What Are the Best Used EVs?

DATE : Jun 24th, 2024
Read :
Share :
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular as consumers look for eco-friendly and cost-effective alternatives to traditional gasoline-powered cars. With the rise in new EVs, the market for used electric vehicles is also expanding, offering affordable options for those looking to make the switch. In this article, we’ll explore the best used EVs available today, examining their features, performance, and overall value.

. Why Consider a Used EV?

Before diving into the top picks, it’s important to understand the benefits of choosing a used EV. Here are some key reasons to consider:
1. 
Cost Savings: Used EVs are generally more affordable than new models, making them accessible to a wider range of buyers.
2. 
Depreciation: EVs tend to depreciate faster than gasoline cars due to rapidly advancing technology, which means you can get a more advanced vehicle for less money.
3. 
Lower Operating Costs: EVs have lower operating costs because electricity is cheaper than gasoline, and they require less maintenance due to fewer moving parts.
4. 
Environmental Impact: Buying a used EV helps reduce your carbon footprint, contributing to a greener planet.

. Do EVs Depreciate More?

Still, the theory is that in some ways, EVs might have steeper depreciation curves than more conventional vehicles, as the technology is developing so rapidly. While they are unlikely to lose value as aggressively as a smartphone in their first year of ownership, there are some electric cars that depreciate more than others. And for those of us looking to go electric – but hoping to save a bit on the initial outlay – it means there are deals to be had on nearly-new vehicles.
Indeed, a recent survey by industry watcher iSeeCars ranked some of the best deals going for EVs that are just one year old. If you’re in the market for a new electric car, but are willing to purchase a vehicle with a few miles on it, and which isn’t 100 percent new, you could save yourself tens of thousands of dollars – and still enjoy a current-generation vehicle and all of the fuel savings and low-maintenance benefits of going electric. Now, let’s explore some of the best used EVs available today.

1. 2023 Volkswagen ID.4

The Volkswagen ID.4 is one of the best-selling electric vehicles in the country, and it represented over 10 percent of the brand’s sales in 2023 – making it a bona-fide hit. The ID.4 is lovely to drive, with a smooth, powerful electric drivetrain, decent range, and a well-made interior made of sustainable materials. Late in 2023, Volkswagen also shifted production of the ID.4 to its plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee, meaning that the ID.4 is made in the USA as well.
Like all EVs, the ID.4 is evolving rapidly. The 2024 model not only packs more powerful electric motors, but it also has significantly more range than the 2023 – and its infotainment system has a larger screen with backlit volume and temperature sliders as well as a more responsive interface.
Those meaningful upgrades mean that 2023 models are a great deal, if you’re willing to sacrifice a bit of range, or don’t mind its smaller screen. A year-old ID.4 will save you a third on the original model’s starting MSRP.

2. 2023 Nissan Leaf

As a nameplate, the Nissan Leaf has been on sale longer than any other electric vehicle on the market. And while the latest Leaf, which was introduced in 2017, is a much better car than the original, which came out in 2010, it’s definitely feeling its age compared to more modern competitors. Range, charging speed, and feature content are behind the curve, and charging on the go is becoming a challenge as the Leaf still uses the old-style CHAdeMO connector for high-speed charging – a plug that is becoming increasingly rare on the latest-generation chargers.
While we think the new Nissan Ariya crossover is a much better fit for families as an all-round electric vehicle, with its impressive range, large cabin, and decent charging speed, the Leaf remains a fine choice as an urban runabout or a second car. Upgraded for the 2023 model year with improved tech and a little more range in both base and Leaf Plus forms, the OG Nissan EV is a great deal at a year old and almost half its original MSRP.

3. 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS

Historically, the fastest-depreciating vehicles have always been large luxury sedans. Typically leased by companies for their executives, these feature-packed, leather- and wood- laden land yachts have always been used car bargains in gasoline form. Mercedes-Benz S-classes, BMW 7 Series, and Audi A8s are all fantastic used car bargains; and the Mercedes-Benz EQS, the Stuttgart brand’s top-of-the-line electric sedan, is one as well.
At just a year old, a 2023 EQS loses almost half of its value – over $65,000 – compared to its original starting MSRP. At just over half-price, you still get a nearly-new sedan packed with industry-leading technology, including a giant “hyperscreen” that spans the entire width of the cabin, the most advanced driving assistance systems available on the market, and a huge, beautifully-appointed interior with lounge-like seating, a stunning Burmester audio system, and more.
While 2024 EQS models were improved with a standard heat pump (for better range in the winter), more power, and improved software which makes brake regeneration and cruising more efficient, the EPA range estimates only increase by single digits. If you live in a temperate climate, the 2023 EQS could be the best deal of the year.

4. Audi E-Tron SUV

Introduced for the 2019 model year, the Audi e-tron is an old-timer in this rapidly changing EV landscape. But like the I-Pace, the appeal of this handsome crossover is visceral. It still looks sharp a few years after its introduction, and even with the advent of newer EVs it feels fresh. It's porky, but its driving dynamics are excellent, and the E-Tron offers smooth, seamless acceleration and an even more seamless transition between regenerative and friction braking. The bugbear is range; the E-Tron can barely exceed 200 miles on a full charge, in stark contrast to the newest EVs that can crest 300 or more. That presents an opportunity for smart buyers who know their use case and are in the market for a used luxury electric SUV that still looks contemporary. 

