Sunday, December 22, 2024

Top five used electric cars offer practical range and style for under £10k

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With many companies getting rid of their ex-fleet electric cars, now is one of the best times to get behind the wheel of a value-packed used EV.

Nissan Leaf Mk2:

By far one of the most popular electric models at this price point is the second-generation Nissan Leaf, which has been on the market since 2017.

This large family hatchback rivals models such as the Kia E-Niro, MG4 and Volkswagen ID3, however has gained a strong following thanks in part to its smart appearance and good levels of standard equipment.

Whilst the 40kWh version is by far the most common on the used market, buyers should try to find a model with a 62kWh battery pack, giving drivers the ability to cover around 240 miles per charge.

Vauxhall Corsa-e:

Whilst a number of the most popular electric models were designed to look like rocket ships, the all-electric Vauxhall Corsa-e manages to stand out by looking like a conventional car.

Using the same platform as the Peugeot e-208, the Corsa-e has not held its value quite as well, but can still cover up to 209 miles from its 50kWh battery pack.

With a £10,000 budget, drivers will not be able to get behind the wheel of the latest facelifted version but will find plenty of 2020 models with low mileages and plenty of standard kit.

BMW i3:

On the other hand, drivers who want to make heads turn for £10,000 should consider buying a used BMW i3, with the used market full of old yet cared-for examples.

Built between 2013 and 2022, this small electric hatchback was BMW’s first foray into mass-produced electric cars, and featured very unusual looks, thanks in part to inconsistent window and roof lines plus two-tone paintwork.

With a range of about 145 miles, the BMW i3 is hardly a motorway cruiser but could provide years of style and practicality as a second family car or for inner-city drivers.

SEAT Mii Electric:

Another used model that would make for the ideal city runabout is the SEAT Mii Electric, the Spanish rebadge of the popular Volkswagen e-Up! hatchback.

With a brief sales run of two years, the SEAT Mii Electric was one of the cheapest EVs on sale at the time but still offered contemporary styling and a decent range of 160 miles per charge.

A £10,000 budget gives motorists a good choice of second-hand examples, all of which will feature luxuries including heated front seats, 16-inch alloy wheels and automatic rain-sensing wipers.

Hyundai Ioniq:

Finally, used car buyers looking for an affordable electric model for their growing family should take a look at a Hyundai Ioniq.

Whilst the original model lacks the cool looks of the more recent Ioniq 5 and 6, this Hyundai liftback offers enough room for five adults and their luggage in addition to a very respectable amount of standard equipment.

With a maximum range of about 174 miles per charge, the Ioniq is hardly going to beat a Tesla Model 3 or Polestar 2 in an economy run, but will offer a similar vehicle for at least £5,000 less.

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