There are more electric cars than ever to choose from, and it’s a variety that’s going to keep expanding. That means so many more used examples than ever to choose from. Here we’re concentrating on nearly-new – the sort of car you’d buy on an approved used scheme. You can also look at our favourite cheap used electric cars if you don’t fancy spending so much.
Our list of the 10 best secondhand electric cars should offer something for most budgets, and represent huge savings over new. Currently, even the cheapest new electric cars can still seem quite expensive, so you can also look at our affordable used EV list. Also, if you’re looking to fix your budget, you could also lease a new EV for around £300 per month.
So, whether you’re in need of a second car for short local trips, or would like a longer-range electric car for greater journeys, these models offer a great electric vehicle (EV) driving experience. Before you take the plunge, don’t forget to check out our comprehensive guide on how to buy a used electric car.
So, which used electric cars are best? We’ve picked 10 of our favourites
The best used electric cars 2025
Heavy depreciation has made these affordable
It’s not all perfect. Early Taycans have suffered from software glitches, frozen infotainment screens and occasional charging hiccups. The small 12-volt battery can fail unexpectedly, leaving the car dead, and there have been recalls for battery thermal issues. Running costs are definitely Porsche-level, with expensive tyres, servicing and insurance.
Yet if you’re willing to budget for the running costs and occasional niggles, the Taycan is one of the most thrilling EVs you can buy. It’s a proper driver’s car with a premium badge, and even as a used buy, it feels like you’re getting something genuinely special and cutting-edge at a knockdown price.
To find out more, read our full Porsche Taycan review
Pros
- Superb handling and performance
- Luxurious, high-quality cabin
- Feels properly special to drive
Cons
- Expensive running costs
- Early software and charging issues
The electric X3 that plays it safe
However, a few niggles exist. Owners report conservative range estimates and occasional interior rattles. Minor electrical quirks pop up, like air-con issues or 12 volt battery drain, but these are usually fixed under warranty. Overall, it’s been a reliable choice, scoring well in owner surveys.
All told, the iX3 makes a strong case if you want an EV without any drama. It might lack the excitement of some rivals, but it’s a refined, dependable option for those who value comfort and familiarity above all else.
To find out more, read our full BMW iX3 review
Pros
- Drives like a BMW
- Comfortable and refined
- Good build quality
Cons
- No AWD option
- Some minor electrical niggles
The sensible, spacious family EV
Early cars sometimes suffered infotainment glitches and occasional water leaks around doors or the tailgate, or the charger port fails to open, but these are usually fixed under warranty. Ride quality can be firm on large wheels, so check any used example for comfort.
If you’re looking for an affordable family EV that feels solid and grown-up, the Enyaq ticks nearly every box. It’s not thrilling to drive, but it’s spacious, comfortable and impressively efficient—an all-rounder that’s easy to recommend.
To find out more, read our full Skoda Enyaq review
Pros
- Loads of cabin space
- Great value for money
- Comfortable everyday drive
Cons
- Firm ride on big wheels
- Minor early software issues
The EV disruptor that still feels on tops of its game
Early cars can have inconsistent build quality, with panel gaps, paint flaws and interior rattles. Software bugs happen too, though Tesla fixes many problems remotely. Tyre wear is higher than average, so check any used example’s history carefully.
Despite the quirks, the Model 3 remains one of the smartest used EV buys. It combines strong performance, modern tech and ever-improving affordability (thanks to those politics), making it a genuine game-changer in the secondhand market.
To find out more, read our full Tesla Model 3 review
Pros
- Brilliant performance
- Supercharger network
- Good real-world range
Cons
- Inconsistent early build quality
- Firm ride
The Golf of the electric world
Early cars were plagued with software issues and fiddly touch controls. While VW has improved things through updates, some owners still mention infotainment bugs and interior rattles. Lower-spec models can feel a bit spartan, so look for higher trims.
Even so, the ID.3 is a solid used choice if you want a practical, no-nonsense EV. It’s not flashy, but it does most things very well and offers a lot of car for your money, especially as prices keep falling.
To find out more, read our full Volkswagen ID.3 review
Pros
- Spacious interior
- Smooth, quiet drive
- Good driving range
Cons
- Early software gremlins
- Basic lower-spec trims
Swedish style meets electric substance
It hasn’t been perfect, though. Owners report infotainment bugs, screen freezes and occasional software hiccups. Two recalls were issued for rear-view camera faults and rare battery shutdowns, though these were fixed by software updates.
Once those teething problems are sorted, the Polestar 2 is a stylish and desirable alternative to Tesla. It’s beautifully built and feels genuinely premium, making it one of the most attractive used EVs for those who value Scandinavian cool over outright speed.
