Best affordable electric vehicles
Affordable electric cars
We've compiled a list of the 10 most popular used affordable electric vehicles with CarMax customers. Learn more about how our lists work.
1. Tesla Model 3
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Excellent EPA-estimated range Comfortable seating with ample space Easy to drive and good visibility
Cons
The touchscreen controls almost everything No support for Android Auto™ or Apple CarPlay® The touch-based drive selector isn’t intuitive at first
2. Chevrolet Bolt EUV
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Small and nimble — ideal for city driving Lively acceleration from the standard electric motor Spacious interior with plenty of creature comforts
Cons
Fast-charging speed is actually relatively slow Cargo area is a little small compared to rivals No all-wheel-drive option
3. Nissan Leaf
CarMax owner rating
4. Volkswagen ID.4 EV
CarMax owner rating
5. Chevrolet Bolt EV
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Impressive range Spacious cabin Swift acceleration
Cons
Interior lacks refinement Small front seat cushions Rough ride on bumpy roads
6. Jaguar I-Pace
CarMax owner rating
Pros
All electric Zippy acceleration Sporty driving experience
Cons
Touchy brake feel Climate control system is underpowered Limited electric range
7. BMW I3
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Agile and engaging handling Loaded with tech features Stylish and sleek interior
Cons
Reverse-hinged rear doors are awkward to use in parking lots Cargo space could be bigger Only single-zone climate control
8. Kia Niro Electric
CarMax owner rating
9. Hyundai Ioniq Electric
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Impressive cargo space Lots of driver aids Comfy interior
Cons
Reduced rear visibility Tight back seat space Specs aren't as good as other EVs
How we ranked this list
To create our "Best Of" lists, our analysts look at CarMax vehicle and sales data over a recent 6-month period, from December 2023 through May 2024. Looking back over a 6-month period allows for the highest sample size possible while also providing up-to-date pricing information. Some articles may include data points with lower sample sizes.
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2006-2020 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy.
Fuel economy figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new. Fuel economy may vary for reasons like driving conditions and vehicle history. Unless specified, figures are for vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission. See fueleconomy.gov.
Range figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new and assume a full battery charge. Range will vary based on things like battery age, vehicle condition and history, driving and charging habits, accessory use, and driving conditions. Battery capacity may decrease with time and use. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
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We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
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We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.