The 2026 Used EV Buyer’s Guide: The Best Deals by Category, and Why Depreciation Is Your Best Friend Right Now

Here’s a fun number for you. The average used EV in 2026 costs about $30,900. That’s within roughly $1,300 of a comparable used gas car, the narrowest gap on record. And when you consider that many of these EVs originally stickered for $50,000, $80,000, or even well into six figures, you start to realize something. Depreciation isn’t a problem for used EV buyers. It’s the entire opportunity.

The story of the used EV market right now is simple. Luxury and premium EVs shed value fast, way faster than their gas counterparts. Lease returns from 2022 to 2024 are flooding dealer lots. New EV prices are dropping as competition heats up. And the federal tax credits that propped up demand expired in late 2025, which softened things even further. For people shopping used, all of that adds up to a rare window where you can buy a tremendous amount of car for surprisingly little money.

I’ve organized this guide by category because not everyone is shopping for the same thing. Whether you want a flagship luxury sedan, a capable family SUV, a performance machine, a practical daily driver, or a three row hauler, there’s a deal waiting. I’ll cover the original MSRP, what you can expect to pay now, the range, the tech, and what to watch out for on each one.

Let’s get into it.

Luxury Sedans

This is where depreciation has done its most spectacular work. Cars that cost $100,000 or more when new are now trading for what you’d pay for a loaded Camry. If you’ve ever wanted to know what a six figure car feels like without paying six figures, 2026 is your year.

Mercedes EQS (2022 to 2024)

The EQS was supposed to be Mercedes’ electric S Class, and in many ways, it delivered. The interior is genuinely stunning, with the optional Hyperscreen spanning the entire dashboard. The ride quality is serene, the cabin is whisper quiet, and the fit and finish is what you’d expect from Stuttgart’s flagship.

Original MSRP: $105,000 to $135,000 depending on trim and options.

Used price in 2026: $45,000 to $65,000 for most 2022 to 2023 examples. Earlier model years and higher mileage cars dip into the low $40,000s.

Depreciation: This is where it hurts. The EQS is one of the fastest depreciating luxury vehicles on the road. Many examples have lost 50 to 60 percent of their original value within three years. Some early builds with high option content have fallen even further. One major valuation service pegs the typical five year retained value under 50 percent.

Range: The EQS 450+ offers up to 350 miles of EPA rated range on the larger 108 kWh battery. Real world, you’re looking at around 300 miles depending on driving conditions and speed.

Tech and ADAS: The MBUX Hyperscreen is the showpiece, but the EQS also comes with Mercedes’ extensive driver assist suite, including adaptive cruise with stop and go, active lane keeping, automated lane changes, and traffic sign recognition. The 2022 to 2023 models don’t have the newest generation of Mercedes driver assist, but what’s there is solid and well calibrated.

What to watch for: Battery warranty coverage runs about 10 years or 155,000 miles, so most used examples still have plenty of runway. The tech can feel dated compared to newer EVs that have arrived since, and the DC fast charging tops out at 200 kW, which is slower than some competitors. But at these prices, you’re getting a genuine flagship for midsize SUV money. I think that’s a remarkable deal.

Lucid Air (2022 to 2024)

The Lucid Air is, in my opinion, the most impressive EV sedan ever built from a pure engineering standpoint. The range is best in class. The interior space relative to the exterior footprint is borderline witchcraft. And the Grand Touring and Dream Edition trims offered performance that embarrassed cars costing twice as much. The problem was always the price, and depreciation has solved that problem.

Original MSRP: The Pure started around $78,000. Grand Touring and Dream Edition models ranged from $130,000 to well over $170,000 with options.

Used price in 2026: Pure and Touring trims from 2023 to 2024 commonly list in the high $30,000s to high $40,000s. Grand Touring models sit in the $50,000s depending on mileage and configuration.

Depreciation: Roughly 45 to 55 percent value loss in the first three years. Some heavily optioned early builds have fallen even further. That’s painful for original owners but incredible for used buyers.

Range: This is the Lucid’s party trick. The Air Grand Touring was rated at over 500 miles of EPA range, the longest of any production EV ever. Even the base Pure delivers over 400 miles. Real world numbers are lower, as they are with every EV, but you’re still looking at legitimately best in class range.

Tech and ADAS: Lucid’s DreamDrive system uses a suite of cameras, radar, and an available lidar sensor. It offers highway assist with automated lane changes, parking assist, and a growing list of features being unlocked through over the air updates. The 34 inch curved glass cockpit display is gorgeous.

