Jump To:
Cheapest Electric Cars
Most Affordable EVs for 2023
March 21st, 2023
Cheapest Electric Vehicles & Plug-in Hybrids
Cheapest Electric Cars
- Starting price:
- $25,600
- EV range:
- 259 miles
- Edmunds tested range:
- 278 miles (+7.3%)
2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV
The Bolt was substantially upgraded for 2022 and many of its prior shortcomings were addressed. Notably, the styling was refreshed, the front seats got more comfortable, and the new infotainment system included wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. For 2023, the good news continues as the Bolt EV (like its Bolt EUV sibling) receives a hefty $6,000 price reduction. That makes it the cheapest EV you can buy, hands down, and that's before taking any EV tax credits into account. Even at this low price, the Bolt still offers 259 miles of total range, which far outpaces the other two vehicles in this list. There are some drawbacks, though. The Bolt's cargo area is small, for example, and this Chevy may not have the "cool" factor that some EV buyers crave. The Bolt also had a massive battery recall last year. But if you want the most range for the fewest dollars, this is your electric car.- Starting price:
- $28,040
- EV range:
- 149 miles
2023 Nissan Leaf
An EV with decent range that costs less than the rest? That's the Leaf's formula, and it's a hard one to resist. With an EPA-estimated 149 miles of range in its affordable base trim (we've only tested the Leaf Plus, which traveled 237 miles versus its 215-mile estimate thanks to a bigger battery pack), this Nissan can easily cover most daily commutes and driving situations. It's also quick to accelerate and handles well. In terms of features, even the entry-level Leaf comes well equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen, automatic emergency braking and a blind-spot warning system. Limited storage and back seats that don't fold flat are our primary gripes.- Starting price:
- $29,900
- EV range:
- 110 miles
- Edmunds tested range:
- 150 miles (+36.4%)
2023 Mini Cooper SE
Mini traditionally offers vehicles that are nicer and more expensive than most mainstream rivals. But the brand is trying something different with the electrified Mini Cooper SE. Based on the Hardtop 2 Door, the Cooper SE is all about affordability as well as the usual style and fun. With an EPA-estimated 110 miles of range, the Cooper SE offers significantly less range than most of the other models on our list (indeed, that's not even half the Bolt's range). But 110 miles should still cover most commutes, and we managed to squeeze 150 miles out of a Cooper SE in our real-world EV testing. The Cooper SE got an update last year that added new front and rear bumpers, plus a standard digital instrument panel and a larger standard 8.8-inch touchscreen.Compare Cheapest Electric Cars
Compare these vehicles
Cheapest Electric SUVs
- Starting price:
- $27,200
- EV range:
- 247 miles
- Edmunds tested range:
- 265 miles (+7.3%)
2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV
The Bolt EUV ("Electric Utility Vehicle") is very closely related to the Bolt EV, using the same powertrain and platform, but grows about 6 inches in length to give it more passenger room. The extra 3.1 inches of rear legroom mean it can fit adults comfortably in the back seat. Strangely, cargo room actually drops by a hair from 16.6 cubic feet to 16.3 cubes, so the "utility" portion of the Bolt EUV's name is a bit of a misnomer. Otherwise, the same benefits from the Bolt EV apply here, including a massive $6,000 price drop for 2023 and eligibility for the full federal tax credit as of January 1. Range also drops slightly versus the Bolt EV since the Bolt EUV is heavier, but it's worth giving up the 12 miles if you'll be carrying more than two passengers with regularity.- Starting price:
- $33,470
- EV range:
- 100 miles
- Edmunds tested range:
- 114 miles (+14.0%)
2022 Mazda MX-30
No, that's not a misprint: The Mazda MX-30 is rated at just 100 miles of range. It's not a real-world overachiever like the Mini Cooper SE either. While the 110-mile Mini managed to cover 150 miles in our testing, the 100-mile MX-30 only managed 114 real-world miles. So, why should you spend more on the MX-30? Well, we do like the Mazda's quiet, upscale cabin and relatively generous cargo space. But that's about it. The MX-30 doesn't even have Mazda's traditional performance edge — it needed a yawn-inducing 9 seconds to get to 60 mph from rest, a job the Mini dispensed with in 6.5 seconds.- Starting price:
- $33,550
- EV range:
- 258 miles
- Edmunds tested range:
- 308 miles (+19.3%)
2023 Hyundai Kona Electric
