The electric car revolution is well and truly here, but you don't need to fork out for a brand-new model to join in. The used EV market is booming, and it's now packed with fantastic options for every type of driver. Whether you're after a chic city car for the school run, a practical family SUV for weekend adventures, or a sleek saloon that's as thrilling to drive as it is cheap to run, there's a second-hand electric car with your name on it. Gone are the days of worrying about tiny ranges and patchy charging; today's used EVs offer real-world usability and impressive tech.
So, why buy used? The biggest draw is, of course, the price. You can let someone else take the hit on that initial depreciation and bag yourself a nearly-new car for a fraction of the original cost. But the savings don't stop there. With rock-bottom running costs thanks to cheap home charging and fewer moving parts to go wrong, a used EV can be incredibly kind to your wallet. To help you navigate this exciting market, we've put together a guide to the very best used electric cars you can buy in 2026, from budget-friendly bargains to premium powerhouses.
About this guide
The cars in this guide have been selected to represent the best options currently available. Our recommendations are the result of a unique three-part scoring system that takes into account real-world tests from our team of expert reviewers, ratings from real-life owners who live with these cars every day, and an analysis of market data from CarGurus UK to identify which models offer the highest percentage of good and great deals. This combined approach ensures our list highlights cars that are not only great to own but also good value to buy.
The Best Used Electric Cars to Buy in 2026
- 2019-2021 Kia e-Niro
- 2026 Tesla Model 3
- 2019-2023 Honda e
- 2026 Skoda Enyaq
- 2020-2025 MG MG5
- 2018-2024 Jaguar I-Pace
- 2026 Citroen e-C4
- 2013-2022 BMW i3
- 2026 Polestar 2
- 2026 Cupra Born
1. 2019-2021 Kia e-Niro
CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.2% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fantastic to drive | Expensive to buy |
| Good value for a long-range EV | Bland styling |
| Roomy interior and a big boot | Interior starting to look dated |
The Kia e-Niro has become a go-to choice for savvy used EV buyers, and for good reason. It’s incredibly efficient, with the popular 64kWh version capable of more than four miles per kWh, which translates to a real-world range of over 250 miles. Even in cold weather, it holds its own. When you do need to top up, a 100kW rapid charge can get you to 80% in under 40 minutes, making longer journeys a doddle. The 204bhp motor provides surprisingly brisk acceleration, making it a genuinely fun and easy car to drive in any situation.
Practicality is another of the e-Niro’s strong suits. Its 451-litre boot is significantly larger than many rivals and easily swallows buggies or the weekly shop, while clever underfloor storage keeps charging cables tidy. Inside, the layout is logical, and post-2020 models feature an upgraded dashboard and a slick 10.25-inch touchscreen. Thanks to a flood of cars hitting the used market, the e-Niro represents tremendous value. You can get a huge amount of car for your money, especially with high-spec '4+' models that come loaded with kit like a sunroof, premium sound system, and even a heat pump for better winter efficiency.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Whichever version you choose, we reckon the Kia e-Niro really is one of the best affordable electric family cars you can buy. In fact, its excellent range, long warranty and strong reputation for reliability mean it’s one of our favourite used EVs." - Alex Robbins, senior car reviewer
Read our full Kia e-Niro review
2. 2026 Tesla Model 3
CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.2 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 38.9% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable to buy for a premium electric car | A little cramped in the back and boot |
| Brilliant Tesla Supercharger network | No head-up display |
| Even better to drive since 2024 update | Latest version lacks physical stalks for major driving controls |
The Tesla Model 3 has been a game-changer in the electric car world since its launch, and it just gets better as a used buy. A major update in 2024 (often called the 'Highland' model) significantly boosted its appeal, increasing the official range to an impressive 344-421 miles. Even on pre-update cars, you’ll find a real-world range that’s better than most rivals. The real ace up its sleeve, however, is access to Tesla’s superb Supercharger network, making long journeys a doddle. With charging speeds that can add around 175 miles in just 15 minutes on the fastest models, it remains one of the easiest EVs to live with day-to-day.
