Top 10 'Plug-In-and-Prosper' Used EVs to buy for Saving Thousands at the Pump This Year - Goh Ling Yong
Are the soaring prices at the pump making your wallet weep? Every time you fill up, does a small part of you wonder if there's a better way? You're not alone. The constant drain of fuel costs is pushing more drivers than ever to look for an escape route, and for many, that route is powered by electricity.
The good news is you don't need a six-figure salary to make the switch. The used electric vehicle (EV) market is exploding with incredible value, offering a golden opportunity to ditch gasoline for good and start saving thousands of dollars a year. But where do you start? The world of used EVs can seem daunting, with talk of battery degradation and charging standards. Fear not! Here at the Goh Ling Yong blog, we've done the homework for you.
This isn't just a list; it's your roadmap to "plug-in-and-prosper." We're breaking down the top 10 used EVs that offer the best combination of reliability, range, and pure, unadulterated value. These are the cars that will have you waving a cheerful goodbye to gas stations and hello to a fatter bank account.
1. The Trailblazing Pioneer: Nissan Leaf (2018+)
The Nissan Leaf is the car that brought EVs to the masses. While early models (pre-2018) are ultra-cheap, they suffer from lower range and faster battery degradation due to their passive air-cooled battery system. The real sweet spot is the second-generation Leaf, which debuted in 2018. It’s a mature, reliable, and surprisingly spacious hatchback that’s perfect for city commuting and daily errands.
The 2018-2019 models came standard with a 40 kWh battery, offering a realistic range of about 220-240 km (140-150 miles). In 2019, Nissan introduced the "Plus" model with a larger 62 kWh battery, bumping that real-world range up to a very usable 340-360 km (210-225 miles). These cars are comfortable, quiet, and packed with features like ProPILOT Assist on higher trims, making your commute a breeze.
Pro Tip: When shopping for a used Leaf, the most important thing to check is the battery's State of Health (SOH). You can see a basic version on the dashboard (look for the 12 capacity bars to the far right of the instrument cluster). For a deep dive, use an OBD2 dongle and the "LeafSpy" app to get a precise SOH percentage. Aim for a car with over 85% SOH for peace of mind.
2. The Range-for-Your-Rand King: Chevrolet Bolt EV (2017+)
If your primary concern is getting the most range for the least amount of money, the Chevrolet Bolt EV is your champion. From its debut in 2017, the Bolt offered an EPA-estimated range of 238 miles (383 km), a figure that was revolutionary for a non-Tesla EV at its price point. It’s a peppy, practical, and deceptively roomy little hatchback that’s an absolute joy to zip around town in.
The Bolt’s biggest story is its battery. Due to a major recall, virtually every 2017-2022 Bolt EV and EUV was eligible for a complete battery module replacement. This is a massive win for used buyers. Many Bolts on the market today have a brand-new battery with a fresh 8-year/100,000-mile warranty from the date of replacement. You get a used car price with a new battery's peace of mind.
Pro Tip: Ask the seller for documentation proving the battery recall work has been completed. A car with a recently replaced battery is the golden ticket. Also, note that while the interior is functional, it uses a lot of hard plastics. If you prioritize a premium feel, you might look elsewhere, but if you prioritize range and value, the Bolt is unbeatable.
3. The Tech-Forward Trendsetter: Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus (2019+)
No used EV list is complete without a Tesla. The Model 3 changed the automotive world, and now that early models are coming off lease, they represent a fantastic value. The Standard Range Plus (SR+) is the perfect entry point, offering a real-world range of around 380 km (235 miles), blistering acceleration, and access to Tesla's gold-standard Supercharger network.
Buying a used Tesla is a different experience. You get a minimalist interior dominated by a single screen, over-the-air software updates that continuously improve the car, and a driving experience that feels like it’s from the future. The built-in Autopilot features make highway driving a dream, and the sheer simplicity of the ownership experience (no dealerships, mobile service) is a huge plus for many.
Pro Tip: When inspecting a used Model 3, pay close attention to the build quality of early 2019 models, checking for inconsistent panel gaps. Test the main screen thoroughly to ensure it's responsive. The biggest benefit, the Supercharger network, makes road trips significantly easier than with most other brands on this list.
4. The Quirky Urbanite: BMW i3 (2017+)
The BMW i3 looks like nothing else on the road, and that’s a huge part of its charm. Built on a futuristic carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic chassis, it’s incredibly lightweight, efficient, and—being a BMW—a ton of fun to drive. The interior is a masterpiece of sustainable design, using recycled materials and open-pore wood. It’s the perfect EV for the style-conscious city dweller.
Starting in 2017, the i3 got an upgraded battery (94 Ah), pushing its all-electric range to a more usable 180 km (115 miles). Many models also come with the unique Range Extender (REx), a tiny 650cc gasoline engine that acts as a generator to recharge the battery, eliminating range anxiety. It’s a brilliant solution for those who do 95% of their driving on electricity but need a backup for occasional longer trips.
Pro Tip: If you're considering a REx model, ask the previous owner how often they used the engine. It needs to be run periodically to stay healthy. The i3’s skinny tires are unique and can be more expensive to replace, so check the tread depth before you buy.
5. The Under-the-Radar All-Rounder: Hyundai Kona Electric (2019+)
The Hyundai Kona Electric took the winning formula of a compact SUV and made it electric, creating one of the best all-rounders on the market. It doesn't shout "I'm electric" with wild styling, but it delivers where it counts. With its 64 kWh battery, the Kona boasts an impressive real-world range of over 400 km (250 miles), rivaling cars that cost thousands more.
Inside, you'll find a well-laid-out and user-friendly dashboard that feels more conventional than a Tesla, which many buyers prefer. It comes packed with standard features, including excellent driver-assist systems. Like the Bolt, some earlier Kona models were also subject to a battery recall, so you might find one with a fresh battery pack, adding tremendous value.
