How Does ACOTY Define This Class?

Every EV that qualifies for this category needs to be either performance-oriented, or pack a “respectfully” absurd amount of power under the hood.

Plus, to play fair against the premium marques, these are contenders who are more “affordable” on the market. Sub $300,000 price tag with ridiculous amounts of power underneath? Sign us up please!

Meet The Contenders

The Tesla Model 3 Performance is, for lack of a better word, mindbogglingly quick. The boffins at Tesla have done well in showing the world how a true performance EV can be done.

Halfway across the world, BYD is throwing hands with the new Seal Performance. Designed to go up against the very best from its home soil and beyond, the Seal Performance has enough grunt to make your stomach hurt but your lips smile.

“Where’s the Hyundai Ioniq 6?” you might ask. Yes, it does fit in this category, but it has already participated in last year’s ACOTY awards programme, hence it is omitted this time around.

Now then, on to the winner.

AutoApp Car Of The Year Best Value Performance EV
Tesla Model 3 Performance

The Model 3 Performance takes the win with 352 points. Arguably, it is still the benchmark for EV performance. While the stark cabin might not be as big of a hit, the Model 3 is fantastic dynamically. We guarantee you’ll come out of any corner smiling, whilst scaring the crap out of your occupants.

More on the scoring categories used to derive points here.

Congratulations to the Tesla Model 3 Performance for winning the AutoApp Car of the Year 2025 Best Value Performance EV!

Read more automotive news at AutoApp, or check out our latest videos on Ignition Labs TV and on TikTok!

How Does ACOTY Define This Class?

Every EV that qualifies for this category needs to be either performance-oriented, or pack a “respectfully” absurd amount of power under the hood. Simple, right?

Meet The Contenders

Of course we have to start with the reason why this category is so interesting in the first place, with the Porsche Taycan. A car that can corner just as, if not faster than a 911, and still seats four or five in relative comfort. Anyone who has driven one would tell you its simply addictive.

Lotus is on a roll this year, and the Emeya is one fine luxury bullet that can zip you to destinations in no time at all. Plus, you look damn good while doing so.

Even though it’s an SUV, we had to include the Audi SQ8 e-tron into the mix. This triple motor behemoth trumps most things on the roads, and it still comes with a large cabin and premium appointments for the discerning businessman.

If Swedish sensibleness is more of your thing, the Polestar 4 might be the car favoured to win. This new-age coupe SUV does away with the rear glass panel entirely, producing a serene cabin bubble for rear occupants. Plus, it is touted as Polestar’s most powerful vehicle to date. Striking words indeed.

If you can settle for a little less power, the dual motor Polestar 2 is still a formidable machine to pilot. Coupled with Ohlins suspension and sticky tyres, and you can give some of the track day guys a serious run for their money.

Tough fight, and there’s no clear winner. But…

AutoApp Car Of The Year Best Performance EV
Porsche Taycan

You can’t beat the king, and that king is the Porsche Taycan with 399 points. It is simple exhilarating to drive, and truly showcases what true performance EVs are capable of pushing.

More on the scoring categories used to derive points here.

Congratulations to the Porsche Taycan for winning the AutoApp Car of the Year 2025 Best Performance EV!

Read more automotive news at AutoApp, or check out our latest videos on Ignition Labs TV and on TikTok!