Inside, the Model 3 is a lesson in minimalism, with almost all controls housed in the huge 15-inch central touchscreen. This might take some getting used to, especially as the 2024 update removed the indicator and gear selector stalks, but the system is slick and responsive. Post-2024 cars also benefit from improved interior materials, giving it a more premium feel. It’s not just about the tech, though; the Model 3 is great to drive. Even the entry-level Rear-Wheel Drive model is brisk, hitting 62mph in 5.8 seconds, and it offers a satisfying and composed ride that makes it an enjoyable companion on any road.
The CarGurus Verdict: "On balance of price, driving range and ownership experience, the Tesla Model 3 is one of the very best premium electric cars out there are the moment. It's a remarkable car that’s efficient, sets the standard for semi-autonomous driving aids, and is more affordable than almost all of its close rivals." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
Read our full Tesla Model 3 review
3. 2019-2023 Honda e
CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.2% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Cute and characterful looks | Short range |
| Peppy performance around town | Cramped cabin |
| High-tech connectivity features | High price for such a small car |
The Honda e is one of those cars you buy with your heart, not your head. Its retro-futuristic styling turned heads from the moment it was unveiled, and the production car is still a charming and distinctive thing. It has a personality that so many other small electric cars lack, making it a truly unique choice on the used market. Honda has since discontinued the e, which only adds to its quirky appeal for those who want to stand out from the crowd.
As a used buy, it’s important to know what you’re getting into. The e is very much a city car, with an official range of around 125 miles from its 35.5kWh battery, meaning you should expect closer to 100 miles in real-world driving. There are two versions to look out for, a 134bhp model and a more powerful 152bhp ‘Advance’ variant. While its 171-litre boot is small, the interior is a real highlight, feeling like a trendy lounge thanks to its convincing faux-wood trim and the five digital screens that stretch across the dashboard.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Honda e is the sort of car that certain buyers will simply have to have, no questions asked. Those who take the plunge on the e will discover a likeable car with peppy around-town performance, mature driving manners, and a high-quality cabin." - Ivan Aistrop, senior editor
4. 2026 Skoda Enyaq
CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.0 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 37.5% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong value compared with rival electric SUVs | Pre-2025 cars have less generous standard equipment |
| Excellent passenger space and a large boot | Touchscreen can be slow to respond on earlier models |
| Comfortable ride and well-judged handling | Sporty vRS version prioritises pace over enjoyment |
The Skoda Enyaq has quickly become a go-to choice for families switching to electric, and it’s easy to see why. It does what Skodas do best: deliver heaps of space and practicality without the premium price tag. The boot is a generous 585 litres, which is more than enough for a chunky double buggy or the family dog, and there’s even handy underfloor storage for the charging cables. Rear passenger space is simply vast, with a flat floor that makes the middle seat genuinely usable for an adult, a rare treat in any car.
On the road, the Enyaq is all about quiet, comfortable progress. The most popular 85 model comes with a 282bhp motor and an 82kWh battery, officially capable of up to 359 miles. In the real world, you can expect a very usable 280-300 miles in summer, making long journeys a breeze. The ride is smooth, soaking up British B-roads with ease, and the cabin is impressively quiet. All post-2025 models come well-equipped, too, featuring a large 13.0-inch touchscreen, heated seats, and adaptive cruise control as standard, cementing its place as a brilliant all-round used buy.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Skoda Enyaq is a fantastic family SUV that stands comparison with anything else of a similar size, regardless of power source. It’s spacious, comfortable, quiet, feels classy and is excellent to drive." - CarGurus Editorial Team
Read our full Skoda Enyaq review
5. 2020-2025 MG MG5
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.8 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 36.4% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| One of the most affordable EVs on the market | Lots of body lean when cornering |
| Spacious and practical | Slow charging speeds for early models |
| Very low running costs | Unfashionable shape and styling |
The MG5 EV has carved out a unique spot in the used car market as the UK’s first all-electric estate car. While newer, more premium electric estates have since arrived, the MG5 remains an unbeatable bargain for families needing maximum space on a budget. Its practicality is its trump card, offering a generous 479-litre boot that expands to 1,367 litres with the rear seats folded. That’s more than enough for buggies, dogs, or a big trip to the tip. The final version, which ceased production in 2025, came with a punchy 154bhp electric motor, making it surprisingly nippy for a sensible family wagon.
