12 Cheapest EVs In 2025: Budget-Friendly Electric Vehicle Prices

Not too long ago, battery electric vehicles were the definitive future of motoring. In the oil-is-murder society, the BEV was seen as a beacon of hope in the apocalyptic future of climate change. Back then, though, they were, at best, prototypes that weren't commercially viable by any measure.

After nearly two decades, the BEV has gone from novelty to staple, and the world is better for it. They have become so popular that, in recent years, EVs have led car sales on multiple occasions. This popularity translates to a noticeable reduction in entry-level pricing, making them more affordable for the common man. Here are 12 of the most budget-friendly EVs available for sale in the United States in 2024.

2024-Nissan-Leaf-SV-Plus

Review

2024 Nissan Leaf: An Overlooked Electric Vehicle Perfect For First-Time EV Buyers

The Nissan Leaf has matured into a practical and reliable option for urban commuters seeking an environmentally friendly mode of transportation.

Nissan Leaf

Starting MSRP: $28,140

Nissan

Since its first generation launched in 2010, the Nissan Leaf enjoyed a reputation as the world’s best-selling EV, selling a total of 450,000 examples until it was dethroned by Tesla in 2020. Until now, the Nissan Leaf is still held in high regard by EV drivers as one of the pioneering EVs that defied expectations and succeeded in mass-marketing an EV.

Performance Specifications

In its current iteration, the Nissan Leaf now comes equipped with a larger 60 kWh Lithium-ion battery pack and a more powerful 215-horsepower motor compared to the first generation. However, this powertrain is only available in the top trim, while the base model features a smaller 40 kWh battery and 147 horsepower. As a result, the Leaf's range falls behind the industry standard, offering just 150 miles with the smaller pack and 215 miles with the larger one. Additionally, the Leaf's reliance on the outdated CHAdeMo charging standard, which is being phased out in favor of J1772 and CCS systems, limits its charging infrastructure and overall usability.

Inside and underneath, the new Leaf gives buyers Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility suite of driving aids which includes things like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and lane departure assist, as well as emergency autonomous braking, The infotainment screen is also decidedly more modern, thanks to an eight-inch touchscreen display, Android Auto, Apple Carplay, and 360° Cameras. Price-wise, the Leaf is currently the cheapest 2024 EV on sale today, at just over $28,000. That said, this particular iteration of Leaf is already seven years old, so a new generation of Nissan may just be over the horizon.

Pros

• Affordable pricing
• High level of standard tech
• Reasonable performance for the segment

Cons

• Outdated CHAdeMo charging port
• Dismal EV Range
• Long overdue for a new generation

Fiat 500e

Starting MSRP: $32,500

Stellantis

Fiat’s first modern foray into the U.S. Market started with the Fiat 500, so it seems almost fitting that Stellantis is putting its hope on a Fiat revival in the newest 500e – the all-new, all-electric mini hatchback from Turin, Italy.

Fiat’s new 500e is shaping up to be the best iteration, with a 118 horsepower electric motor up front, which gets its electricity from a battery pack that supposedly gives the car a respectable 149-mile range, though Stellantis says that more is available if the car is confined to driving on city streets and not highways.

Performance Specifications

Inside, the new 500e features a large 10.3-inch infotainment touchscreen running the Uconnect 5 software native to all modern Stellantis products. Much like those cars, the 500e will likely offer those who pre-order the car Android Auto and Apple Carplay, though at its cheapest, Fiat USA will fit all 500e with Adaptive cruise control, Wireless charging for your smartphones, Autonomous Braking, Lane Keep Assist, and even Blindspot Monitoring.

Fiat’s new purchase system is a little difficult to understand, but essentially, you can now reserve the Fiat 500e Red on the website, while other versions of the car will be released through a drip feed as time goes on. Deliveries are expected to start within the first half of 2024, though between then and now, Fiat's main competition will be coming in the form of other Electric vehicles that are already available to buyers who may not be willing to wait.

Pros

• Eye-catching looks
• Decent range
• Well-equipped

Cons

• Not yet available at dealerships
• Asking price is high for a small car
• Too many competitors in higher segments

Hyundai Kona Electric

Starting MSRP: $32,875

Hyundai

Launched in 2022, the Hyundai Kona Electric is an EV that targets buyers who are budget-conscious but still want style, capability, and practicality, all rolled into a nice, everyday package that still makes use of modern manufacturing processes. To that end, the Hyundai Kona Electric wasn’t designed as an ICE-powered car before getting an Electric powertrain. Instead, Hyundai flipped the script by designing the Kona Electric first, then adapting the chassis to ICE powerplants after.

