The 4 Best EVs to Buy With the Used EV Credit
The new electric vehicle tax credit is here, filled with tons of restrictions. But, the good news is that if you’re considering a used EV, the battery and manufacturing restrictions don’t apply. With the used EV credit, you can qualify for up to a $4k credit towards your EV purchase. Read on to find out how this works and what vehicles you can purchase using the used EV tax credit!
How Does the Used EV Tax Credit Work?
According to theTreasury Department, from 22 June 2025 onward, you could qualify for a tax credit on used electric vehicles. This tax credit does come with a few restrictions. For single tax filers, the maximum income will be capped at $75k; for joint filers, the ceiling is $150k. The tax credit will also top off at either $4k or 30% of the vehicle’s price.
To qualify for the used EV tax credit, the vehicle in question must be priced at (or less) than $25k. The good news is that used EVs don’t have to meet the sourcing and assembly requirements ofnew EVs to hit the federal tax credit. The bad news is that the $25k cap is a bit harsh and completely excludes any potential discounts on a used Model 3 due to the pricing cap.
Even though the Model 3 will be extremely difficult to find below $25k, keep reading for a list of some great EVs that should qualify for the credit once it rolls around!
1. Volkswagen e-Golf
The Volkswagen e-Golf is one of the most stylish EVs ever built, and it’s mostly because the sheet metal is virtually indistinguishable from a normal Golf. In case you’re wondering, this is a very good thing. The “normal” Mk7 Golf is one of the most visually pleasing cars you’ll ever lay eyes on, and the e-Golf is no exception.
This vehicle should easily qualify for the used EV tax credit, especially if you go for a 2016 model year e-Golf. This car doesn’t have a monstrous range, but as a city-dwelling ride, it’s quite perfect. If you’re into Volkswagen products, you probably don’t need any more convincing. If you can’t afford anew VW EV, then going for a used e-Golf is definitely a good proposition.
2. 2017+ Ford Focus Electric
The Ford Focus Electric from the 2017 model year forward is a great option if you’re in the market for a used EV. You should go for the model years from 2017 and up because these models enjoy an extended range. Starting from the 2017 model year, the Focus Electric features 115 miles of range, which is pretty good for a vehicle of this year.
You should have no problems finding a used Ford Focus Electric that slides under the $25k price cap for the used EV credit. The great thing about this vehicle, much like the e-Golf, is that it looks like a regular Ford Focus. You won’t be drawing extra attention to yourself for driving an EV, which might actually be a negative for some people that want the attention.
3. 2017 Kia Soul EV
The Kia Soul EV is a funky-looking, SUV-ish thing that will definitely turn some heads on the road. The great part about the Soul EV is that it won’t break the bank, but you’ll still be riding in a super stylish vehicle. It’s not every day that such a unique-looking vehicle can be had for a relatively cheap price.
If you look online, it shouldn’t be hard to find a used 2017 Kia Soul EV for less than $22k. The Soul EV is one of the most interesting choices if you’re planning on getting a used EV. Your friends probably won’t even notice you bought an EV unless you tell them. The Kia Soul EV is basically indistinguishable from the normal Soul of the same year, and while this may be a plus for some, others do want to show off that they bought an EV. In that case, this probably isn’t the ride for you.
The range isn’t all that great either. The Kia only manages 93 miles of EPA-estimated range. However, this range should be more than enough for most people to travel to their job and head back home again.
4. Nissan Leaf
The Nissan Leaf is one of the most famous EVs you can purchase in North America. The great thing about getting a used Leaf is that you have tons of choices. If you like the first generation’s style, you can find great used car deals on these units. However, some very early Leaf models might be nearing a point where the battery degradation might also be a factor to consider.
AsEV batteriesage, they tend to lose some range, so this is something to keep in mind when shopping for an earlier Leaf. But, the real steal here is if you can find a second-generation Leaf that slides under the price limit. The second-gen Leaf is a huge upgrade in terms of styling and range. Of course, styling is subjective, but the second-gen Leaf looks much more substantial than the first-gen. The 2018 model offers approximately 150 miles of range.
It might not be easy to find one that slides under the $25k price cap for the used EV credit, but it’s possible. Obviously, the brand-new Leaf offers much more range in its top configuration, but if you want a used Leaf, this is the way to go. One of the positives regarding purchasing a 2018 Leaf is that the styling is basically identical to the 2023 Leaf. If you want a vehicle that still looks relatively modern and has a usable range for your daily commute and beyond, look no further than the Nissan Leaf.
The Used EV Tax Credit Allows More People to Buy EVs
The restrictions placed on vehicles in order to qualify for the new tax credit may disqualify many EVs from being eligible for the credit. But, the used EV tax credit definitely opens the door for more people to enter the electric vehicle movement. Especially people that might not have been able to afford an EV before.
About to buy a used electric car? Don’t forget to check these three things!
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