Pro Tip: The Kona Electric has a fantastic one-pedal driving mode that you can adjust with steering-wheel-mounted paddles. Test this out on your drive; it's one of the best implementations of regenerative braking out there and makes city driving incredibly smooth.
6. The Practical Sibling: Kia Niro EV (2019+)
Think of the Kia Niro EV as the Kona Electric's slightly larger, more practical sibling. It shares the same excellent 64 kWh battery and powertrain, meaning you get that same fantastic 400+ km range. Where the Niro EV (also known as the e-Niro in some markets) pulls ahead is in interior space. It offers more rear-seat legroom and a significantly larger cargo area, making it a better choice for small families.
The Niro EV combines its practicality with a comfortable ride and a feature-packed interior. Kia's UVO infotainment system is a joy to use, and the overall build quality feels solid and dependable. It’s the perfect "do-it-all" electric vehicle that seamlessly transitions from a daily commuter to a weekend family hauler without breaking a sweat.
Pro Tip: The Niro EV and Kona Electric are mechanically very similar. Your choice will likely come down to styling and interior space. If you regularly carry passengers in the back or have lots of gear, the extra room in the Niro is well worth it.
7. The 'Stealth' EV: Volkswagen e-Golf (2017+)
What if you want all the benefits of an EV but in a package that looks and feels... completely normal? Enter the Volkswagen e-Golf. Based on the globally beloved Golf hatchback, the e-Golf offers a premium build quality and a refined driving experience that punches well above its price point. It’s the EV for people who don’t want to make a statement.
The 2017 model year saw a significant battery upgrade to 35.8 kWh, giving it a realistic range of about 200 km (125 miles). While this isn't enough for long road trips, it’s more than sufficient for the average daily commute. It’s a perfect second car or primary vehicle for city-based drivers who want a high-quality, comfortable, and efficient ride.
Pro Tip: DC fast charging was an optional extra on the base SE trim but standard on the SEL Premium. Make sure the e-Golf you're looking at has the CCS port for fast charging, as it dramatically improves its usability for longer-than-average days.
8. The Luxury Bargain: Tesla Model S (2016-2017)
Fancy a taste of the high life without the high price? Older Tesla Model S sedans have depreciated to a point where they are an incredible luxury bargain. We're talking about a car that cost nearly $100,000 new, now available for the price of a new compact car. For that, you get timeless styling, ludicrous acceleration, a cavernous interior, and that massive 17-inch touchscreen.
Focus on the "facelift" models from mid-2016 onwards, specifically the 75D and 90D variants. These offer a great blend of range (380-470 km or 235-290 miles), all-wheel-drive security, and more modern features. The experience of driving a Model S is still special; the silent, effortless surge of power is addictive, and its road presence is undeniable.
Pro Tip: This is a crucial one. Some older Model S vehicles came with "Free Unlimited Supercharging" that was tied to the car, not the owner. Check the car's status on its touchscreen under the 'Software' tab. Also, ask about the main computer (MCU). Many have been upgraded to the faster MCU2, which is a significant quality-of-life improvement.
9. The Efficiency Champion: Hyundai Ioniq Electric (2019-2020)
Often overshadowed by its sibling, the Kona, the original Ioniq Electric hatchback is one of the most efficient EVs ever made. Its teardrop shape gives it incredible aerodynamics, allowing it to squeeze more miles out of every kilowatt-hour than almost any other car. It’s a masterclass in sensible engineering.
In 2019, the Ioniq received a battery upgrade to 38.3 kWh, giving it a very respectable real-world range of about 270 km (170 miles). This makes it a direct competitor to the Nissan Leaf but with superior efficiency and Hyundai’s excellent warranty. If your goal is the absolute lowest running cost for your daily commute, the Ioniq Electric is nearly impossible to beat.
Pro Tip: The Ioniq's exceptional efficiency means it charges quickly. Even on a 50kW DC fast charger, you can add significant range in a short amount of time, making it more flexible than its battery size might suggest.
10. The Modern Crossover: Ford Mustang Mach-E (2021)
As one of the newer EVs on this list, the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E is just starting to become a fantastic used buy. This was Ford’s first real, ground-up EV, and they knocked it out of the park. It combines head-turning Mustang-inspired styling with a practical crossover body, a beautiful modern interior, and a genuinely fun-to-drive character that I, Goh Ling Yong, personally find very compelling.
The most common used models will be the Standard Range RWD, offering about 370 km (230 miles) of real-world range. The Mach-E’s ride is a great balance of comfort and sportiness, and its large central touchscreen is intuitive and responsive. As a nearly-new vehicle, you’ll benefit from the remainder of the factory warranty and get a car packed with the latest tech.
Pro Tip: When test-driving a Mach-E, try out the different drive modes: "Whisper," "Engage," and "Unbridled." They genuinely change the character of the car. Also, check the vehicle's software version and ensure any early recalls (like those for the battery contactors) have been performed by a Ford dealer.
Your Electrified Future Awaits
Making the switch to an electric vehicle is one of the single best financial decisions you can make this year. The money you save on gas, oil changes, and other maintenance adds up to thousands of dollars annually. It's not just about saving money, though; it's about enjoying a quieter, smoother, and more exciting driving experience every single day.
The used EV market is ripe with opportunity. From the budget-friendly Nissan Leaf to the stylish Mustang Mach-E, there is a perfect electric car waiting for you, ready to help you save big and drive better. Do your research, take a test drive, and get ready to plug in and prosper.
Which of these used EVs catches your eye? Do you have another favorite that didn't make the list? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!
About the Author
Goh Ling Yong is a content creator and digital strategist sharing insights across various topics. Connect and follow for more content:
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