What to watch for: Lucid is still a young company. Service center availability is limited compared to established brands, and parts availability can be an issue. The unlimited mileage battery warranty is a strong counterpoint, but if you live far from a Lucid service center, factor that into your decision. I love this car. I also think you should go in with eyes open about the ownership ecosystem.

Porsche Taycan (2020 to 2023)

The Taycan is the car that made the automotive establishment admit EVs could be genuinely fun to drive. Porsche didn’t just electrify a sedan. They built something that drives like a Porsche, which sounds obvious until you remember how many legacy automakers failed to make their EVs feel connected and alive.

Original MSRP: Base models started just under $100,000. A nicely optioned 4S ran $120,000 to $130,000. Turbo and Turbo S models pushed well past $150,000 with options.

Used price in 2026: Early 2020 to 2022 cars are trading in the $45,000 to $65,000 range depending on miles and options. Newer 2023 to 2024 models sit around 55 to 65 percent of original MSRP.

Depreciation: Five year depreciation runs in the mid 50s to low 60 percent range. On a $120,000 car, that’s $65,000 to $70,000 in lost value. The percentages are comparable to other luxury EVs, but the dollar amounts are eye watering because the starting price is so high.

Range: The first generation Taycan was not a range champion. Base models offered around 200 to 225 miles of EPA rated range, and the 4S and Turbo models sat in the 220 to 280 mile window depending on battery and configuration. The 2025 refresh improved this significantly, but we’re talking about used first gen cars here.

Tech and ADAS: Porsche’s driver assist suite includes adaptive cruise, lane keeping, and traffic jam assist. It’s competent but not as flashy or aggressive as what Tesla or Mercedes offer. The infotainment runs on a clean, responsive system, and over the air updates have improved functionality over time. The driving dynamics, the steering feel, the brake modulation, the way it carries speed through corners, are in a different league from most EVs.

What to watch for: Porsche’s eight year, 100,000 mile high voltage battery warranty is a strong safety net. The biggest concern on early Taycans is the 270 kW DC fast charging on base models, which was good for its era but falls behind newer 800 volt competitors. If range anxiety is a concern, this might not be your car. If driving engagement is what you care about, nothing else in this price range comes close. I could be wrong, but I don’t think I am.

BMW i4 (2022 to 2024)

The i4 doesn’t get the attention of some of the cars above, and that’s part of why it’s such a good deal. It’s based on the 4 Series Gran Coupe platform, which means it drives like a BMW. That sounds simple, but most EVs in this segment don’t.

Original MSRP: The eDrive40 started around $52,000 to $58,000. The M50 performance variant pushed into the mid $60,000s to low $70,000s.

Used price in 2026: Average used i4 prices sit around $41,900, with 2022 models trading in the low $30,000s and recent model years above $50,000. The eDrive40 has depreciated about 39 percent over three years.

Depreciation: Less severe than some of its German competitors, partly because the starting price was lower and partly because the car has genuinely good demand in the used market. Expect about 12 to 15 percent per year after the first year’s initial hit.

Range: The eDrive40 offers around 300 miles of EPA rated range, which is competitive for the segment. The M50 trades some range for performance and sits closer to 270 miles.

Tech and ADAS: BMW’s iDrive system is among the best in the industry. The i4 comes with adaptive cruise, lane keeping, and available Highway Assistant for hands free highway driving. The curved display and intuitive controls make daily use a pleasure.

What to watch for: The i4 doesn’t have the interior “wow factor” of the EQS or Lucid Air. It feels like a very good BMW, which is both its strength and its limitation. If you want an EV that disappears into your life and just works, this is an excellent choice. If you want theater, look elsewhere.

Luxury SUVs

The luxury SUV segment is where depreciation creates some of the most dramatic discounts in the entire used car market. These are vehicles that stickered at $60,000 to $110,000 and are now trading at prices that would make their original owners weep.

BMW iX (2022 to 2024)

The iX is a polarizing car visually. That front end is, let’s say, distinctive. But behind the kidney grills lives one of the most capable electric luxury SUVs on the market. The ride quality on air suspension models is excellent, the cabin is spacious and lounge like, and it’s one of the few EVs that consistently delivers on its range promise.

Original MSRP: $85,000 to $110,000+ depending on trim. The xDrive50 and M60 models climbed quickly with options.

Used price in 2026: Most 2022 to 2023 examples trade between $38,000 and $60,000. Some early high mileage cars have dipped below $38,000.

Depreciation: About 30 to 45 percent on three to four year old examples, with higher mileage or less desirable specs taking a bigger hit. One forecast pegs the iX at roughly 62 percent depreciation over five years.

