Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more affordable, with automakers rolling out budget-friendly electric cars and SUVs that don’t sacrifice features or range. With an ever-expanding EV charging infrastructure and a renewed federal EV tax credit, 2025 is shaping up to be a great time to consider a new EV.
Below are some of the cheapest new EVs available in the United States in 2025. We’ve listed them in ascending order of cost, with the price for each car including the destination charge and minus the federal tax credit (where applicable). We’ve also included the battery range, EV charging times and some pros and cons of each vehicle, to help you decide which might be best for you.
The Cheapest Electric Vehicles in 2025
- Chevrolet Equinox EV
- Nissan Leaf
- Hyundai Kona Electric
- Tesla Model 3
- Toyota bZ4X
- Hyundai Ioniq 6
- Ford Mustang Mach-E
- Subaru Solterra
- Kia Niro EV
- Nissan Ariya
- Hyundai Ioniq 5
- Volkswagen ID.4
- VinFast VF 8
- Honorable Mentions
- EV Tax Credits
- Other EV Considerations
Chevrolet Equinox EV – $27,495
- MSRP (incl. destination charge): $34,995 (eligible for federal tax credit)
- Price after tax credit: $27,495
- Range: up to 319 miles
- 10–80% DC Fast-Charge Time: around 30 minutes
The Chevrolet Equinox EV has replaced the Bolt as Chevy’s entry-level electric car, and it’s the cheapest electric car that you can buy new in the U.S. (as of mid-2025) once the EV tax credit has been deducted from the price.
With impressive standard range, clean styling, and familiar SUV dimensions, the Equinox EV may be Chevy’s most mainstream EV. It comes equipped with a large (17.7-inch) touchscreen and supports GM's latest infotainment system with Google built-in. It's sized and styled to feel familiar to buyers moving from a gas-powered SUV, and it has a comfortable ride and a large trunk. The entry-level standard range models, which have a single electric motor, aren’t as quick as you might expect, however, and the lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality is disappointing.
Nissan Leaf – $29,280
- MSRP (incl. destination charge): $29,280 (not eligible for federal tax credit)
- Price after tax credit: n/a
- Range: up to 212 miles
- 10–80% DC Fast-Charge Time: around 40 minutes
The Nissan Leaf remains an affordable electric hatchback with a proven track record, smooth ride, and compact footprint — perfect for city life. The Leaf’s e-Pedal lets you drive using just one pedal, easing fatigue in stop-and-go traffic.
In many areas, the Leaf is starting to show its age, though. Its comparatively small battery pack means it doesn’t give as many miles of range as some competitors, and its use of the older CHAdeMO fast-charging plug, which is now rarely supported in new charging stations, can make it harder to use for longer trips. The Leaf lost eligibility for the $7,500 federal tax credit in 2024 due to battery sourcing requirements, too, so although it remains a low-cost option, it’s no longer such great value.
Hyundai Kona Electric – $34,425
- MSRP (incl. destination charge): $34,425 (not eligible for federal tax credit)
- Price after tax credit: n/a
- Range: up to 261 miles
- 10–80% DC Fast-Charge Time: around 43 minutes
The Kona Electric is nimble, efficient, and packed with standard features, and it’s one of the most fun-to-drive small electric SUVs.
Introduced for the 2024 model year, the latest, second-generation Kona Electric has a much more modern look than the first model, including a larger dual-screen layout and smart climate controls. It's larger and more spacious, too, yet retains a compact footprint that makes it easy to park and maneuver around town. On the downside, it lacks an all-wheel-drive option and no longer qualifies for the federal tax credit.
Tesla Model 3 – $36,630
- MSRP (incl. destination charge): $44,130 (eligible for federal tax credit)
- Price after tax credit: $36,630
- Range: up to 363 miles
- 10–80% DC Fast-Charge Time: around 25 minutes
The Tesla Model 3 offers rapid acceleration, a minimalist interior design, and easy access to Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network, making it one of the most popular electric sedans on the market today.
