Despite still only being a small fraction of the overall market, it seems like electric cars are everywhere these days. That’s becoming especially noticeable on the used market, where we now have more choice than ever, especially if you’re looking for something that’s not a Tesla. Even if you’re looking for a more affordable Tesla, or a more upscale EV than you could buy new, or want to avoid the depreciation hit of buying new, buying a used EV makes a lot of sense these days — especially when you see the sort of cars you can land for a relatively reasonable sum.
Here are 10 of the best used electric cars under $30,000.
1. 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5
A lightly used 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5 is an affordable way to own a nearly new EV with great warranty support. In the case of the Ioniq 5, you’d also be buying our 2023 Best Electric Vehicle and Best New Model, awards the 2023 Ioniq 5 won for its value, features, capability, and style. Look for the SE trim if you want a lower-mileage vehicle, or, if you don’t mind another 20,000 miles logged, the mid-range SEL.
See used Hyundai Ioniq 5 models for sale near you
2. 2022 Kia EV6
Closely related to the Ioniq 5 but with its own style and features, the 2022 Kia EV6 is available on our budget in the Wind or GT-Line trims. The Wind is a good fit for those seeking a balance of price and equipment, while the GT-Line adds a dose of sporty style and even more equipment. Both offer a choice of rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), with RWD models rated for up to 310 miles of range and AWD models good for 274 miles.
See used Kia EV6 models for sale near you
3. 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E
The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E brings a pony car’s attitude and style to the realm of crossover EVs. Maximum range configuration gets you 305 miles, but even the minimum range is 211 miles. The Premium trim that best fits our price range gets AWD, 270 miles of range, and 346 horsepower backed by 428 lb-ft of torque.
See used Mustang Mach-E models for sale near you
4. 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV
The Chevrolet Bolt EV isn’t currently in production — it’s taking a break — but remains a great value. The 2023 Chevy Bolt is still nearly new and can be had with the well-equipped 2LT trim, with 259 miles of range, 57 cubic feet of cargo space, wireless smartphone integration, and more.
See used Chevrolet Bolt models for sale near you
5. 2020 Tesla Model Y
The even more practical crossover counterpart to the Model 3, the 2020 Tesla Model Y is an affordable, instantly recognizable long-range EV with style and high-tech features. The Long Range model and its 316-mile range are the best fit for our budget, but persistent shoppers may also find the Performance model within reach.
See used 2020 Tesla Model Y models for sale near you
6. 2023 Toyota bZ4X
If you prefer to own your vehicles for more than a couple of years, you may prefer a mainstream EV from a known quantity like Toyota. Enter the 2023 Toyota bZ4X. Practically new, many of the 2023 models on the used market have fewer than 10,000 miles on the odometer, making this a great way to get into a new EV with a warranty and Toyota’s reputation for reliability at a great price.
See used Toyota bZ4X models for sale near you
7. 2023 Nissan Ariya
With the 2023 Ariya, Nissan took its decades-long experience building the Leaf and designed a compact SUV that’s aimed at the heart of the market. The Ariya is comfortable, roomy, and offers up to 304 miles of range. If you want the highest range, look for the Venture+. The Evolve+, Empower+, and Premier offer 289 miles of range and an impressive feature set.
See used Nissan Ariya models for sale near you
8. 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge
The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge is a luxurious entry into the compact crossover EV space, with elegant design inside and out, 402 horsepower from its dual-motor AWD powertrain, and 208 miles of range. For the best experience, look for models equipped with the Advanced Technology package, which includes Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driver assist, a 360-degree camera, wireless smartphone charging, and other upgrades.
See used Volvo XC40 Recharge models for sale near you
9. 2020 Tesla Model 3
Even folks who’ve been living under rocks are aware of the Tesla Model 3, the American EV brand’s most mainstream sedan offering. With up to 322 miles of range available on our $30,000 budget — or the 3.2-second 0-60 mph acceleration of the Performance model — the 2020 Tesla Model 3 is a great starting point for your search.
See used Tesla Model 3 models for sale near you
10. 2021 Polestar 2
Although the 2021 Polestar 2’s 233-mile range is a bit shorter than most on this list, its 408 horsepower and 487 lb-ft of torque make it quicker and more exciting than most, too. All-wheel drive is standard, as is a Google-based infotainment system and a vegan-friendly interior. Just one version of the Polestar 2 is available, but an optional Performance package includes Brembo brakes with gold calipers, Ohlins dampers, 20-inch forged wheels, and gold-colored seatbelts.
See used Polestar 2 models for sale near you
10 Best Used Electric Vehicles Under $30,000
- 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5
- 2022 Kia EV6
- 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E
- 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV
- 2020 Tesla Model Y
- 2023 Toyota bZ4X
- 2023 Nissan Ariya
- 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge
- 2020 Tesla Model 3
- 2021 Polestar 2
