Electric cars are a great option if you’re looking for an eco-friendly ride in Canada without breaking the bank! Vehicles like the Mazda MX-30, Nissan Leaf, Mini Cooper SE, and Chevrolet Bolt EV are just a few affordable options.
Prices for these affordable electric vehicles range widely depending on factors like engine size and whether you choose a new or pre-owned vehicle. In this article, we’ll look at the cheapest electric cars in Canada for 2024.
Key Takeaways
- The cheapest electric cars in Canada are Nissan LEAF, Chevrolet Bolt EV and Kia Niro EV, with prices ranging from $41,248 to $47,859.
- The cheapest hybrid cars in the Canadian market, with prices below $35,000, are the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Ford Fusion Hybrid and Hyundai IONIQ Plug-In.
- The Federal Government of Canada offers Incentives for Zero-Emission Vehicles (iZEV program) rebates, ranging from $2,500 to $5,000, depending on model and specs.
Best Affordable Electric Cars in Canada
| EV Model | Features | Price |
| Nissan LEAF | With an estimated range of up to 342 km on a single full charge; available in two models (the base Leaf S, with a shorter driving range, and the Leaf SV Plus, with a longer driving range) | $41,248 |
| Chevrolet Bolt EV | Has an estimated 397 km of range on a full charge; Chevrolet Safety Assist features (automatic emergency braking. front pedestrian braking, forward collision alert, etc.) | $41,574 |
| Kia Niro EV | A 5-seater all-electric crossover SUV with an electric range of 407 km at total battery capacity; can boost from zero to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds; 20 standard assist safety technologies | $48,500 |
| Mini Cooper SE | Has a range of 183 kms on a single full charge; features two levels of regenerative braking to maximize its range and efficiency | $48,190 |
| Hyundai IONIQ 5 | A high-performance SUV with an estimated range from 354-488 kms on a single full charge; available in rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) models | $54,999 |
Chevrolet Bolt EV is one of Canada’s leading and cheapest electric vehicles, with outstanding efficient and technologically advanced features.
What’s more exciting is that the electric car is fully integrated with Alexa, so you can use voice commands to access the car’s features while on the road.
Chevrolet Safety Assist with safety or driver assistance features like forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, following distance indicator, lane keep assist, and so much more.
The electric vehicle has an estimated 397 km of range on a full charge but still varies depending on temperature, terrain, battery age, vehicle model, loading, use, and maintenance.
A 2023 base model of the Chevrolet Bolt EV price starts at $41,574.
2. Mini Cooper SE
The 2023 Mini Cooper SE is a charmingly small all-electric hatchback ideal for urban living in Canada.
It has a range of 183 kilometres on a single full charge, making it perfect for quick and short commutes and city driving.
The Mini Cooper SE features two levels of regenerative braking that permit drivers to maximize their range and efficiency.
The Mini Cooper SE is available in Canada with a starting price of $48,190, making it a stylish and affordable option for those looking for a sustainable and cost-effective vehicle.
3. Nissan LEAF
The 2023 Nissan LEAF is an all-electric vehicle with an estimated range of up to 342 km on a single full charge, making it one of the most power-efficient electric vehicles available in Canada.
The LEAF is available in two models, S, SV, S Plus, SL Plus, and SV Plus, and features a refreshed design with a simplified lineup.
The LEAF has a battery size of 40 kWh with an available 60 kWh option and power outputs of 147 and 214 horsepower.
The LEAF is available in Canada with a starting price of $41,248 for the base model.
4. Hyundai IONIQ 5
The 2023 Hyundai IONIQ 5 is a stylish, high-performance electric-powered SUV gaining popularity in Canada.
It has an estimated range from 354 to 488 kilometres on a single full charge, depending on the model and drivetrain.
The IONIQ 5 is available with rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) and 168, 225, or 320 horsepower power outputs.
The IONIQ 5 is available in Canada with a starting price of $48,999 for the base model and goes up to $54,999.
5. Kia Niro EV
Kia Niro EV is a 5-seater all-electric crossover SUV with a very handsome and sophisticated design with a one-touch sunroof and SUV-like storage.
A Kia Niro EV has an electric range of 407 km at total battery capacity, and with instant acceleration and torque, it can boost from zero to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds.
It has 20 standard assist safety technologies, dual panoramic displays, voice recognition demands, head-up displays, and many more.
A 2023 Kia Niro EV starting price costs $48,500, but it is not eligible for federal EV rebates.
6. Hyundai Kona Electric
Hyundai Kona Electric is a cyborg-inspired electric vehicle with a massive improvement in interior and exterior finishes equipped with two 12.3-inch infotainment displays.
The electric vehicle has an all-electric range of 415 kilometres on a fully charged battery.
