Most Affordable EVs in Australia That Still Deliver on Range
Why Aussies Are Going Electric (Without Breaking the Bank)
The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is no longer just a premium affair. While Tesla once dominated the landscape with price tags north of $70K, the 2025 Aussie market now boasts a wave of affordable electric cars that don’t sacrifice too much in range, comfort, or features.
From city hatchbacks to compact SUVs, many electric models under $60K now offer 300km+ of real-world range, cutting-edge infotainment, and all the essential safety tech. For urban dwellers, first-time EV buyers, or budget-savvy families, this is the golden era to go green—without going broke.
Let’s explore the best-value EVs available in Australia today.
What Makes an EV “Affordable” in 2025?
With inflation, tech upgrades, and global market fluctuations, what’s “affordable” today isn’t what it was five years ago. For this guide, we define affordable EVs as:
Under $65,000 drive-away
Minimum range of 300 km (WLTP or real-world)
Standard safety and infotainment features
5-star ANCAP rating or equivalent
We’ll focus on fully electric vehicles (BEVs), not hybrids or plug-in hybrids.
Top Affordable Electric Vehicles in Australia (2025)
1. BYD Dolphin
Price: From $38,890 drive-away
Range: Up to 427 km (WLTP)
Battery: 60.4 kWh
Charging: DC fast charging up to 80 kW
Drive: FWD
ANCAP: 5 stars
Why It’s Great:
BYD continues to shake up the EV space. The Dolphin is not only Australia’s cheapest EV, but also surprisingly well-equipped. Standard features include adaptive cruise control, 360-degree camera, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a huge 12.8-inch rotating screen.
The 427 km range (on the Extended model) is well above average for this price point.
2. MG4 Electric
Price: From $39,990
Range: 350–530 km (depending on variant)
Battery: 51–77 kWh
Charging: DC fast charging up to 140 kW
Drive: RWD
ANCAP: 5 stars
Why It’s Great:
The MG4 is a game-changer. For under $45K, you get an EV with RWD handling, modern styling, an intuitive digital cockpit, and more range flexibility across variants. The top-spec MG4 Extended Range goes beyond 500 km and still lands below $60K.
A fantastic choice for long-distance commuters or small families.
3. GWM Ora (Good Cat)
Price: From $39,990
Range: Up to 420 km
Battery: 63 kWh
Charging: DC fast charging up to 80 kW
Drive: FWD
ANCAP: 5 stars
Why It’s Great:
Don’t let the cutesy looks fool you. The GWM Ora (aka Good Cat) delivers big value with generous standard features: panoramic sunroof, heated/massaging front seats, adaptive cruise, and lane centering.
It’s arguably the best-equipped EV under $45K and also one of the most stylish for urban drivers.
4. Nissan Leaf
Price: From $50,990
Range: 385 km
Battery: 59 kWh (Leaf e+)
Charging: CHAdeMO up to 100 kW
Drive: FWD
ANCAP: 5 stars
Why It’s Great:
While it's one of the older EVs on the market, the Nissan Leaf remains relevant due to its brand trust, large dealership network, and solid range. With CHAdeMO becoming rarer, charging options can be a downside—but it’s still a great option for urban dwellers who charge at home.
Also one of the only EVs available with bi-directional charging.
5. Hyundai Kona Electric (Standard Range)
Price: From $54,000
Range: 370–400 km
Battery: 48.6 kWh
Charging: DC fast charging up to 100 kW
Drive: FWD
ANCAP: 5 stars
Why It’s Great:
The 2025 Kona Electric has been completely redesigned with a sharper look and more space. You get advanced safety systems, a 12.3-inch dual-screen cockpit, and more efficient powertrain tuning.
The real highlight is Hyundai’s after-sales support, 8-year battery warranty, and reliability record.
6. Cupra Born
Price: From $59,990
Range: 511 km
Battery: 77 kWh
Charging: DC fast charging up to 170 kW
Drive: RWD
ANCAP: 5 stars
Why It’s Great:
If you want premium European design and hot hatch performance under $60K, the Cupra Born stands out. Built on the same platform as the VW ID.3 (not yet sold in Australia), it blends sportiness and range exceptionally well.
For the price, it offers the longest range in this list.
7. MG ZS EV
Price: From $41,990
Range: Up to 440 km
Battery: 72.6 kWh
Charging: DC fast charging up to 80 kW
Drive: FWD
ANCAP: 5 stars
Why It’s Great:
A compact electric SUV for under $45K? Yes, and it delivers! The MG ZS EV is Australia’s best-selling budget electric SUV for a reason: practicality, elevated ride height, tech-packed interior, and reliable range.
It may not be fast, but it's perfect for growing families or city-to-suburb drivers.
Best Use Cases for These Affordable EVs
| Use Case | Recommended Models |
|---|---|
| City Driving & Short Trips | BYD Dolphin, GWM Ora, MG4 Standard Range |
| Long Distance Commuting | MG4 Extended, Cupra Born, Kona Electric |
| Family-Friendly EV | MG ZS EV, Nissan Leaf, Hyundai Kona Electric |
| Young First-Time Buyers | BYD Dolphin, MG4, GWM Ora |
| Hot Hatch Lovers | Cupra Born |
Charging Infrastructure: Is It Ready for Budget EVs?
Yes—and improving fast. With over 1,000+ DC fast-charging locations across Australia and networks like Chargefox and Evie expanding into rural and regional areas, affordable EVs can now go much farther without range anxiety.
Most EVs in this list support 100–170 kW fast charging, enabling 0–80% top-ups in 30–45 minutes.
Ongoing Costs & Maintenance
One of the biggest perks of EV ownership is lower running costs:
No petrol: Average EV charging costs are 40–60% less than refuelling
Lower servicing costs: No oil changes or timing belts
Fewer moving parts: Less wear and tear overall
EVs also enjoy reduced registration and tax incentives in some Australian states. Always check with your local transport authority.
Tips for Buying an Affordable EV in 2025
Check range vs. your daily needs – Don’t overpay for more range than required.
Factor in charging options – If you have off-street parking, installing a home charger can save time.
Watch for software updates – Many budget EVs improve over time via OTA updates.
Consider resale value – Established brands (Hyundai, Nissan) may hold value better than newcomers.
Test drive multiple models – Ride quality, tech interface, and visibility vary widely.
Final Thoughts – Affordable EVs Are No Longer Compromised
Gone are the days when buying a budget EV meant sacrificing range, safety, or style. In 2025, Australian drivers have a wide variety of affordable electric vehicles that balance price, efficiency, and practicality.
Whether you're after a smart city hatch, a stylish commuter, or a family-friendly SUV, today’s EVs deliver serious value—both on the road and in your pocket.
Want more expert EV comparisons and car buying tips? Keep reading on carsoop.com.au for the latest reviews, buyer guides, and smart car deals across Australia.
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