5. Tesla Model S

The Tesla Model S is a legend , setting the groundwork for the aspirational EV. From its introduction in 2012 until the present day, the Model S has offered impressive range (more than 200 miles, even when it was first launched) and performance. Like its newer Model 3 sibling, the Model S has had its share of quality issues, and earlier cars lack many of the latest features and cosmetic updates that have improved this large sedan over its lifetime. Having been for sale for so long, there are used examples with a wide range of conditions and price points, which should mean there's a Model S for nearly every used EV shopper. A careful pre-purchase inspection and knowledge of the particular foibles of Tesla's flagship car are useful to have on hand—such as which features and perks transfer to new owners of used Teslas. 

6. BMW i3 2014-2021

BMW’s first production electric car, the i3 debuted for the 2014 model year and was only discontinued in 2021, though it continued overseas for one more year. Unlike all the other vehicles on this list, it was not only available as a fully-electric machine but also a “Series Hybrid” in which a small gas-engine range extender could help keep the car going if it ran out of charge.
The car offers a surprisingly spacious interior, sharp handling, and funky styling that makes it a true standout on the road. The interior is just as unusual and filled with cool shapes and nice materials. BMW sold several versions of the i3, including the ones with the range extender. feature can make the BMW i3 more useful overall (expect the range in early models to rise from around 80 miles to 150 miles), but it‘s still not a great vehicle for long road trips. There’s also the i3s, which offers sportier suspension tuning.
Regardless of trim, recent i3 models come well-equipped. Tech includes a 6.5-inch infotainment screen, Apple CarPlay, navigation, HD radio, and more. BMW offered an optional Driving Assistance package, which included automatic high-beam headlights and adaptive cruise control. It’s a well built, stylish, and capable runabout.

7. Chevrolet Bolt EV 2017-2023

The Chevrolet Bolt EV may be the best bargain on this list. Though it had a troubled period a few years ago in which a major nationwide stop-sale order and recall saw its batteries replaced, the fixed Bolt EV is a great small car by any standard, electric or otherwise. Now that the issues have been rectified, the Bolt is more popular than ever and 2023 was its best sales year. Older models are widely available for less than $20,000 with modest mileages, and they’re nearly as good as the very latest models, though only 2022 and 2023 versions got GM’s Super Cruise system.
In 2017, the Bolt EV’s 238-mile rated range was lengthy, and Chevrolet upped it to 259 miles in 2020. That makes it suitable for all but the longest possible commutes, and it’s quite energy-efficient in operation. It can also charge at up to 55 kW per hour and can juice from 10% to 80% in an hour at common 50-kW DC fast chargers. On a 240-volt outlet, it can replenish its batteries in about ten hours, which isn’t fast but is more than doable overnight.
The Bolt EV is fun to drive, too, with a 66-kW battery and a single electric motor making 200 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, and the Bolt EV’s small size and capable handling make it plenty of fun, and there’s room for four adults to ride in comfort. While some may still be wary because of the past foibles of the LG-sourced batteries, Those who do pursue a Bolt will find a practical car with plenty of space for a small hatchback, a zippy powertrain, and intuitive in-car tech.

8. Tesla Model 3 2017-Present

It may be true that Tesla never fully delivered on the promise of a $30,000 brand-new Model 3, but nearly seven years after its introduction, there are plenty of used Model 3s you can buy right now for less than that figure, and prices have come way down from their peak-Pandemic highs. In fact, thanks to some rental fleets off-loading leased units, it’s possible to find a few cars under $20,000, though there are some caveats to those well-worn examples, and early cars had a variety of quality ills.
The Model 3 is the most popular electric car in America for lots of reasons, but primary among them are its solid range numbers (no version has ever been EPA-rated at less than 220 miles, and Long Range and Performance models have always been at or above 300), excellent handling, peppy performance, and its practicality. The back seat is small and not that comfy for tall people, but the Model 3 has cargo space that rivals much larger vehicles. Also, Tesla’s Supercharger network makes “in the wild” charging quick and painless.
When shopping for a used Model 3, it’s important to note the variations in miles of range between models, and that some models don’t always meet their range estimates. In 2023, Tesla revised the Long Range Model 3 from 348 miles of range to a more realistic 333. Battery health is also important, particularly if you’re looking at a discounted former rideshare driving machine, which may have seen many fast charging cycles. A diagnostic test mode can reveal the health of the battery, but it can take up to 24 hours to administer, which not every seller wants to do. Nearly all Model 3s with fewer than 100,000 miles, however, are still under warranty.
Prices can also vary wildly from model to model, with the Model 3 Performance typically being the costliest. The downsides of the 3 are its very basic cabin, which doesn’t feel at all like a “premium” experience, and its overreliance on the central touchscreen. It lacks many physical controls, and while you do adapt to the software, it isn’t intuitive and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto aren’t offered. Similarly, there’s no conventional instrument cluster.

. Conclusion

Choosing the best used EV depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for affordability, range, performance, or luxury, there’s a used electric vehicle out there for you. As the electric vehicle market continues to grow, the availability and variety of used EVs will only improve, providing even more options for eco-conscious buyers. When shopping for a used EV, consider factors such as range, performance, features, and overall condition to ensure you find the best vehicle



 
Related News
Related Products