All the tech is straightforward to use and Renault ticks a box for me by fitting rotary controls for the heating and other regularly used features, and it has steering column-mounted volume buttons for the audio.

Apart from a synthetic whirring noise that warns pedestrians of your approach (it cuts out at 20mph), progress in the Zoe is very quiet.

Extra sound deadening has been added to this 2020 model that reduces the road and wind noise even further.

It’s a nice way to travel. The 0-62mph time with the R135 motor is 9.5sec compared to 11.4sec with the R110 motor.

You do lose a bit of range with the more powerful motor but the extra acceleration makes itself felt.

The Zoe Iconic, which as we’ve pointed out is available with either motor, costs 36.200 USD with the R110, and 36.800 USD with the more powerful unit.

According to Renault’s research, 90% of charging happens at home or work and only 3% is done at public points.

Since the Zoe is at its best as urban transport this makes a lot of sense.

As charging goes, the Zoe should be up to 80% full in about 40 minutes, but after half an hour only about 25 miles had been added to the car’s range in tests.

The trouble is, the Zoe has an air-cooled battery and although it has a capacity to charge at 50kWh, the system will throttle itself back if it detects the battery is in danger of overheating.

With a wall box at home, the latest Zoe would be very easy to live with. The improvement in quality has made a difference and the range now removes all hint of battery anxiety.

It’s a practical and useful urban runabout that’s more than fast enough if you select the more powerful motor.

Ford Puma

The Ford Puma is the most affordable SUV on our list; some people call it the ‘big brother’ of the popular Ford Fiesta, as Puma brings all the qualities that a Ford keeps. Ford Puma comes only in petrol or electric variants. Here are some key specs for the Ford Puma.

Skoda Koraq

Skoda Koraq is a highly configurable, affordable SUV with a choice of four different engine sizes. The car looks stunning and modern from inside and out. Under the hood, it is like any other Skoda which is known for its reliability and parts durability. Koraq comes with a choice of diesel or petrol engines with 2WD or 4WD configuration.

Volkswagen Tiguan

The Volkswagen Tiguan is one of the most popular affordable SUVs. Tiguan inherits all the great qualities of a German Volkswagen. It comes packed with the latest technology and a very modern interior amongst all other SUVs in this list. Tiguan is also the fastest SUV in our list of affordable SUVs.

Renault Captur

Captur’s success is in part down to the fact that young families snap up Capturs, as these have good boot space and wide rear seats. That is why Renault has achieved to sell not less than 1.5 million SUVs of Captur vehicle. The car has a large 10-inch LCD DIP and a central infotainment display with a size of 9.3 inches. The Captur is a top-rated, cost-efficient SUV that comes with cool technology and stylish design.

Ford Puma Photo Gallery

Skoda KORAQ Photo Gallery

Volkswagen Tiguan Photo Gallery

Renault Captur Photo Gallery