Updates for the 2024 model year made the Model 3 a more compelling choice than ever, with improved cabin materials and build quality. As of mid-2025, the long-range version is the base model, giving an EPA-estimated range of 363 miles on a full charge. That’s impressive, but some inconsistencies in fit and finish remain, and the limited physical controls may not appeal to all drivers.
Toyota bZ4X – $38,465
- MSRP (incl. destination charge): $38,465 (not eligible for federal tax credit)
- Price after tax credit: n/a
- Range: up to 252 miles
- 10–80% DC Fast-Charge Time: around 35 minutes
The Toyota bZ4X, co-developed with Subaru and built on a shared platform, is Toyota's first mass-market EV. It's available in both FWD and AWD configurations, offering flexibility for drivers with different commute times and climates. It features a large infotainment touchscreen and Toyota's Safety Sense 3.0.
From 2026, the bZ4X will be known as the "bZ" and the model year will usher in some major updates, including exterior design changes, interior upgrades, more range, quicker charging times, and increased horsepower. Pricing for the refreshed versions hasn't been announced yet.
Hyundai Ioniq 6 – $39,045
- MSRP (incl. destination charge): $39,045 (not eligible for federal tax credit)
- Price after tax credit: n/a
- Range: up to 342 miles
- 10–80% DC Fast-Charge Time: around 18 minutes
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 offers one of the longest ranges in its class, sleek design, and ultra-fast charging — a great fit for style-conscious drivers with a longer commute.
The minimalist cabin includes ambient lighting and a digital gauge cluster for a futuristic vibe, while the sleek shape gives an ultra-low drag coefficient that helps maximize energy efficiency. Its sloped roofline cuts into rear headroom, however, and premium trims climb into luxury-car pricing territory, especially with no federal tax credit available. An updated version, with a new-look front end and upgraded interior, is due for the 2026 model year.
Ford Mustang Mach-E – $39,990
- MSRP (incl. destination charge): $39,090 (not eligible for federal tax credit)
- Price after tax credit: n/a
- Range: up to 320 miles
- 10–80% DC Fast-Charge Time: around 32 minutes
The Mustang Mach-E delivers strong performance, a spacious interior, and loads of tech, including Ford’s BlueCruise hands-free driving system. With available AWD and two battery options, it fits both commuters and road-trippers. Driving dynamics are sportier than most electric SUVs, and the wide touchscreen integrates smoothly with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Unfortunately, it no longer qualifies for the federal EV tax credit, which makes its starting price less competitive compared to some other electric SUVs on this list.
Subaru Solterra– $40,390
- MSRP (incl. destination charge): $40,390 (not eligible for federal tax credit)
- Price after tax credit: n/a
- Range: up to 227
- 10–80% DC Fast-Charge Time: around 35 minutes
The Subaru Solterra shares nearly all of its parts with the Toyota bZ4X, since the two cars were developed as a partnership between the two brands. The Solterra has some minor cosmetic differences, however, and it stays true to the Subaru brand by offering only AWD. This is a plus for people in snowy climates, though it results in a lower maximum range compared to the Toyota.
While the AWD setup fits Subaru's image, some drivers note that the Solterra's driving experience feels closer to a Toyota than to Subaru models like the Outback or Forester. For the 2026 model year, the Solterra will get the same upgrades in range, charging speed, and performance as the bZ4X, as well as an updated interior and exterior design. Updated pricing details are still to come.
Kia Niro EV – $40,995
- MSRP (incl. destination charge): $40,005 (not eligible for federal tax credit)
- Price after tax credit: n/a
- Range: up to 253 miles
- 10–80% DC Fast-Charge Time: around 43 minutes
The Kia Niro EV is a compact SUV with a surprisingly spacious interior, and buyers looking for a bit more style will appreciate the option for two-tone paint.
It also includes Remote Smart Park Assist, which allows you to maneuver the car in and out of tight parking spaces using just the key fob while standing outside the vehicle. However, it lacks an AWD option, and its DC fast-charging speed is slower than most others on this list.