Performance Specifications

Under the skin of the Kona Electric lies an electric motor that puts out either 133 horsepower in the base trim, or 201 horsepower in the upper trim levels. Sending electricity to the motor is either a 48.6 kWh battery, or a 64.8 kWh extended range battery, giving the Kona Electric a maximum range of 261 miles. On top of this, the Kona Electric Limited benefits from Vehicle to Load, which lets owners power their home or several appliances through their vehicle.

Inside, the Kona benefits from all the technology Hyundai has to offer, like Android Auto and Apple Carplay, 360° cameras, Remote Smart Parking Assist, Hands-free tailgate, and many more.

Pros

• Modern design philosophy
• Vehicle-to-load functionality
• Well-equipped for the class

Cons

• Less than average range
• No all-wheel drive option
• Power is just about adequate

Budget-EV-That's-Challenging-Tesla-on-Range-and-Innovation

Related

The Budget EV That's Challenging Tesla On Range And Innovation

If you want an electric sedan that's not a Tesla, consider this South Korean EV.

Ford Mustang Mach-E

Starting MSRP: $36,495

Ford

When Ford announced that there would be an all-electric Mustang, I think even the gods of all religions were surprised it was the farthest thing from what a Mustang should be. Instead of the svelt and curvaceous sports car we’d come to know and love, the Mustang Mach-E was a slightly bloated SUV with the slightest hint of Mustang design cues sprinkled here and there.

Surprisingly, since it launched in 2019, the Mustang Mach-E has sold just as well as Ford’s Mustang, making it one of their most successful EVs to date. Until the start of Feb 2025, the Mach-E had a starting price of $39,995, but slashed it by $3,500 now, making it a lip-smacking offering.

Performance Specifications

The Mach-E is powered by a rear-wheel drive setup in the base-spec Select trim, making 264 horsepower. Buyers can opt for an all-wheel-drive system in the Premium Extended Battery, GT, or Rally trims, with power outputs ranging from 480 horsepower in the GT and Rally trims to 272 horsepower in the Premium Extended Battery model. The Mach-E offers two battery options: a 73 kWh pack for rear-wheel drive models, providing up to 260 miles of range, and a larger 88 kWh or 91 kWh battery pack for all-wheel-drive models, offering up to 320 miles of range in the Premium Extended Battery model. The GT model has a range of 280 miles, while the Rally trim offers 265 miles.

Inside, the Mach-E comes with a humongous 15.5-inch vertical display that serves as both infotainment and climate control, vehicle setting control, and navigation. It also includes Android Auto and Apple Carplay as part of Ford Sync 4A. Other modern conveniences include a wireless charging pad, a memory driver’s seat, and Ford Co-Pilot 360.

As part of Ford’s push for driver safety, the Mach-E comes standard with Ford’s BlueCruise autonomous driving system, Autonomous Emergency braking, Forward collision, Blindspot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. Some models also come with Smart Parking Assist, Lane Keep and Lane Departure Assist, and Evasive Steering Assist.

Pros

• Extensive trim lineup
• Quite powerful for the class
• Good range, even on the base model

Cons

• Quite expensive
• Limited top speed
• Nearly 5,000 pounds of weight

Hyundai Ioniq 6

Starting MSRP: $37,750

Hyundai

The Ioniq 6 is Hyundai’s highly successful attempt at capturing part of the EV sedan market away from Tesla, and like its sibling, the Ioniq 5, it is also built on a dedicated EV platform designed for both optimization and modularity between models.

As such, the Ioniq 6 shares several specs with its hatchback counterpart, such as power figures and drivetrain layouts, although the low-end 168 horsepower rear motor is missing from the lineup. The battery pack for the Ioniq 6 is also identical, providing 77.4 kW-h.

Performance Specifications

Strangely, though, the Ioniq 6 can travel as far as 342 miles in RWD form, but the lowest range figure for the AWD layout is still 270 miles – these figures are roughly 50 miles more than the Ioniq 5. Because the Ioniq 6 is a few hundred pounds heavier than the Ioniq 5, and there’s no difference between them mechanically, that added range is simply down to the fact that the Ioniq 6 is more aerodynamically efficient as a low-slung sedan.

Inside, the Ioniq 6 is similarly equipped to the IONIQ5, with Forward Collision mitigation, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Adaptive Cruise control, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane departure and keep assist, Level 1 Highway Assist, and Parking sensors, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen center display with Android Auto and Apple Carplay.

