian R1S electric SUV:
My Take on the Rivian R1S
The R1S promises to be an exciting blend of off-road capability, performance, and the latest tech in an SUV form factor.
If you are looking for a robust electric SUV with a large storage capacity and that can go off-road, then the Rivian R1S is the one for you!
I ranked it as a close second to the Tesla Model X.
3. BMW iX 2024
Alternative Design
The upcoming BMW iX promises to be one of the best-performing electric SUVs in 2024.
This mid-size luxury EV is expected to deliver over 500 hp and 600 lb-ft of torque in its highest trim. BMW says the range should exceed 300 miles.
With its sporty driving dynamics and high-end tech, the iX looks to contend with the Mercedes EQS and Tesla Model X as a top luxury electric SUV.
In addition, the iX features rear wheels steering to help to drive in tight spots.
| Seats | 5 |
| Range | 300+ miles |
| 0-60 mph | 3.6 seconds |
| Available | Late 2023 |
| Price | $87,000+ |
| Power | Up to 610 hp and 811 lb-ft torque |
| Charging | Super fast charging supported |
| Key Features | Driver-focused performance, Cutting-edge tech, Luxury interior |
Here’s a great video review of the new BMW iX:
My Take about the BMW iX
The BMW iX 2024 model promises to blend sustainability with BMW’s trademark driving performance and luxury.
If you are looking for a luxury electric SUV and can afford it, then the BMW iX could be the right choice for you.
On the flip side, the iX is smaller than other options and has a slightly less powerful motor.
4. Kia EV9
BEST Electric SUV For Families
The Kia EV9 is one of the most anticipated upcoming electric SUVs for 2024. As a three-row family SUV, the EV9 will seat up to seven passengers. It will come in five different trim levels starting around $56,000.
The maxed-out EV9 is expected to produce 379 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque from its electric powertrain.
For drivers needing lots of space plus the latest EV tech, the 2024 Kia EV9 has the potential to be a top electric SUV choice in 2024.
| Seats | Up to 7 |
| Range | 300+ miles (expected) |
| 0-60 mph | 5 seconds (expected) |
| Available | Early 2024 |
| Price | Starts around $56,000 |
| Power | Up to 379 hp and 516 lb-ft torque |
| Charging | DC fast charging supported |
| Key Features | Spacious 3-row SUV, 5 trims available |
| Towing | Up to 5,000 lbs |
Here’s a good video review of the 2024 Kia EV9:
My Take about the Kia EV9
The EV9’s three-row spaciousness combined with the expected 300+ mile range makes it appealing for family use. That’s why I ranked the EV9 as the best electric SUV for families in 2024.
This EV is ideal if you want a spacious SUV with good but not extreme performance features.
5. Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV
BEST Interiors
The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV is set to be one of the most luxurious electric SUVs on the market in 2024. As Mercedes’ flagship electric SUV, the EQS will feature three rows of seating for up to 5 or 7 passengers.
Performance will range from about 350 hp to over 500 hp depending on the trim. Mercedes says to expect around 300 miles of range.
Active Brake Pedal
A unique and possibly annoying feature of the Mercedes EQS SUV is that when you activate the regenerative braking, the brake pedal moves up and down while you are driving. So if the system is recovering more energy (hence slowing down more) the brake pedal will be slightly pushed down. This can be annoying for some drivers, so I recommend you do a test drive before purchasing this SUV.
With its high-end cabin and technology, the 2024 EQS SUV will compete directly with the Tesla Model X.
| Seats | 5 to 7 |
| Range | 300+ miles |
| 0-60 mph | 4.5 seconds |
| Available | Late 2023 |
| Price | $104,400+ |
| Power | Up to 536 hp and 633 lb-ft torque |
| Charging | DC fast charging |
| Key Features | Luxurious interior, Cutting-edge tech and safety |
Here’s a good video review of the luxurious Mercedes EQS SUV:
My Take about the Mercedes EQS SUV
The luxury and innovation of Mercedes combined with electric power make the EQS a compelling high-end SUV.
If you love having luxurious interiors and can afford it, then this electric SUV may be the best one for you.
6. Cadillac Lyriq
BEST Classic Luxury
As Cadillac’s first fully electric SUV, anticipation is high for the 2024 Cadillac Lyriq. This mid-size luxury crossover will compete directly with the Tesla Model Y, Audi e-tron, and BMW iX.
The Lyriq will come in rear-wheel drive and performance-oriented all-wheel drive versions.
Output is up to 500 hp on the top model, while the range is between 307 to 314 miles.
| Seats | 5 |
| Range | 307 – 314 miles |
| 0-60 mph | 4.6 seconds |
| Available | Mid 2023 |
| Price | $58,590+ |
| Power | Up to 500 hp and 450 lb-ft torque |
| Charging | DC fast charging |
| Key Features | RWD and AWD versions, Luxury tech interior |
Here’s the hands-on review of the Lyriq on the road:
My Take on the Cadillac Lyriq
Cadillac’s first dedicated EV SUV shows strong potential but still needs to prove itself versus the established competition.
On the aesthetics side, the Lyriq is very pleasing and the interiors are very well made.
