10 Affordable Electric Cars & Plug-in Hybrids

Electric vehicle charging at station | Dawn Gibson-Thigpen

As EVs continue to gain popularity, their prices are noticeably going down. However, they are still more pricey than comparable gas models. For those who are interested in owning an EV (but not looking to break the bank), we've compiled a list of ten affordable electric cars and plug-in hybrids.

 Five Most Affordable Electric Vehicles

1. Nissan LEAF

White Nissan LEAF | Nissan

The all-electric 2022 Nissan Leaf is the most affordable EV currently on the market. The small four-door hatchback is available in two trim levels, which include the LEAF and the LEAF PLUS.

The standard LEAF trim comes equipped with a 40-kWh battery and has a driving range of about 149 miles. If you are looking for more power as well as range, then upgrade to the LEAF PLUS. This model is well-equipped with 214 horsepower and a 62-kWh battery that provides a driving range of 226 miles when fully charged.

Price & Tax Credit Availability:

• Starting MSRP: $27,400 - $37,400
• Estimated max driving range: 226 miles
• Eligible for federal plug-in tax credit? Yes

2. Mazda MX30

Red Mazda MX30 | Mazda

This all-new EV crossover from Mazda is doing an amazing job by making an environmentally friendly statement when it comes to the materials used in its design. These materials include recycled plastic bottle fibers, animal-free upholstery, cork in the center console and more.

The SUV-like hatchback comes equipped with a 35.5-kWh battery and has a driving range of 100 miles. Mazda is fully aware that this is substantially less than their competitors, however, they are doing things their own way and looking to meet the needs of the eco-friendly consumer who doesn't drive that often.

Additionally, Mazda provides some really inviting perks to those who are interested in the MX30. For example, they are offering a specific number of complimentary loaners for road trips, an eight-year battery warranty and $500 in ChargePoint credits — the purchaser can even use that same credit toward a Level-2 home charging station.

Price & Tax Credit Availability:

• Starting MSRP: $33,470 - $36,480
• Estimated max driving range: 100 miles
• Eligible for federal plug-in tax credit? Yes

3. Hyundai Kona Electric

Blue Hyundai Kona Electric | Hyundai

The spunky all-electric Kona received a few styling updates for 2022 and is offered in two trim levels, SEL and Limited. The vehicle comes equipped with 201-horsepower, a battery pack capacity of 64-kWh, and has a driving range of an EPA-estimated 258 miles. It is also DC fast-charging capable and goes from 10% to 80% in about 47 minutes.

Price & Tax Credit Availability:

• Starting MSRP: $34,000 - 42,500
• Estimated max driving range: 258 miles
• Eligible for federal plug-in tax credit? Yes

Note: There is limited availability in select states.

4. Volkswagen ID.4

Blue Volkswagen ID.4 | Dawn Gibson-Thigpen

The 2022 VW ID.4 all-electric SUV has taken the term "smart vehicle" to a new level. Although this small SUV looks very minimalist, it has a lot to offer with its extreme intuition and futuristic qualities. For example, the driver has the option of one-pedal driving, and when approached with the key fob, the vehicle senses the operator's presence and automatically “wakes up."

This smart SUV is offered in two trim levels: Pro and Pro S, with an option of RWD or AWD. If you are looking for quicker acceleration and intelligent handling, the all-wheel-drive (dual motor) model might be the best option.

Currently, the ID.4 Pro has an estimated 280 miles of range, which is an increase of 20 miles from the 2021 model, and the AWD Pro S was rated at an estimated 245 miles of range.

Price & Tax Credit Availability:

• Starting MSRP: $41,230 - 49,410
• Estimated max driving range: 280 miles
• Eligible for federal plug-in tax credit? Yes

Note: Estimated charging time when using a public DC fast charger is 70 miles in about 10 minutes. Additionally, Electrify America is currently offering VW ID.4 purchasers three years of free unlimited 30-minute charging sessions.⁠

5. Hyundai IONIQ 5

Beige Hyundai IONIQ 5 | Hyundai

Hyundai's all-electric IONIQ 5 is new on the scene and turning lots of heads due to its retro, yet futuristic style and ultra-charging capabilities. This small luxury SUV comes available in four trim levels: SE Standard Range, SE, SEL and Limited. Consumers also have a choice of two battery pack sizes, drivetrain options of RWD or AWD, and a driving range between 220-303 miles.

The SE Standard Range offers a smaller 58-kWh battery pack and only one drivetrain option, whereas the other three options offer a choice of drivetrain coupled with the 77.4-kWh battery pack.

