Ready to make the switch to electric? The EV market in Australia is finally getting interesting, with more options than ever before. Whether you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint or just tired of watching fuel prices climb, here’s your straightforward guide to the best used EVs worth considering.
BMW i4
The Luxury All-Rounder
If you’re after a premium badge without the typical premium EV price tag, the i4 eDrive35 is worth a look. BMW basically took their popular i4 eDrive40, trimmed some features, and tweaked the powertrain to get it under the Luxury Car Tax threshold – a smart move that could save you thousands through FBT rebates if you’re salary packaging. It’s become one of BMW’s bestsellers in Australia for good reason.
Key features:
- Genuine BMW driving satisfaction
- Premium interior quality
- Strong performance credentials
- Excellent build quality
While the real-world range of 360-390km isn’t class-leading, and it’s still expensive compared to non-luxury EVs, the refinement and driving experience live up to the badge’s reputation.
BYD Atto 3
The Value Proposition
This compact SUV put Chinese brand BYD on the Australian map. It’s the perfect example of why more people are considering EVs – practical size, decent range, and pricing that doesn’t require a second mortgage.
Standout features:
- Latest battery tech with 300km+ range
- Surprisingly roomy interior
- Front-wheel drive efficiency
- Recently price dropped (new models)
The interior design is definitely unique, with its marine theme, door “guitar strings”, and rotating touchscreen. Whether you find it charming or quirky will be a matter of personal taste. While it’s perfect for city driving, enthusiasts might find the comfort-oriented driving experience a bit tame.
Hyundai Ioniq
The Budget-Friendly Pioneer
Not to be confused with the newer Ioniq 5, this was one of Hyundai’s first EVs. While its 311km range might seem modest by today’s standards, it offers an affordable entry point into electric motoring.
Key attributes:
- Front-wheel drive efficiency
- Digital dash display
- Push-button gear selectors
- Practical interior layout
Performance is modest by EV standards, but you’ll still find it zippier than equivalent petrol cars. The interior is basic but functional, with enough tech to keep things interesting.
Hyundai Kona Electric (First Gen)
The Range Champion
The original Kona Electric tackles range anxiety head-on, delivering serious distance capability without breaking the bank.
Impressive credentials:
- Real-world range beyond 400km
- Accurate range prediction
- Harman Kardon sound system
- Strong acceleration
The standard range version from 2021 offers 305km range, which is still plenty for most users. While the interior is relatively simple, it comes loaded with features that make daily driving more enjoyable. The 2024 second-gen model offers even better range but comes with a significant price premium.
Kia EV6
The Game-Changer
This is the car that proves Kia isn’t playing around anymore. It’s a properly impressive piece of engineering that happens to be electric.
Standout qualities:
- Excellent battery range
- Australian-tuned suspension
- Genuine family-size space
- Multiple model options
While new ones command premium prices, the used market offers better value. From the base Air to the sporty GT, there’s a version for most needs – just be prepared for luxury-car pricing.
MG MG4
The Value Champion
The MG4 makes a compelling case for the most EV for your money, even after recent price increases.
Strong points:
- 300km+ range even in base model
- Corolla-sized practicality
- Confident handling
- Spacious interior for four adults
The main compromises are the overreliance on touchscreen controls for basic functions and some overzealous safety alerts, though these can be adjusted. The XPower version is your only option if you want all-wheel drive.
Mercedes-Benz EQC
The Refined Choice
Mercedes’ first proper EV aimed at the luxury SUV market still makes a compelling used purchase.
Premium features:
- 417km claimed range
- Dual motor all-wheel drive
- Unique suspension setup
- Full luxury appointment
- 1-second 0-100km/h sprint
The size mirrors the popular GLC, but with the refined, silent running you’d expect from a premium EV. The combination of traditional coil springs up front and air suspension at the rear delivers both handling precision and comfort.
Nissan LEAF (Second Gen)
The Practical Pioneer
Nissan learned from the first Leaf, and this second-generation version shows it. It’s a solid option if you want proven technology without the premium price tag.
Notable features:
- Spacious interior packaging
- Bose sound system included
- Bi-directional charging capability
- Choice of battery sizes
The foot-operated park brake feels dated, and the handling won’t excite enthusiasts, but the Leaf excels at its core mission of practical, efficient transport. The e+ version offers more power and range if you need it.
Tesla Model 3
The Tech Leader
Australia’s second-best-selling EV combines sharp pricing with genuine innovation. Think of it as a smartphone on wheels.
Tech highlights:
- 400km+ real-world range
- Tesla charging network access
- Smartphone key integration
- Three performance levels
- Regular software updates
The minimalist interior and touchscreen-centric controls take some getting used to, and that standard glass roof can make summer days interesting. But for tech-savvy buyers, the Model 3’s combination of performance, range, and features is hard to beat.
Tesla Model Y
The Popular Choice
Australia’s best-selling EV takes everything good about the Model 3 and adds SUV practicality.
Key attributes:
- Impressive range and charging speed
- Massive interior space
- Tesla charging network access
- Multiple performance options
The ride can be on the firm side, and like the Model 3, you’ll need to embrace the digital-everything approach to controls. There’s no seven-seat option, but the five-seat layout offers excellent space. Keep in mind the mid-2024 ‘Juniper’ update is coming with both improvements and price increases.
Pro Tips for Used EV Shopping
When shopping for a used EV, battery health should be your primary concern – it’s worth getting it professionally checked before purchase. Map out your charging options, both at home and public stations, before committing. While EVs need less maintenance than conventional cars, a full service history is still important.
Bottom Line
The used EV market is finally getting interesting. While they’re still not cheap, prices are becoming more reasonable, especially when you factor in running costs. Focus on battery health and real-world range, and don’t get too caught up in the specs – think about how you’ll actually use the car.