15 Best used electric cars in the UK right now

As the electric car revolution sweeps the UK, there’s a growing interest in sustainable and budget-friendly transportation. Would you like to make a commitment to reducing emissions and embracing the EV movement with affordability in mind? Then, you may want to look into used electric cars.

Today, Carplus is excited to bring you a handpicked selection of the best used electric cars. We understand that budget considerations are a significant factor in your decision-making process. That’s why potential buyers should pick their electric vehicles and use the Carplus finance tool to secure a great deal.

1. Renault Zoe

The Renault Zoe is arguably the best used electric car available for such an attractive price. It has a winning combination of a decent range of around 180 miles in everyday driving, funky styling, and the title of one of the cheapest electric cars.

Early models of the Renault Zoe come with a standard 22kWh battery and an 88bhp motor. Post-2017 versions are equipped with a 41kWh battery. What’s more, a major facelift in 2020 introduced two new electric motor options: the R110 with 107bhp and the R135 with 134bhp, both paired with a 52kWh battery.

It’s also a pleasure to drive — nippy and smooth performance, especially around town.

Inside, the Renault Zoe features a modern and tech-savvy interior with features like a TFT display and a user-friendly touchscreen infotainment system.

2. Volkswagen e-Golf

The Volkswagen e-Golf is another standout among used electric cars in the UK. It offers an ownership experience that’s broadly similar to the normal petrol or diesel car models but with a twist.

You can find the Golf’s electric version with a motor delivering 134bhp and 199lb-ft torque powering the front wheels. Its 35.8 kWh lithium-ion battery provides a respectable energy density. Over the years, the e-Golf has seen improvements in its theoretical range and set the electric car standards. Now, it has reached the 186-mile range.

When you get behind the wheel, the silence and smooth acceleration are very apparent. Plus, the e-Golf’s suspension handles road imperfections with effectiveness.

Inside this second-hand electric car, you’ll find Volkswagen’s flagship 9.2-inch touchscreen navigation system. The standard 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, the Active Info Display, adds to the overall tech features of the e-Golf.

3. Nissan Leaf

The Nissan Leaf, available since 2011, is one of the first mainstream electric cars and one of the most popular used electric cars on the market. It offers practicality, decent performance, and space for families. It was a best-seller in the UK and globally.

Early Leaf models had a 107bhp electric motor and a 24kWh battery, which provided a range of around 109 miles. After 2018, you could get two versions: one with a 148bhp electric motor and a 40kWh battery, and another with a more powerful 214bhp motor and a larger 62kWh battery.

Driving the Leaf is comfortable and steady — it handles corners well, and the ride quality is generally good. The Leaf’s technology features vary by trim. Basic models have a four-speaker system, DAB radio, Bluetooth, and USB, and higher trims add touchscreen navigation and telematics.

4. BMW i3

The BMW i3 is one of the best used electric cars if you’re performance-oriented. In 2016, the model received a 94Ah battery pack with a 33kWh capacity. Then, in 2017, BMW introduced a refreshed i3 model with a more potent 181bhp motor (previously 168bhp). The automaker also introduced a sportier i3 S option to the electric car market, which makes driving from a standstill quite exhilarating.

The standard i3 offers a range of 191 miles. While it may not match BMW’s other models in terms of handling, it still provides a secure ride, though a bit firm.

In terms of technology, you can use a smartphone app to monitor the car’s status remotely, control charging, and heat the cabin in advance. It also allows you to send driving routes directly to the car’s navigation system. Finally, it provides generous front and rear seat space.

5. Tesla Model S

The Tesla Model S is a powerhouse. With a maximum power of 450bhp (although it typically operates around 374bhp), it offers three power options: 75D, 100D, and P100D. Each denotes the battery’s kilowatt capacity. What you also can’t ignore is the incredible smoothness and silence — it’s eerily quiet even at speeds of 30mph.

The initial purchase price is fairly high, even when considering it as a used electric car. But the Model S proves to have low running costs in the long run, especially with the right electricity tariff.