Range: The xDrive50 delivers around 300 miles of EPA rated range from its 100+ kWh battery. Real world range is consistently close to the EPA number, which is rare and noteworthy.

Tech and ADAS: BMW’s full driver assist suite including Highway Assistant. The iDrive system is excellent. The heads up display, ambient lighting, and Harman Kardon audio are standard on most trims. Over 8 inches of ground clearance gives it genuine SUV capability.

What to watch for: The interior ergonomics have some quirks, like awkward cupholder placement. And the styling is genuinely divisive, you either love it or you don’t. But if you can get past the face, you’re getting a flagship level electric SUV for midsize crossover money. That’s hard to argue with.

Cadillac Lyriq (2023 to 2025)

The Lyriq is Cadillac’s best product in years, and I’m saying that as someone who’s watched the brand struggle to find its identity for the better part of a decade. The design is striking inside and out. The 33 inch LED display is beautiful. And the ride quality, especially on AWD models with the Continuous Damping suspension, is genuinely premium.

Original MSRP: $58,000 to $65,000+ depending on trim and drivetrain.

Used price in 2026: Most 2023 to 2024 models trade from the high $20,000s to mid $30,000s for standard trims. Cleaner AWD examples with higher spec can reach into the low $40,000s.

Depreciation: This is steep. KBB forecasts project over 57 percent depreciation over five years. Early Lyriqs have been punished by heavy incentives on new models, which compressed the gap between new and used pricing and dragged values down.

Range: Up to 314 miles of EPA rated range on the RWD single motor model. AWD models come in slightly lower, around 290 to 307 miles.

Tech and ADAS: GM’s Super Cruise is the star here, and it’s arguably the best hands free highway driving system available. It uses precision lidar mapping, cameras, and a driver attention monitor to enable true hands free driving on over 400,000 miles of mapped highways. The 33 inch diagonal LED display runs Google Built In with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

What to watch for: Cadillac’s EV brand equity is still developing. The dealer experience can be inconsistent, and the charging network situation is less seamless than Tesla’s Supercharger ecosystem. But for the money, the Lyriq offers a stunning interior, excellent range, and the best hands free highway driving system in the business. At $30,000 to $35,000 used, this car is a steal. I genuinely believe that.

Mercedes EQE SUV (2023 to 2024)

The EQE SUV is the one nobody talks about, which is exactly why it’s on this list. It lives in the shadow of the flashier EQS SUV but offers 90 percent of the experience for substantially less money, especially on the used market.

Original MSRP: Around $75,000 to $85,000 for well equipped examples.

Used price in 2026: Sub $35,000 examples are now available. Most listings cluster in the $35,000 to $50,000 range depending on trim and mileage.

Depreciation: The EQE follows the broader Mercedes EQ pattern of steep early depreciation, losing roughly 15 to 18 percent per year from MSRP, with the heaviest hit in years one and two. By year three, many EQE sedans and SUVs are trading at roughly half their original MSRP.

Range: Nearly 300 miles of EPA rated range on most configurations. Dual motor all wheel drive versions provide confident performance in all conditions.

Tech and ADAS: Full MBUX infotainment system with the same driver assist suite as the EQS, including adaptive cruise, active lane keeping, automated lane changes, and traffic sign recognition. The optional air suspension dramatically improves ride comfort.

What to watch for: The EQE SUV’s interior feels genuinely premium, especially compared to many newer but cheaper EVs entering the market. Mercedes’ reliability reputation with the EQ line is still developing, so check service history carefully. But at sub $35,000, you’re getting a premium badge, a refined ride, and nearly 300 miles of range. That’s hard to beat.

Performance Sedans

If speed is what you’re after, depreciation has turned some seriously fast cars into genuinely attainable machines. These are vehicles that would embarrass sports cars costing twice as much, and you can now buy them for what a well equipped Accord costs.

Tesla Model S Plaid (2021 to 2024)

The Model S Plaid is, by any objective measure, one of the fastest production sedans ever built. Zero to 60 in under 2 seconds. A quarter mile in the 9 second range. 1,020 horsepower. And it does all of this while seating five people and offering over 300 miles of range. It’s absurd in the best possible way.

Original MSRP: $131,000 to $147,000+ when these first launched. Tesla reduced MSRP to the low $90,000s for 2024, which hammered resale values on earlier cars. Tesla has since discontinued the Model S in 2026.

Used price in 2026: 2021 to 2022 Plaids with average miles are trading in the $50,000 to $60,000 range. Late model Plaids in prime condition can push to $80,000.

