5 of the cheapest EVs in Canada in 2023

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As more electric cars enter the market, we keep hearing the same complaints: “they’re too darned expensive!” That may be true, but smart, savvy readers can find a good deal with just a little research — all of which can be done on Driving.ca. If you’re looking to compare similar EV models from different brands, be sure to check out our Find & Compare tool.

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Here are the cheapest EVs for every kind of buyer in 2023, as well as a few alternatives.

Cheapest EV: Nissan Leaf SV FWD ($41,242)

Arriving on the scene back in 2012, the Nissan Leaf has been around for a while. The second generation model, first introduced in 2017, is a significant upgrade in terms of style, technology and refinement. Shoppers on a budget can get into the Leaf SV FWD for just over $41k, which makes it the cheapest EV in the country by a few hundred bucks. This entry-level compact uses a 40 kWh battery and a 147 hp engine which allows for 240 km of range. However, the SV lacks support for DC Fast Charging, which limits its road-trip appeal. While the compact is plenty affordable, shoppers after more range, performance, and quicker chargers might want to consider spending the extra $300 for the Chevrolet Bolt EV.

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Keep in mind, if you are considering the Bolt EV, you’ll have to act quick as Chevrolet recently announced it will discontinue the popular Bolt EV to build more trucks — the 2023 model year will be its final one.

Also consider: 2023 Chevrolet Bolt ($41,542), 2023 Kia Soul EV ($43,095)

Cheapest electric SUV: Chevrolet Bolt EUV LT ($43,147)

Although it’s front-wheel-drive only, the Chevrolet Bolt EUV is a practical EV with plenty of space for cargo and passengers. This compact crossover features a 65 kWh battery that allows for 397 km of range. That battery is paired with a peppy electric motor with 200 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque. Buyers can also take advantage of 50 kW DC Fast Charger speeds that can add 154 km in 30 minutes. All the standard tech also helps the Bolt EUV feel like a bargain. There’s wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support, lane keeping assistance, a wireless phone charger, heated seats and a heated steering wheel all for around $43k. Additionally, Chevrolet will cover the installation of a Level 2 Charging outlet for 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV buyers, but those who don’t want or need this offer will be given a $750 credit to use on the FLO public charging network.

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As mentioned above, the Bolt EUV will also be discontinued after the 2023 model year, so if it’s truly the best vehicle for you, you’ll need to act quick.

Shoppers who must have an AWD EV should check out the 2023 Toyota bZ4X XLE, which carries an MSRP of $54,990.

Also consider: 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric ($44,599), 2023 Kia Niro EV ($44,995)

Cheapest luxury EV: Polestar 2 ($53,950)

You can’t classify the EV-only Polestar brand as a mainstream automaker, and much of its underlying technology is shared with Volvo, so we think its fair to call it a premium brand. Therefore, the Polestar 2 is the most affordable high-end EV by about $1,000. The front-wheel-drive Polestar 2 boasts 434 km of range from its 78-kWh lithium-ion battery, which is plentiful. However, buyers should know that the energy saving heat pump is tucked away as part of the $5,700 Plus Package. Anyone interested in long-distance driving in cold temperatures will want to pay for the upgrade. The Polestar 2 supports DC Fast Charging speeds up to 155 kW, which allows it to recharge from 10 to 80 per cent in just 35 minutes. Adding to the luxury feel, the Polestar 2 features a Google-backed infotainment system with support for the Play Store, which means many mobile apps and features are available to download, and there are opportunities for feature-enhancing over-the-air updates.

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If you’re not sold on Polestar as a luxury brand, the 2023 BMW i4 eDrive35 is about $1,000 more expensive and features 412 km of range.

Also consider: 2023 BMW i4 eDrive35 ($54,990)

Cheapest electric pickup: Ford Lightning EV XLT w/ Standard Range Battery ($79,000)

While there are only two electric pickups on the market, the F-150 Lightning is more affordable by a landslide. Its MSRP of $79,000 is about $20,000 cheaper than the most affordable configuration of the Rivian R1T (though that has a more limited supply). The entry-level F-150 Lightning boasts 386 km of range and 452 hp. The all-wheel-drive system is stout enough to tow over 5,000 lbs on standard battery models, while the bed can haul about 2,000 lbs. The F-150 includes DC Fast Charging support up to speeds of 120 kW, which Ford says can add 125 km in just 20 minutes.

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In addition to the Rivian R1T, shoppers may want to make a reservation for one of the other EV trucks coming out, including the 2024 Silverado EV which will be available in a stripped down Work Truck trim for $55,197.

Also consider: 2023 Rivian R1T ($98,000), 2024 Silverado EV ($55,197), Tesla Cybertruck ($?????)

Cheapest three-row EV: Mercedes-Benz EQB ($77,000)

If you want to take your whole family or a bunch of friends on a zero-emission road trip, you may want something with three rows of seating. There are only a few all-electric three-row vehicles on the market today, and they’re a bit on the pricey side. The Mercedes-Benz EQB 350 4MATIC starts at $77,000, which includes the optional third row of seats — though shoppers should know that seat is a bit tight, and ideal only for kids, or occasional use. The EQB features 356 km of range, before needing to recharge. The Mercedes supports DC Fast Charging speeds up to 100 kW, which lets the battery recharge from 10 to 80 per cent in 32 minutes. The all-wheel-drive family ride features two motors that combine for 288 hp, allowing for a sprint to 100 km/h in about seven seconds. The only other three-row EV in this price range is the Tesla Model Y, which is a few hundred dollars more, but owners can take advantage of Tesla’s impressive network of Super Charger locations.

Also consider: 2023 Tesla Model Y ($77,280), 2023 Rivian R1S ($105,250), 2023 VinFast VF 9 ($103,750)