Electric vehicles have become much more affordable in recent years compared to when they first hit the scene. Some of the largest automakers in the industry are producing electric vehicle nameplates with starting prices lower than the average new gas vehicle price.
When it comes to affordability, some EVs stand out more than others. There are very few brand-new electric vehicle models with starting prices under $35K. These new EVs are all affordable compared to the average new vehicle price (nearly $48,000 according to Experian). How do they compare?
Nissan may not be the first name you think of in the EV space, but the Japanese brand currently produces the most affordable electric vehicle for the American market: the Nissan Leaf. The Leaf is an electric hatchback that prioritizes value over features and creature comforts. That said, its final configuration is loaded with plenty of goodies and still costs less than the average new vehicle.
The 2025 Nissan Leaf starts at $28,140 for the base model S trim. Its most expensive iteration is the SV Plus final configuration ($36,190). The SV Plus features a larger battery and produces more power. It’s also capable of traveling further on a single charge than the base model.
The 2025 Nissan Leaf produces 147 horsepower. It has 149 miles of standard driving range, which isn’t much compared to the range of most new electric vehicles. The subcompact electric car comes standard with blind-spot warning, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection.
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The Kona nameplate is synonymous with fun. It’s a subcompact SUV with plenty of zip and an exterior design that’s unique. The South Korean SUV recently got the EV treatment, and its electric version still embodies the sparky spirit of the original Kona.
The 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric starts at $36,975 for the SEL base model. It also comes in an N Line ($38,375) and a Limited ($41,150) trim. All trims still cost less than the average new vehicle price for 2025.
Hyundai’s 2025 Kona makes 133 horsepower. It has 200 miles of driving range, a significant step up from the more affordable Nissan Leaf.
The 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric features a standard 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a Wi-Fi hotspot and driver attention warning. Every Kona Electric model includes standard navigation-based smart cruise control.
When it comes to value, few EVs on the market are equipped to go toe-to-toe with the Chevy Equinox EV. Chevrolet’s electric SUV is one of the best new entry-level EVs on the market due to its affordable price tag, utility and standard tech features.
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV starts at $33,600 for the LT 1 base model. It comes in LT 2 ($41,900) and RS ($43,400) trims. Chevrolet’s electric SUV is eligible for the federal electric vehicle tax credit (until September 30), unlike the Nissan Leaf and Hyundai Kona Electric. This brings its price closer to $26,100 before taxes and additional fees for the LT 1 base model.
Chevy’s Equinox EV produces 220 horsepower. It has 319 miles of standard driving range, which is incredible for any EV, let alone such an affordable model.
The 2025 Chevy Equinox EV features a standard 11.0-inch driver information center, a massive 17.7-inch infotainment system and blind zone steering assist.

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