For used buyers, the MG5 makes a compelling case. Post-2022 facelifted models are the ones to go for, featuring sharper looks and a 61.1kWh battery that delivers a real-world range of around 220 miles. These versions also support faster 87kW rapid charging, allowing for a 10-80% top-up in about 35 minutes. Perhaps the biggest draw is the remainder of MG’s seven-year/80,000-mile warranty, which is transferable to subsequent owners and provides excellent peace of mind. It’s a no-nonsense, practical choice that makes switching to a used electric car surprisingly easy and affordable.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The MG5 isn’t a car that trades on desirability, but it is a thoroughly practical, common-sense electric car that’s pleasant to drive and has a decent real-world range. More importantly, it's the best-value electric estate car on the used car market by a comfortable margin." - CarGurus Editorial Team, CarGurus UK
6. 2018-2024 Jaguar I-Pace
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.5% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| One of the very best EVs to drive | Disappointing real-world range |
| Combines speed with refinement | Doesn't charge as quickly as some rivals |
| Rock-bottom tax bills for company drivers | Firm ride on biggest wheels |
The Jaguar I-Pace was a real game-changer when it arrived, proving that electric cars could be genuinely thrilling to drive. With 396bhp from its twin electric motors providing four-wheel drive, it’s seriously quick, dispatching the 0-62mph sprint in a blistering 4.8 seconds. It’s not just about straight-line speed, though; the I-Pace is one of the best-handling electric SUVs you can buy, with enthusiastic responses that make it a joy on a twisty road. For all its performance, it’s also a super-refined and comfortable cruiser, making it a brilliant all-rounder.
Practicality is well-catered for, with a decent 577-litre boot and a handy storage cubby under the bonnet for the charging cables. While the official range is 292 miles, used buyers should expect a more realistic 180-240 miles depending on weather and driving style. A full charge at home on a 7kW wallbox takes around 14 hours, while a 100-mile top-up at a public 100kW rapid charger can be done in about 30 minutes. When looking at used examples, it’s worth seeking out a post-2021 car if you can, as they benefit from Jaguar’s much-improved Pivi Pro infotainment system.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Jaguar I-Pace is a milestone car. It proved that electric cars needn’t be uniform or mundane, and can in fact be absolutely brilliant; better to drive even than petrol counterparts." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
Read our full Jaguar I-Pace review
7. 2026 Citroen e-C4
CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.1% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The C4 offers something genuinely different to most hatchback rivals | The likes of the Skoda Octavia have more luggage space |
| Affordable to buy and run | The infotainment system is fiddly |
| Plenty of room for the whole family | Finance costs could be more competitive |
If you want your electric car to stand out from the crowd, the Citroen e-C4 is a compelling choice. It blends the practicality of a family hatchback with the rugged styling of an SUV, complete with a sleek, coupe-like roofline that’s sure to turn heads. It’s not just about looks, though. The e-C4 is a proper family car, offering plenty of room for passengers in the back and a useful, square-shaped 380-litre boot. That’s the same size as you get in the petrol and diesel versions, so you don't sacrifice any luggage space by going electric, which is a big plus compared to some rivals.
The e-C4 is arguably the best of the C4 range to drive, thanks to its silent, seamless acceleration. It’s impressively comfortable, soaking up bumps with ease and proving to be a settled and refined companion on long motorway journeys. The 50kWh battery provides a maximum official range of up to 232 miles, but it’s wise to expect closer to 200 miles in summer and perhaps as low as 100 miles in the depths of winter. Running costs are where the e-C4 really shines; a full charge from a home wallbox can cost less than £7, making it an incredibly affordable way to get around.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Citroen C4 is a decent hatchback that ticks all the common-sense boxes of value, practicality, efficiency, and comfort, and throws in a dash of quirky flair that few of its alternatives offer." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
Read our full Citroen e-C4 review
8. 2013-2022 BMW i3
CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.2 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 31.9% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.1 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Distinctive looks really stand out | Early versions have a short range |
| Nimble handling for an EV | Stiff and unsettled ride |
| Appealing cabin design | An expensive car to buy |
When the BMW i3 arrived in 2013, it felt like a car from the future, and its distinctive styling still turns heads today. It was a bold statement, designed from the ground up as an EV. Used buyers have two main choices: the pure electric model, or the Range Extender (REX) version, which cleverly uses a tiny two-cylinder petrol engine as a generator to top up the battery, banishing range anxiety. Over its life, the i3 received several battery upgrades, boosting the official range from around 80 miles to nearly 190 miles on later models, so it pays to check which version you’re looking at. With 168bhp from its electric motor, it’s also pleasingly quick around town.