Depreciation: A 2021 Plaid that stickered at $131,000 has lost over 50 percent of its value. Tesla’s own price cuts on new cars accelerated the depreciation on used examples.

Range: 320 to 396 miles of EPA rated range depending on model year and wheel selection. The 99 kWh battery pack with 95 kWh usable provides solid real world range.

Tech and ADAS: Tesla’s FSD capability, large central touchscreen, over the air updates, and the Supercharger network. The yoke steering wheel on early models is controversial. Later cars offered a standard round wheel as an option. Autopilot with basic lane keeping and adaptive cruise is standard. FSD Supervised is an additional purchase.

What to watch for: Now that the Model S is discontinued, parts and service could become a consideration long term, though Tesla’s network is extensive. The yoke takes getting used to. And the interior, while clean, lacks the material richness of European competitors. But at $55,000 for something that outruns a Lamborghini? That math speaks for itself.

Porsche Taycan 4S (2021 to 2023)

I already covered the Taycan in the luxury section, but the 4S specifically deserves a mention as a performance car. It sits in the sweet spot of the lineup, offering the Performance Battery Plus for strong range and enough power (about 563 horsepower in overboost) to make every on ramp feel like a celebration.

Used price in 2026: 2021 to 2022 4S models are commonly found in the $50,000 to $65,000 range. That’s a car that stickered well over $100,000 in most configurations.

Why it’s a performance pick: The 4S combines Porsche’s legendary steering feel and chassis tuning with genuine EV thrust. The two speed rear transmission, unique among EVs, gives it excellent top end pull. It’s the Taycan for people who actually want to drive, not just accelerate.

BMW i4 M50 (2022 to 2024)

The M50 is the sleeper on this list. It makes 536 horsepower, hits 60 in 3.7 seconds, and comes with M sport suspension tuning, adaptive dampers, and a sport exhaust sound (yes, a synthesized one, and yes, it’s actually kind of fun). It drives more like a traditional sports sedan than any other EV in its class.

Original MSRP: $67,000 to $72,000 depending on options.

Used price in 2026: Well optioned 2022 to 2023 M50 examples are appearing in the $35,000 to $45,000 range.

Range: About 270 miles of EPA rated range. Shorter than the eDrive40 but still practical for daily driving.

Why it’s a performance pick: The M50 doesn’t have the straight line absurdity of the Plaid, but it’s a more complete performance car in terms of handling, balance, and engagement. For someone who cares about how a car feels through a corner, not just how fast it leaves a stoplight, the M50 is the better choice. I’ll take that argument with anyone.

Tesla Model 3 Performance (2024 to 2025)

The Model 3 Performance is the entry point into genuinely fast Tesla ownership, and it punches so far above its price that it’s almost unfair. Zero to 60 in 2.9 seconds. 510 horsepower from dual motors. Adaptive sport suspension. Carbon fiber spoiler. 20 inch forged wheels. And it starts at $54,990 new, which is roughly what a loaded BMW 3 Series costs without any of the straight line insanity.

Original MSRP: $54,630 to $54,990 depending on model year.

Used price in 2026: The 2024 Performance models are starting to appear in the $38,000 to $45,000 range as early adopters trade up. That’s a sub three second car for the price of a Camry XSE. Let that sink in.

Range: About 309 miles of EPA rated range. Less than the Long Range but more than enough for daily use, and you still have the full Supercharger network for road trips.

Tech and ADAS: Everything the Model 3 lineup offers, plus the sport tuned adaptive suspension, larger brakes, and 17 speaker premium audio system. Tesla’s Autopilot is standard. FSD Supervised is optional. And yes, HW3 equipped Performance models are eligible for the FSD v14 Lite update that just rolled out, which adds another layer of value if the software continues to improve.

Why it’s a performance pick: The Model 3 Performance occupies a bizarre space in the automotive market. It’s faster than a Porsche 911 Carrera to 60 mph, costs less than half as much, and you can drive it to work every day without thinking about gas, oil changes, or timing belts. It doesn’t have the steering feel of the Taycan or the handling finesse of the M50, but for raw straight line performance per dollar, nothing in the EV market touches it. It’s the performance car for people who care about results more than ritual.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 N (2024 to 2025)

The Ioniq 5 N is, in my opinion, the most fun EV you can buy. Hyundai’s N division didn’t just add more power (641 horsepower). They added simulated gear shifts, synthesized engine sounds, and a drift mode that actually works. It sounds ridiculous on paper. It’s brilliant on the road. This is the car that proved EVs don’t have to be boring.

Original MSRP: $65,000 to $68,000.

Used price in 2026: Still relatively new, so used prices haven’t cratered as dramatically as some competitors. Expect to find examples in the $50,000 to $58,000 range as lease returns begin to appear.