Pros

• Very stylish sedan
• Highly aerodynamic
• Good range

Cons

• Not especially affordable
• Disappointing top speed
• Heavyweight

Kia Niro EV

Starting MSRP: $39,600

Kia

The Kia Niro EV is, to date, its cheapest EV, and so far one of its most prolific models. That doesn’t mean Kia skimped on all the trimmings that many EVs come with in today’s market, though, and Kia went to the effort to make the Niro EV a stylish subcompact SUV, departing from the typical minimalist design and going for a more adventurous two-tone paint scheme that lets it stand out from the crowd.

Performance Specifications

The Niro EV comes with a front-mounted, 201-horsepower motor that drives only the front wheels – unlike many EVs, the Niro doesn’t have an AWD option. Feeding that motor with electricity is a single, 64.8 kWh battery pack, giving the Niro EV a total range of 253 miles.

There are only two versions of the Niro EV available, and the tech and features list for both of them includes features like Rear cross traffic alert, Lane departure and keep assist, Blind spot monitoring, and Forward collision mitigation, though the more expensive Wave version gives these many of the features a little bit more functionality. Infotainment-wise, the Niro EV has a standard 10.25-inch display with Android Auto and Apple Carplay, a wireless charging pad, and a remote start.

Pros

• Stylish exterior
• Adequate range
• Spacious Cargo for the class

Cons

• Quite expensive for the class
• No discernable difference between variants
• No all-wheel drive option

2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Front 3/4

Related

10 EVs That Are Cheapest To Own Over Three Years

If you're looking for an EV with low running costs, these options are going to be your best bet

Nissan Ariya

Starting MSRP: $39,700

2025 Nissan Ariya Front 2/4 Shot

Buyers can choose between front-wheel drive models producing up to 238 horsepower or a more potent dual-motor all-wheel drive setup pushing 389 horsepower in the e-4ORCE version. Range depends on the battery pack, with up to 216 miles in the base Engage trim and up to 304 miles in the higher trims. The Nissan Ariya is a reliable and trustworthy option, offering strong resale value in the electric vehicle market.

Performance Specifications

Buyers can choose between front-wheel drive models producing up to 238 horsepower or a more potent dual-motor all-wheel drive setup pushing 389 horsepower in the e-4ORCE version. Range depends on the battery pack, with up to 216 miles in the base Engage trim and up to 304 miles in the higher trims.

Nissan has focused on delivering a premium feel inside the cabin, with a minimalist design, dual 12.3-inch screens, haptic-touch controls, and a lounge-like atmosphere. The Ariya also comes with Nissan’s ProPILOT Assist 2.0, providing semi-autonomous driving capabilities. However, its pricing and efficiency slightly lag behind some rivals, making it a tougher sell for budget-conscious buyers.

Pros

• Elegant and futuristic design
• High-quality interior with a tech-focused layout
• Available all-wheel drive with strong power output

Cons

• Pricey compared to some competitors
• Lower trims have limited range
• Slower charging speeds than some rivals

Volkswagen ID.4

Starting MSRP: $39,735

2024 Volkswagen ID.4 Front 2/4 Shot

To say that Volkswagen’s reputation in the motoring industry has recovered from #Dieselgate would be a bit of an overstatement – no one will be forgetting that debacle for the foreseeable future. These days, though, as Volkswagen focuses on clean and green EVs, things are starting to look up for the carmaker, and the ID.4 was Volkswagen’s attempt to gain a footing in the then-burgeoning EV SUV market.

Performance Specifications

The ID.4 now comes with a selection of trims, some of which include a 201 horsepower motor in the rear, or 335 horsepower from a dual-motor AWD setup. The Volkswagen is capable of going as far as 275 miles on a single charge. However, the cheapest ‘Standard’ model is only capable of 209 miles between charges. Inside, the ID.4 is less people’s car and a sleeker and more spacious cocoon, with modern design touches and sustainably sourced materials everywhere, and its uncluttered design philosophy makes it feel stereotypically modern, and on-par for the market it sits in.

Standard features for the ID.4 include Android Auto, Apple Carplay, Smart Parking, Adaptive Cruise control, Autonomous emergency braking, and Travel Assist.

Pros

• Decent range
• Well-equipped model range
• Reasonably priced European offering

Cons

• Slightly down on power in the segment
• Low top speed
• Unremarkable appearance

Hyundai Ioniq 5

Starting MSRP: $41,800

2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 XRT 8 TopSpeed

Equipped with either a single motor in the back that outputs either 168 or 225 horsepower, or a dual motor affair with 320 horsepower, the Ioniq 5 offers buyers a range three different range calculations from two different battery packs – 220 miles from a 63 kWh pack found in the base model SE Standard, and 245 or 318 miles from a 84 kWh pack found in every other trim level.