It has a power output of 150kW or 201 HP, a battery capacity of 64 kWh, and is enabled with many active safety systems.
The base price of a 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric is $46,549.
7. Chevrolet Bolt EUV
Chevrolet Bolt EUV is one of the cheapest electric cars in Canada, with a very stylish exterior and SUV-like interior space perfect for families.
The EUV’s electric range on a full charge is estimated to be up to 397 km and can accelerate from zero to 96 km/h in seven seconds.
It is equipped with many advanced safety features like enhanced automatic emergency braking, lane centering, following distance indicator, and Intellibeam.
The starting cost of a 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV is $43,170
8. Mazda MX-30
The all-electric Mazda MX-30, the brand’s first EV, is a 5-seat SUV with a 143-hp electric motor at 4500 rpm and 200 torque at 3,200 rpm.
According to the EPA, the estimated driving range of a Mazda MX-30 is 160 km per full charge.
The car has a 35.5 kWh lithium-ion battery, can charge from 20% to 80% in 36 minutes, a 1,053 L cargo space, and an 8.8 inches colour display.
A 2023 Mazda MX-30 is one of the cheapest electric cars in Canada because of its low range and limited power compared to other hybrid cards at a starting price of $42,650.
9. Volkswagen ID.4
Volkswagen ID.4 is an excellent 5-seater electric compact SUV with a stylish interior and exterior, and it can accelerate from zero to 100km/h in 6.2 seconds.
It has an estimated range of 410-443 km, depending on whether it’s rear or all-wheel drive.
The electric car features a 150 kW motor, 62 kWh battery pack, 12-inch touchscreen, and 7-speaker audio system.
The Canadian pricing for the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 comes in three trims –the Standard with a price starting at $49,178, the Pro RWD with a price starting at $53,178, and the top-of-the-line Pro AWD with a price at $58,178.
10. Kia Soul EV
Kia Soul EV is a small electric car and is the electric version of the Kia Soul subcompact SUV with intelligent hybrid technology providing zero emissions and lower maintenance costs.
The electric car can travel up to 383 km on a full charge and accelerate to 100km/h in just 7.6 seconds.
It has safety features such as Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Assist, Lane Keep Assist, and Advanced Forward-Collision-Avoidance Assist.
Some notable features include the 64 kWh battery pack, 10.25″ multimedia screen, Harman Kardon Premium Sound System, AppleCarplay, and Android Auto.
It has a power sunroof, spacious cargo, and air-cooled front seats with three fan speeds.
It is considered one of Canada’s best affordable electric cars, and the price starts at $45,909.
11. Kia EV6
Kia EV6 is an affordable compact battery-electric EV crossover-hatchback that is sleeker than a hatchback yet not as bulky as an SUV giving you a stylish yet high-end look.
The top-of-the-line GT model car has a dual motor, is all-wheel-drive-capable, has an impressive driving range of 332 km, and quick charging for less than 5 minutes to get a 100-km driving range.
Its GT model is the most potent Kia car produced ever, with 576 horsepower and quick acceleration to 62 miles per hour in just 3.5 seconds, way quicker than a Volkswagen ID.4 and Ford Mustang Mach-E.
It is also equipped with many safety technology features like Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keep Assist, Surround View Monitor with a 360-degree view of the area, and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist.
The price of a 2023 Kia EV6 starts at $50,025, yet its GT model starts at $62,925, which is at least $10,000 above the entry-level model.
12. Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 is an all-electric four-door sedan distinguished by its cutting-edge technologies, such as the Autopilot system, and its minimalist and contemporary interior design.
The Model 3 has a range of 483 kilometres at total battery capacity and can accelerate from 0 to 100 kilometres per hour in six seconds.
Tesla Model 3 pricing ranges from $53,990 to $63,990.
What Are the Cheapest Hybrid Cars in Canada?
Three of the cheapest hybrid cars in Canada are Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Ford Fusion Hybrid, and Hyundai IONIQ Plug-In Hybrid.
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is a powerful, sporty, and fuel-efficient hybrid car that can deliver 5.8L per 100km in a city and 6.3L per 100km on the highway.
This Toyota car is powered by a 2.5L 4-cylinder, Dual Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence, and has faster acceleration and more horsepower than gas models at 219 HP.
It contains excellent features such as the Dual Zone Automatic Climate Control, Smart Key System, and Eco-Drive Motor.
You can get a complete overview of the specifications and photos of a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid at Driving.ca.
The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid base model L-Line starts at $34,850.
Ford Fusion Hybrid
Ford Fusion Hybrid is a gas-electric hybrid sedan with a sizable cabin, smooth ride, and technology-advanced features.
The electric vehicle is reliable and can run at a fuel consumption of 5.6L/100km.
The company has stopped manufacturing the Fusion lineup, so you can get this model at a lower price by purchasing the used ones.