Range: About 221 miles of EPA rated range, which is the shortest on this list. The N is not a road trip car. It’s a driving car. Plan accordingly.

Tech and ADAS: Full Hyundai SmartSense safety suite, 800 volt architecture for ultra fast charging (10 to 80 percent in about 18 minutes), and all the N mode customization you could want.

What to watch for: Range is the tradeoff. If you need more than 220 miles between charges, this isn’t for you. But if you’re looking for the most engaging EV driving experience on the market, the Ioniq 5 N has no equal right now. The simulated gear shifts sound like a gimmick until you try them. Then you don’t want to drive without them.

Family Haulers

This is the practical category, the one for people who need space, range, and reliability more than they need bragging rights. These are the EVs that make sense for real life, and depreciation has made them exceptionally affordable.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 (2022 to 2025)

The Ioniq 5 has been one of the best selling EVs in America for a reason. It’s practical, it’s efficient, it charges faster than almost anything else in its class thanks to 800 volt architecture, and the interior is surprisingly spacious for its footprint. Hyundai also slashed 2026 pricing by up to $9,800 across the lineup, which has dragged used values down further.

Original MSRP: $42,000 to $55,000 depending on trim and drivetrain.

Used price in 2026: Early 2022 models are appearing around $20,000. Most 2023 to 2024 examples with the long range battery cluster in the $22,000 to $32,000 range.

Depreciation: Hyundai and Kia EVs cluster in the high 50s to low 60s percent retention at two years. The aggressive lease deals on new models have fed a wave of returns into the used market, pushing prices down.

Range: Up to 303 miles on the long range RWD model. AWD models sit around 260 to 290 miles depending on wheel size.

Tech and ADAS: Hyundai’s SmartSense suite includes adaptive cruise, lane keeping, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross traffic alert. 800 volt architecture enables charging from 10 to 80 percent in about 18 minutes on a 350 kW charger. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on most trims.

What to watch for: The Ioniq 5 is a genuinely excellent all around EV. At $20,000 to $25,000 used, it represents one of the best values in the entire automotive market, not just the EV market. If you want a practical daily driver with fast charging and solid range, this is the one to beat.

Kia EV6 (2022 to 2024)

The EV6 shares its 800 volt platform with the Ioniq 5 but wraps it in a sportier package. The silhouette is more aggressive, the driving dynamics are a touch sharper, and the interior materials punch above their price point. Kia’s 10 year, 100,000 mile powertrain warranty is the longest in the segment.

Original MSRP: $42,000 to $56,000 depending on trim.

Used price in 2026: 2022 models with the smaller battery are appearing in the high $20,000s. Long range trims under $30,000 take some hunting but they’re out there.

Depreciation: Similar trajectory to the Ioniq 5. The smaller battery “Light” models have depreciated faster and are generally worse value propositions because the range reduction is significant.

Range: Up to 310 miles on the long range RWD model. AWD models deliver around 280 to 290 miles.

Tech and ADAS: Same core tech as the Ioniq 5, including 800 volt fast charging, with Kia’s own infotainment skin. The dual curved screen setup is clean and responsive.

What to watch for: Avoid the smaller battery trims. The range reduction isn’t worth the savings. Focus on long range models with good battery health documentation. At this price, a long range EV6 is an absolute bargain.

Tesla Model Y (2021 to 2025)

The Model Y is the best selling EV in America, and for good reason. It’s practical, it’s fast enough, it has excellent range, and the Supercharger network makes road trips genuinely easy. The “Juniper” refresh for 2025 brought a redesigned exterior, improved interior materials, and better ride quality, which means the original Model Y is now depreciating faster as buyers gravitate toward the new version. That’s your opportunity.

Original MSRP: $44,000 to $60,000 depending on trim and model year. The 2025 Juniper Long Range AWD starts at $50,630.

Used price in 2026: A typical three year old Model Y is selling for about 45 to 50 percent of its original sticker. Pre Juniper 2022 to 2024 models cluster in the $25,000 to $35,000 range depending on trim and mileage. The Juniper versions haven’t depreciated much yet, so expect to pay closer to $40,000 or above for those.

Depreciation: The Model Y retains about 64 percent of its value after two years, which is among the strongest in the EV segment. Five year depreciation runs around 55 to 60 percent. Tesla’s own price cuts in 2023 and 2024 hit used values hard, but prices have stabilized heading into 2026.

Range: Up to 327 miles on the Juniper Long Range AWD. Pre refresh models offered 279 to 330 miles depending on configuration.