The Kona Electric offers plenty of electric range for its price, an attractive interior, and a generous list of standard equipment. It's also quick, nimble and fun to drive. A refresh last year gave the SUV a snazzier exterior and interior, along with a number of added features. The Kona EV also massively outperformed its 258-mile EPA range estimate in our testing, covering a whopping 308 miles on our EV testing loop. On the downside, rear legroom is tight (just like in the gas-powered Kona) and availability is limited to only 12 states for now: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington.- Starting price:
- $39,450
- EV range:
- 253 miles
- Edmunds tested range:
- 278 miles (+9.9%)
2023 Kia Niro EV
The 2023 Niro EV gets a full redesign that gives it fresh styling and serious cabin upgrades, including animal-free materials and a headliner made of recycled wallpaper. Standard equipment is also generous, with a pair of 10.3-inch display screens provided even in the entry-level Wind trim level that marks the Niro EV's starting price. The Kia also beat its EPA range estimate in our testing, covering nearly 280 miles. The Niro EV is a bit of a tweener as it's larger than the other vehicles on this list but still a bit smaller than compact electric SUVs like the Volkswagen ID.4 and Kia's own EV6. Those vehicles are only slightly more expensive than the Niro EV to start, so if you're looking for more cargo space and utility, spending a little more would be a worthwhile investment.Compare Cheapest Electric Cars
Compare these vehicles
Cheapest Luxury Electric Cars and SUVs
- Starting price:
- $43,900
- EV range:
- 265 miles (RWD)
2023 Audi Q4 e-tron
One of Audi's most affordable vehicles regardless of powertrain is the Q4 e-tron, a compact luxury electric SUV that is based on the Volkswagen ID.4. But the experience has been upgraded with Audi's luxury sheen on the interior and a multimedia interface that's more user-friendly than the ID.4's frustration-inducing setup. The rear-wheel-drive single-motor Q4 40 e-tron naturally has less power than the all-wheel-drive (dual-motor) versions, but it also comes with the most range: an estimated 265 miles. In our testing, Audi EVs have comfortably exceeded their range estimates, but we'll report back when we have hard numbers.- Starting price:
- $48,400
- EV range:
- 270 miles (RWD)
- Edmunds tested range:
- 289 miles (+7.0%)
2023 Polestar 2
Polestar itself is a fairly young brand, but buyers hesitant about considering an EV from an upstart manufacturer needn't worry — Polestar is part of the same group that produces Volvo. As such, the Polestar 2 electric sedan shares the majority of its interior design with vehicles such as the Volvo S60 and XC60. Not surprisingly, the Polestar 2's cabin is replete with high-quality materials and digital screens aplenty. We also like the Polestar 2's quick acceleration, pleasant ride and practical rear hatch. The rear-wheel-drive base model with its single electric motor helps keep the cost down.- Starting price:
- $46,990
- EV range:
- 272 miles (base RWD)
2022 Tesla Model 3
The massive popularity of the Model 3 shouldn't come as a surprise. It offers excellent range, advanced gadgetry and gimmickry (whoopie cushion sounds when engaging the turn signals, anyone?), and real utility. Its massive trunk and smaller front trunk make packing for long trips easy, while its tight steering, composed handling and instant acceleration make it a blast to drive. Overall, the Model 3's merits — including a realistic entry price — make it one of the best midsize sedans, electric or otherwise, available today.- Starting price:
- $53,550
- EV range:
- 223 miles
2023 Volvo XC40 Recharge
Based on the gasoline version of the XC40 small luxury SUV, the XC40 Recharge takes all of that vehicle's slick styling and charm and then tosses in an electric powertrain to take it to a different level. The XC40 Recharge is only offered with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup that provides a whole lot of power (402 hp) and makes the XC40 extra fun to drive. Cargo and passenger room are a bit snug by SUV standards, so parents may want to upsize for more utility. The electric XC40's range, at 223 miles, also lags a touch behind competitors.Compare Cheapest Luxury Electric Cars
Compare these vehicles
Cheapest Plug-In Hybrids
- Starting price:
- $28,770
- EV range:
- 25 miles
- Hybrid mpg:
- 54
2022 Toyota Prius Prime
