Let’s face it—brand-new EVs aren’t cheap. Between rising MSRPs and loaded trim levels, it’s easy to walk into a dealership and leave with a $60,000 electric crossover you weren’t planning to finance. But if you’re smart about it, 2025 might just be the best time ever to buy a used electric car.
Thanks to early EV depreciation, government incentives for pre-owned models, and a growing crop of 3–5 year-old vehicles returning from leases, there are now plenty of used electric cars worth buying—some under $20,000 and still offering 150+ miles of range, modern features, and peace of mind.
The trick is knowing which used EVs are actually good, and which ones will leave you shopping for a replacement battery.
This blog ranks the best used electric cars to buy in 2025, based on:
- Battery health and range retention
- Charging speed and compatibility
- Reliability, maintenance, and warranty coverage
- Real-world performance, resale value, and availability
Let’s get into it.
Why Buying a Used EV in 2025 Makes Sense
You’re not just saving money upfront. You’re also:
- Avoiding the worst of first-owner depreciation (some EVs lose 30–40% in 3 years)
- Getting EVs with updated battery tech and better efficiency than early models
- Taking advantage of the $4,000 used EV federal tax credit (if under $25K and meets income limits)
- Finding more certified pre-owned (CPO) EVs with factory support and battery warranties
Plus, many early EV issues—like limited fast charging, weak winter range, and degraded batteries—have been solved or improved in models from 2019 and later.
1. Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD (2018–2021)
Used Price (2025): $22,000–$30,000
Real-World Range: 280–310 miles
Charging: Supercharger access, 250 kW peak
Battery Health (avg): 85–93% at 5 years
Why It’s #1:
The Model 3 changed the game when it launched, and it’s still the most desirable used EV on the market. Range holds up remarkably well, charging is seamless on the Tesla network, and software updates continue to improve performance—even on older units.
Go for the Long Range AWD version if you can. It offers the best value, with strong range, snow-ready traction, and quicker acceleration than most new crossovers.
Things to Check:
Look for signs of high mileage or supercharger-only usage, which can age the battery faster. Avoid heavily modified cars unless fully documented.
Best For: Buyers who want great range, resale value, and the easiest EV ownership experience.
2. Chevrolet Bolt EV (2019–2022)
Used Price (2025): $12,000–$17,000
Real-World Range: 230–260 miles
Charging: 50 kW DC fast charging
Battery Health (avg): Excellent—many have new batteries due to recalls
Why It’s a Steal:
The Bolt EV might be the best-value used EV in America right now. Thanks to GM’s battery recall program, many Bolts have brand-new battery packs with full 8-year/100K warranties—even in 2025. That means you’re essentially buying a used car with a new battery, and that’s gold.
Range is solid, comfort is good for city and suburban driving, and you’ll find plenty of clean, low-mileage models under $15K.
Things to Check:
Confirm recall service was done. Some early 2017–2018 models were not upgraded.
Best For: Budget buyers who want dependable range and don’t need fast charging for road trips.
3. Hyundai Kona Electric (2019–2022)
Used Price (2025): $17,000–$24,000
Real-World Range: 240–260 miles
Charging: 75 kW fast charging (CCS)
Battery Health (avg): Very good—well-cooled and reliable
Why It’s Quietly Excellent:
The Kona Electric offers near-Tesla range in a compact crossover that feels more “normal” than most EVs. It has strong efficiency, solid handling, and a surprisingly long-range even in winter.
Hyundai’s EV battery management is reliable, and unlike earlier Nissan Leaf models, the Kona uses liquid cooling—great for long-term battery health.
Things to Check:
Some owners report bumpy ride quality and dated interior tech. Make sure the infotainment screen and charge port door function properly.
Best For: Commuters and suburban families looking for value, space, and reliability.
4. Nissan Leaf Plus (2019–2022)
Used Price (2025): $13,000–$18,000
Real-World Range: 190–220 miles (Leaf Plus)
Charging: CHAdeMO, ~50 kW
Battery Health (avg): Decent in cooler climates, but variable in hot states
Why It’s Still a Smart Buy (in Some States):
The Leaf Plus version with the 62 kWh battery solved many of the original Leaf’s biggest flaws: short range and rapid degradation. If you’re in a cooler climate (like the Northeast, Pacific Northwest, or Northern Midwest), it’s one of the cheapest ways to get over 200 miles of electric range.
