Best Electric Cars Under $50,000 by Resale Value

Of the 20 electric cars under $50,000 VINdown tracks, the average holds about 40% of its value after five years. The Smart Fortwo Electric Drive leads at 60% retained, while the Honda Prologue depreciates hardest at 24%. Ranked best-to-worst by five-year resale value:

1. Smart Fortwo Electric Drive — 60% retained, from $23,800 new
2. MINI Countryman — 58% retained, from $32,650 new
3. Kia Soul EV — 55% retained, from $33,950 new
4. Volkswagen E-Golf — 50% retained, from $31,895 new
5. Lexus RZ — 46% retained, from $46,000 new
6. Tesla Model 3 — 46% retained, from $38,990 new
7. Tesla Model Y — 44% retained, from $42,990 new
8. Kia EV6 — 42% retained, from $37,900 new
9. Subaru Solterra — 41% retained, from $38,495 new
10. BMW I3 — 39% retained, from $44,450 new

electric cars at other budgets:

• Under $40,000

Related categories under $50,000:

• Cars Under $50,000
• Hybrid Cars Under $50,000
• Luxury Cars Under $50,000
• SUVs Under $50,000
• Sedans Under $50,000
• Sports Cars Under $50,000
• Trucks Under $50,000

All prices: Best Electric Cars by resale value