While most electric vehicles (EVs) aren’t the most expensive new cars on the market today, buying a used electric car can be a great way to save a few bucks when shopping for your next car. But how do you choose the best used electric car? Well, U.S. News & World Reports’ top five picks for the best used electric cars in 2021 make for an excellent place to start. 

The 2019 Tesla Model 3 is one of the best used electric cars

U.S. News Overall Score: 8.5/10 
Maximum EV Range: 310 miles
Average Price Paid: $40,490-$53,857

This one shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise. After all, Tesla is one of the most popular electric car brands. It’s no wonder then that U.S. News included the 2019 Tesla Model 3 among its top picks for the best used electric cars in 2021. The Tesla Model 3 not only delivers an estimated range of up to 310 miles, but it also earns high marks in terms of safety, has very low running costs, and is the cheapest Tesla on the market today.

The 2017 BMW i3 is a cheap used electric car 

U.S. News Overall Score: 8.5/10 
Maximum EV Range: 114 miles
Average Price Paid: $21,210-$29,752

The 2017 BMW i3 also landed a spot on U.S. News’ list of the best used electric cars in 2021. While this used EV doesn’t deliver the highest maximum EV range, it is practical. In fact, it seats four people and boasts a maximum of 36.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down. And when it comes to driving this used electric car? This used electric car “delivers peppy acceleration, nimble handling, and a smooth ride,” U.S. News reports. Even better? While the i3 is expensive new, it’s pretty cheap on the used car market.

The 2017 Tesla Model S is one of the best used EVs

U.S. News Overall Score: 8.8/10 
Maximum EV Range: 335 miles
Average Price Paid: $49,095-$79,339

Another Tesla? Yes, it’s true. The 2017 Tesla Model S is also among U.S. News’ top picks for the best used electric cars in 2021. Though, it’s really no surprise as to why. The used Tesla Model S delivers a maximum EV range of up to 335 miles. Its interior is also pretty spacious and offers an abundance of cargo room. Its infotainment system is one of the best on the market too. Additionally, the 2017 Tesla Model S handles well and is one of the fastest cars you can buy, U.S. News reports.

The 2017 Hyundai Ioniq Electric is one of the most affordable EVs

U.S. News Overall Score: 8.9/10 
Maximum EV Range: 124 miles
Average Price Paid: $18,177-$21,508

If you’re hoping to get the most bang for your buck when shopping for a used electric car, the 2017 Hyundai Ioniq Electric is one of the best used electric cars you can buy. It’s not only one of the most affordable EVs on the market today, but it’s also safe, efficient, and “delivers agile handling and a smooth ride.” Perhaps the only downside to the Hyundai Ioniq Electric is that it’s underpowered at highway speeds, U.S. News reports.

The 2017 Chevrolet Bolt is the best used electric car in 2021

U.S. News Overall Score: 8.9/10 
Maximum EV Range: 238 miles
Average Price Paid: $20,111-$21,459

As for the best used electric car you can buy? Well, that honor goes to the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt, and for good reasons too. The used Chevy Bolt boasts a maximum EV range of up to 238 miles. It’s also spacious, safe, and enjoyable to drive. Even better, this used EV is priced to please and won’t have you breaking the bank anytime soon.

“The Bolt is an excellent option for used EV shoppers thanks to its impressive range and bargain pricing. It’s also roomy, practical, safe, and fun to drive.”

U.S. News & World Report

What are the best used EVs to buy?

If you’re in the market for a used EV, U.S. News’ picks for the best used electric cars make for an excellent place to start your search. Whether that means test driving the 2019 Tesla Model 3 or taking the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt out for a spin, these used electric vehicles are among the best used electric cars to buy in 2021.