Another prominent feature is the massive 17.0-inch portrait-format touchscreen. It controls everything from climate settings to driver assistance technology. The unique drive selection method, which involves swiping the screen or using hidden touchpads, heightens the car’s futuristic appeal.

6. Jaguar I-Pace

Buyers looking for used electric cars should consider the Jaguar I-Pace for its stylish appearance as well as impressive performance. This car is a true head-turner, and it does it all without making a sound.

Underneath, the I-Pace houses a massive 90kWh battery pack. It powers both front and rear wheels through two electric motors and delivers a total of 395bhp. The official range of 292 miles is slightly reduced to around 258 miles in real-world tests and in the used market.

The driving experience is also interesting to note. It’s not only fun to drive but also practical for everyday life. There is a good mix of cutting-edge technology, and its tech features are tastefully understated, with a more subdued colour palette than high-end rivals.

7. Tesla Model 3

The Tesla Model 3 has earned its place in automotive history. Its power range varies from 241 to 559bhp, making it a true sport and electric art. When it comes to real-world range, the Standard Range Plus version managed 181 miles in practical tests. The Long Range and Performance models are equipped with larger batteries and achieve even longer distances.

Over the years, Tesla has further improved the range of the Model 3, so you may be able to find those in the used electric car, too.

In terms of handling, the Model 3 excels in its Performance guise. The Long Range version handles well with a bit more body lean. However, the Standard Range Plus, while lighter, feels less balanced and confidence-inspiring.

The Model 3’s interior features a minimalist design, with all controls managed through a central touchscreen, from wipers to headlights.

8. Volkswagen e-Up

Volkswagen’s electric car e-Up is great value for money, especially as a used car. It comes with two powertrain options based on the production year. Both versions share the same electric motor, which produces 81bhp and 210Nm of torque. The main difference lies in the battery size.

For used electric cars registered up to 2019, they feature a smaller 18.7kWh battery. This results in a limited range of just 83 miles, suitable for short trips. However, the 2020 version boasts a larger 32.3kWh battery and nearly doubles the range to 159 miles. The electric motor delivers instant response and impressive low-down power.

What’s more, there’s a dedicated Maps&More smartphone app available. The app offers features like satellite navigation and remote services and allows you to control the car’s temperature using your phone.

9. Kia e-Niro

The Kia e-Niro is a practical, efficient, and affordable family SUV, very popular as a used electric car. In the entry-level ’2’ trim, you get a 134bhp electric motor and a 39kWh battery. This provides a 180-mile range. If you choose the ’3’ or ’4+’ trim, you’ll have a larger 64kWh battery paired with a 201bhp electric motor. This will give you a 282-mile range.

You shouldn’t expect sporty handling as other models on the car market. Still, the e-Niro handles well with controlled body lean and responsive steering. The ride is a bit firm in city driving but smooth on the motorway.

Basic ’2’ models feature an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a reversing camera, rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, electric motoring, and keyless entry. As you go up, you get more in the infotainment display.

10. Hyundai Ioniq Electric

The Hyundai Ioniq Electric is an efficient and spacious option among used electric cars. Early models from 2017 still hold up well — these offer an official range of 174 miles, though real-world driving may yield around 120 miles. These earlier versions have slightly less motor power (118 bhp) than later models (134 bhp) but can charge more rapidly at 70kW compared to the new car’s 50kW.

Sure, the Ioniq Electric isn’t known for its exciting performance. But it provides a safe and predictable driving experience, with a suspension that handles bumps well.

Standard equipment varies across the three trim levels. You may be able to enjoy climate control, adaptive cruise control, Bluetooth, automatic headlights, and rear parking sensors with a camera, depending on the powertrain you choose.

11. Kia Soul EV

The Kia Soul EV shines among the best used electric cars and might make you ditch petrol and diesel cars once and for all. Thanks to its distinctive and boxy design, the model has garnered quite a following in the UK.

