The secret to affordable EV ownership isn’t a government grant – it’s the used market. By letting the first owner absorb the initial depreciation, savvy buyers can access some of the best electric cars for a fraction of their original cost.

The once-common fear of battery degradation has also been largely disproven by real-world data, with high-mileage cars like the Tesla Model S routinely retaining excellent battery health for years.

Sealing the deal is the manufacturer’s battery warranty – typically an eight-year policy – that transfers to the second owner, giving you peace of mind. When you combine this proven reliability with pennies-per-mile running costs, the financial case for a pre-owned EV becomes undeniable.

Our guide reveals the top models to consider, but remember that the usual rules of buying used still apply, so always check the car’s history and condition thoroughly.

How we tested

As with all our car tests, we start by understanding the needs of the buyer – and in the second hand market there are different priorities, especially around reliability and build quality. So we’ve looked into all that, while also talking to owners and looking into owner surveys to see if people are happy with their cars after a period of time living with them.

Value also comes into it – cars depreciate at different rates and what might not be the best buy new, can look all the more attractive when it comes to sitting on a used forecourt. Plus, of course, there are still the things that a car has to do for you, so we assess the cars in the real-world situations you’ll drive them in, and check on running costs over a typical ownership period.

The best used electric cars in 2025

**Best for tech **– Tesla Model 3: From £10,000, Tesla.com

Best for city driving – BMW i3: From £4,600, BMW.co.uk

Best for families – Kia Niro EV: From £7,000, Kia.com

Best budget option – Nissan Leaf: From £2,495, Nissan.co.uk

Best luxury option – Audi A4 e-tron: From £16,000, Audi.co.uk

1. Tesla Model 3: From £10,000, Tesla.com

Best: For tech and charging

Tesla Model 3 (Steve Fowler)

Independent rating: 8/10

**Pros: **Quick, great tech, strong range, Supercharger network

**Cons: **Ride is a bit firm, quality of early cars is mixed

Tesla Model 3 specs

Price: From £10,000 used

Maximum claimed range: 348 miles

Maximum charge rate: 250 kW

Seats: 5

Dimensions: 4,720 x 1,850 x 1,441 mm

**Boot space: **594 litres

The Tesla Model 3 is a game-changer in the electric car market, offering a combination of range, performance, and technology that has made it one of the most sought-after electric vehicles in the UK. The Model 3 is available in several versions, with ranges of up to 348 miles, making it one of the best options for those who need a long-range EV. Its minimalist interior, dominated by a large touchscreen, is both futuristic and functional, with decent-quality materials and a sense of space that belies its relatively compact dimensions.

What it’s like to live with a secondhand Tesla

Reliability is generally good, although early models did suffer from some build quality issues, such as panel gaps and paint defects. However, Tesla has worked hard to address these, and newer models are much improved in this regard – especially those bult in China and then Berlin. The Model 3’s cabin is a comfortable place to be, with supportive seats and a quiet, refined driving experience. The ride is firm, but the handling is sharp, making the Model 3 one of the most engaging electric cars to drive.

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Running costs are low, with minimal maintenance requirements and access to Tesla’s Supercharger network, which makes long-distance travel easy and affordable. The Model 3 also benefits from low road tax, making it an economical choice for both private and business users, although insurance can be a bit pricey.

Buy through Tesla’s Certified Pre-Owned scheme and you’ll be guaranteed the latest software updates on your car, including Enhanced Auto Pilot self-driving tech.

2. BMW i3: From £4,600, BMW.co.uk

**Best: **For city driving

BMW i3 (BMW)

**Independent rating: **9/10

Pros: Great to drive, sustainable interior, ideal city car

Cons: Firm ride, rear seat access, range extender model

BMW i3 specs

**Price: **From £6,000 used

Maximum claimed range: 192 miles

Maximum charge rate: 50 kW

Seats: 4

Dimensions: 4,011 x 1775 x 1598 mm

Boot space: 260 litres

The BMW i3 was a car ahead of its time. It’s an unconventional, yet highly appealing choice of electric car, especially for those who value sustainability and design innovation. Launched in 2013, the i3 broke the mould with its distinctive look, featuring rear-hinged back doors and a futuristic cabin filled with eco-friendly materials such as recycled plastics and natural fibres. Despite its compact size, once you’re inside the i3 offers a surprisingly spacious interior, thanks in part to its flat floor and upright seating position.