To find out more, read our full Polestar 2 review
Pros
- Premium build quality
- Brilliant infotainment
- Cool Scandinavian styling
Cons
- Firm ride on some trims
- Infotainment bugs still crop up
The EV grand tourer with serious presence
Like the Taycan, it’s not without issues, though. Early models have suffered infotainment lag, occasional power delivery glitches and a battery recall for thermal risks. Owners also mention excessive tyre wear, which adds to the already premium running costs.
But for those wanting a dramatic, luxurious EV with serious performance, the E-Tron GT remains a seriously tempting used choice, which benefits from heavy early depreciation. It’s expensive to run, but it’s a car that makes every journey feel special.
To find out more, read our full Audi E-Tron GT review
Pros
- Stunning looks and presence
- Luxurious, high-quality interior
- Blistering performance
Cons
- High running costs
- Infotainment glitches
Retro-futurism meets everyday EV practicality
Reliability has been generally strong as you'd expect, though some owners report rattles, infotainment bugs and occasional charging issues. Hyundai’s warranty is excellent, and most issues have been fixed swiftly under warranty.
As a used buy, the Ioniq 5 is one of the most complete modern EVs on the market. It mixes style, practicality and tech brilliantly, making it a solid choice for families and early adopters alike. Just be prepared for it being bigger than you might think, as it's fully SUV-sized, despite hatchback styling.
To find out more, read our full Hyundai Ioniq 5 review
Pros
- Fantastic interior space
- Striking, unique styling
- Rapid charging capability
Cons
- Firm ride on big wheels
- Some minor electrical niggles
The electric 4 Series that’s fun to drive
Reliability has been strong so far, with few serious issues reported. Some owners mention minor infotainment bugs, occasional trim squeaks and a recall on 2023 cars for battery monitoring, but nothing widespread or major.
And not to labour the point, but the i4 really is one of the best used EVs if you love driving. It’s not the roomiest in the back, but it combines BMW polish with proper EV performance, making it an obvious choice for anyone who still enjoys driving.
To find out more, read our full BMW i4 review
Pros
- Engaging to drive
- Premium interior quality
- Feels familiar yet modern
Cons
- Rear space tight for adults
- Premium running costs
Practical family EV with a fresh French twist
Being new, there’s limited long-term reliability data. Early feedback has been positive, with owners praising the quiet ride and good real-world efficiency. Like any new EV, potential software updates or teething troubles may crop up as more cars hit the road.
If you’re after a family-friendly EV that stands out from the crowd, the Scenic E-Tech is a very solid choice. It’s practical, modern and shows how far Renault has come in building desirable electric cars, making it an exciting newcomer in the used market.
To find out more, read our full Renault Scenic E-Tech review
Pros
- Spacious family-friendly interior
- Stylish, modern design
- Good real-world efficiency
Cons
- Still pricey as a used buy
- Infotainment not quite class-leading
FAQs: Best used electric cars
-
What exactly counts as an approved used EV?
An approved used electric car is a secondhand vehicle sold through a manufacturer’s official scheme. These cars are usually a few months to a couple of years old, often ex-demo, ex-lease or ex-management cars, and come with a low mileage and a full service history.
The big advantage is that they’re thoroughly checked and prepared before sale. Manufacturers put approved used cars through multi-point inspections and often include a warranty extension and roadside assistance for extra peace of mind. -
Why should I buy an approved used EV instead of new?
Buying approved used can save you thousands compared with a brand-new electric car. EVs can lose value quickly in the first year or two, so you get the latest tech and safety features without suffering the worst of the depreciation hit.
Plus, with new-car waiting lists sometimes stretching for months, an approved used car is ready to drive away almost immediately. You still benefit from long manufacturer warranties and the confidence of a thorough mechanical and battery check. -
Are approved used electric cars reliable?
Generally, yes. Electric cars are proving reliable because they have fewer moving parts than petrol or diesel cars - no exhausts, gearboxes or oil changes to worry about. Most issues tend to be software-related, like infotainment bugs or connectivity glitches, rather than mechanical faults.
Approved used schemes add an extra layer of reassurance, because cars are inspected and brought up to a manufacturer standard before resale. And many EVs still have plenty of warranty left, particularly on the battery. -
What should I check before buying an approved used EV?
Ask for a battery health report if it’s available, as that shows how much capacity the battery retains - a key factor for range. Check the car has the latest software updates for things like infotainment and charging systems, as this can affect how smoothly the car works.
Don’t forget practical details. Make sure all charging cables and accessories are included, because replacements can be expensive. And look for any outstanding recalls, plus a full service history for peace of mind. -
Is now a good time to buy an approved used EV?
It’s a strong time to buy if you’re ready to go electric. Prices for used EVs have come down over the past year as more cars return from leases and manufacturers push approved used stock, meaning there are better deals than ever.
But the market is still settling, and prices could fluctuate further. If you see an approved used EV at the right price, it’s wise not to wait too long - desirable models with longer range or high specs can sell quickly.
Just so you know, we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website - read why you should trust us.
