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As the industry leader in used EV analysis and market trends, it’s time for Recurrent to crown a “Best Used EV” for 2024.
How we decided
We compared some of the most popular all-electric models against each other according to these 10 categories:
- Cost - this category is based on a Recurrent statistic called “cost per range mile,” that compares the ratio of the used price to the real-world range. It measures how much you’re paying for range vs. everything else (design, nice features, a killer sound system, etc). If you’re looking for a budget EV, you’ll want to keep this number low.
- Availability - how available are these cars? This affects your ability to get your hands on a used one, and the ultimate sale price you may negotiate.
- Affordability - we look at how many vehicles, as a percent, are priced below $25,000. We chose this price threshold because it is the cutoff for eligibility in the used EV tax credit program
- Charging speed - this score factors in both AC (level 2) and DC (level 3; fast charging) speeds
- Charging network - as determined by owner satisfaction and surveys
- Range Reliability - we use the Recurrent range score to compare the average observed range today versus the average observed range when new. This helps you understand how well the range holds up with time.
- Accuracy - how well does the range on the dash reflect the actual range you can expect? Ideally, the dashboard prediction should be as close to reality as possible - both to reduce range anxiety and to prevent unexpected charging sessions.
- Variability - how does the car’s tech prepare it for winter or hot weather driving?
- Eligibility - is this make and model supported by Recurrent to track range health and battery condition? Are there any limitations on our coverage?
- Connectivity - how do drivers rate the car’s app, ease of use, and usefulness of features. This is a blended score based on app store reviews and community feedback
Keep scrolling for our picks for 2024.
2020 Nissan LEAF
- Total Score: 33.5 points
- Winner 🎉 Best Around-town Errands EV
The Nissan LEAF has been on the road since 2012 so it’s tried and true. The 2020 model year was the third year of the “gen 2” design, which offered a 40 kWh battery and the optional upgrade to a 62 kWh “Plus” version. The average price for all trims and configurations is $17,000, while the standard range offering can be found for less and the Plus slightly more. If you’re hoping for that tax credit, a whopping 98% of 2020 LEAFs are now under $25k, so many are eligible.
What we love:
The price is right for a Nissan LEAF. It’s one of the most affordable and reliable cars on the market. It’s got plenty of range for the average commute. The smaller battery can accept a max DC charge speed of 70 kW, meaning a refill takes just over 30 minutes. The LEAF also offers preconditioning on a timer and upgraded trims come with a heat pump. Most trims and battery sizes can be found under $25,000, and if you’re fine with the smaller battery pack, you can find a real bargain.
What could be better:
The biggest downside for the LEAF is the relatively high cost per range mile. This is because the EPA range for a standard battery pack is only 151 miles. The Plus battery pack has a better cost per range mile with over 200 miles of EPA range. Note that most new LEAFs observed by Recurrent are able to get better efficiency (and hence, range) than the EPA estimates.
Other downsides are related to charging. The LEAF uses CHAdeMO chargers for DC fast charging, which are being phased out across North America, so you may have limited public charger availability. The LEAF itself also does not allow you to set maximum state of charge levels, so you’d need a smart charger if you want the car to stop charging at 80% SoC.
Finally, although Recurrent has a lot of existing data on the LEAF, Nissan changed their connected services and shifted to a new software, so many LEAFs no longer have access to automated battery monitoring reports. Depending on how Nissan handles LEAF software going forward, this may or may not be permanent.
2021 BMW i3
- Total Score: 35.5 points
- Winner 🎉 Best Cult Classic EV
2021 was the last year for BMW’s early, quirky, electric hatchbacks to be sold in the U.S., and it still has a lot to offer its devoted fans. Its distinctive look, made with unique carbon fiber reinforced plastic, endeared it to drivers, earning the car pet-names in online forums. It has a modest range but excellent handling, making it ideal for daily trips around town.
What we love:
The i3 has an amazing DC Charging speed, up to 80% in 20 minutes. The lightweight car fits comfortably in a garage or a tight parking spot, so it’s great for city driving. Plus, it’s futuristic style and easy handling are beloved by drivers. Despite being an older model EV, it has the BMW iDrive 6 infotainment interface and Apple CarPlay integration.
Many i3’s are also equipped with a range extender, which is essentially a gas backup that adds an additional 75 miles (give or take) for when you run out of charge. However, these models may be on the higher end of the price range.
What could be better:
The i3 is a city car that goes for style and agility, not range: its cost per range mile isn’t on par with longer range used EVs. There aren’t many in the used EV inventory and only half are under $25,000 (and potentially eligible for the tax credit). Some come with a heat pump, but it can be hard to tell without actually opening the hood and looking. However, preconditioning is available for all i3s.
