10 Cheapest EVs for 2023
Zero emissions for less.
Photos from multiple manufacturers
Shoppers now have several options when it comes to EVs, the 10 cheapest of which ring up for less than $50,000 before rebates and incentives. Here's what you should search for if you're looking for a zero-emission vehicle on a relative budget.
Nissan
2023 Nissan Ariya Engage: $45,000
The Ariya crossover features front-wheel drive and 216 miles of range in base form, but buyers can opt for all-wheel drive and/or a larger battery enabling up to 304 miles of range for an extra $4,000 each.
Tesla
2023 Tesla Model 3: $42,000
The Model 3 sedan tops this list for base-model range, offering 272 miles on a charge in rear-drive trim. Plus, Tesla owners can take advantage of the company's robust Supercharger network, which promises quick charging all over the country and makes lengthy EV road trips manageable. Tesla's quasi-autonomous tech suite costs extra, though.
Kia
2023 Kia Niro EV Wind: $41,000
Recently redesigned, the Niro EV has an exciting new exterior and a high-tech cabin featuring a pair of 10.3-inch displays. The crossover supports DC fast-charging and can travel 253 miles on a full battery. The entry-level model boasts adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, plus heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and rain-sensing wipers.
Volkswagen
2023 Volkswagen ID.4 Standard: $40,000
The base ID.4 employs a 62-kWh battery and a 201-hp electric motor to provide 209 miles of range. It's also among the most practical EVs on this list, with 30 cubic feet of cargo room behind the rear seats and 64 cubes with them folded.
Mazda
2023 Mazda MX-30: $35,000
The MX-30 might be the most limited model here, as it is available only in California, has a small battery, and features a relatively low driving range of 100 miles. The cabin is at least up to snuff, showcasing an 8.8-inch infotainment screen, a 7.0-inch gauge display, a floating center console, and sustainable materials such as cork, and fabric threads made from recycled bottles.
Hyundai
2023 Hyundai Kona Electric SE: $35,000
You may be familiar with the gas version of the Kona, but its all-electric counterpart is an excellent value for those seeking an eco-friendly ride with a relatively long driving range (258 miles) and a reasonably low price. Moreover, its electric motor puts out 201 horsepower, which beats the output of the top gas model.
Mini
2023 Mini Electric SE Hardtop 2-Door: $31,000
Given its size and tiny battery, this 114-mile Mini EV is probably best reserved for those who drive only on occasion and/or need to weave through tight city streets. Adaptive cruise and heated front seats are standard, as is an 8.8-inch touchscreen with navigation.
Nissan
2023 Nissan Leaf S: $29,000
The comparatively affordable Leaf has been a staple of the EV industry for more than a decade. Base models make do with a 40-kWh battery and 149 miles of range, but shoppers who care to spend another $8,000 can upgrade to the 60-kWh-battery SV Plus trim and go 212 miles between charges.
Chevrolet
2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV LT: $29,000
The EUV version of the Bolt stands a bit taller, has a longer wheelbase, and offers more rear-seat legroom than its sibling. It features a 200-hp motor that motivates the front wheels and includes a wireless phone charger as well as wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support. Range isn't bad either, coming in at 247 miles.
Chevrolet
2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV 1LT: $27,000
When it comes to value, it's hard to beat the Bolt EV, which offers 259 miles of range and a responsive 200-hp electric motor. It also has a sliver more cargo room than the EUV.
All vehicle pricing includes MSRP plus destination charges (set at the time of publication), and will be rounded to the nearest thousand.
Written by humans.
Edited by humans.
Sami Haj-AssaadSami Haj-Assaad is an award-winning automotive journalist who has contributed to several automotive, electric vehicle, luxury lifestyle, and technology publications. His work isn't just limited to the written word, as he's also hosted YouTube videos and podcasts. Having grown up in the '90s, he has a strong sense of attachment to that era's style, though he also loves to geek out about the modern, futuristic tech and powertrains rolling out today.
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