In terms of reliability, the i3 has a solid track record, with few major issues reported by owners. The range, however, is one of the i3’s weaker points, particularly in earlier models, which offer around 100 miles on a full charge. Later models, including those with the Range Extender (a small engine used to charge the battery on the go), provide a bit more flexibility, though still not on par with newer competitors.

Comfort-wise, the i3 is well-suited for urban driving, with its small size making it easy to manoeuvre and park. The ride can be a bit firm on the sportier i3S model, especially on rougher roads, but overall it’s a vehicle for daily commuting and great fun to drive, with nippy acceleration.

Running costs are low, as you’d expect from an electric car, with minimal maintenance and energy costs. However, its premium price, even on the used market, reflects BMW’s renowned build quality. The i3 might not be the first choice for long journeys or those needing extensive range, but it remains an excellent option for city dwellers who appreciate its quirky charm and eco-friendly ethos.

3. Kia Niro EV: From £7,000, Kia.com

Best: For families

(Kia)

Independent rating: 8/10

**Pros: **Spacious, plenty around, good kit levels

**Cons: **Former mini-cabs may be abused

Kia Niro EV specs

Price: From £12,995 used

Maximum claimed range: 282 miles

Maximum charge rate: 75 kW

Seats: 5

Dimensions: 4,420 x 1,825 x 1,570 mm

**Boot space: **451 litres

The Kia Niro EV is a well-regarded electric SUV that shares many of its underpinnings with the Hyundai Kona Electric, but with a slightly more traditional design. It’s a car that has quickly become popular in the UK, thanks to its impressive range, practicality, and value for money.

The Niro’s range is one of its standout features, with the 64kWh model capable of delivering up to 282 miles on a single charge, making it an ideal choice for those with longer commutes or frequent long-distance travel.

Read our full Kia Niro EV review

In terms of build quality, the Niro is robust, with a solid feel that’s characteristic of Kia’s recent models. The interior, while not as flashy as some rivals, is well-built and features high-quality materials throughout. The cabin is spacious, with plenty of room for passengers and luggage, making it a great option for families and mini cab drivers – make sure any car you buy has been properly looked after. The infotainment system is user-friendly and comes with all the necessary features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Comfort levels are high, with the Niro offering a smooth and composed ride. The suspension does a good job of soaking up bumps, and the seats are comfortable and supportive, even on longer journeys.

Running costs are low, as you’d expect from an electric vehicle, and the Niro benefits from Kia’s industry-leading seven-year warranty, which is transferable to subsequent owners. This, combined with Kia’s reputation for reliability, makes the Niro EV a very appealing option in the used EV market.

4. Nissan Leaf: From £2,495, Nissan.co.uk

Best: Budget option

(Nissan)

Independent rating: 7/10

**Pros: **Decent space, low prices, reliability

**Cons: **Uninspiring drive, build quality, CHAdeMO fast charging

Nissan Leaf specs

Price: From £2,495 used

Maximum claimed range: 239 miles

Maximum charge rate: 46 kW (model year dependent)

Seats: 5

Dimensions: 4,480 x 1,790 x 1,540 mm

**Boot space: **435 litres

The Nissan Leaf is a pioneering vehicle in the electric car market, and it remains one of the best-selling electric cars in the UK. It’s evolved significantly since its debut in 2010, with the second-generation model offering substantial improvements in range, performance, and technology. With a claimed range of up to 239 miles in the 62 kWh e+ version, the Leaf is capable of handling longer journeys with ease, making it a versatile option for many drivers.

Read our full Nissan Leaf review

Reliability has been a hallmark of the Nissan Leaf, with many early models still performing well on the road today – it always ranks highly in reliability surveys. The electric powertrain is relatively simple, which reduces the potential for mechanical issues. Interior materials and design are more functional than luxurious, but the Leaf’s cabin is spacious, with plenty of room for passengers and a decent-sized boot, making it a practical choice for families.