In the original model, you’d find a 109bhp electric motor paired with a 27kWh battery pack. Those will get you a 132-mile range on a single charge. While it’s not exceptionally fast, it provides adequate performance for urban commutes.

The newer version offers a choice between short- and long-range batteries. The smaller battery has a 39.2kWh capacity. Paired with a 134bhp electric motor, it provides up to 172 miles of range. The larger battery, with a 64kWh capacity, extends the range to 280 miles and features a more potent 201bhp electric motor.

Also, the Soul EV comes loaded with technology.

12. Tesla Model X

The Tesla Model X is another used electric car worth considering. It’s large and heavy, mainly due to its batteries, which make it much heavier than traditional cars with internal combustion engines and heavier than most new electric cars.

When it was first introduced, it came in variants like the 60D, 90D, and P90D. The ’D’ indicates four-wheel drive, and ’P’ representes performance. For instance, the P90D had 464bhp and 830Nm of torque, which makes the X quite powerful.

Despite its size and weight, the Model X handles well with minimal body lean. Although, it’s not particularly thrilling to drive. This car is more about stability and safety.

Controls are centred around a user-friendly touchscreen, where you can manage various functions, including opening and closing doors, adjusting seats, etc.

13. Seat Mii Electric

When choosing used electric cars for city driving, the Seat Mii Electric has a special place in the competition. It offers a decent electric range of 162 miles and comes with an attractive price tag.

Under the hood, there’s an electric motor with 82bhp and 156lb-ft of torque. While it may not sound overly powerful, it’s surprisingly quick off the line and can outpace many other cars at traffic lights. However, do keep in mind that this is still a budget-friendly city car, and there may be some wind noise at higher speeds.

Inside, you’ll find a stylish painted dashboard and the convenience of Seat Connect. This is a smartphone app that allows remote access and management of the car, with information like driving data and location, as well as the ability to control the air conditioning remotely.

14. Peugeot e-208

The Peugeot e-208s are practical electric cars that bring impressive performance and functionality. It’s equipped with a 45kWh battery that powers a zippy 134bhp electric motor. These combined produce brisk acceleration and a claimed range of over 200 miles on a single charge. Although, for a used electric car that’s been out and about, the figures will be lower.

Despite its compact size, the e-208 boasts a stylish design and a high-quality interior that matches its conventional counterparts. It won’t behave like a sports car, but it delivers a decent driving experience with responsive steering.

Inside, you’ll find a 7.0-inch infotainment screen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. If you opt for the GT or GT Premium models, you’ll enjoy a larger 10.0-inch touchscreen with Connected 3D navigation and TomTom traffic data.

15. Audi e-Tron

Last but not least on the list of best electric cars, the Audi e-Tron. This SUV fits between the Audi Q5 and Q7 and competes closely with used electric cars like the Jaguar i-Pace and Tesla Model X.

The base model, the 230kW 50 Quattro, offers 313bhp. The 300kW 55 Quattro steps up the power to 408bhp. The top-of-the-line E-tron S, specifically the 370kW S Vorsprung Quattro, delivers an impressive 503bhp. Despite its weight, the e-Tron handles well, with precise steering and good grip.

When you step into the Audi e-Tron, your first impression will be dominated by the cutting-edge technology it offers. There is a user-friendly 10.1-inch touchscreen for infotainment and an 8.6-inch touchscreen for climate control.

Final words

In summary, if you’re thinking about used electric cars in 2023, you’re making a smart and eco-friendly choice. If you’re familiar with used electric cars and know what to expect, we wholeheartedly recommend considering one of the vehicles we’ve listed. They’re great choices.

However, if you’re new to electric cars, take a moment to do your homework. Crunch the numbers to see if the costs and savings align with your expectations. Also, make sure the car’s range fits your daily driving needs.

And here’s a pro tip: to get started smoothly, check out Carplus financing. We’re here to help you make the switch to eco-friendly driving and enjoy all the benefits it brings. Happy driving!