Best electric vehicle: Kia Soul EV

Electric cars are still not mainstream, and they’re still challenged by their range to compete with conventionally powered cars, but they’re very nimble and easy to drive, almost silent, and have become very capable. With some route planning beforehand — and the help of a government rebate to make their price competitive — they may well be a viable alternative to your current vehicle.

Base price: $34,995

As tested: $34,995

The electric Kia is almost exactly the same size as the popular gas-powered Soul, and if you qualify for Ontario’s $8,500 provincial rebate, it costs about the same as a loaded conventional version. It feels like a premium vehicle, too. Its lithium-ion polymer battery can fully charge in less than five hours from a 240V outlet.

Full-sized comfort

Fast charging

Quick off the line

Power/torque: 109 hp/210 lbs.-ft.

Range: 149 km

What’s best: No size compromise

What’s worst: Still expensive

Value for money: Good for an EV

Base price: $31,798

As tested: $38,548

The original electric sedan, Nissan’s Leaf is due for a makeover soon, but it still delivers on performance and capability. There’s space for five and comfort for four. With some route pre-planning, you won’t miss your gas-powered car.

Tried and tested

Space for five

Regular looks

Power/torque: 107 hp/207 lbs.-ft.

Range: 120 km

What’s best: Just like normal

What’s worst: The Kia’s better

Value for money: Depends which trim

Base price: $77,800

As tested: $88,500

Proof that if you throw enough money at something, you can make anything work. The Model S is loaded with battery power and smart technology that offers at least double the range of its competition with no compromises whatsoever.

Great to drive

No compromise

Very quick

Power/torque: 380 hp / 306 lbs.-ft.

Range: 345 km

What’s best: The best EV by far

What’s worst: Very expensive

Value for money: Only for now

Base price: $27,998

As tested: $27,998

A small commuter car, the i-MiEV’s range will cut to less than 50 kilometres in a winter traffic jam. Other electrics offer premium cabins and comfort to offset their higher price, but the Mitsubishi comes in low by cutting back on extras.

Affordable

Easy transportation

Simple to park

Power/torque: 66 hp/145 lbs.-ft.

Range: 155 km

What’s best: Effective commuter

What’s worst: Fairly basic

Value for money: Yes, with rebate

Base price: $26,990

As tested: $27,535

Think of the Smart as a golf cart that’s legal for the road. It’s very easy to drive, very convenient to park, and costs about the same as the conventional Smart if you qualify for an $8,500 Ontario rebate. And it’s more fun than the regular Smart, too.

Smoother than gas Smart

Quicker than gas Smart

Cute looks

Power/torque: 74 hp / 96 lbs.-ft.

Range: 158 km

What’s best: Clever commuter

What’s worst: Never leave the city

Value for money: Yes, with rebate

More Best of 2015 Reviews

Best luxury car

Best family car over $30,000

Best family car under $30,000