Tech and ADAS: Tesla’s Autopilot with adaptive cruise and lane keeping is standard. FSD Supervised is an optional add on. The Supercharger network remains the gold standard for EV road tripping. Over the air updates continuously improve the car’s features and performance over time.

What to watch for: Pre Juniper Model Ys have a bouncier ride and cheaper interior materials compared to the refresh. If that bothers you, stretch for the Juniper. If you can live with it, the pre refresh models are where the real deals are. The Supercharger network access alone makes any used Tesla more convenient than most competitors for long distance travel.

Volkswagen ID.4 (2021 to 2025)

The ID.4 is the EV that drives most like a normal car, and I mean that as a compliment. It’s spacious, comfortable, easy to understand, and doesn’t try to impress you with gimmicks. Volkswagen built it to be the electric Tiguan, a practical family crossover that happens to run on electricity, and it does that job well. It’s also been punished hard on the used market, which makes it a sneaky good value.

Original MSRP: $42,000 to $59,000 depending on trim and drivetrain. The 2026 Pro starts at $46,570.

Used price in 2026: A 2022 ID.4 that stickered around $48,000 can now be found in the low to mid $20,000s. Higher mileage or base trim examples dip into the high teens. 2024 Pro S models with low miles can still be found around $27,000.

Depreciation: The ID.4 typically loses around 40 to 45 percent in the first three to four years and roughly 60 to 63 percent over five years. That’s about average for a compact electric SUV and slightly behind the best retaining EVs, but it creates great buying opportunities on the used side.

Range: Up to 291 miles on the RWD model with the 82 kWh battery. AWD drops to about 263 miles. DC fast charging tops out at 175 kW, which gets you from 10 to 80 percent in about 30 minutes.

Tech and ADAS: Volkswagen’s Travel Assist combines adaptive cruise with lane centering, stopping just short of hands free driving. Blind spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and rear cross traffic alert are standard. The 12.9 inch touchscreen handles infotainment duties. The 2026 models now include a NACS port for Supercharger access.

What to watch for: The infotainment system has been a consistent complaint. The touch capacitive controls on the steering wheel and climate system aren’t as intuitive as physical buttons, and the software can feel sluggish compared to Tesla’s system. There’s also no one pedal driving mode, which some EV owners consider essential. But the ride quality is excellent, the interior is roomy, and at $20,000 to $25,000 used, you’re getting a spacious, comfortable electric crossover for the price of a used Civic. For families who just want to drive and not think about it, the ID.4 is an underrated option.

Kia EV9 (2024 to 2025)

The EV9 is one of the only non luxury three row electric SUVs on the market, and it’s been collecting awards since it launched. Spacious, well designed, and genuinely practical for families who need the third row. It’s not small. It’s not cheap new. But used, it’s becoming very interesting.

Original MSRP: $56,000 to nearly $80,000 fully equipped.

Used price in 2026: Lightly used EV9s are now selling for roughly half the price of a comparable 2026 model. The cheapest examples are appearing around $27,000, with most low mileage listings in the $35,000 to $45,000 range.

Depreciation: Early estimates suggest about 40 to 50 percent value loss by year three. That’s steep in dollar terms because the starting price is high, but it’s broadly in line with other large EV SUVs.

Range: Up to 304 miles on the long range model. Plenty for daily family duty and most road trips.

Tech and ADAS: Kia’s full SmartSense suite, a 12.3 inch driver display paired with a 12.3 inch infotainment screen, and available Remote Smart Parking Assist. The interior design touches like mesh see through headrests, which let parents check on kids in the back, show real thoughtfulness. Kia’s 10 year, 100,000 mile battery warranty gives used buyers strong coverage.

What to watch for: Three row EVs are still rare, which cushions depreciation somewhat compared to smaller, more common EV crossovers. But the EV9 is a big, heavy vehicle and real world range can dip on highway trips, especially loaded with passengers and cargo. If you need a family hauler and want to go electric, the EV9 at $35,000 is a compelling proposition. That’s a $70,000 vehicle for half price with years of battery warranty remaining. Hard to argue with that.

Everyday Drivers

Not everyone needs a luxury badge, a third row, or a sub three second zero to 60 time. Some people just want a great car that happens to be electric, something efficient, well built, and easy to live with every day. This category is where the used EV market gets really interesting because you’re shopping against gas cars that cost the same or more, and the EVs win on running costs by a wide margin.

