Best EVs to Buy Used in 2026

If you’ve been thinking about an electric vehicle, buying a used one can be a great way to save money—especially now that federal EV tax credits are gone. The availability of used electric cars has been steadily increasing, particularly as vehicles leased three years ago are making their way back to dealerships across the country. 

Electric cars enjoy comprehensive, extended warranties on their most expensive components, including the battery, for a federally mandated minimum of eight years or 100,000 miles (whichever comes first). Many of the reliability issues that gas-powered vehicles contend with aren’t as prevalent with electric cars, which require far fewer out-of-pocket repairs and less long-term maintenance. 

Here are five 2023 model electric cars, tested and recommended by AAA in its annual Car Guide, to consider when shopping for your next car.

Hyundai Ioniq 5

Unique, retro, but not overly flashy, the Ioniq 5 is a compact crossover SUV with available all-wheel drive. The cabin is roomy and airy (thanks to its panoramic roof), with plenty of headroom and quality finishes; the only notable downside to the interior is that the infotainment system could be more intuitive to use. Adaptive cruise control, forward automatic emergency braking, and blind spot warning are standard. The Ioniq 5 provides responsive handling and a comfortable ride (though it can feel bumpy on potholes). The fast-charging system can take the battery from 10% to 80% in less than 20 minutes, offering flexibility to offset the 266-mile range.

Chevy Bolt EV 2LT

The Chevy Bolt was introduced in 2017, but until Chevrolet announced a return this year, the 2023 edition was its final model year. That 2023 Bolt is a zippy little car that’s great for daily drives and commuting to work. It gets 259 miles per charge, though it can be slow to recharge, even with DC fast charging. The interior was upgraded for 2023, including more comfortable seats and an improved infotainment system (both of which had been concerns in previous years). Back seats remain cramped, as does cargo space, but that’s understandable for a car this size. Though it’s known for a somewhat stiff ride, the Bolt is stocked with advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) features. (Note: Many older Bolts on the road had their original batteries replaced due to a recall; the 2023 model year doesn’t have this issue.)

Genesis Electrified GV70

Genesis offered a nearly identical electric version of its GV70 (save for the drivetrain) for the 2023 model year. The GV70 has luxury written all over it. The posh cabin has excellent fit and finish, though headroom can be tight. The exterior has a sleek design that stands out. The electric vehicle delivers a comfortable ride with responsive handling and standard all-wheel drive, though the steering feels a bit loose. While the EV has a low range of 236 miles, it takes just 18 minutes to charge from 10% to 80% thanks to its fast-charging capability. You’ll get a full suite of ADAS features, including adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking when going both forward and backward.

Nissan Leaf SV Plus

The Nissan Leaf was the first mass-market electric car available commercially in all states and the best-selling EV until it was unseated by the Tesla Model 3 in 2020. The 2023 Nissan Leaf SV Plus is a small, quirky hatchback. The budget-friendly choice comes with a full suite of ADAS features and offers a quiet (if uncomfortable) ride. The 2023 Leaf uses a CHAdeMO plug for DC fast charging; that plug is quickly becoming obsolete, so it may be difficult to find public charging options. Also, the Leaf has a low range of 212 miles; given its charging restrictions, that’s another reason it may be best for buyers who don't stray far from home.