The new power generation

We named the Nissan Ariya our New Car of the Year last month, but it already has fresh competition from Genesis and VW

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Genesis GV60 Single Motor Premium

Price: £47,005

Powertrain: 72.6kWh battery, 1x e-motor, 226bhp

0-62mph: 7.8 seconds

Test economy: 4.0 miles/kWh

Charging: 220kW (10-80% 18 mins) 

Volkswagen ID.5 Style Pro

Price: £49,735

Powertrain: 77kWh battery, 1x e-motor, 172bhp

0-62mph: 10.4 seconds

Test economy: 3.9 miles/kWh

Charging: 135kW (10-80% 29 mins) 

Nissan Ariya 63kWh Advance

Price: £43,845

Powertrain: 63kWh battery, 1x e-motor, 214bhp

0-62mph: 7.5 seconds

Test economy: 3.7 miles/kWh

Charging: 130kW (10-80% 30 mins)

THE rate of development in the electric car segment is fierce. Models which fought right at the top of their classes barely three years ago now find themselves up against newer entrants that can charge faster, go further or represent better value for money - or sometimes all three.

The development of these new models is relentless. Such is the rate of EV progress, in this week's group test we aren't just testing one fresh car against established rivals, but three models all of which are new to this family crossover segment.

Nissan's Ariya is something of a line in the sand. The brand's range has been in the doldrums, and we've been crying out for a new EV to follow the Leaf.

Pushing more upmarket, the Ariya is facing stiff competition though. Genesis has quickly established itself as a genuine contender in the premium segment with its GV60, and this pair must also overcome the might of Volkswagen and its ID.5 coupé-SUV.

There are so many questions to answer. Is the ID.5 too stylish with not enough substance? Does the GV60 feel like the posh option of this trio? And is the Nissan Ariya the EV we've been waiting for?