Comfort is another area where the Leaf excels. The ride is reasonably smooth, and the seats are comfortable, even on longer journeys. The Leaf is also very quiet, thanks to the lack of engine noise, which enhances the overall driving experience. It’s not the most exciting car to drive, with a focus on efficiency rather than performance, but it’s easy to drive and manoeuvre, particularly in urban environments.

Running costs for the Leaf are low, with minimal maintenance required. Overall, the Nissan Leaf is a reliable, practical, and cost-effective electric car that has stood the test of time, making it a great option in the used market.

5. Audi Q4 e-tron: From £16,000, Audi.co.uk

**Best: **For luxury

(Audi)

Independent rating: 8/10

**Pros: **Top-quality interior, good to drive, practical, decent range

**Cons: **Average efficiency, pricey

Audi Q4 e-tron specs

**Price: **From £21,989 used

Maximum claimed range: 342 miles

Maximum charge rate: 135/175kW

**Seats: **5

**Dimensions: **4,588mm x 1,865mm x 1,639mm

**Boot space: **520 litres

Sharing underpinnings with the Volkswagen ID.4 and Skoda Enyaq, the Q4 e-tron distinguishes itself with a more premium feeling drive, making it a tempting proposition on the used market where some hefty depreciation has softened the blow of its higher new price.

The Q4’s standout feature is its high-quality interior. The materials feel suitably plush, the design is sleek and modern, and the overall build quality feels solid and durable – exactly what you’d expect from an Audi. Tech is impressive too, with the configurable digital display behind the steering wheel being a particular highlight, although some of the touch-sensitive steering wheel buttons can be less intuitive.

Read our full Audi Q4 e-tron review

The cabin feels spacious, offering plenty of legroom for passengers in the front and back, making it a capable family vehicle. The 520 litre boot is a good size for the class, easy to access, and the rear seats fold easily to create a larger, flat load area.

The driving experience is smooth, quiet, and reassuring. It majors on comfort and refinement, soaking up bumps well and providing a relaxing environment for occupants. While official ranges are competitive (up to 342 miles on some models), real-world efficiency is decent rather than class-leading. Charging speeds are good, especially on Quattro models which can accept up to 175kW.

6. MG 4: From £9,000, Mg.co.uk

Best: For small families

MG4 Trophy Long Range (MG)

**Independent rating: **9/10

Pros: Value for money, dynamic to drive, stylish good looks

**Cons: **Limited rearview visibility, too many loud warning sounds, infotainment system is too fiddly

MG 4 specs

Price: From £11,999 used

**Battery size: **64kWh

**Maximum claimed range: **270 miles

Miles per kWh: 4.2

**Maximum charging rate: **150kW

Nothing short of a game-changer in the EV market, the MG4 proved how an historic brand can be relaunched as something completely new. No longer the producer of compact sports cars – although the new MG Cyberster might have something to say about that – MG is now owned by the Chinese and produces, mostly, a range of family-friendly EVs that offer fantastic value for money.

Available in two trim levels, called SE and Trophy, the MG4 has an official range of between 218 and 323 miles depending on which model you pick. It boasts smart, angular styling and a range of colour options that wouldn’t look out of place at a Lamborghini dealership. Thankfully, the design manages to pull them off, and the result is, to our eyes at least, a good-looking car.

Read our full MG4 review

We gave the MG 4 Trophy a score of 9/10, thanks to its fantastic value-for-money (which only gets better when buying secondhand), dynamic drive and good styling.

All-round visibility is good, but not great due to a narrow, sloping rear window, but there are cameras and sensors to assist when reversing. It also charges quickly too; on a 150kW fast charger you can get from 10 to 80 per cent in 35 minutes, or if using a 7kW wallbox at home it takes 8.5 hours to charge from empty to 100 per cent.

As for secondhand prices, there are plenty of options below £17,000 (compared to between £27,000 and 36,500 when bought new). For just £15,000 we found a two-year-old example from 2022 with just 13,000 miles on the clock.