2020 Hyundai Kona EV
- Total Score: 37.5 points
- Winner 🎉 Best Hidden-in-plain-sight EV
The Hyundai Kona is the only car on this list that was not designed electric from the ground up. Instead, it is an all-electric option built on a gas or hybrid base. The Kona has some great features and a classic look. For people who want a low-key way to go green, the Kona EV will blend in with its gas-powered cousins on the highway and in the driveway.
What we love:
The Kona EV has a decent cost per range mile and a great average range score of nearly 99%. This means that most 2022 Kona EVs are getting nearly the same range today as they did when new. Plus, most Konas meet or exceed their EPA range in temperate weather.
Regenerative braking allows for a true one-pedal driving experience and its swift acceleration and smooth turning make for a fun ride. It has good charging speeds for the size of the battery, and people like the BlueLink app and its features.
What could be better:
There are only a few Kona EVs available in the used EV inventory, but many of them fall below $25,000. The Kona also does not offer app-based preconditioning, so drivers must set a timer or manually precondition the car. There was no heat pump offered in the US market, either. However, drivers can preheat the steering wheel, mirrors and the back window remotely, and turn on the seat warmers once in the car.
2015 Tesla Model S
- Total Score: 37.5 points
- Winner 🎉 Best Looking-for-Luxury EV
Everyone deserves a little style without breaking the bank. The Model S is a sleek, luxury sedan with impressive performance – and older models are now available at great prices. Just over 60% of the used EV inventory is under $25,000. If you’re looking for the glam of a $100,000 car for a quarter of the price, a used Model S is a great choice. Plus, it’s built to last. Many drivers rave about its smooth handling and insane acceleration. Despite its age, the 2015 Model S holds its own.
What we love:
Teslas dominate the market for a reason. You can’t beat access to the Supercharger network, the largest fast charging network in the world. With a max charging power of 250kW, you can bring the battery up to 80% in 30 minutes. The Model S has an impressive range to begin with, so even with a nine-year old car and an average 94 range score, you’ve got many miles.
What could be better:
The older touchscreen can be laggy and unresponsive. Like other Teslas, the Guess-O-Meter on the dash provides overly optimistic range estimates that rarely live up to reality.
2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV
- Total Score: 39.5 points
- Winner 🎉 Best Everyday EV
The Bolt wasn’t built to be the center of attention, but it’s great for commuting, errands, and trips around your homebase. Its reliability, excellent range, and affordable price have made it the winner of several “best of” lists, including last year’s Best Used EV.
What we love:
98% of 2021 Chevy Bolts are listed at a price under $25,000. With the used EV tax credit, the price can be knocked down to only $21,000. The Bolt already has a shockingly low price per range mile before factoring in a potential tax credit, so it truly is a bargain. Its impressive range makes it great for daily use without the worries of finding an outlet to recharge, and it has a very sensitive and realistic on-board range estimate. For winter weather, the Bolt can be precondited by using the key fob or the paid OnStar services.
What could be better:
One of the biggest misses for the Chevy Bolt is the relatively slow DC charging speed. It maxes out at 55 kW, which is half the speed of most modern EVs. When you do need to recharge the battery, it will take a while. If you plan on driving long distances, expect long charging breaks. However, with all the money you’re saving, you could rent a car for road trips.
2018 Tesla Model 3
- Total Score: 40 points
- Winner 🎉 Best Used EV of 2024
There is a lot to say about the Tesla Model 3. 2019 was the first year that the Model 3 really rose to prominence on the road, and was also the year that the storied “$35,000 EV” was removed. However, like many Teslas, where the Model 3 shines, it outshines the rest.
What we love: as prices across the used car market decline, and used Tesla prices decline especially, the Model 3 is becoming more of a bargain. It has a modest cost per range mile, and there are plenty in stock. As of today, it’s still rare to find one in the sweet spot below $25,000, but expect to see more in the coming months. Other major pro’s include outstanding DC charging speeds and access to the Tesla charger network.
What we don't: the 2019 Tesla Model 3 predates heat pumps, and the resistive heater in the car can really sap range in the cold. However, technology bells and whistles offset some of that range loss with timed preconditioning and seat warmers. The average Range Score is a 93, which is not awful, but does show some degradation. Finally, user reviews of the app are lackluster at 3.8/5.
Judge's Full Analysis
Best Used EV of 2023
The ballots were cast and the 2023 Best Used EV was...
2017 Chevrolet Bolt
- Total Score: 41.8 points
- Winner 🎉 Best Used EV (Overall)
The Chevrolet Bolt was not built to be the center of attention, but after two years of a highly publicized recall saga, it has risen from the ashes as the winner of several “best of” lists. The fact that a six year old car is all but guaranteed to have a brand new battery (under the 2021-2022 recall), coupled with the bargain of a price, ensured its victory.