You can get a second-hand Ford Fusion Hybrid in AutoTrader.ca on sale at $20,000, while the average range price would be $27,000 – $30,000.
Hyundai IONIQ Plug-In Hybrid
Hyundai IONIQ Plug-In Hybrid is one of the best and cheapest hybrid electric cars with 164 HP power and very efficient fuel consumption at 2L/100km.
This electric vehicle can travel up to 47 km using purely electric power and allows up to 1000 km on a single gas tank.
A Hyundai IONIQ Plug-In’s base price costs $32,649 to $38,249 plus additional fees.
Where to Buy Used Electric Cars in Canada
There are many options to buy used electric cars in Canada, and the most popular are online classified websites where you can search for sale used electric vehicles and filter your search based on price range, model, year, and so much more. Here are some of the best websites you can try.
Autotrader.ca: It is one of the best websites to buy used electric cars in Canada, where you can refine your search based on your location, make, model, trim, price, fuel type, seating capacity, and many more.
All priority used cars listings are shown on the first page, and you can toggle on or off used electric cars that can be delivered right to your house.
Electric Vehicle Network: It is one of the most popular multi-brand electric car dealers in Canada, where you can both buy and rent some of the best EV brands like Tesla, BMW, Chevrolet, Kia, Hyundai, Ford, and so much more.
You also have the option to book your EV test drive and have them delivered anywhere in Canada.
The website has been featured in CBC, Wheels.ca, Electric Company, Toronto Star, and The Globe and Mail.
CarGurus Inc.: CarGurus has one of the best websites with great deals, from simpler brands like Nissan Leaf to more high-end Tesla electric cars.
Here you can find electric vehicles based on their price and range that fit your budget and lifestyle.
Aside from these online classified websites, you can buy used electric cars in Canada through auctions, manufacturer-certified pre-owned programs, and car specialty dealerships.
What is the Electric Cars Canada Rebate?
The Federal Government of Canada has formed the Incentives for Zero-Emission Vehicles (iZEV program) and several provincial rebate programs, a point-of-sale incentive for those who buy or lease electric cars in Canada.
The federal rebate program aims to help Canadian consumers save thousands of dollars by acquiring zero-emission vehicles like EVs or Hybrids and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
An iZEV Program-eligible vehicle must meet the following criteria:
- comply with all relevant Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards
- be designed to be driven on public roadways and highways
- have at least four working wheels and be capable of operating at highway speeds
Incentives of $5,000 are available for anyone purchasing a battery electric car, hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, or long-range plug-in hybrid electric vehicle with a 50 km or more range.
Those who purchase plug-in hybrid vehicles with a range of fewer than 50 km are eligible for subsidies of $2500.
To see if the zero-emission vehicle you want to lease or buy qualifies for the Incentives for Zero-Emission Vehicles (iZEV) Programme incentive, you may check it up on the list published by Transport Canada.
Related: How To Buy and Sell a Car in Canada.
Conclusion
Electric cars (or EVs) have become popular among city inhabitants in Canada as a greener and more functional alternative to internal combustion vehicles.
Modern electric vehicles are ideal in dense urban regions like Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, and Calgary since they can go more than 500 km on a single charge.
Although electric vehicles cost more to buy initially than gasoline-powered vehicles, they save money on gas in the long run, cutting down on pollution, and the federal and provincial Canadian governments offer rebates.
Moreover, Canada’s most significant problem with EVs is a need for more infrastructure to support their widespread adoption, with 20,641 chargers at 8,770 sites. Still, the government is doing its best to invest more in electric vehicle charging stations.
Finally, it may be worthwhile to invest in an electric car in Canada, depending on your driving habits, the availability of charging infrastructure, and the price of the vehicle.
FAQs
According to Clean Energy Canada, driving and owning an electric car (EV) for over eight years can save you thousands of dollars compared to a gas car. Although EVs can cost more upfront, they offer long-term financial benefits like federal incentives and lower operating costs; plus, you can help reduce gas emissions and help fight climate change.
The most popular electric vehicle in Canada is the Tesla Model 3 because not only is it the best-selling car, but it is also stylish and offered at an affordable price of $54,990 for the 2023 model. In 2021 and 2022, Tesla Model 3 reported the most rebates, and the Canadian government spent over $50 million to help consumers acquire this model.
Yes, electric car sales in Canada have been increasing, and according to studies, most Canadians would love to see the domination of electric cars in the country. To support this, the federal government mandates the purchase of a new EV can give you a $2500 to $5000 federal tax break.
You may use any public level 2 charging station except for Tesla vehicles since they all utilize the same plug. Some general level 2 charging stations are free, while others demand a fee of $1.00 – $2.50 per hour. Check out ChargeHub to find the charging stations nearest to you.
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