Cheapest Electric Cars in Canada in 2021

With all the talk of EV rebates and incentives in the news these days, you may be wondering what you're able to afford. If you’re looking for the most affordable, iZEV-approved electric cars, consider these for all under $45,000 MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price): Hyundai IONIQ and KONA, Kia Niro and Soul, Volkswagen e-Golf, Nissan Leaf, Chevrolet Bolt, BMW i3, and the Mini Cooper SE. The Tesla Model 3 made this list for being the cheapest Tesla available in Canada at $53,000.

Find out if you can get finance approved (minus the rebate) for one of these vehicles. It's free to get pre-qualified online, and there's no obligation to buy. 

What are the most affordable electric vehicles in Canada right now?

Hyundai IONIQ electric

As one of the most affordable electric vehicles on the market, this battery electric, generously sized hatchback boasts a 274-km range on a single charge. Good for everyday practical driving, the IONIQ electric has an MSRP of $41,449 and qualifies for the $5,000 federal rebate, plus provincial incentives in BC or Quebec. If you're in either province, you should double up on the incentives while you can!

Hyundai KONA

If you can spend a little more, the IONIQ’s more expensive cousin, the KONA, will offer you almost double the range at 415 kilometres, and more horsepower for when you feel the need for speed. The 2021 KONA has an MSRP of $44,999 and it qualifies for the same $5,000 federal rebate, plus provincial incentives, as the IONIQ.

Kia Niro EV

The Kia Niro could be a good choice for those looking for a roomier EV option. There’s lots of space in this 5-passenger SUV – great for families or those who are habitual haulers. Its MSRP starts at $44,995 for the 2020 model, with up to $13,000 in electric vehicle rebates depending on which Province you live in. The Kia Niro EV offers up to 385 kilometres on a full charge.

Kia Soul EV

Kia’s ultra-popular Soul model comes in an EV version that’s also going to appeal to those who need to haul around kids, lots of gear, or both. The range can go as far as 383 kilometres on a full charge, which is about the same as the 2020 Niro EV. Its MSRP starts at $42,995 and is eligible for up to $5,000 in federal rebates, plus up to $8,000 extra in rebates depending on your province.

Volkswagen e-Golf

The vaunted German automakers’ first foray into full electric is this redesigned, emission-free take on the popular Golf. At 198 km, the e-Golf's range is less than the IONIQ, but it also retails for less at $37,890. However, it does come with equal incentive qualification for up to $13,000 depending on whether you live in Quebec or BC!

Nissan Leaf

The revamped Nissan Leaf hatchback is attractive and practical, plus it’s one of the few EVs that has stood the test of time. With its 40kWh battery and 147hp, the base Nissan Leaf SV offers an all-electric range of 243km. The Leaf’s $44,298 MSRP is quite reasonable especially for the range you get, and that’s before the $5,000 federal rebate and any provincial programs. 

Chevrolet Bolt

The bowtie-brand’s all-electric Chevrolet Bolt hatchback is as sensible as it is efficient. It’s also the top-ranging EV at 417km on a full charge while staying under the $45,000 threshold. That makes it the ideal choice for anyone worried about range for roadtrips and long commutes. With the $5,000 federal rebate and any potential provincial rebates or EV incentives, the Chevrolet Bolt has excellent value.

BMW i3

If you’re going to own a BMW, it’s doesn’t get more “affordable” than the i3. With an MSRP of $44,950, the 2020 i3 makes an attractive EV option for the city dweller looking for a speedy compact with loads of style. You’re getting a comparable range at 246 kilometres, and 0 to 100 km/h at 7 seconds, which should be enough zip for the average urban motorist. Eligible for the federal $5,000 rebate, plus provincial go-green incentives as high as $8,000.

Mini Cooper SE

Another compact EV that won’t break your bank account is the Mini Cooper SE. Its MSRP starts at $39,990, making it just a shade more expensive than our list’s cheapest entry. This vehicle will appeal to city drivers looking for a peppy plug-in that looks good parked outside the craft brewery. Its specs boast a 177-kilometre range and a quick 35-minute charge for when you’re watching the clock. Buyers can expect up to $13,000 off the price with federal and provincial rebates where applicable.

What is the cheapest Tesla?

Tesla Model 3

The cheapest Tesla model available in Canada, the Tesla Model 3 is a high-performance luxury electric car, even the ‘entry-level’ Model 3—a RWD sedan with awesome interior tech and sleek styling. Reaching top speeds of 225km per hour, the Standard Range Plus model has a 423km range and fits into iZEV-approved program at $53,000 MSRP. If you want to level up, you can get a Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive, Long Range for $65,000 and Performance for $75,000.

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