Electric cars have come a long way, but let’s face it—brand new EVs still aren’t cheap. If you want to drive electric without blowing your budget, the smartest move might be to go used.
And the good news? In 2025, there are more great electric cars under $25,000 than ever before. Some come with fresh batteries. Others deliver more range than brand-new models did just a few years ago. But there’s a catch:
Not all used EVs are worth buying.
Some suffer from major battery degradation, slow charging speeds, or outdated tech that makes ownership a pain. Others? Quiet, affordable, and shockingly good to drive.
This blog breaks it all down—the best used electric cars under $25K, what kind of real-world range you can expect, how to check battery health, and which models to avoid. Whether you’re buying from a dealer or a private seller, we’ve got you covered.
Why Buy a Used Electric Car in 2025?
Before we get into the best picks, here’s why shopping used might be the smartest EV move you can make right now:
- Prices are dropping: Off-lease Teslas, Bolts, and Leafs are flooding the market
- Federal tax credit for used EVs: Up to $4,000 if you qualify (on cars under $25K)
- Daily range needs are low: Most drivers don’t go more than 40 miles a day
- No gas, less maintenance, and lower cost per mile
If you charge at home or work and drive under 200 miles a day, a used EV might do everything you need—and save you thousands over new.
What to Look for in a Used EV
Here’s what really matters when buying a secondhand electric vehicle:
- Battery health: Degradation is real, especially on early Leafs
- Charging speed: Can it handle DC fast charging? Or just Level 2?
- Range: Look for at least 150+ miles real-world to avoid frustration
- Maintenance history: EVs need fewer repairs, but check service records
- Software updates: Some EVs (like Teslas) improve over time if updated
- Warranty coverage: Battery warranties often run 8 years/100,000 miles
Let’s get into the used EVs worth buying right now.
1. 2019–2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV
Used Price (2025): $12,000–$19,000
EPA Range: 238–259 miles
Real-World Range: 200–240 miles
Charging: DC fast charging (55 kW)
Battery Warranty: 8 yrs/100,000 miles
Why It’s the Best Deal in Used EVs Right Now:
The Chevy Bolt EV is the sweet spot of range, reliability, and affordability. Many 2019–2021 models had their batteries replaced under GM’s recall—meaning you’re getting a car with a brand-new battery and full warranty for under $20K.
It’s quick off the line, seats five, and has Android Auto/Apple CarPlay. Charging isn’t lightning fast, but you can still get 100 miles in 30–40 minutes at a fast charger.
What to Watch:
Make sure the battery was replaced under recall. Avoid earlier models with original packs.
Best For: Daily drivers who want modern range at used Corolla prices.
2. 2018–2020 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus
Used Price (2025): $22,000–$25,000
EPA Range: 220–250 miles
Real-World Range: 200–230 miles
Charging: Supercharger access (170–250 kW)
Battery Warranty: 8 yrs/100K miles (retains 70% capacity)
Why It’s a Sleeper Steal:
The early Model 3 Standard Range Plus models are finally falling below $25K. That means access to Tesla’s Supercharger network, over-the-air software updates, fast acceleration, and real EV road trip capability.
No other used EV gives you this kind of charging convenience, especially for long-distance drivers.
What to Watch:
Some early units had panel gaps and worn seats. Always check software history and mileage. Also verify if Full Self Driving (FSD) was purchased—it stays with the car.
Best For: Buyers who want road trip capability and great resale.
3. 2020–2022 Hyundai Ioniq Electric
Used Price (2025): $17,000–$22,000
EPA Range: 170 miles (2020+)
Real-World Range: 150–165 miles
Charging: 100 kW DC fast charging
Battery Warranty: Lifetime (Hyundai USA policy)
Why It’s Under-the-Radar Smart:
The Ioniq Electric is one of the most efficient EVs ever made—getting over 4 miles per kWh. While its range is lower than others here, it charges fast and works great for commuting or errands.
