Five of the most reliable electric cars

Five of the most reliable electric cars to lease

If you're looking to make the transition from ICE to electric, you're bound to have a whole list of queries and requirements

Range, charging ability, size, where you can actually charge your car - the list goes on.

But reliability should make an appearance on this list too.

Picking historically reliable cars means less time with your car sitting sadly in the garage. No more frantic calls to recovery services or surprise repair bills that make your wallet cry.

Instead, you can relax knowing you’re driving something dependable and eco-friendly that actually starts when you turn your key.

It’s like having a car that’s been to therapy – calm, reliable, and drama-free.

We've dug through the What Car? Reliability Survey and picked out five of the most reliable - and the best - electric vehicles currently on the market, just for your ease.

1. MINI Cooper Electric

The original style icon goes electric – and the MINI Cooper Electric proves that going green doesn't mean going boring or unreliable.

Taking pole position in What Car? Reliability survey for electric vehicles, does it get more reliable than this?

It’s taking everything you love about MINI – the cheeky personality, head-turning looks, and that unmistakable go-kart feel – and giving it a fully electric twist. This is one EV that's as fun to drive as it is kind to the planet.

With a WLTP Comb range of up to 249 miles, you'll have plenty of juice for city adventures and weekend escapes.

The electric motor delivers instant torque, making those traffic light getaways even more satisfying. You'll be zipping through city streets with that signature MINI agility, just with added electric smugness.

And with MINI's reputation for build quality and that distinctive design that's been turning heads since the '60s, the Cooper Electric isn't just transport – it's a statement.

Fun, familiar, and fully electric. What's not to love?

2. Nissan LEAF

The original affordable EV, the Nissan LEAF still stands up as one of the best electric vehicles on our roads. And with its redesign in July 2025, the all-new LEAF really is something to rave about.

Coming in second on the What Car? Reliability survey for EVs, you know you’re in good hands with Nissan.

With a WLTP Comb range of up to 375 miles, challenging its rivals’ range, your journeys won’t be consumed with charging pit stops.

Non-stop driving, non-stop relaxation.

You’ll get a choice between a 52kWh or 75kWh battery, both with 215bhp. Although, the 75kWh battery has a bit more torque so it’s quicker off the mark.

It's got all the mod-cons to make it a comfortable car too, including 16-inch alloy wheels, climate control, automatic lights and wipers, cruise control, keyless start and plenty of safety aids.

Not to mention the electrochromic sunroof, on the top two trims. This typically very luxe feature on such an affordable and reliable car will definitely be turning heads.

3. Renault Megane E-Tech

Renault aren't newcomers to the electric game – they've been perfecting EVs since the Zoe first hit our roads over a decade ago.

And all that experience has been poured into their sleek new Megane E-Tech, coming in joint third (with the BMW i4) on the What Car? Reliability survey for EVs.

With a WLTP Comb range of up to 292 miles and rapid charging capabilities, the Megane E-Tech proves that stylish doesn't have to mean compromising on practicality.

Its coupe-SUV silhouette turns heads, while the spacious interior and generous boot make it perfect for real-world family life

Inside, you'll find Renault's latest infotainment system and all the modern touches you'd expect, plus the reassurance of comprehensive warranty coverage and Renault's established service network across the UK.

If you want an electric lease that combines French flair with proven reliability and genuine everyday usability, the Megane E-Tech delivers on all fronts.

4. CUPRA Born

CUPRA's first bespoke electric car doesn't reinvent the wheel – it just gives it a stylish, Spanish, sporty twist.

Built on Volkswagen Group's proven MEB platform, the Born benefits from the engineering expertise and reliability that comes with being part of one of Europe's largest automotive families. You're getting that CUPRA flair with German dependability under the bonnet.

No wonder What Car? Reliability survey for EVs ranked it seventh, placing comfortably in the top ten.

With aggressive styling and a WLTP Comb range of up to 366 miles, the Born balances practicality with that extra dash of cool factor that sets it apart from your standard family car affair.

Plus, with CUPRA's comprehensive warranty and the backing of the Volkswagen Group's service network, you can drive with confidence knowing you're covered if, on the rare occasion, something goes wrong.

If you're after your next lease with a bit more character than the norm – and the peace of mind that comes with proven reliability – the CUPRA Born could be just the ticket.

5. Tesla Model 3

The Tesla Model 3 remains one of the most reliable electric cars on the market. It consistently ranks highly in reliability surveys, and even comes in eighth in the What Car? Reliability survey 2024.

Which you’d expect with a car that gets more software updates than your phone.

The Model 3 is Tesla’s most affordable model, without skimping out on tech, range and style – it boasts a whopping range of up to 436 miles (WLTP Comb).

It offers three variants to suit different needs: the standard rear-wheel, the Long Range variant for people who suffer from range anxiety, and the Performance model for anyone who enjoys being pinned to their seat like they're on a rollercoaster.

For drivers considering the switch to electric, the Model 3 represents a compelling combination of technology, performance, and electric ease.

There we have it, five of the most reliable EVs out there. No one wants to be worrying whether their car will make it to their next destination, and with these five cars, that definitely won't be an issue.

When taking out an electric lease, these cars usually come with comprehensive warranties to keep you covered and give you peace of mind. Most manufacturers offer at least three years or 60,000 miles on the vehicle itself, with battery warranties typically extending to eight years or 100,000 miles - whichever comes first.