Nissan Ariya – $41,160
- MSRP (incl. destination charge): $41,160 (not eligible for federal tax credit)
- Price after tax credit: n/a
- Range: up to 289 miles
- 10–80% DC Fast-Charge Time: around 35 to 40 minutes
The Nissan Ariya brings upscale touches to the automaker’s lineup with a refined cabin, AWD options, and a respectable all-electric range.
Inside, the Ariya features a floating center console and wood-patterned dashboard, lending it a more premium feel than most in its price range. Nissan’s ProPILOT Assist also adds hands-on driver assistance for highway cruising. Its charging speeds are slower than rivals', however, and prices rise steeply with AWD or long-range trims. No available federal tax credit also makes its price point less favorable than others.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 – $44,075
- MSRP (incl. destination charge): $44,075 (not eligible for federal tax credit)
- Price after tax credit: n/a
- Range: up to 318 miles
- 10–80% DC Fast-Charge Time: around 20 minutes
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 pairs futuristic looks with innovative tech, ultra-fast charging, and generous space, making it one of the most well-rounded EVs under $45,000. It also supports vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability, letting you power small electronics or camping gear from the battery.
Its flat floor and roomy back seat make it family-friendly despite its compact footprint. The Ioniq 5’s pricing is higher than many on this list, and its range dips in AWD models, but Hyundai offers an enticing warranty.
Volkswagen ID.4 – $46,520
- MSRP (incl. destination charge): $46,520 (not eligible for federal tax credit)
- Price after tax credit: n/a
- Range: up to 291 miles
- 10–80% DC Fast-Charge Time: around 28 minutes
The Volkswagen ID.4 delivers a quiet ride, spacious interior, and available AWD — a great fit for families switching from gas SUVs. It includes adjustable ambient lighting and heated seats, even in lower trims, along with great rear-seat legroom, adding comfort for the price.
Not everyone will warm to Volkswagen’s clunky infotainment touchscreen system and touch-sensitive controls, however, and base trims don’t have an especially impressive battery range.
VinFast VF 8 – $47,200
- MSRP (incl. destination charge): $47,200 (not eligible for federal tax credit)
- Price after tax credit: n/a
- Range: up to 256 miles
- 10–80% DC Fast-Charge Time: around 31 minutes
Strong lease deals and a competitive standard range make the VF 8 a good newcomer, with modern tech and sharp looks that are worth considering.
The VF 8 includes a large 15.6-inch touchscreen with built-in voice control and an uncluttered cabin layout. Seating is comfortable and spacious for passengers in both rows. VinFast is new to the U.S., so service locations and dealership coverage may be limited.
Honorable Mentions
Other automakers like BMW, Volvo, Lucid, and Porsche offer premium EVs with standout specs and tech — but they sit firmly outside our price cap in most trims. Some examples may be available as used EVs.
EV Tax Credits
The federal EV tax credit (officially referred to as the Clean Vehicle Tax Credit) offers up to $7,500 off the purchase price of a new electric vehicle. To qualify, the vehicle must be assembled in North America and meet battery component and mineral sourcing requirements. Buyer income and vehicle price limits also apply.
For 2025, eligible vehicles will receive the credit not as a tax deduction but at the point of sale, reducing the purchase price immediately. However, many vehicles, like the Nissan Leaf and Ford Mustang Mach-E, no longer qualify under the current rules.
Leased EVs will receive the credit if it is available, as the leasing company can claim it and pass it on through lower monthly payments. You can confirm eligibility using the fueleconomy.gov lookup tool or by checking with the dealership.
Other EV Considerations
When buying an EV for your new car, there are a few other things to think about: How close are you to public charging stations? Do you want a Level 2 charger at home? Does your state offer tax breaks, rebates, or incentives? And don’t forget to check if your local power company offers off-peak electricity rates or rebates for charger installation.
