With their all-wheel drive and raised cabins, 4x4 or SUV type cars offer almost unmatched driving comfort. The problem: generally, these vehicles consume a lot of fuel and emit a lot of CO2, which is both a drain on your wallet and a real environmental headache. Fortunately, the electric SUV exists, offering an excellent alternative for people who want to drive a large and comfortable car without destroying the planet.
But which models are the most efficient and offer the best value for money in 2025? To help you see things clearly, we have made a list of the best electric car models, taking into account a whole range of factors: from their annual cost to their range, including their boot volume and charging time. Let's go!
Electric 4x4 car: our selection of AWD models to watch
Here are the ten electric all-wheel drive car models we have selected based on their performance, value for money, and suitability for city driving.
Hyundai IONIQ 5 AWD: the little Korean that has nothing to envy the big ones
Hyundai's iONIQ electric all-terrain vehicle range was designed with environmental objectives as a priority, particularly through the materials used in its construction: recycled plastic, eco-responsible leather, and natural wool. Beyond the ethical aspect, this approach ensures seamless well-being for the driver at the wheel.
The e-GMP platform, implemented in partnership with KIA, intelligently optimizes the interior design of electric family cars, for even more driving comfort in the front and rear. As for the futuristic and sleek exterior design, inspired by Hyundai's Pony model, it certainly doesn't go unnoticed.
In terms of pure efficiency, the iONIQ 5's performance is quite interesting, as the vehicle can achieve nearly 500 km of range with one of the two battery packs supplied at delivery. These figures are optimized by the innovative V2L (Vehicle to Load) charging system, which allows the electric 4x4 car to function as a full-fledged charging source.
Add to that a particularly attractive value for money, and you get one of the most prominent models on the electric SUV market.
Technical specifications of the Hyundai iONIQ 5 4WD
- Price: from 57,000 CHF
- Cost/100 km: 3.26 CHF
- Average range: 481 km
- Engine power: 218 hp
- Boot volume: 527 liters
- Charging time from a private charging station such as WallBox: 7h30
Audi Q4 e-Tron 50 quattro: class in all circumstances
Does the Audi e-tron range still need an introduction? Having established itself in recent years as one of the benchmark models in the electric all-terrain vehicle market, the e-Tron impresses with its comfort, the quality of its equipment, its reliability, and its efficiency on the road. While the model comes in multiple versions, we have chosen the 50 quattro, the first 100% electric in the range, because it seemed to us to correspond most closely to urban driving.
With an elegant and functional aesthetic worthy of the best models from the German brand, the e-Tron allows you to switch to electric without sacrificing your desire for elegance. A standing confirmed by the powerful 313 hp engine, capable of reaching 100 km/h in seven seconds and a top speed of 190 km/h. The vehicle's dimensions are also impressive, with a boot volume of 660 liters.
The only real drawback of the e-Tron 50 quattro is its battery range in mixed WLTP cycle, which does not exceed 340 km. Compared to other electric family cars, the e-Tron automatically ranks in the lower average in terms of performance, which, given its price, can pose a serious problem for occasional users.
Technical specifications of the Audi Q4 E-Tron 50 Quattro
- Price: from 60,000 CHF
- Cost/100 km: 3.29 CHF
- Average range: 340 km
- Engine power: 313 hp
- Boot volume: 660 liters
- WallBox charging time: 12h15
Kia EV6 AWD: the crossover that (almost) never stops
Just like the Hyundai IONIQ 5, the Kia EV6 is based on the new e-GMP platform, which allows manufacturers to design vehicles optimized for electric battery management. But the consumption of the EV6, halfway between a sedan and an SUV, is more than 10% higher than that of the IONIQ: at 24.8 kWh/100 km on the highway, it has a range of 312 km, which is drastically less than its cousin.
Fortunately, the e-GMP allows the EV6 to recharge in record time, with a maximum charge of 239 kW. Simply put, it only takes 18 minutes of downtime at the charging station to go from 0 to 80% charge. Allow a little over 40 minutes to go from 10 to 100%. One of the best performances among all electric car models. In comparison, the Tesla Model S takes over an hour for a full recharge.
In terms of comfort, the Kia EV6 is one of the most pleasant low-cost electric SUV models, with plenty of space in the front and rear and a multitude of storage modules. The cabin is very well thought out, perfectly ergonomic, with driving and braking aids that are ideally suited for city traffic.
Technical specifications of the Kia EV6 AWD
- Price: from 52,000 CHF
- Cost/100 km: 3.32 CHF
- Average range: 394 km
- Engine power: 170 hp
- Boot volume: 480 liters
- WallBox charging time: 8h40
One of the pioneers of electric family cars with its Leaf range, Nissan released the Ariya in 2023 to refresh its aging and obsolete electric collection. And looking at its interior, you can feel that the Japanese manufacturer wanted to do things well, with a spacious dashboard and an electric central console between the driver and passenger, which includes, among other things, the gear lever, the e-pedal control, and the different driving modes. In terms of comfort, it's the same: you'll have space, a lot of space.
