Picking a golf cart (or street-legal LSV) is really about matching how you’ll use it. Some use it for course play, while others now use them for neighborhood runs and even light utility. Whether you’re looking for luxury, utility, or affordability, the current lineup of golf carts has something for everyone. Let’s take a look at the options.
Evolution Electric Vehicles (Evolution)
A fast-rising all-electric specialist, Evolution leans into style, speed, and value out of the box. Most models arrive well-optioned—color LCDs, LED lighting, extended roofs, premium seats, mirrors with turn signals, and lift kits on off-road variants—so you spend less on add-ons later. The lineup typically ranges from compact two-seat runabouts to lifted 4–6 passenger rigs with rear flip seats, plus utility styles with cargo beds. Lithium batteries are common, which means quicker charging, lighter weight, and a flatter power curve than comparable lead-acid carts. The trade-off: dealer networks can be younger than legacy brands, so confirm service support in your area before you buy.
Club Car
Club Car is the safe bet for longevity and refinement. Aluminum frames resist corrosion, steering feels tight, and the ecosystem of OEM and third-party accessories is massive. The consumer-focused Onward series is the headline here, offered in 2-, 4-, and 6-passenger configurations with gas or electric power, lift-kit options, extended canopies, premium seating, and a wide palette of colors and wheels. Upmarket packages add high-back seats, Bluetooth audio, and lighting suites for LSV conversions. Expect excellent parts availability and strong resale. On the flip side, similarly equipped carts can price higher than value brands, and many “must-have” goodies live in option bundles.
E-Z-GO
E-Z-GO‘s strength is choice: gas, lead-acid electric, and advanced lithium. The game-course stalwart RXV (with smooth AC drive) and TXT platforms anchor the range, while Express models (S4/S6/L6) add lifted suspensions, knobby tires, brush guards, and seating for families who split time between the neighborhood and beach trails. E-Z-GO’s ELiTE lithium system (using high-quality battery packs) brings quick charging and less maintenance than lead-acid, and the EX1 gas engine remains a favorite for long range with easy service. The downside is that feature sets vary widely by trim; compare motor type, battery chemistry, and accessories carefully so you don’t overpay for items you won’t use.
Yamaha Golf-Car
If you value quiet, efficient powertrains and strong dealer support, Yamaha is a perennial favorite. The Drive2 platform comes in electric and gas; the QuieTech EFI gas model is notably hushed and fuel-efficient for neighborhoods and courses that restrict noise. Electric trims offer smooth AC motors and modern controllers, with battery options that include maintenance-saving packages. Ergonomics—pedal feel, seat comfort, and steering—are standouts, and build quality feels “automotive.” Yamaha’s accessory catalog isn’t as flashy as boutique brands, and out-the-door pricing can be premium, but road manners and reliability are excellent.
ICON EV
ICON has grown quickly by delivering feature-rich lithium carts at aggressive prices and backing them with long warranties. Street-style lighting (turn signals, brake lights), seat belts, side mirrors, extended roofs, and rear flip seats often come standard, making LSV certification straightforward where permitted. Model names typically reflect seating (2/4/6) and body style, with lifted variants on larger tires for rougher paths. Owners like the punchy acceleration and modern dash layouts; critics note that fit/finish and dealer coverage can vary by region more than with the legacy big three, so your local dealer’s reputation matters.
How to choose among them
- Power and batteries. Lithium packs cost more up front but deliver lighter weight, faster charging, fewer maintenance chores, and stronger acceleration all the way down to low state of charge. Gas offers long range and quick refueling but adds noise, emissions, and occasional maintenance.
- Frame and suspension. Aluminum frames (e.g., Club Car) resist corrosion near coasts. Lifted suspensions and bigger tires add ground clearance and style but can reduce range and steering precision.
- Seats and capacity. Two seats are perfect for golf; four or six with a flip-down rear seat suit families and errands. Make sure your garage and trailer can handle the longer footprint and turning radius of 6-passenger carts.
- Use case and legality. Neighborhood/LSV use may require DOT lighting, mirrors, seat belts, a horn, and registration/insurance—check local rules. Many “ready-to-go” packages from Evolution and ICON include most of this hardware; Club Car, E-Z-GO, and Yamaha offer factory LSV versions or dealer kits.
- Dealer support. A cart is only as good as the shop that services it. Compare warranty terms, mobile service options, and parts availability before you pick a brand.
Bottom line: If you want classic refinement and a deep parts ecosystem, Club Car and Yamaha lead. If you want maximum configuration and proven platforms with multiple powertrains, E-Z-GO is tough to beat. If you’re chasing value-packed lithium with a custom look straight from the showroom, Evolution or ICON can deliver a lot of kit for the money—just confirm dealer strength locally.