Nissan Leaf
Price: from £1,700
Range: 124-155 miles (official when new, depending on version)
It’s hard to believe that with a budget typically reserved for a rusty, polluting old banger, you can acquire a smooth-driving, eco-friendly electric vehicle. The original Nissan Leaf has gained immense popularity, resulting in plenty of options available at near rock-bottom prices.
However, before rushing to make a purchase, it is crucial to consider the capabilities of these early 24 kWh models. When brand new, their range didn’t exactly shine; and after over a decade of use, you might find yourself getting anywhere from 100 miles in stop-start urban driving to under 50 miles on the motorway. Although the 30 kWh variant improves the range slightly, the smaller battery suits those needing a car primarily for short trips.
Battery degradation over time is crucial, causing Nissan to include a ‘State of Health’ display in the dashboard. Starting from 12 bars when new, anything above 8 bars for the older Leafs is a positive indicator, though a full electric car service is recommended for peace of mind. The original Leaf provides a spacious, comfortable, and adequately equipped interior, albeit lacking in excitement.
BMW i3
Price: from £5,000
Range: 80-192 miles (official when new, depending on version)
If you’re searching for a used EV bargain, consider the distinctive BMW i3. Its futuristic design has aged better than expected, coupled with a high-quality interior that is both stylish and functional. While it might not be the most practical option on the market, driving it is genuinely enjoyable despite some comfort compromises.
With a budget of just £5,000, you can snag an early i3. However, be wary: these initial 23 kWh versions had a flimsy range of just 80 miles when new, and it’s likely to be less now due to battery wear. For a modest increase in price, the ‘REx’ (range-extender hybrid) offers a two-cylinder petrol engine to extend range, with battery upgrades happening in 2017 and 2019, improving range significantly.
MG 5
Price: From £7,000
Range: 250 miles (official when new)
Among the few electric estate cars, the MG 5 stands out for its practicality, value, and decent range. Despite its understated design, the MG 5 is a capable all-rounder, excelling in comfort and reliability. Many of these models have exceeded 100,000 miles, especially popular among private hire and fleet drivers.
Entry-level SE trim boasts features like adaptive cruise control and keyless entry, delivering a remarkable 250 miles from its 57 kWh battery. For around £7,000, you can grab a 2021 model that has clocked about 100,000 miles, or for £15,000, you might find a facelifted 2022 model with significantly lower mileage.
Vauxhall Corsa e / Corsa Electric
Price: from £8,000
Range: 222 miles (official when new)
If the BMW i3 feels a bit unconventional, the affordable Corsa e (later known as the Corsa Electric) is a fantastic option. It provides slightly more practicality and an impressive range, outperforming even the battery-boosted i3.
While it’s unlikely to turn heads, the Corsa is comfortable and offers strong performance, making it suitable for longer journeys without the dreaded range anxiety. With a budget close to £8,000, a 2020 SE Nav model with 65,000 miles could be yours, and increasing your budget to £10,000 unlocks opportunities for higher specifications with less mileage. Additionally, don’t overlook the Peugeot e-208, which shares a platform with the Corsa but offers a more striking design.
Jaguar I-Pace
Price: From £10,000
Range: 292 miles (official when new)
The Jaguar I-Pace marked a significant shift for Jaguar, blending its traditional luxury ethos with modern electric design. Launched in 2018, it precedes many rival EVs, making it a pivotal moment for the brand.
With its eye-catching design, high-quality interior, and sporty driving dynamics, the I-Pace delivers an exhilarating driving experience. With 400 hp and a 0-62 mph time of under five seconds, it’s not just about luxury; it provides thrilling performance as well. While it has an impressive range for an EV of its time, prospective buyers should be cautious with older models, as pre-2020 versions have raised concerns about the high voltage battery and electrical systems. Even though you can find high-mileage units for under £10k, approach with care.