This electric SUV is very comfortable to drive and it could be the right choice for people that like traditional luxury with a good performance.
7. Nissan Ariya
BEST Mid-Size
Joining the Nissan Leaf will be the Nissan Ariya, the brand’s second fully electric model.
This compact SUV promises to deliver up to 304 miles of range courtesy of either a 63 kWh or 87 kWh battery option.
This electric SUV has no frunk. However, Nissan made this design choice to allow more space inside the car. The final result is a very spacious interior.
The Ariya will also feature Nissan’s latest ProPilot assist technology. With an attractive starting price and Nissan’s reliability reputation, the 2024 Ariya aims to be a value choice in the segment.
| Seats | 5 |
| Range | Up to 304 miles |
| 0-60 mph | 4.8 seconds |
| Available | Late 2023 |
| Price | From $43,190 |
| Power | Up to 389 hp |
| Charging | Supports fast charging |
| Key Features | Lots of safety tech, ProPilot Assist |
In this video, you can look at an interesting review of the Nissan Ariya:
My Take on the Nissan Ariya
The Ariya promises to deliver a long driving range and Nissan’s reliability at an attractive price point.
In my opinion, this is the best mid-size electric SUV for 2024 and offers very good value for your money. This is thanks to its competitive price, good performance, very good range, and excellent reliability.
8. Polestar 3
As the first electric SUV from Polestar, the Polestar 3 aims to blend performance and sustainability.
This luxury mid-size SUV will come standard with around 517 hp and 671 lb-ft of torque from its dual-motor setup.
Polestar is targeting over 300 miles of range. With competitive driving dynamics and an upscale tech-focused interior, the Polestar 3 looks to challenge established rivals like the Tesla Model X for 2024.
| Seats | 5 |
| Range | 300 miles |
| 0-60 mph | 4.6 seconds |
| Available | Late 2023 |
| Price | $85,000+ |
| Power | Around 517 hp and 671 lb-ft torque |
| Charging | Fast charging supported |
| Key Features | Sustainability focus, Minimalist luxury interior |
My Take on the Polestar 3
The Polestar 3’s focus on sporty driving dynamics and minimalist Scandinavian luxury will appeal to some drivers but may be too spartan for others.
The sustainability focus is admirable but results in a relatively high price point.
This electric SUV would be best for eco-conscious buyers wanting an engaged driving experience with the latest tech.
9. Audi Q8 e-tron
The Audi Q8 e-Tron has been one of the most well-rounded luxury electric SUVs over the last few years. For 2024, Audi is keeping the e-Tron fresh with updated technology and infotainment.
Output stands at 402 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque from its two-motor powertrain. Audi says this mid-size premium EV can deliver about 285 miles of real-world range.
With its refined cabin and driving dynamics, the 2024 e-tron continues to be competitive in the segment.
| Seats | 5 |
| Range | up to 285 miles |
| 0-60 mph | 5.4 seconds |
| Available | Late 2023 |
| Price | $70,000+ |
| Power | 402 hp and 664 lb-ft torque |
| Charging | Fast charging supported |
| Key Features | Comfortable and luxurious interior, Updated tech and infotainment |
My Take About the Audi E-Ton
The e-tron delivers the excellent build quality and luxury cabin comfort expected from Audi.
However, its real-world range falls a bit short of competitors, while the exterior design lacks the visual pop some may want in an EV.
This well-rounded electric SUV is likely a better fit for Audi loyalists seeking an EV than shoppers prioritizing maximum range or unique styling.
What Makes the Best Electric SUVs?
If you’re considering an electric SUV for 2024, keep these key factors in mind while evaluating the top contenders:
- Range – The max mileage on a single charge is important. Look for a range of 300+ miles.
- Performance – Quick acceleration (0-60 mph time) and powerful electric motors are desirable.
- Charging – Faster DC fast charging allows you to maximize range and minimize downtime.
- Interior Space – With SUVs, cabin and cargo space should meet your needs.
- Technology – The latest tech, infotainment, and driver assistance are big differentiators.
- Value – Balancing range, performance, and features with the price point.
If instead you don’t feel ready to go fully electric because you are concerned about how to deal with long trips and charging station availability, then you should have a look at the best plug-in hybrid SUVs for 2024 and 2023. Those SUVs combine the best of both worlds!
Conclusion
The best electric SUVs of 2024 promise to deliver a winning combination of space, practicality, and sustainable transportation.
The Tesla Model X, Rivian R1S, BMW iX, Kia EV9, Mercedes EQS, Cadillac Lyriq, Nissan Ariya, Polestar 3, and Audi Q8 e-Tron currently stand out as the most exciting electric SUVs available in 2024 in the USA.
Each brings a unique set of strengths centered around expected range, performance, interior luxury, technology, and overall value.
As an engineer and entrepreneur excited about the shift to electric vehicles, these upcoming SUVs give me optimism. Their continued progression in terms of range, charging speed, and overall capabilities will hopefully make EVs more appealing and practical for mainstream buyers.
Given their popularity, SUVs represent a vital segment of electric vehicle adoption. While we still have work to do to improve sustainability and help preserve the environment, these capable electric SUVs are strong options for making personal transportation greener.
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