Inside, the i3 feels just as special, with a beautifully designed cabin made from interesting, sustainable materials. The innovative carbon-fibre construction keeps weight down, which helps with its agile handling. However, there are some practicality quirks to be aware of. It’s strictly a four-seater, and the rear-hinged back doors can be a faff in tight car parks because you have to open the front doors first to use them. The boot is also quite small at 270 litres, so it’s more suited to city life than massive family holidays. Still, for those who love the design and want a premium-feeling EV, the i3 has a unique charm.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The BMW i3 is an appealing, upmarket and beautifully finished electric car that’s engaging and easy to drive. It’s also an interesting piece of design and engineering, and it’s packed full of modern and useful technology, all of which bolsters its desirability further." - Lewis Kingston, contributor
9. 2026 Polestar 2
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 0.0 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 41.1% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.0 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stunning build quality | The Performance Pack is pricey |
| Very rapid acceleration | A Jaguar I-Pace is roomier |
| Good battery range | No traditional dealer network |
The Polestar 2 arrived as a seriously stylish and high-quality alternative to the ubiquitous Tesla Model 3. It’s a handsome five-door fastback with an exceptional sense of fit and finish, particularly inside its minimalist, vegan-friendly cabin. When looking at used examples, it’s worth seeking out a post-2023 facelifted car. These models received significant upgrades, including more power, and a switch to more engaging rear-wheel drive for the Single Motor versions. Crucially, the Long Range model also got a bigger 82kWh battery, boosting its official range to a very useful 409 miles.
Beyond the cool Scandinavian design, the Polestar 2 is a properly practical EV. Its hatchback boot opening makes loading bulky items a doddle, and while the 407-litre capacity isn’t class-leading, it's a more usable shape than a Model 3's saloon boot. There’s also a handy 41-litre 'frunk' under the bonnet for stashing charging cables. On the road, the 2 is a joy. The steering is crisp and direct, and it feels composed and accurate through the corners. Even the entry-level 268bhp model is plenty quick, and all versions deliver that smooth, silent, and instant acceleration that makes EVs so relaxing to drive around town.
The CarGurus Verdict: "There is an all-pervading sense of integrity about the Polestar 2 that Tesla owners will be unfamiliar with. As far as practicality and performance are concerned, there’s very little to choose between the two models, although the Polestar’s hatchback boot is much more useful than the Model 3’s narrower saloon boot aperture." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
Read our full Polestar 2 review
10. 2026 Cupra Born
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 0.0 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 35.3% Overall CarGurus rating: 3.9 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| More entertaining to drive than most EVs | Busy ride |
| Long range with 77kWh battery | Annoying touch-sensitive controls |
| Sharp and stylish looks | Not as roomy as a Skoda Enyaq |
The Cupra Born is essentially a Volkswagen ID.3 in a sharper suit, and that’s no bad thing. As a used buy, it’s the perfect choice for anyone who fancies the ID.3’s all-electric underpinnings but wants a car with more visual flair and a sportier character. Most used examples will come with either a 58kWh or a 77kWh battery. The 58kWh models offer either 201bhp or 228bhp and an official range of up to 263 miles, while the larger 77kWh battery is paired with the 228bhp motor and boosts the official range to a very useful 335 miles, making long journeys a breeze.
