In keeping with stricter emission regulations within the automotive industry, more brands are now offering all-electric models within their lineups. This is due in part thanks to further research and development that has gone into improving battery technology, allowing for faster charge times, extended driving range per full charge, and more. If you are finding it difficult to narrow down options for a 2022 electric car, we have put together the best of them here. All the listed electric cars are ranked by their BuzzScore, based on our extensive experience with each vehicle.

Vehicles are assigned a BuzzScore in relation to their direct segment competitors, and as such, vehicles in this list, while similarly scored, do not necessarily compete directly against one another. Find out more about how the BuzzScore ratings work here .

Tesla Model S Plaid

At the top of the best EVs of 2022 is the fastest, most powerful Tesla Model S for the 2022 model year - the Model S Plaid. This performance-focused Model S variant can produces 1,020 horsepower, thanks to three electric motors. A manufacturer-estimated 0-60 mph time of around two seconds emphasizes that this is one of the quickest cars in the world. Yet this lightning-fast Model S can seat five occupants, possesses two decent-sized cargo compartments (a traditional rear trunk and front ‘frunk'), and, like other Tesla family members, has plenty of in-car tech features, including the brand's Autopilot system.

Audi e-tron GT

Audi's all-electric luxury sedan makes this list among the best electric cars of 2022. Sharing parts and engineering with another German electric sedan, the Porsche Taycan, the Audi differs with its even more glamorous design. It's also equipped with the brand's quattro all-wheel-drive system to help put down its substantial power. The e-tron GT was first introduced for the 2022 model year, as part of Audi's new e-tron series of all-electric models, joining the e-tron SUV and e-tron Sportback as the very first EVs in Audi's US model range. Power comes from a pair of electric motors, producing 469 hp (and over 520 hp in Boost mode). Between the Premium Plus and Prestige models, e-tron GTs can also come with four-wheel steering, adjustable air suspension, and a desirable optional extra for Audis, a premium Bang and Olufsen audio system.

Audi RS e-tron GT

Another all-electric Audi model makes this list - the RS e-tron GT. This is the top-spec, performance trim of Audi's all-electric e-tron sedan. Compared to other e-tron GT models, the RS produces 590 hp (or 637 hp with Boost Mode), allowing for even quicker acceleration; this Audi can hit 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds. GT models also feature regenerative braking (operated via the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters), a digital instrument display, and a 10.1-inch touchscreen that houses Audi's MMI infotainment system. For those seeking a German rival to the Tesla Model S Plaid AWD, the Audi RS e-tron is an enticing alternative.

Porsche Taycan Turbo

While this performance-focused model of Porsche's all-electric sedan lacks a physical turbocharger, the Taycan Turbo still delivers when it comes to power and performance. The Taycan is Porsche's first all-electric model, as part of the brand's aim to introduce electrification alongside its signature 911 models. 2022 Taycan Turbo models feature dual electric motors and AWD, with power peaking at 750 hp in Boost Mode with the Turbo S. Additional updates to 2022 Taycan models include more efficient charging and thermal management, enhanced voice commands via the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) infotainment system, and the addition of Android Auto connectivity. While the Tesla Model S Plaid is ultimately quicker, the Taycan Turbo models are more enjoyable to drive, with fantastic body control and responses from what are heavy electric sedans.

Porsche Taycan

The standard Porsche Taycan sedan also makes this list, among the best EVs of 2022. The non-Turbo Taycan sedan models include the base Taycan, Taycan 4S, and Taycan GTS. Base model Taycans send all of their power to the rear wheels through a single electric motor, while the Taycan 4S and GTS send power to all four wheels through a dual electric motor setup. Additional updates to 2022 Taycan models include more efficient charging and thermal management for the battery, enhanced voice commands via the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) infotainment system, and the addition of Android Auto connectivity. Just like other models within the Porsche range, various options to personalize the exterior, add more amenities to the interior, or enhance the driving experience can be added separately.

Porsche Taycan Turbo Cross Turismo

Sports wagons are rarer than ever before, but Porsche is among the few preserving this segment. The Taycan Turbo Cross Turismo is the high-performance model of the Taycan Cross Turismo range, with dramatic performance numbers to match the aerodynamic exterior lines and practicality of a wagon. The Taycan Turbo Cross Turismo features a powerful dual-electric motor setup, allowing this electrified Porsche wagon to achieve a manufacturer-estimated 0-60 mph time of 3.1 seconds. Further unique engineering details for the Taycan include a two-speed transmission mounted on the rear axle - a first for electric cars. On top of its impressive performance numbers, the Taycan Turbo Cross Turismo features 14.3 cubic feet of cargo space.

Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo

Another member of the Porsche Taycan range makes this list of the best electric vehicles of 2022, the non-turbo Taycan Cross Turismo. For the 2022 model year, this includes the Taycan 4 and 4S models. Both the 4 and 4S come with all-wheel drive as standard, paired with an electric motor setup that starts at 375 hp. In the 4S, overboost mode increases the output to over 560 hp. Additional features for this model year include both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity via an updated PCM infotainment system, the ability to self-park (via a specific smartphone app), and more personalization options for exterior colors via Porsche's Paint to Sample (PTS) program.

Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo

The Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo also makes this list among the best electric cars of 2022, and it's offered in GTS guise exclusively. This Taycan features a lower ride height, blacked-out exterior trim pieces, and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) adaptive dampers. Further enhancing the cornering abilities of the Taycan GTS Sport Turismo, the power steering and torque vectoring systems are remapped, along with the addition of more powerful brakes. Interior features unique to the GTS Sport Turismo range from Porsche's 'Race-Tex ' material used on the steering wheel to seat upholstery, with matt carbon fibre trim available as an optional extra. With 509 hp normally and 590 hp with overboost, this electric wagon will sprint to 60 in just 3.5 seconds.

Tesla Model S

Even without the impressive horsepower and acceleration numbers quoted by the Model S Plaid, the standard Tesla Model S is one of the best electric cars of 2022 on our list. The 2022 model follows in the footsteps of the first iteration of the Model S in the 2010s, which established the idea among buyers that an electric car could be viewed as a luxury item and utilized daily without worrying about range anxiety. The 2022 Model S further improves on Tesla's selling points. 2022 models feature subtle updates to the exterior and interior - including the option of an airplane-style 'Yoke' steering arrangement in place of a standard three-spoke multifunction steering wheel.

Kia EV6

The only electric car from Korea for 2022 on this list, the Kia EV6 has a lot going for it at its price point, giving it a competitive edge over the Tesla Model Y. 2022 Kia EV6s can be configured in either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, with either a single electric motor featured on the rear axle or an electric motor on both front and rear axles respectively. The EV6 is freshly styled inside and out, and the specification is generous. Depending on the model, the EV6's range on a full charge is between 232 and 310 miles. It also has the advantage of fast charging speeds at up to 350 kW.

Summary

Previously, Tesla dominated the electric car market within the United States. Moving to 2022, more EVs from other brands have joined the market, offering choices beyond the Tesla model range to those looking to buy an electric car. Porsche and Audi offer compelling high-performance alternatives to Tesla. The Korean Kia EV6 is excellent value for money - offering the same level of equipment and luxury found in more expensive rivals, but at a more affordable price range.