Toyota almost single-handedly developed regular hybrid vehicles into what they are today, but the groundbreaking Prius can also be had with plug-in recharging. The Prius Prime's 25-mile cache of electric-only miles is enough to last many drivers most of the day. Once those miles are used up, the Prime's surprisingly responsive four-cylinder engine pitches in the rest of the way. On a Level 2 (240-volt) connection, the battery can be replenished in about the time it takes for a movie or a leisurely dinner. There's a whole new Prius in town for 2023, of course, but that could make the outgoing 2022 model even more affordable.- Starting price:
- $35,455
- EV range:
- 37 miles
- Hybrid mpg:
- 40
2022 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid
Wondering about the cheapest plug-in hybrid SUV? Look no further than the Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV). The Escape PHEV only comes with front-wheel drive, so those who want all-wheel drive will have to look to the Toyota RAV4 Prime or the Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid. The Ford also lacks the snappy acceleration of those vehicles, but it's still quick enough to get around town or merge on the highway. More importantly to many, it delivers an impressive 37 miles of electric-only range.- Starting price:
- $33,740
- EV range:
- 33 miles
- Hybrid mpg:
- TBD
2023 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid
The Niro PHEV gives you legitimate hatchback practicality, impressive fuel economy, and 33 miles of all-electric range. The 2023 version of the Niro PHEV was redesigned alongside the hybrid and electric variants, giving it new styling and an impressive new interior. It comes well equipped with standard features that include excellent smartphone integration and an impressive central touchscreen complemented by a configurable touch panel below it for HVAC and media controls. Like the Escape PHEV, the Niro can only be had with front-wheel drive, but its hatchback/crossover credentials are otherwise strong.- Starting price:
- $37,050
- EV range:
- 33 miles
- Hybrid mpg:
- 35
2023 Hyundai Tucson Plug-In Hybrid
There are multiple points in this Hyundai's favor compared to the competition, starting with standard all-wheel drive. The Tucson also delivers a formidable 261-horsepower punch in hybrid mode, though the Toyota RAV4 Prime is still the fastest (and most expensive) of these compact plug-in SUVs by a good margin. Hyundai's excellent warranty and a long list of standard equipment help give the Tucson PHEV great value, while the estimated 33 miles of electric range matches the Niro PHEV.Compare Cheapest Plug-in Hybrids
- 2022 Toyota Prius Prime
- 2022 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid
- 2023 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid
- 2023 Hyundai Tucson Plug-In Hybrid
Fuel Cost: Electric Cars vs. Gas Cars
Comparing the costs of electricity required to run an electric car versus the costs of gasoline to power a regular car is still an arcane science with many variables. Charging at home overnight, for example, allows you to charge at off-peak hours, reducing your costs. If you charge during the day, you'll see those rates jump. If you often charge at work or an outside charging station, you'll need an account with one of the growing numbers of electricity providers. Generally speaking, electricity costs less than gasoline and its pricing is more stable. But there's a learning curve to understanding when it's cheapest to tap into the grid to top up your EV.
Fully Electric Cars vs. Plug-In Hybrids
Electric cars are just that: cars powered solely by electricity stored in a battery pack. Plug-in hybrids, on the other hand, use a regular gasoline engine paired with a battery pack and electric motor. The battery pack can be recharged from an electrical outlet or charging station, but it can also store energy recaptured during braking. Usually the battery pack on a plug-in runs out of electricity within 20-40 miles, at which point the gas engine takes over, so you never need to worry about running out of juice. Full EVs require more thought, route planning, and an evolving knowledge of the location of charging stations. (Most onboard navigation systems can help locate stations and eliminate the guesswork in unfamiliar areas.)
Next Steps
For many buyers, an electric car makes perfect sense. Even drivers with average commutes can often make it through a full workweek on a single charge. Electric cars offer a clean commuting alternative and are usually eligible to use HOV lanes with a single driver. And today's electric cars range from mainstream compact picks to vehicles with luxury-grade sport and comfort, so there's something for every budget. For drivers not quite ready to take the all-electric plunge, plug-in hybrids are an excellent alternative. When you're ready to explore the world of plug-in and electric cars, Edmunds can help you research EVs and find a great deal in your area.
by 