While the Ariya comes in three types of engines, the intermediate 306 hp version seemed the most interesting to us because it offers a good balance between engine power (with two motors) and available boot volume (415 liters). As for road performance, the all-wheel drive version accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds.
In terms of range, this powerful electric car stands out, as it can reach 509 km. In short, it will not only allow you to navigate in the city (although more difficultly than with a small model) but also to make family getaways whenever you wish.
Technical specifications of the Nissan Ariya e-4ORCE
- Price: from 55,000 CHF
- Cost/100 km: 3.52 CHF
- Average range: 509 km
- Engine power: 306 hp
- Boot volume: 415 liters
- WallBox charging time: 10h05
Toyota bZ4X Origin AWD: reduced price, persistent qualities
While Toyota has drastically reduced the price of its electric SUV, it has not come at the expense of its performance; on the contrary. Today, the new version of the bZ4X includes, among other things, cruise control, dual-zone air conditioning, and LED headlights.
But it's in terms of range that the bZ4X is surprising. It has been extensively redesigned, increasing from 430 km to over 510 km on the highway. A distance you can cover without problem thanks to a pleasant interior space and honest volumes for both the driver and passengers. It's a shame, however, that the materials used still give a somewhat cheap and low-end feel.
In terms of ergonomics, it's at the top of the electric 4x4 car range, but some points are left wanting, particularly with the controls and control screens, which are sometimes a bit messy. As for on-road driving, the performance is clearly not extraordinary, but the vehicle is solid on the ground and, due to well-balanced steering, will give you good sensations both in the city and on the road.
Technical specifications of the Toyota bZ4X
- Price: from 52,000 CHF
- Cost/100 km: 3.20 CHF
- Average range: 513 km
- Engine power: 204 hp
- Boot volume: 452 liters
- WallBox charging time: 12h45
Originally released in 2021, the Volkswagen ID.4 failed to win over the public. The reason: its lack of ergonomics and its bland design. In 2024, the German manufacturer has revised its copy and offers a much more interesting all-terrain electric vehicle.
First of all, the ID.4 offers a brand new touchscreen, where most of the controls are centralized. A bold choice that won't please everyone, especially while driving. The biggest improvements are in the electric motor, which is much livelier than that of the old version.
In terms of range, the ID.4 is at the top of the 4-wheel drive electric car segment, with an average of 14.7 kWh/100km for over 500 km of range (making it the electric SUV with the best range). One of the best performances on the market, no more, no less.
Technical specifications of the Volkswagen ID.4 GTX
- Price: from 50,000 CHF
- Cost/100 km: 3.42 CHF
- Average range: 520 km
- Engine power: 286 hp
- Boot volume: 543 liters
- Wallbox charging time: 8h30
Electric car models: summary table of AWD SUVs
To help you see more clearly, here is our summary of the ten electric car models we have tested. The best performances in each criteria category (range, charging time, etc.) are highlighted in green.
| Model | Average Range | WallBox Charging Time | Cost/100km (in CHF) | Starting Price (in CHF) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai IONIQ 5 AWD | 481 km | 7h30 | 3.26 | 57,000 |
| Audi Q4 E-Tron 50 Quattro | 340 km | 12h15 | 3.29 | 60,000 |
| Kia EV6 AWD | 394 km | 8h40 | 3.32 | 52,000 |
| Nissan Ariya e-4ORCE | 509 km | 10h05 | 3.52 | 55,000 |
| Toyota bZ4x Origin AWD | 513 km | 12h45 | 3.20 | 52,000 |
| Volkswagen ID.4 GTX | 520 km | 8h30 | 3.42 | 50,000 |
Other electric SUV models not yet available in 4-wheel drive version
### Volvo EX30: the small all-terrain electric vehicle that perfectly adapts to the cityMarketed in 2023, Volvo's smallest 4x4 achieved resounding success in Europe, to the point of competing with electric SUV giants. The reason? An almost unbeatable value for money, as Volvo not only offers high-performance but also sells its urban SUV at a price well below average.
With a range of over 340 km (i.e., the same as the e-Tron 50 Quattro), the EX30 holds up very well, especially as it is designed for city driving. Its handling in urban environments is facilitated by the "One Pedal" system, which allows acceleration and braking with a single pedal, and its 11 kW onboard charger.
In addition, there is a set of significant equipment, such as a vertical tablet equipped with Android, automatic headlight activation, and a whole range of driving aids. Among the drawbacks, we still regret the apparent poor quality of the (recycled) materials, a rather small boot volume, and a relative lack of space in the back. But after all, it's a city car.
Technical specifications of the Volvo EX30
- Price: from 35,500 CHF
- Cost/100 km: 3.25 CHF
- Average range: 344 km
- Engine power: 272 hp
- Boot volume: 318 liters
- WallBox charging time: 7h50
With the coupé version of its first electric model, the Enyaq, Skoda has brought to market what is most practical in terms of a small electric all-terrain vehicle adapted to the city. It offers considerable comfort, with ample seats and plenty of space for the driver and passenger, plus a standard glass roof that adds to the impression of volume.
