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The cheapest and most reliable small EV cars to buy, which challenge the much-awaited Toyota Urban Cruiser

The cheapest and most reliable small EV cars to buy, which challenge the much-awaited Toyota Urban Cruiser

The Irish Sun11-06-2025
WITH the incredible Toyota Urban Cruiser still months away from hitting UK roads, Brit drivers are looking for similar and affordable alternatives.
A comprehensive list compiled by
8
The Toyota Urban Cruiser
Credit: Supplied
The Cruiser is Toyota's second EV, coming after the bZ4X which came out a few years ago.
Toyota's latest electric car will be a great
But in the meantime, if
Kia EV3
8
The Kia EV3
Credit: Getty
This compact car is one of the Cruiser's top competetitors.
Pricing at just over £30,000, the Kia EV3 comes with a spacious interior, 375 miles of range and plenty of handy
features
.
It is one of the best small EVs around, and boasts a cozy inside alongside its stylish design.
It therefore makes a great option for customers who just can't wait any longer for the anticipated Cruiser.
Skoda Elroq
8
Skoda Elroq
Credit: PR Handout
The Skoda Elroq is an easy-to-use vehicle equipped for family lifestyle.
Most read in Motors
It has a massive boot, perfect for carrying any family activity equipment, which is even bigger than the Cruiser's.
The vehicle has a sensible design that is not too flashy, prioritising practicality over anything.
It is also priced at over £30,000, making it a cheap alternative to the coveted Cruiser.
Volvo EX30
8
Volvo EX30
Credit: Reuters
This Scandinavian designed car is another great option for those who can't wait for the Cruiser.
Volvo's EX30 is a small SUV that not only looks great, but also has an eyecatching interior which is cozy and comfy.
It also comes with a safety kit for emergencies and is very practical in terms of its driving features.
It does have a smaller boot and tight rear seats.
But that doesn't take away from Volvo's smallest and most affordable SUV.
There is also a dual-motor version for those who want a car with more of a 4WD feeling.
It is also priced in the low £30,000s.
Hyundai Inster
8
The Hyundai Inster
Credit: Newspress
This small-looking driver is bound to draw comparisons to Dr Who's TARDIS.
Seemingly compact from the outside, the Inster's insides are way bigger than you might first think.
Its interior space rivals much larger cars, despite its miniature size.
The stylish car also has a clean aesthetic, and inside boasts clever rear seats which can fold flat to turn the car into a minivan.
It uses cheap cabin plastics, but this can be overlooked due to its price tag.
The budget EV can be picked up for less than £25,000, making it an incredible option as a cheap alternative to the Cruiser.
Cupra Born
8
The Cupra Born
This is one of the sportier cars on the list.
So for drivers who are looking for this sort of design, look no further than the Cupra Born.
Its a pretty car with an interior which is downright stunning to
marvel
at.
The Born also boasts lots of space inside, and can drive up to 342 miles.
Although it may not be that fun to drive as typical sports cars, the Born is a great budget EV for those who can't wait for the Cruiser.
Prices start at around £34,000.
MG4
8
MG4
This
next
car is an award-winning alternative.
Having taken home the Carwow Car Of The Year, the MG4 is definitely an option to write home about.
It boasts incredible value for money, and comes with a futuristic and funky exterior.
It comes with loads of kit making it a practical option and family-friendly.
The MG4 also prices at under £22,000 - making it a bargain and one of the cheapest EVs for its value.
A more pleasant driving experience, impressive range and reassuring brake pedal also make this a great option.
Renault Megan E-Tech
8
Renault Megan E-TECH EV
Credit: Renault Ireland
Last but not least is this budget electric driver with a Parisian flair.
It is fitted with a cutting-edge Google-based infotainment system which is as easy to use as your own phone.
And that's not all this car has going for it.
The design features an amazing interior which is stylish and modern.
Although it is slightly cramped in the back, the car's design makes this forgivable.
Read more on the Irish Sun
It starts at around £32,000, making it a great low-cost option.
So this high-tech car makes a great option for those who want a state-of-the-art user interface in a budget and compact EV.
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