Price & Tax Credit Availability:

• Starting MSRP: $44,000 - $55,000
• Estimated max driving range: 303 miles
• Eligible for federal plug-in tax credit? Yes

Note: Electrify America is currently offering IONIQ 5 purchasers two years of free unlimited 30-minute charging sessions.

Five Most Affordable Hybrids/Plug-In Hybrids

Driving an all-electric vehicle is great when it comes to saving money on fuel and doing your part to create a cleaner environment. However, they don't always fit into everyone's lifestyle, especially if you have a long commute back and forth to work on a daily basis, go on road trips often, or drive for hours in order to relax and enjoy the scenery.

For drivers who need more flexibility, plug-in hybrids may be the perfect option. This way, you are still doing your part through fewer emissions and fueling up a lot less. Take a look at five affordable Plug-in Hybrids below.

1. Toyota Corolla Hybrid

White Toyota Corolla Hybrid | Toyota

The fun and very fuel-efficient 2022 Toyota Corolla Hybrid is currently only available in the Hybrid LE CVT trim level. This compact sedan comes equipped with a 121-horsepower, 1.8L four-cylinder engine (gas/electric hybrid), FWD drivetrain and also gets a combined EPA-estimated 53/52 mpg city/highway.

Price & Tax Credit Availability:

• Starting MSRP: $23,750 - $24,050
• Estimated max driving range: 593 miles
• Eligible for federal plug-in tax credit? No

2. Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid

Blue Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid | Kia

The 2022 Niro Plug-In Hybrid looks like a cross between a car and SUV with a modern edge. This small SUV comes available in three trim levels: EX, EX Premium and LXS. It's equipped with a 139.0-horsepower, 1.6L four-cylinder engine (Plug-In Electric/Gas), FWD drivetrain and gets a driving range of 26 miles using electric only.

Price & Tax Credit Availability:

• Starting MSRP: $29,590 – $36,490
• Estimated max driving range: 560 miles
• Eligible for federal plug-in tax credit? Yes

3. Hyundai Tucson Plug-In Hybrid

Blue Hyundai Tucson Plug-In Hybrid | Dawn Gibson-Thigpen

The 2022 Tucson Plug-In Hybrid is bold, modern and ready for adventure. This compact SUV is available in two trim levels, the SEL and Limited. Both trims come equipped with a 261 horsepower, 1.6L four-cylinder turbocharged engine and get a driving range of 33 miles on the electric motor alone.

Price & Tax Credit Availability:

• Starting MSRP: $35,400 - $43,200
• Estimated max driving range: 420 miles
• Eligible for federal plug-in tax credit? Yes

Note: The 2022 Tucson Plug-in Hybrid is currently only sold in select states.

4. Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

Silver Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV | Mitsubishi

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is fun, adventurous and always ready for a little off-roading. The midsize SUV comes available in three trim levels: 2.4 SEL, 2.4 LE and 2.4 GT. All three trims come equipped with a 126-horsepower 2.4L four-cylinder engine, CVT, AWD drivetrain and a 24-mile electric-only range. Additionally, when using DC fast charging, the Outlander PHEV goes from 0-80% in 25 minutes.

Price & Tax Credit Availability:

• Starting MSRP: $36,995 - $42,695
• Estimated max driving range: 320 miles
• Eligible for federal plug-in tax credit? Yes

Note: This vehicle performs well with mild/modern off-roading. It handled really well and proved to be very resilient when put to the test during an off-roading Glamis Sand Dunes adventure in Glamis, California.

5. Toyota RAV4 Prime

Red Toyota RAV4 Prime | Toyota

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime is the plug-in hybrid version of Toyota's popular compact SUV. This vehicle comes available in two trim levels: SE and XSE. Both trims come equipped with a 177-horsepower, 2.5L four-cylinder plug-in hybrid powertrain, which gets an EPA-estimated 42 miles when in EV mode.

Fun Fact: The Prime trim is the most powerful RAV4, going 0 to 60 in 5.7 seconds.

Price & Tax Credit Availability:

• Starting MSRP: $39,800 - $43,125
• Estimated max driving range: 600 miles
• Eligible for federal plug-in tax credit? Yes

Whichever vehicle you decide on when it comes to an all-electric, mild hybrid or plug-in hybrid, you can't go wrong because you are taking steps to reduce emissions. However, when you are in the process of deciding, ensure you take a realistic look at your lifestyle. This will help you determine which vehicle suits you best.

Are you looking to go electric? Let us know in the comments