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Best Electric SUVs under $45,000

Electric vehicles are generally more expensive than gas-powered cars, but prices have started to come down and there are more options that may fit within your budget. Here we've ranked the best electric SUVs with a base price of under $45,000. Car and Driver's rankings are arrived at from the results of our extensive instrumented testing of several hundred vehicles each year and from our expert editors' subjective impressions gained in real-world driving. We've ranked the best electric three-row SUVs based on roughly 200 data points encompassing acceleration, handling, comfort, cargo space, fuel efficiency, value, and how enjoyable they are to drive. We take rankings seriously because we want you to know everything about the vehicles that you're interested in.

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Top Ranked Electric SUVs under $45,000 at a glance

Hyundai Ioniq 5
1
C/D RatingC/D Rating: 10/10

2026

Hyundai Ioniq 5

$36,600 - $50,575
Kia EV6
2
C/D RatingC/D Rating: 9.5/10

2026

Kia EV6

$45,000 - $66,000
Nissan Leaf
3
C/D RatingC/D Rating: 9/10

2026

Nissan Leaf

$26,000 - $40,485
1

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5

10
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$36,600
EPA Est. RangeLightning icon
245–318 miles
C/D SAYS: With decent range, fast charging, and a spacious interior, the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV is a versatile tool for navigating modern life. Learn More
2

2026 Kia EV6

9.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$45,000 est
EPA Est. RangeLightning icon
N/A
C/D SAYS: The 2026 Kia EV6 is a well-rounded EV that's fun to drive, fast to charge, and plenty spacious inside. Learn More
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3

2026 Nissan Leaf

9
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$26,000 est
EPA Est. RangeLightning icon
259–303 miles
C/D SAYS: For the 2026 model year, the Nissan Leaf EV is reimagined as a small SUV with more modern styling, better range, and a nicer interior. Learn More
4

2026 Tesla Model Y

9
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$41,630
EPA Est. RangeLightning icon
294–357 miles
C/D SAYS: The Tesla Model Y receives a significant refresh for 2026, which keeps the popular electric SUV in the hunt among a growing segment of attractive options. Learn More
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5
Starting at
$36,495
EPA Est. RangeLightning icon
319 miles
C/D SAYS: The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV isn't fancy but it nails the basics, making it good choice for buyers who prioritize affordability and efficiency over glitz. Learn More

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Shop the Top 5 Electric SUVs under $45,000


6

2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E

8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$39,840
EPA Est. RangeLightning icon
240–280 miles
C/D SAYS: More EV than pony car, the 2026 Mustang Mach-E delivers competitive range and electrifying acceleration in a compact SUV configuration. Learn More
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7

2026 Volvo EX30

8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$40,345
EPA Est. RangeLightning icon
227–261 miles
C/D SAYS: The Volvo EX30 is an amusing and simple subcompact EV SUV, giving you everything you need and nothing you don’t. Learn More

Video: EV Buyer's Guide

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8

2026 Kia Niro EV

8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$41,195
EPA Est. RangeLightning icon
253 miles
C/D SAYS: The 2026 Kia Niro EV subcompact SUV is enjoyable to drive and comes nicely equipped, even in base trim, making for good value. Learn More
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9
Starting at
$34,470
EPA Est. RangeLightning icon
200–261 miles
C/D SAYS: One of the more affordable EVs currently available, the Kona Electric packs a ton of features and style for the price. Learn More
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