The Best Used Electric Vehicles to Buy in Australia, Right Now
The Australian EV market is officially accelerating from early adopter to Mainstream. The Electric Vehicle Council’s (EVC) State of EVs 2025 report dropped last week, and the numbers are clear: Australians bought 72,758 BEVs and PHEVs in the first half of the year – a massive 24.4% jump compared to the same time in 2024.
And in NSW, Australia, official registrations for Pure EV’s have just cracked the 100,000 market – we are on the way.
But the most exciting part? This surge isn’t just about new car sales… it’s about making EV ownership truly accessible for everyone. The expanding supply is driving a thriving used EV market full of reliable, affordable options.
If you’re looking for a combination of value and proven reliability, here are our top used EVs to consider right now.
Performance & Tech Leader: Tesla Model 3 - $30k est.
As the most popular EV in Australia for years, the used market is now well-stocked with the Tesla Model 3. The sheer volume and availability of used Tesla Model 3’s means competition is fierce, driving down prices for early and mid-life examples.
Why It’s a smart buy:
- Cutting-Edge Software Tech: The Tesla Model 3 still feels modern, with over-the-air (OTA) software updates ensuring the car’s features and infotainment remain up to date. This means a 2019 or 2020 model won’t feel obsolete, a huge advantage in a rapidly evolving market.
- Unrivalled Charging Network: Access to the expansive Tesla Supercharger network in Australia remains a significant advantage, providing unparalleled convenience for long-distance travel, especially when compared to third-party networks.
- Post-2021 Update Models: If your budget allows, target a 2021 or newer model, which benefits from updates like the more efficient heat pump and improved interior features, making it a more refined package for everyday driving.
While maintenance is low, buyers should check the balance of the 8-year battery and drive unit warranty, which guarantees a minimum of 70% battery capacity retention throughout the warranty period.
Reliable and Efficient: Hyundai IONIQ - $20k est.
The 2020 Hyundai Ioniq Electric (38kWh) is a high-efficiency alternative to the first-generation small EVs, offering a more refined and feature-rich package for a modest premium.
Why It’s a Smart Buy:
- Best-in-Class Efficiency: With an official WLTP range of 311km from its 38kWh battery, the Ioniq is one of the most efficient EVs ever made. In real-world driving, especially in the city, its range rivals or even surpasses cars with significantly larger battery packs, meaning less charging time and lower electricity costs.
- Superior Battery Management: Unlike competitors that use only air cooling, the 2020 Ioniq features a liquid-cooled battery pack. This protection greatly reduces battery degradation over time and under heat stress, offering much better peace of mind regarding long-term battery health and reliability.
- Modern Standard Features: The Ioniq offers a generous suite of technology and safety features, including a large infotainment screen, full smartphone connectivity, and a comprehensive set of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like autonomous emergency braking, giving it a much more modern feel than its age suggests.
The Ioniq’s biggest compromise is its 50kW DC maximum fast-charging speed, which means it takes longer to charge on high-power chargers than newer EVs. It takes about 57 minutes to go from 10% to 80% on a fast charger. For daily commuting and home charging, this is irrelevant, but for frequent road trips, be prepared for slightly longer charge stops. Fortunately though, the 2020 model uses the current, widely adopted CCS Combo 2 DC charging plug.
Classic: Nissan Leaf - $10k est.
The Nissan Leaf is the original mainstream electric car, and its early models offer an entry point into EV ownership that’s hard to beat on price alone.
Why It’s a smart buy:
- Rock-Bottom Price: These are the cheapest modern EVs on the used market, with prices for the 40kWh version often starting well under $15,000. It’s the perfect ‘test drive’ of EV life without a massive financial commitment.
- Simple and Proven: As a pioneer, the Leaf’s technology is well-understood by mechanics. It’s an easy-to-drive, comfortable, and practical hatch that requires minimal maintenance, making it perfect for first-time EV owners.
A Crucial Note: For a pure city runabout, a slightly degraded Leaf is still a fantastic, reliable option for short trips. Be aware, however, that the older Leaf uses the CHAdeMO DC charging plug, which is less common than the newer CCS standard now widely adopted by most manufacturers. Always check the battery state-of-health (SoH) and ensure the remaining range meets your daily driving requirements.
There is no better time to buy a used EV
The used EV market is maturing rapidly, bringing down prices and increasing the choice of reliable, proven vehicles. Whether you are seeking cutting-edge technology, near-new value and battery durability, or sheer affordability, there is a great used electric vehicle out there waiting for you!
When shopping, always review the car’s full-service history, inspect the tires for uneven wear (which can be a sign of hard driving), and check the remaining battery and drive unit warranty to ensure you drive away with confidence.
The future of driving is electric, and thanks to the used market, that future is more accessible than ever. Find yours today at www.amazingev.com.au