It’s not just about looks; the Born is genuinely more entertaining to drive than its VW cousin, with a tauter feel that makes it feel right at home on a winding B-road. It’s still a practical family hatchback, too, with enough room for four adults to sit comfortably and a 385-litre boot that’ll handle the weekly shop or a weekend away. Inside, the cabin feels modern thanks to a large 12.9-inch touchscreen, but be warned, the touch-sensitive controls for the volume and climate can be a daily frustration. It’s a small niggle in what is otherwise a very compelling used electric car package.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Cupra Born drives as well as it looks, and it's one of the most compelling electric cars there is if you’re after something that’s affordable but fun and stylish." - Ivan Aistrop, senior editor
Read our full Cupra Born review
FAQ
What should I look for when buying a used EV?
When inspecting a used electric car, the most important thing to check is the battery's health. Ask to see the car's state-of-health (SoH) reading if possible. Also, inquire about its charging history, as frequent rapid charging can degrade the battery faster than slower AC charging. Finally, check how much of the manufacturer's battery warranty is left. Most brands offer at least 8 years or 100,000 miles of cover, which provides great peace of mind.
How can I check the battery health of a used electric car?
Some electric cars, like the Nissan Leaf, display the battery's State of Health (SoH) on the dashboard. For others, it might be hidden in the infotainment system's menus. If it's not readily available, you can ask a main dealer or a specialist EV mechanic to perform a battery health check. Alternatively, third-party apps and a compatible OBD2 dongle can often read this data for you.
Are used electric cars cheaper to run than petrol or diesel cars?
Yes, in most cases, running a used EV is significantly cheaper. Charging at home on a cheap overnight electricity tariff costs a fraction of what you'd spend on petrol or diesel. Servicing is also typically less expensive because EVs have fewer moving parts to maintain, and you'll save money on tax as most used EVs are exempt from Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) and clean-air-zone charges.
Is range anxiety still a problem with used EVs?
It's much less of a concern than it used to be. Many cars on our list offer a real-world range of over 200 miles, which is more than enough for the vast majority of daily and weekly journeys. For those occasional long trips, the UK's public charging network has grown rapidly, making top-ups easier than ever. If you plan on frequent long-distance travel, a Tesla is a great option due to its exclusive and highly reliable Supercharger network.
What happens to the battery warranty when you buy a used EV?
The manufacturer's battery warranty is fully transferable to subsequent owners, which is a huge benefit when buying a used EV. Most manufacturers guarantee that the battery will retain a certain percentage of its original capacity (usually 70%) for a set period, typically 8 years or 100,000 miles. Always check the specific terms for the car you're considering.
Do I need a home charger?
While you can technically charge an EV using a standard 3-pin plug socket, it is extremely slow and not recommended for regular use. A dedicated 7kW home wallbox is the best solution. It's much faster, safer, and allows you to schedule charging to take advantage of cheaper overnight electricity tariffs, which is where the biggest running cost savings are made.
What Makes CarGurus Best Cars Guides Different?
Most car buying websites publish lists of the best cars across a variety of categories, with recommendations generally driven by editorial expertise. Here's what makes our best cars guides different: we combine the insights and verdicts of our team of car-testing experts with other factors that we know matter to buyers - real owner experiences and current market value.
To that end, our expert reviewers come from some of the UK's most trusted automotive publications including What Car?, The Telegraph, Auto Trader, Electrifying.com, and Carbuyer. They put each car through real-world testing, and create detailed reviews noting performance in a range of categories, from practicality and driving manners, to running costs and reliability.
But we don't stop there when it comes to creating our best cars guides; we also analyse hundreds of thousands of used car listings on CarGurus UK to track which models consistently offer the highest percentage of best deals relative to how many are listed for sale. Then we factor in user reviews and ratings gathered on CarGurus to get feedback from people who actually live with these cars every day. Our best cars algorithm then creates a final Overall CarGurus rating that combines expert ratings, user reviews, and the percentage of listings on CarGurus UK rated as good or great deals. This three-way approach reveals not just which cars excel on paper, but which ones deliver satisfaction and value when you're ready to buy.
The CarGurus UK market data in this guide was last updated in February 2026. Values were accurate at time of publication and should be used as a guide only.
