Not everyone wants to spend $45,000 on a new EV. And honestly? You don’t have to.
The used EV market in 2025 is finally full of real options—cars with solid range, good reliability, and all the benefits of electric driving for less than the price of a new Corolla. Thanks to heavy early depreciation, you can now get into some of the best EVs from the last five years for under $25,000.
This guide breaks down:
- The best used EVs you can actually find under $25K
- Model years to target (and avoid)
- Real-world range and battery life
- Charging speeds, features, and ownership tips
If you’re shopping smart, this is where to start.
Why Buy a Used EV in 2025?
Three reasons:
- Massive depreciation. EVs lose value faster than gas cars—your gain.
- Updated tech, lower miles. Many 2019–2022 EVs come with less than 50K miles, full digital features, and better batteries than early models.
- Lower maintenance. Fewer moving parts. No oil changes. And if the battery’s healthy, they’re cheap to run.
Just make sure you know which models are worth chasing—and which ones you should skip.
Best Used Electric Cars Under $25,000 in 2025
All pricing is based on real listings (CarGurus, AutoTrader, CarMax) as of spring 2025.
1. 2019–2021 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus
- Typical Price: $20,000–$24,000
- Range: 220–263 miles (depending on year)
- Charge Speed: ~170 miles in 30 mins (Supercharger)
- What to Watch: Check battery degradation, touchscreen issues
- Why It’s Great: Still the EV benchmark under $25K. Fast, reliable, and backed by Tesla’s charging network.
Earlier builds had minor fit and finish complaints, but performance and range hold up. Just make sure you’re okay without Full Self-Driving—it doesn’t transfer on resale.
2. 2020–2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV
- Typical Price: $14,000–$18,000
- Range: 259 miles
- Charge Speed: 100 miles in 30 mins (DC Fast)
- What to Watch: Battery recall—make sure it was completed
- Why It’s Great: Best real-world range-per-dollar on the market
The Bolt isn’t flashy, but it’s pound-for-pound the best used EV value available right now. Avoid 2017–2019 models unless battery modules were replaced.
3. 2021–2022 Nissan Leaf SV Plus
- Typical Price: $16,000–$22,000
- Range: 215–226 miles
- Charge Speed: CHAdeMO – slower than CCS
- What to Watch: Older Leafs had poor battery cooling—stick with 2021+
- Why It’s Great: Comfortable, easy to drive, and cheap to maintain
Don’t buy a base Leaf S—it lacks fast charging and has limited range. The SV Plus trim is the sweet spot.
4. 2020–2021 Hyundai Kona Electric
- Typical Price: $20,000–$24,000
- Range: 258 miles
- Charge Speed: 80% in 47 mins
- What to Watch: Battery fire recall (ensure fix was done)
- Why It’s Great: Fantastic range, tight footprint, good infotainment
The Kona Electric shares hardware with the Bolt but feels more refined. Great for urban commuters with some weekend distance driving.
5. 2021–2022 Kia Niro EV
- Typical Price: $18,000–$24,000
- Range: 239 miles
- Charge Speed: 80% in ~1 hour
- What to Watch: Early infotainment issues, limited availability
- Why It’s Great: Quiet, efficient, and a bit more crossover-like than most small EVs
If you want the Bolt’s practicality with more style and comfort, the Niro is a strong alternative—especially in EX or EX Premium trims.
6. 2020–2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E (Select RWD)
- Typical Price: $22,000–$25,000
- Range: 230 miles
- Charge Speed: 10%–80% in ~45 mins
- What to Watch: Sync system bugs, build quality
- Why It’s Great: Stylish, fun to drive, and prices are falling fast
These early Mach-E models are starting to dip under $25K—especially with 50K+ miles. Get the Select RWD version for best value.
7. 2019–2020 Audi e-tron SUV
- Typical Price: $21,000–$25,000
- Range: 204 miles
- Charge Speed: 150 kW (fast)
- What to Watch: Pricey out-of-warranty repairs
- Why It’s Great: Luxury EV experience for the price of a Honda Civic
This is your best shot at a luxury EV under $25K. Range isn’t great, but the comfort, materials, and tech are solid. Avoid high-mileage ex-rentals.
8. 2020–2021 BMW i3 REX
- Typical Price: $16,000–$20,000
- Range: 126 miles electric + 70 miles gas (REX)
- Charge Speed: Slow—no DC fast charging
- What to Watch: Rear door hinges, quirky interior wear
- Why It’s Great: Lightweight, fun, and totally unique
If you don’t need long range and want something different, the i3 is a city car that stands out. Just know it’s compact—and charging is slow.
9. 2017–2019 Hyundai Ioniq Electric
- Typical Price: $13,000–$17,000
- Range: 124–170 miles
- Charge Speed: Slow
- What to Watch: Battery cooling limitations
- Why It’s Great: High efficiency, great interior, and low cost
Perfect for short commutes and local errands. Not built for long-distance travel, but reliable and easy to live with.
10. 2021 Mini Cooper SE
- Typical Price: $18,000–$22,000
- Range: 114 miles
- Charge Speed: 36 mins to 80%
- What to Watch: Very short range
- Why It’s Great: Fast, stylish, fun—and cheap for a near-luxury badge
If you want a “second car” EV for city driving, the Mini SE is genuinely fun to drive and looks the part. Not a road-tripper.
Buyer’s Checklist: What to Ask When Buying a Used EV
- Battery warranty remaining?
- Was it part of a recall (Bolt, Kona)?
- Original owner or fleet/rental?
- Has it been fast-charged frequently?
- Is the battery degradation below 15%?
- Does the dealer allow a third-party inspection?
FAQ
Are used EVs worth it in 2025?
Yes—many have low miles, high depreciation, and good remaining battery life. Just check battery condition and warranty status.
Which used EV has the best range under $25K?
The 2020–2022 Bolt EV offers up to 259 miles and is widely available under $20K.
Do used EVs qualify for tax credits?
Yes. You may qualify for a $4,000 used EV credit if the car is bought from a dealer, under $25K, and you meet income limits.
Can I replace the battery if needed?
You can—but it’s expensive. Always factor battery health into the price you’re willing to pay.
Final Word
Used EVs are finally where they should be—affordable, accessible, and practical. If you’re shopping under $25K, the list above offers the best mix of range, reliability, and long-term savings you’ll find right now.
Whether you want Tesla tech, Bolt value, or a Kona with range to spare, the key is buying smart. Check battery history, know the car’s real-world range, and don’t be afraid to negotiate.
Stay with BidForAutos.com for more electric car reviews, smart comparisons, and the real story on EV buying in 2025—without the hype.
