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If you’re in the market for an electric SUV and need a vehicle with extended-range capabilities, it’s important to know which models to avoid. While many EVs offer an impressive range, some trims may fall short of your expectations. Here are some electric SUVs to skip if you drive a lot daily or plan on road-tripping frequently. You might spend more time searching for public charging stations and charging up than actually going to your destination.

Unfortunately, the Mazda MX-30 is an electric SUV to bypass

If you need more than the basic range, it’s best to steer clear of models with smaller battery packs or less efficient motors. When Edmunds ranked some offenders, the 2022 Mazda MX-30 was at the top of the list. Many outlets have shared similar feedback; there is a lot to like about the MX-30. It looks good, has a thoughtful interior, and has all the technology buyers might want. However, the 114-mile range is a drawback.

Mazda opted for some other choices, such as rear-hinged back doors. As it sounds, these doors are half the size of a standard door and make little sense for someone purchasing an SUV. In addition, the back seat is quite tight. The only power for the MX-30 is a single 35.5-kWh pack that returned 114 miles during testing. Otherwise, the Mazda MX-30 might be a high-maintenance choice for some buyers.

MSRP range: $33,470 – $36,480

Avoid this Toyota bZ4X trim if you need an electric SUV with a long range

This Toyota bZ4X is an electric SUV to avoid
A 2023 Toyota bZ4X | Toyota

Drivers were excited about the idea of the 2023 Toyota bZ4X. Toyota’s take on the electric vehicle isn’t all bad, but the Toyota bZ4X Limited FWD version doesn’t deliver on range. EPA estimates say the bZ4X and its single motor can go 242 miles on a full charge. During testing, Toyota’s electric SUV needed charging after 227 miles. The XL trim also did some runs on the test track and only returned 237 miles of range when 252 was promised. These options were some of the only EVs tested that didn’t make it past EPA estimates.

Toyota leaned into the electric vehicle look with the bZ4X, but that also didn’t land. The electric SUV’s two-tone paint makes it stand out in parking lots, but not in a good way. Inside, the touch screen is easy to use, but the screen might be small for some drivers. Toyota opted for actual buttons, which is another positive. It isn’t the most spacious electric SUV all around, but the taller ride height was helpful.

MSRP range: $42,000 – $48,780

Audi’s e-tron Sportback lost some miles of range for style

The 2022 Audi e-tron Sportback is a sportier version of the regular e-tron electric SUV. For that sportier attitude, it loses a bit of range, dropping from 222 miles down to 218. The Audi e-tron Sportback also loses some room in the headroom and cargo areas for its sportier design. While none of these are huge problems, most of the competition offers at least 300 miles of range these days.

However, the interior is quiet and comfortable enough. Audi packed the EV SUV with plenty of standard technology and safety features. The infotainment system is a bit hard to get used to, and some minor changes require more searching than some drivers might be comfortable with.

MSRP range: $69,100 – $82,300

Each year, technology in electric vehicles and SUVs improves substantially. If you are looking for an electric SUV with a range of over 300 miles, you may want to avoid certain models with ranges closer to 200 miles. Public charging stations are popping up almost daily, but some areas still have a deficit. Consider a home charger if you plan to drive your new electric car daily.

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