Interior build quality is excellent, and Hyundai’s battery warranty is the best in the business (original owners had lifetime coverage, which may transfer depending on region).
What to Watch:
Not great for long trips. Low ground clearance and firm ride.
Best For: Daily commuters who want quality, efficiency, and minimal charging.
4. 2019–2021 Nissan Leaf SV Plus (62 kWh)
Used Price (2025): $14,000–$20,000
EPA Range: 215–226 miles
Real-World Range: 180–210 miles
Charging: CHAdeMO fast charging (50 kW)
Battery Warranty: 8 yrs/100,000 miles
Why It’s a Value Leader (With a Caveat):
The Leaf SV Plus offers solid range, a roomy interior, and low maintenance costs. It’s also one of the cheapest ways to get over 200 miles of range.
But… early Leafs (and even some newer ones) don’t have liquid-cooled batteries. That means faster degradation in hot climates, especially if fast-charged frequently.
What to Watch:
Avoid 40 kWh Leafs unless you only drive 50–80 miles a day. Use an OBD scanner or dealer test to verify battery health.
Best For: Suburban drivers in cool climates who charge at home.
5. 2020–2022 Kia Soul EV (64 kWh)
Used Price (2025): $19,000–$24,000
EPA Range: 243 miles
Real-World Range: 200–230 miles
Charging: 100 kW DC fast charging
Battery Warranty: 10 yrs/100,000 miles
Why It’s a Funky, Practical Option:
The Soul EV has the same drivetrain as the Kona Electric—plenty of torque, long range, and fast charging. Its tall roofline makes it roomy for passengers and gear, and it has Kia’s excellent warranty backing it up.
What to Watch:
Only available in certain states in the U.S., and resale value is lower than comparable Hyundai/Kia models.
Best For: Urban drivers who want style, range, and everyday versatility.
6. 2017–2019 BMW i3 REx
Used Price (2025): $13,000–$18,000
EPA Range (EV-only): 126 miles (real), 180+ with REx
Charging: 50 kW DC fast charging
Battery Warranty: 8 yrs/100K miles
Why It’s Still Interesting in 2025:
The i3 REx (range extender) is part EV, part plug-in hybrid. It gives you electric drive for about 100–120 miles, then uses a tiny gas generator to keep you moving.
This makes it one of the only range-anxiety-free used EVs under $15K, with premium styling, carbon fiber construction, and one of the best urban turning circles of any car, gas or electric.
What to Watch:
Small trunk, narrow rear seats, and quirky styling. Avoid early models with high miles.
Best For: City dwellers who want EV efficiency but travel unpredictably.
What to Avoid When Buying a Used EV in 2025
Not every cheap EV is a good deal. Watch out for:
- 2011–2017 Nissan Leaf (24 kWh): Terrible battery degradation
- Fiat 500e: Cute but limited range (under 90 miles), no DC charging
- Smart EQ ForTwo: Incredibly small, under 80 miles range, not practical
- Low-range BMW i3 BEV (no REx): Too short-legged for most drivers
Also avoid:
- EVs without a working Level 2 charger port
- Flood-damaged cars (check Carfax and title history)
- Heavily fast-charged vehicles in hot climates without cooling systems
Final Thoughts: Which Used EV Is Right for You?
If your goal is to spend under $25K and ditch gas, you’ve got real options in 2025. Whether you’re commuting, making short trips, or just want to learn the ropes before going fully electric with a new car later—used EVs make a lot of sense.
Here’s the quick guide:
- Best overall value: 2020+ Chevy Bolt EV (with new battery)
- Best long-range highway EV: 2018–2020 Tesla Model 3
- Best commuter value: Hyundai Ioniq Electric
- Most space + range: Kia Soul EV
- Best city car with gas backup: BMW i3 REx
Want to compare these models to new EVs under $30K? Or learn how to test EV battery health before buying?
Stay with BidForAutos.com—where we break down the real cost, range, and reliability of going electric.