7. Volkswagen ID.3: From £11,000, Volkswagen.co.uk

**Best: **For fun

Volkswagen ID.3 (Volkswagen)

Independent rating: 7/10

**Pros: **Good to drive, efficient, loads of space

**Cons: **Flawed infotainment system

Volkswagen ID.3 specs

Price: From £7,900 used

Maximum claimed range: 336 miles

Maximum charge rate: 125 kW (model year dependent)

Seats: 5

Dimensions: 4,264 x 1,809 x 1,564 mm

**Boot space: **385 litres

The Volkswagen ID.3 represents a significant shift for VW as it marks the company’s first purpose-built electric vehicle on its new MEB platform. The ID.3 is designed to be the “electric car for the masses,” offering a blend of affordability, practicality, and modern design that appeals to a wide audience. With a range of up to 340 miles in the Pro S version, the ID.3 provides one of the most competitive ranges in its class, making it suitable for both city driving and longer journeys.

Early ID. 3s didn’t live up to Volkswagen’s reputation for high-quality interiors – the materials used inside feel cheaper than owners of Volkswagen Golfs, for example, would be used to. The cabin is spacious, with plenty of room for passengers in both the front and rear, and the boot is a practical size, making the ID.3 a great option for families.

Read our full Volkswagen ID.3 review

Comfort is another area where the ID.3 excels. The ride is smooth and composed, with the suspension doing a good job of absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long journeys more enjoyable. The ID.3 is also quiet on the move, thanks to its electric powertrain, which enhances the overall comfort level.

When it comes to driver appeal, the ID.3 offers a pleasant driving experience, with light and responsive steering and decent acceleration, particularly in the more powerful versions. It’s not a performance car, but it’s enjoyable to drive and feels stable and secure on the road. There are some neat design touches, like the pause and play symbols on the brake and accelerator pedals

Running costs for the ID.3 are low, as you’d expect from an electric vehicle, while Volkswagen’s reputation for reliability adds to the appeal, making the ID.3 a solid choice in the used EV market.

8. Tesla Model S: From £10,000, Tesla.com

**Best: **For long range

Tesla Model S (Tesla)

Independent rating: 7/10

**Pros: **Technology, space, charging network

**Cons: **Build quality, ride comfort

Tesla Model S specs

Price: From £8,400 used

Maximum claimed range: 393 miles

Maximum charge rate: 250 kW (model year dependent)

Seats: 5

Dimensions: 4,970 x 1,964 x 1,445 mm

**Boot space: **793 litres

The original Tesla in the UK, the Model S, has set the standard for electric vehicles since its launch. The Model S combines exceptional range, blistering performance on some models, and cutting-edge features in a sleek, sophisticated package. With ranges of up to 405 miles in the Long-Range version, the Model S is still the benchmark for long-distance electric travel – and the prices make it more tempting than ever, especially with a few cars still getting free Supercharging for their owners.

Build quality in the Model S has improved significantly over the years, but it had to; early models had some issues with panel gaps and interior fit and finish. The interior is minimalist and modern, with a massive central touchscreen that controls nearly all the car’s functions. The the cabin is spacious and comfortable, with plenty of room for passengers and luggage.

Comfort levels in the Model S are mixed with a firm ride on some models. The seats are comfortable and supportive, and the cabin is also very quiet, with minimal wind and road noise, which enhances the overall sense of luxury.

Driver appeal is where the Model S truly excels. With its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system and instant torque, the Model S delivers supercar-like acceleration in some models. The handling is also impressive, with precise steering and a low centre of gravity that makes it feel agile and responsive, despite its size.

Running costs for the Model S are low, particularly when compared to similarly powerful petrol or diesel vehicles. The all-electric powertrain means low ‘fuel ‘costs, and Tesla’s Supercharger network makes long-distance travel easy and affordable. Tesla’s over-the-air software updates mean that the car’s technology remains up-to-date, adding to its appeal.