The Enyaq IV Coupé comes in four versions. We chose the first in the series, version 60, which seemed most suitable for the city. It is equipped with a host of safety features and driving assistance systems, such as Travel Assist, which allows autonomous following of other vehicles. Or the independent parking system, which memorizes a maneuver over time.
Among the drawbacks, we particularly note a certain lack of ergonomics in the central piano buttons and the dashboard, or a very imperfect standard GPS despite new electronic updates. But given the vehicle's price, this Enyaq IV Coupé is a safe bet.
Technical specifications of the Skoda Enyaq IV Coupé
- Price: from 45,000 CHF
- Cost/100 km: 3.10 CHF
- Average range: 403 km
- Engine power: 180 hp
- Boot volume: 570 liters
- Wallbox charging time: 9h15
Launched in 2019, the Peugeot e-208 had been a little disappointing due to some imperfections. This year, this B-segment model has been reviewed and many flaws corrected. First, let's note the improved range of the vehicle, which averages 20.2 kWh/100km, with a range of 370 km on the highway. For a vehicle of this size, that's quite decent.
But that's not all, as the new e-208 is equipped with an Eco mode, which reduces air conditioning consumption and limits maximum driving power. Configured in this way, the car drops to 9.5 kWh/100km, with a theoretical range of over 530 km, making it one of the most economical electric cars.
Due to its impeccable road holding and meticulously finished interior, the e-208 is a real pleasure to drive. Nevertheless, the still quite high price for a 4x4 electric car of this type can still make many hesitate.
Technical specifications of the Peugeot e-208
- Price: from 35,000 CHF
- Cost/100 km: 2.99 CHF
- Average range: 370 km
- Engine power: 156 hp
- Boot volume: 309 liters
- Wallbox charging time: 7h40
At its launch a few years ago, the Dacia Spring was the cheapest electric SUV on the market. Even today, it remains one of the most economical choices among all electric car models. Of course, at that price, you shouldn't expect miracles in terms of performance, but the Spring certainly holds its own.
In terms of interior comfort, the vehicle offers a modern design and well-thought-out ergonomics, with a rather practical touchscreen control display. Since 2024, the lever offers a B position to increase energy recovery. In terms of driving, the power steering proves effective and helps maintain course.
In terms of performance, it remains in the low range with 65 hp and a maximum speed of 125 km/h, but you don't choose a Dacia Spring for its sporting prowess. As for the range, it reaches almost 230 km on the highway, with a remarkable 11.5 kWh/100km. Conclusion: the Dacia Spring still offers one of the best value for money on the market.
Technical specifications of the Dacia Spring
- Price: from 18,000 CHF
- Cost/100 km: 3.21 km
- Average range: 230 km
- Engine power: 65 hp
- Boot volume: 270 liters
- WallBox charging time: 4h45
Why choose an electric 4x4 car?
Here are a few reasons that fully justify buying an electric vehicle.
It's more economical
As we saw in a previous article on the cost of charging an electric car: opting for electric means ensuring significant savings in the medium term. Even if the vehicle is generally more expensive to buy, the investment can be repaid relatively quickly.
According to our calculations, it is possible to save up to almost 15,000 CHF over ten years when electricity prices are at their lowest. And even with electricity at 80 centimes/kWh, the saving would be 7,500 CHF. It should also be noted that fossil fuels are running out, and oil prices are bound to skyrocket.
Cantons help you
Each Swiss canton offers aid and subsidies for electric mobility, which can allow you to reduce the price of your electric 4x4 car by up to almost 10,000 CHF. It is therefore advisable to contact the relevant administrations directly to find out what aid you are entitled to.
Good news: the Swiss eMobility website has mapped out subsidies across Switzerland. It not only shows aid by canton but also programs offered at the municipal level.
It's more practical and more sustainable
Some electric car models can last up to 700,000 km, which is more than three times the lifespan of a fuel vehicle (estimated at 200,000 km on average). Indeed, an electric motor is much less subject to wear and tear than a gasoline engine.
While it used to be difficult to drive an electric vehicle due to a lack of infrastructure, almost all cities, towns, and highways are now equipped with charging stations. Some cities even reserve their centers for electric cars.
It's a boost for the planet
This is the most common argument: an electric car emits two to three times less CO2 than a thermal vehicle, even taking into account battery production and electricity. If we also consider that an electric car can last much longer than a gasoline car, the difference is undeniable, and even more so when it comes to a powerful electric car such as an SUV, whose thermal counterpart is particularly voracious.
Especially since it is now possible to produce electricity with renewable energy. Some vehicles, for example, have a solar panel on their roof, which allows them to store energy while driving.
Frequently asked questions about electric SUV cars
What are the advantages of an electric 4x4 SUV?
An electric 4x4 SUV offers off-road driving with optimized power, better grip, and a low carbon footprint. Ideal for challenging journeys, it combines performance with environmental respect.
What is the best electric car for a family?
Family electric cars, such as electric SUVs, are ideal thanks to their interior space, range, and comfort. They also offer robust performance and quiet driving, while being environmentally friendly.
Do electric SUVs have good range?
Yes, many electric SUV models are designed to offer better range. Powerful electric SUVs can travel several hundred kilometers on a single charge, making them perfect for long trips.