In the rapidly evolving world of electric vehicles (EVs), going green has never been easier or more affordable. With a growing second-hand market, used EVs offer a compelling value proposition – a blend of cutting-edge technology, reduced environmental impact, and significant savings upfront and in the long run. But which ones stand out in performance, range, reliability, and overall value?
In this article, we’ll navigate the exciting landscape of pre-owned EVs, highlighting models that deliver the most bang for your buck. From city commuters to luxury cruisers, these vehicles challenge the notion that sustainable driving is a privilege only for the new car buyer.
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Tesla Model S
The Tesla Model S stands out as one of the best used electric cars due to its combination of luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology. With its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system and a large battery pack, the Model S offers impressive acceleration and a long electric range, surpassing 350 miles in certain versions. Tesla’s robust Supercharger network adds to the car’s convenience. Used prices vary greatly depending on age, mileage, and condition, but expect to pay at least $30,000 for older, high-mileage models.
Chevrolet Bolt
The Chevrolet Bolt has won numerous awards for its practicality and affordability. It offers an impressive range of 238 miles (2017-2019 models) to 259 miles (2020+ models), which is quite good for a non-luxury electric car. Its compact size makes it perfect for city driving, yet it has a surprisingly spacious interior. Used Bolt prices can start around $15,000, making it a relatively affordable entry point into electric car ownership.
Nissan Leaf
As one of the first widely available EVs, the Nissan Leaf is a popular choice on the used market. The Leaf is known for its reliability and practicality, offering a comfortable ride and spacious interior. The range varies significantly based on the model year and battery size, with later models offering up to 226 miles. Used prices are quite reasonable, with early models available for under $10,000.
BMW i3
The BMW i3 is a compact EV with unique styling and a high-quality, eco-friendly interior made from sustainable materials. While its range isn’t as impressive as some competitors (up to 153 miles in pure electric form), its strong regenerative braking and nimble handling make it fun to drive. Due to the BMW badge, the i3 often commands a premium on the used market, with prices starting around $15,000 for older models.
Kia Soul EV
The Kia Soul EV maintains its gasoline counterpart’s funky styling and practical interior while offering a quiet, electric powertrain. The Soul EV’s range is between 111 and 243 miles depending on the year and model. With its boxy design, the Soul EV provides plenty of passenger and cargo space, making it a practical choice. Used prices are generally competitive, often starting around $10,000 for older models.
Hyundai Kona Electric
The Hyundai Kona Electric is a compact SUV offering an impressive range of 258 miles. It combines the benefits of an SUV – including a high seating position and good cargo space – with the advantages of an electric powertrain. The Kona Electric also comes with a well-equipped interior featuring a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration. Used prices are typically above $20,000, given the model’s recent launch in 2019.
Chevrolet Volt
Though technically a plug-in hybrid, the Chevrolet Volt offers a significant all-electric range (up to 53 miles) that covers most daily driving needs. Its gasoline engine provides additional flexibility for longer trips. The Volt is an excellent gateway to electric driving with its smooth ride and comfortable cabin. Prices for used Volts can start under $10,000 for older models.
Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 offers many of the benefits of the Model S at a more affordable price. It delivers agile handling, rapid acceleration, a high-tech, minimalist interior, and access to Tesla’s Supercharger network. Its range varies from 220 to 353 miles, depending on the variant. The Model 3 holds its value well, so used prices remain relatively high, often starting above $30,000.
Hyundai Ioniq Electric
Known for its efficiency, the Hyundai Ioniq Electric provides a smooth ride and a comfortable, well-built interior. While its range isn’t class-leading (up to 170 miles), it’s sufficient for most daily driving needs. The Ioniq also offers a good amount of cargo space for a compact car. Used prices start around $15,000 for early models.
Audi e-Tron
The Audi e-Tron is a luxury electric SUV offering a comfortable ride, a posh interior, and intuitive tech features. It has an electric range of up to 222 miles and supports fast charging. Though it’s pricier than most used EVs due to its luxury branding and recent launch in 2019, it can be a good value, with used prices starting around $45,000.
Kia Niro EV
The Kia Niro EV is a compact electric SUV offering an excellent range of 239 miles. It provides plenty of cargo space, a well-built interior, and a comfortable ride. Like the Kona Electric, used prices remain relatively high due to its recent introduction in 2019, typically starting around $25,000.
Volkswagen e-Golf
The e-Golf retains all the attributes of the beloved Golf hatchback – it’s fun to drive, practical, and well-made – but in an all-electric package. Its range of up to 125 miles isn’t class-leading but is suitable for city driving. The e-Golf is a great entry point to electric vehicles, with used prices starting at around $10,000.
Nissan e-NV200
Although it’s a commercial vehicle, the Nissan e-NV200 makes a great used EV for those needing space. This electric van provides a substantial cargo area and a range of up to 124 miles. The e-NV200 is especially useful for small businesses looking to reduce their environmental footprint. Used prices vary significantly depending on age and mileage but start around $15,000.
Ford Focus Electric
The Ford Focus Electric offers the sporty handling and comfortable ride of the regular Focus but with an all-electric powertrain. Its range of 115 miles isn’t as high as some rivals, but it’s sufficient for many drivers. A well-equipped interior and reasonable cargo space add to its appeal. Used prices are attractive, often starting under $10,000.
Smart EQ ForTwo
The Smart EQ ForTwo can be an excellent used EV for city dwellers. Its tiny footprint makes parking a breeze, and its tight turning radius aids maneuverability. The ForTwo’s range of 58 miles is low compared to larger EVs, but it’s sufficient for urban driving. It’s one of the most affordable used EVs, with prices for older models starting around $7,000.
This article originally appeared on MyCarMakesNoise.