Tesla Model 3 (2021 to 2025)

The Model 3 is the car that brought EVs to the mainstream, and for a lot of people, it’s still the default answer to “which EV should I buy.” It’s efficient, it’s quick, the tech is excellent, and the Supercharger network makes long distance travel painless. The “Highland” refresh for 2024 improved ride quality, interior materials, and noise insulation. Earlier models are perfectly good cars that are now very affordable on the used market.

The 2026 lineup spans four trims, and understanding the differences matters when you’re shopping used. The Standard ($36,990) is RWD only with about 321 miles of range and a 5.8 second zero to 60 time. It’s the value play. The Premium comes in both RWD ($42,490) and AWD ($47,490), with the RWD offering the best range in the lineup at 363 miles and a 4.8 second sprint, while the AWD adds a front motor for all weather confidence with 4.2 seconds to 60 and slightly less range. The Performance ($54,990) is AWD only and gets its own section in our Performance category above, because 2.9 seconds to 60 mph deserves its own conversation.

For used buyers, the key distinction is simple. If range is your priority, look for a Long Range or Premium RWD. If you live somewhere with snow or want all weather grip, go AWD. And if you want maximum range at the lowest price, the Standard or base trims from 2022 to 2023 are where the deals are.

Original MSRP: $36,990 to $47,490 for non Performance trims (2026 pricing). Earlier model years ranged from about $39,000 to $50,000 depending on configuration.

Used price in 2026: Many Model 3s trade in the mid $20,000s to low $30,000s. 2022 to 2023 standard range models are appearing around $21,000 to $26,000. Highland refresh models from 2024 to 2025 hold closer to the $33,000 to $37,000 range. Older pre 2021 models dip below $20,000.

Depreciation: The Model 3 retains about 66 percent of its value after two years, the strongest mass market Tesla retention rate. Five year depreciation runs around 39 to 45 percent, which is better than most EVs and competitive with strong gas sedans.

Range: The 2024 to 2025 Long Range offers up to 363 miles of EPA rated range. Standard range models deliver around 272 miles. Earlier model years vary, but most long range trims provide 300+ miles.

Tech and ADAS: Tesla’s Autopilot with adaptive cruise and lane keeping is standard. FSD Supervised is an optional add on, and this is where things get interesting for HW3 equipped Model 3s. Tesla just rolled out FSD v14 Lite to roughly 4 million HW3 vehicles in July 2026. It’s a major update that brings improvements to navigation, merges, pedestrian interactions, traffic lights, and adds parking and reversing for the first time. Early testers are calling it a significant step up from the old v12.6 software. If FSD v14 Lite lives up to the hype and continues to improve, it could meaningfully boost used Tesla values across the board, because a $22,000 used Model 3 with genuinely capable driver assistance becomes one of the hardest deals in the market to beat. That’s something to watch closely over the next few months.

What to watch for: Check whether the car has HW3 or HW4. HW4 cars will likely have a longer runway for future FSD improvements, but HW3 cars just got a major upgrade and are priced lower. Battery health is generally excellent on Model 3s, with most retaining 85 to 90 percent capacity after five years. The Supercharger network gives the Model 3 a practical advantage that’s hard to quantify until you’ve done a few road trips and never waited for a charger. If I had to pick one used EV for someone who just wants a good car and doesn’t want to overthink it, this is probably the one.

Ford Mustang Mach E (2021 to 2024)

The Mach E has quietly matured into one of the most well rounded EVs on the market. Ford fixed the bouncy ride quality with a revised suspension for 2025, and earlier models can be updated with similar improvements through software. BlueCruise hands free highway driving is included for the first year, and Ford’s NACS adapter now gives Mach E owners access to Tesla’s Supercharger network.

Original MSRP: $43,000 to $65,000 depending on trim. The GT Performance Edition pushed past $70,000.

Used price in 2026: Used examples are available for well under half of original MSRP. A 2021 with low miles can be found for around $20,000 to $30,000. The GT, which makes 480 horsepower and hits 60 in 3.3 seconds, can be found under $30,000, which makes it a borderline performance bargain.

Depreciation: Among the steepest in the segment. Ford’s own price cuts and high inventory levels have pushed used values down aggressively.

Range: Up to 312 miles on the extended range RWD model. The GT trades range for performance, sitting around 270 miles.

Tech and ADAS: The 15.5 inch touchscreen is intuitive, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, and BlueCruise offers genuine hands free highway driving on mapped roads. The driving experience is engaging in a way that many crossover EVs simply aren’t.

What to watch for: Early 2021 models had some quality issues that were resolved in later production. Check for any outstanding recalls or software updates. The charging speed is moderate compared to 800 volt competitors, topping out around 150 kW. But at these prices, the Mach E is an exceptional daily driver with real personality. It’s the EV for people who actually enjoy driving, and it’s priced like it’s nobody’s first choice. The market is wrong about this car.