Things to Check:
Battery health via LeafSpy app (if private seller). Avoid early Leaf models (2011–2017) unless priced accordingly—they degrade faster.
Best For: City drivers or small households in mild climates who want low-cost, low-maintenance electric commuting.
5. Hyundai IONIQ Electric (2019–2021)
Used Price (2025): $11,000–$15,000
Real-World Range: 170–190 miles
Charging: ~50 kW fast charging (CCS)
Battery Health (avg): Excellent due to small, efficient pack
Why It’s Great for High-MPG EV Drivers:
The IONIQ Electric was one of the most efficient EVs ever sold in the U.S.—rated over 135 MPGe. It has a smaller battery, yes, but it sips power and still gives great real-world range for most people.
Think of it as the Prius of used EVs: simple, efficient, easy to own. Not flashy, but very dependable.
Things to Check:
Lower clearance and older infotainment. Not ideal for taller drivers or rural charging.
Best For: City commuters and frugal drivers who value simplicity over size.
6. Ford Mustang Mach-E Select (2021–2022)
Used Price (2025): $28,000–$35,000
Real-World Range: 210–250 miles (Select trim)
Charging: 150 kW peak, good public network access
Battery Health (avg): Excellent thermal control and software updates
Why It’s a Strong Premium Pick:
The Mach-E holds value better than most EVs and delivers a premium feel with strong driving dynamics. Even early Select trims offer solid range, fast DC charging, and frequent Ford software updates—including battery conditioning and drive mode improvements.
Things to Check:
SYNC 4 infotainment system responsiveness and any panel fitment issues.
Best For: Families and daily drivers who want an upscale used EV with comfort and tech.
Quick Comparison: Used EVs Worth Buying in 2025
| Model | Est. Price | Real Range | DC Fast Charging | Best For |
| Tesla Model 3 LR AWD | $22K–$30K | 280–310 mi | 250 kW Superchargers | All-around EV performance |
| Chevy Bolt EV (new batt) | $12K–$17K | 230–260 mi | 50 kW CCS | Budget daily drivers |
| Hyundai Kona Electric | $17K–$24K | 240–260 mi | 75 kW CCS | Value and long battery life |
| Nissan Leaf Plus | $13K–$18K | 190–220 mi | 50 kW CHAdeMO | Urban or mild climate commuters |
| Hyundai IONIQ Electric | $11K–$15K | 170–190 mi | 50 kW CCS | High-MPGe, low-cost EV ownership |
| Ford Mach-E Select | $28K–$35K | 210–250 mi | 150 kW CCS | Premium used EV with tech + space |
What to Check Before Buying a Used Electric Car
- Battery health report
Ask for a State of Health (SoH) report if buying from a private seller. Look for 85%+ capacity on EVs under 5 years. - Charging port compatibility
Most used EVs use CCS, but early Leafs use CHAdeMO—which limits fast charging options. - Battery warranty status
Many EVs carry 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranties, transferable to second owners. - Has the battery been replaced or recalled?
Check VINs on GM (Bolt), Hyundai, or Nissan sites. Battery replacements can add years of life. - Charging history
Vehicles fast-charged constantly with no Level 2 use may show more degradation.
Final Thoughts: The Best Used EV for You in 2025
Buying a used electric car doesn’t mean giving up modern features or solid range—if you pick the right model.
- Want long range and charging ease? Tesla Model 3 LR is still king.
- Shopping under $15K? Chevy Bolt with a new battery is unbeatable.
- Want compact comfort and efficiency? Go with the Hyundai Kona Electric.
- Need premium features? Try the used Mach-E—especially CPO.
And remember: used EVs aren’t like old gas cars. With fewer moving parts and smarter software, the right electric vehicle can feel new for years.
For honest EV guides, real-world range advice, and buying tips that help—not hype—keep reading BidForAutos.com.
