Editorial Picks: Electric crossovers below $170k

Are new cars still within reach in this red-hot climate of climbing COEs? Is going electric still feasible, or will it just break the bank?

These are some of the questions that occupy the minds of would-be EV buyers. It's understandable, because it seems that a brand-new car these days - even a Cat A COE model - costs north of $200,000.

Fortunately, that's not true - at least not yet. In fact, there are electric crossover models that can be had for under $170,000 inclusive of COE. While this is not pocket change, it's relatively affordable in this context.

In this series, the Editorial Team will explore different segments of the car market. We'll highlight some picks that you should consider, and also breakdown some of the pros and cons you should look out for.

So, whether you're seeking something practical, fun to drive or efficient, these are the choices you should consider. (All prices correct at time of publishing.)

Wallet-friendly pick: Opel Mokka-e

Price: $149,500

Depreciation: $14,800/yr

Power: 97kW (130bhp)

Range: 363km

When we drove the Mokka-e in 2022, it was retailing for $174,500. But instead of its price rising in tandem with Cat A COEs, it now costs $25,000 less. In fact, it is the least expensive brand-new EV model in the market today.

There are some compromises, though. It has a busy ride over woolly surfaces, the backseat is small, and wind noise is audible. It does claw back points with its good looks, thanks to its Vizor Design, and Pure Panel cockpit.

Also sure to delight drivers is the crossover's performance. With 130bhp and 260Nm of torque, it feels quicker than its century sprint time of 10.1 seconds. And if you spend a lot of time navigating through built-up areas and tight carparks, you'll like the effortless steering, too.

Pros:

Handsome design
Zippy performance
Least expensive

Cons:

Compact backseat
Unsettled ride

Read our review of the Opel Mokka-e

Stylish pick: Omoda E5

Price: $169,999

Depreciation: $16,999.90/yr

Power: 99kW (133bhp)

Range: 430km

When the E5 first arrived, it was only available as a 150kW (201bhp) variant. However, as Cat B COE premiums skyrocketed, Omoda brought in this Cat A model instead.

The good news, apart from the lower asking price, is that the Cat A model retains all the equipment and features of the Cat B version. It hasn't been pared down just because it's been detuned. Even the battery size remains the same.

The futuristic cabin comes with two 10.25-inch screens with sharp graphics, there's a 50-watt wireless charger, and the front seats are ventilated as well.

Pros

Well-equipped
Torquey performance
Same battery capacity as Cat B model

Cons

Limited rear visibility
Slightly busy ride

Read our review of the Omoda E5 99kW

Unconventional pick: Seres 3

Price: $168,000

Depreciation: $16,800/yr

Power: 99kW (133bhp)

Range: 331km

Seres is unfamiliar to most consumers because it's not a mainstream brand. But that reason alone shouldn't stop you from at least checking out the Seres 3 crossover. Though the cockpit is simple, it is all-digital, and the infotainment has wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The backseat is roomy, and the boot is rather spacious as well. If badges don't matter to you, this may be worth a look.

Pros

Surprisingly large boot
Plush materials inside
Decent equipment

Cons

Vanilla design
Range could be better

Used pick: Tesla Model Y

Price: $163k - $179k

Depreciation: ~$17,420/yr

Technically, its size makes it an SUV, but for roughly the same price and depreciation, you could have a pre-owned Model Y instead. Globally, it is Tesla's best-selling model and it's not hard to see why. It offers plentiful space, an enormous 854-litre boot (with the rear seats in place!), and delivers a polished EV experience, thanks to the tight integration between the car's hardware and software.

Pros