In the not-so-distant past, used electric cars failed to strike a chord with consumers, due to unpredictable depreciation and concerns about battery health.
Now, however, used EV sales are on an upward trajectory, and for those who want to go electric on a budget, there’s no better time to snag a bargain.
According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), used EV sales surged by 67% in the second quarter of this year, with more than 110,000 charging hands. That’s the biggest jump in second hand EV sales since 2024.
Used EV are also showing signs of prices stability compared with used petrol and diesel cars – and while they’re not yet on a par, it seems like a great time to make the switch.
Car makers have spent the last few years flooding the market with new and improved EVs, which means the classifieds are now packed with a diverse range of choice.
Factor in the major strides in battery technology and charging infrastructure and range anxiety is quickly becoming a thing of the past.
Buying a used EV also means you can save money on running costs; charging an EV is much cheaper than refilling an ICE car with petrol or diesel, particularly if you can charge at home.
Whether you need an efficient family SUV with a real-world range of more than 300 miles or a diminutive hatchback for inner-city jaunts, finding a used EV that fits your needs is easier than ever.
But which used EVs are actually worth your money? Our expert team of road testers have compiled a list of the very best on sale, taking into account real-world range, efficiency, practicality, price, charging capability and long-term reliability.
At a glance...
| Model | Best for... | Starting Used Price | Real-World Range | Max Charging Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Polestar 2 | Best overall used EV | £15,000 | 230–290 miles | 150kW |
| Porsche Taycan | Sports car dynamics and performance | £28,000 | 210–260 miles | 270kW |
| Tesla Model 3 | Long-distance range and charging network | £9000 | 220–310 miles | 250kW |
| Skoda Elroq | Modern compact family versatility | £21,000 | 210–320 miles | 175kW |
| Cupra Born | Driver engagement and practicality | £11,000 | 180–290 miles | 135kW |
The best used electric cars
We think the Polestar 2 is the best used EV overall. This handsome, practical liftback is great to drive, while its real-world range and efficiency give it plenty of long-distance versatility.
If you’re after something more engaging, the Porsche Taycan is an excellent choice, not just for its incisive handling and whipcrack performance, but also for its surprisingly accessible second-hand price tag.
For those who need an EV with a versatile edge, the Skoda Enyaq and Kia EV6 have enough space, pace, range and rational charm to fit seamlessly into family life.
Best for: Daily life
The Polestar 2 has been a hit from the moment it arrived, thanks to its understated Swedish style, fastback practicality, decent efficiency and slick dynamics.
We would recommend both the Long Range Dual Motor and Long Range Single Motor variants, but if range is your priority, it’s the latter that you should seek out.
Initially it had front-wheel drive and a 75kWh battery; then a facelift in 2023 gave it a 79kWh battery and more efficient rear-wheel drive, for a WLTP range of 406 miles.
Prices for a used Long Range Dual Motor start at around £15,000, but stretching your budget to £22,000–£25,000 will secure a nearly new or ultra-low-mileage example.
If you want to spend even less, Standard Range Single Motor cars start from as little as £12,000.
| Buy it if… | Skip it if… |
|---|---|
| You want a handsome, well-built liftback with an impressive real-world range | You regularly carry taller passengers in the back who need more space |
| You prefer a classy, Scandinavian-style interior layout | You prefer a plush, wafting ride quality over a firm chassis |
Read our Polestar 2 review