9. Peugeot e-208: From £7,000, Peugeot.co.uk

Best: Stylish city car

The 2023 Vauxhall Corsa Electric offers an upgraded electric motor (Vauxhall)

Independent rating: 7/10

**Pros: **Smart interior design, good energy efficiency, enjoyable to drive

Cons: i-Cockpit driving position isn’t for everyone, tight rear seat space

Peugeot e-208 specs

Price: From £7,990 used

Maximum claimed range: 248 miles

**Maximum charge rate: **100 kW

Seats: 5

Dimensions: 4,055mm x 1,745mm x 1,430mm

Boot space: 311 litres

If you’re looking for a stylish electric supermini rather than yet another SUV, consider the Peugeot e-208. The full price of £28k won’t rock any boats, but on the used market the e-208 starts to offer remarkable value.

Range is competitive for this size of car, with top-spec models featuring a 51kWh battery offering up to 248 miles (earlier 50kWh versions manage a still useful 225 miles). The e-208 also has above-average efficiency and supports 100kW fast charging, allowing a decent top-up from 10 to 80 per cent in around 25 minutes.

Read our full Peugeot e-208 review

A design refresh in 2023 means the e-208 manages to feel modern despite the car’s advancing years, particularly in the interior, which features Peugeot’s i-Cockpit layout and a petite steering wheel that can take a bit of getting used to.

The e-208 is nippy and fun to drive, feeling particularly at home around town, but it’s settled enough for occasional longer journeys. Like most superminis, rear passenger space is limited, especially for adults. The boot isn’t huge either, but it’s adequate for weekly shops. Build quality feels good, and reliability aligns with its Stellantis siblings like the Corsa Electric.

10. Kia EV6: From £16,000, Kia.com

Best: For style

Kia EV6 (Kia)

Independent rating: 6/10

**Pros: **Generous warranty, great style, fast charging

**Cons: **Firm ride, limited headroom

Kia EV6 specs

Price: From £16,971 used

Maximum claimed range: 328 miles

Maximum charge rate: 235 kW

Seats: 5

Dimensions: 4,695 x 1,890 x 1,550 mm

**Boot space: **490 litres

Another Kia on our list and not just because of the remains of the seven-year warranty that used buyers will benefit from. The EV6 is a sporty, spacious hatchback that has persuaded many premium car owners to switch to Kia. And it’s easy to see why with great looks and a smart interior that’s packed with tech. You might find headroom a little tight in the front, but there’s loads of space in the back, while the boot is an okay size, if not enormous.

Kia has made great strides in quality in recent years and the EV6 is the perfect example. The brand’s reputation for reliability is building strongly, too. We’d avoid the fast and four-wheel drive versions unless that’s what you really want – the rear-wheel drive car offers the best blend of value and range, and it’s still great to drive despite the car’s weight. The payoff for sporty handling is a rather firm ride, though.

Fast charging at an appropriate public charger is a real bonus, as is a level of equipment inside even the more basic models, with every car getting a good roster of safety kit, too.

The EV6 is far from the cheapest used EV you can get, but the benefit of that warranty means you’ll have even less to worry about than on rival used models.

Why you can trust us

Our team of motoring experts have decades of experience driving, reviewing and reporting on the latest EV cars, and our verdicts are reached with every kind of driver in mind. We thoroughly test drive every car we recommend, so you can be sure our verdicts are honest, unbiased and authentic.

What’s the best used electric car?

Worries about the longevity of batteries are a thing of the past. As you can see in our Should You Buy A Used EV video, we drove a Tesla Model S that was over nine years old, had covered over 250,000 miles and still had 84 per cent of its original battery capacity left.

That’s not unusual – Tesla told us of all the cars it sells under its certified pre-Owned programme, they never see a car under three-years old with less than 90 per cent of its capacity. So it’s no surprise to see a couple of Teslas on this list: the Model 3 and the Model S represent the best value due to the sheer numbers available, although we could see the Tesla Model Y joining the list at some stage.

It’s one of the original EVs that tops the list – the BMW i3. The little i3 is still a sensational car today and proves how ahead of its time. Even the early model with the smaller battery and a range of around 100 miles is perfect for zipping around towns and cities.

We’ve got perfect family models here, like the Kia Niro and the Renault Zoe, and if you fancy a bit of luxury, the Jaguar I-Pace is great value right now.

Another one of the originals, the Nissan Leaf also makes our list, while there are newer models like the Kia EV6 and Volkswagen ID. 3 that are popular enough used to be great secondhand buys.