Hyundai Ioniq 6 (2023 to 2025)

The Ioniq 6 is the sleeper deal of the entire used EV market. Hyundai has mostly discontinued it for 2026, keeping only the high performance N variant, which means used prices have cratered on what is, objectively, an excellent car. The aerodynamic sedan shape wasn’t what American buyers wanted (they wanted the crossover shaped Ioniq 5), but the engineering underneath is arguably better.

Original MSRP: $42,000 to $53,000 depending on trim and drivetrain.

Used price in 2026: Easily found under $20,000. The nationwide average sits around $27,000, with the cheapest examples starting below $19,000. Some dealers still have unsold new 2023 and 2024 models sitting on lots.

Depreciation: Severe, largely because of slow sales, not because of anything wrong with the car. Discontinued models always get punished on the used market, and the Ioniq 6’s sedan body style didn’t help in a market dominated by crossovers.

Range: Up to 361 miles of EPA rated range on the SE RWD model, which is best in class for the price segment. Even AWD models deliver around 316 miles. For a car you can buy under $20,000, that range is almost absurd.

Tech and ADAS: Same 800 volt architecture and ultra fast charging as the Ioniq 5. Full SmartSense safety suite. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on most trims. The interior is comfortable and well finished, with a streamlined dashboard design.

What to watch for: The styling is polarizing. You either love the aerodynamic teardrop shape or you don’t. The sedan body is less practical than a crossover for hauling cargo. And because it’s discontinued, long term parts availability is a theoretical concern, although Hyundai’s parts network is extensive and the car shares most of its components with the Ioniq 5. But here’s the bottom line. A car with 361 miles of range, 800 volt fast charging, and a 10 year battery warranty for under $20,000 is one of the best deals in the entire automotive market. Full stop. If you can live with the shape, the Ioniq 6 might be the smartest used EV purchase you can make in 2026.

The Bottom Line

I’ve been saying for a while now that 2026 is the year the used EV market truly opens up for mainstream buyers, and everything I’ve seen in my research confirms it. The math is simple. Original owners and lessees absorbed the biggest depreciation hit in automotive history. Battery technology held up far better than the market feared. And the resulting price corrections mean you can buy genuinely excellent electric vehicles for prices that would have been unthinkable two years ago.

Regardless of which car you’re shopping for, always get a battery health report before you buy. Most modern EV batteries retain 80 to 90 percent capacity after five to six years, but individual results vary and it’s the single most important factor in a used EV purchase. Check the warranty coverage, because most manufacturers offer eight to ten year, 100,000 mile battery warranties. Factor in total cost of ownership, not just the sticker price, because lower fuel and maintenance costs can make a slightly more expensive EV cheaper to own than a cheaper gas car over time.

And focus on finding the right car for how you actually drive. A 500 mile range luxury sedan is overkill if your commute is 20 miles round trip. A 220 mile performance car is a poor choice if you road trip every weekend. Match the car to your life, not to a spec sheet.

The deals are real. The cars are good. And depreciation, for once, is working in your favor. Happy shopping.

*EV Rob writes about electric vehicles, automotive technology, and the future of transportation at The Wonderful World of EVs.*

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best used EV to buy in 2026?

It depends on your budget and use case. For luxury value, the Mercedes EQS and Lucid Air are absurdly discounted from their original prices. For families, the Kia EV9 and Tesla Model Y both hold up. For a daily driver, the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, and Tesla Model 3 are the perennial value picks. See our full category-by-category breakdown in the guide above.

Are used EV prices going up or down?

Both, depending on which segment you're looking at. Luxury EVs continue to depreciate hard, which is where the best deals sit. Mainstream used EV prices actually rose through parts of 2026, pushed by demand, tight supply, and the end of federal purchase incentives on new EVs. The window where used EVs are dramatically undervalued may not stay open forever.

Which used EVs hold their value best?

Tesla's mainstream models (Model 3 and Model Y) have historically held value best in the used market, helped by the Supercharger network and brand recognition. Hyundai and Kia's Ioniq 5 and EV6 have also proven surprisingly resilient. Luxury EVs (EQS, Lucid Air, Taycan) depreciate the fastest, which is bad for the first owner and great for used buyers.

What should I check on a used EV before buying?

The battery, first and foremost. Ask for the state of health as a percentage, get a charge-to-100 range check, and confirm the battery and motor warranties are still in force by calling a dealer with the VIN. Pay for an EV-specific inspection from a franchise dealer or EV-certified shop.