Performance Specifications

Inside, the Ioniq 5 is equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen as standard across the range, with Android Auto and Apple Carplay. Standard safety features found on all models include Blind spot monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Collision avoidance, rear parking sensors, Forward Collision mitigation, and other advanced driver aids like Lane keep and departure assist and Smart Cruise Control. Higher trim levels get enhanced features like Level 2 Highway Assist, and even Hyundai Pay, which lets you reserve and pay for parking at various locations in your area.

Pros

• Decent range in the upper trim levels
• Good power levels
• Neo-retro styling

Cons

• Heavy weight for the class
• Slow in acceleration
• Expensive

2020 Hyundai Kona Electric

Related

Top 10 Five-Year-Old EVs For Budget Buyers

If you're in the market for a used affordable EV, then these 10 models are worth considering.

Chevrolet Equinox EV

Starting MSRP: $41,900

Chevrolet

When Chevrolet first announced the Equinox EV, it was positioned as one of the most affordable electric SUVs, with a promised starting price of around $30,000. However, as of now, the cheapest available 2024 model starts at $41,900, making it a pricier option than many expected. Chevrolet has opened pre-orders for the 2025 Equinox EV, which is expected to start at around $30,000, though detailed specifications have yet to be released.

Performance Specifications

The current Equinox EV lineup offers a single-motor front-wheel drive setup with 213 horsepower or an all-wheel drive dual-motor configuration with 288 horsepower. Depending on the trim, range varies from 285 to 319 miles per charge.

Inside, Chevrolet has packed the Equinox EV with modern technology, including a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an available Super Cruise hands-free driving system. While it’s a compelling option, the absence of an entry-level 2024 model limits its appeal to budget-conscious buyers.

Pros

• Spacious and practical for a compact SUV
• Decent range with the larger battery
• Tech-rich interior with Super Cruise available

Cons

• The $30K model is no longer available
• Higher starting price than expected
• The 2025 base model may face similar delays as the 2024 version

Tesla Model 3

Starting MSRP: $42,490

Tesla

Ever since the release of its first mass-market EV, the Model S, Tesla has been at the top of the heap when it comes to EVs – so much so that many wait for Tesla’s next with bated breath. The Tesla Model 3, though, is arguably the first EV that was made both cheap and chic.

Performance Specifications

On paper, the Model 3 is powered by either a single-motor RWD system, or a dual-motor AWD system, with the Long Range AWD model having up to 341 miles, and the standard RWD model having 272 miles of range. With at least 425 horsepower between both axles, the Dual motor AWD and AWD Performance models have more power than the 241 horsepower RWD model, and they are also equipped to deal with 250kW super fast charging.

As with all Teslas, the trump cards are mostly found inside, with a dashboard so minimalist it borders on featureless. The large center touchscreen not only handles radio and phone connectivity, but also the climate control, instrument display, vehicle settings, and even the Autonomous and self-driving capabilities are activated and monitored via this display. For rear passengers, the Tesla Model 3 also features an eight-iinch touchscreen display for rear climate control, though why knobs and buttons couldn’t do the same task escapes reason.

Pros

• High performing models
• Decent range
• Self-driving available

Cons

• No Phone connectivity
• Highly common on the road
• On the pricier side of the spectrum

Kia EV6

Starting MSRP: $42,600

Kia

As the first dedicated EV from Kia, the EV6 launched to acclaim from motoring media all over the world. Journalists praised the SUV’s looks, performance and practicality, and at the price point, it’s affordable too.

Like its cousins from Hyundai, the EV6 is powered by either a rear-mounted single electric motor making 225 horsepower, or a dual motor, all-wheel-drive system that outputs 320 horsepower, and it even comes in a hot version called the EV6 GT, with up to 576 horsepower. Battery packs for the EV6 are 77.4 kW-h, though the cheapest EV6 Light gets a smaller, 58 kW-h one. As such, range for the Light is adequate at 232 miles while the bigger battery pack, when paired with the RWD setup, gets up to 310 miles of range. The worst-range performer, however, is the GT with only 218 miles.

Performance Specifications

Inside, the Kia EV6 sports a modern interior with accents of fabric and aluminum dotting the cabin. Certain models like the GT can also opt for bucket seats and a synthetic suede interior lined with funky, neon green stitching. The infotainment is a 12-inch touchscreen affair that has been melded to the digital gauge cluster.

Instead of mimicking the current EV trend, the EV6 comes equipped with a separate panel for climate control, with some tactile knobs and buttons, though most functions are done through touch. Android Auto and Apple Carplay come as standard in the EV6, though higher trim levels also receive niceties like an Augmented reality head-up display, Smart parking assist, and phone control through the Kia app.

Pros

• Very stylish sedan
• Highly aerodynamic
• Good range

Cons

• Not especially affordable
• Disappointing top speed
• Heavyweight