Electric vehicles have come a long way in terms of pricing, range, and overall value. But in 2025, if your number one goal is to spend the least amount of money on a brand-new EV, one name still dominates: Nissan Leaf.
Let’s break down why the Nissan Leaf remains the most affordable new EV in the United States, how it stacks up against the competition, and whether it’s the smartest buy depending on your driving needs.
The Current Champion: 2025 Nissan Leaf S 40 kWh
The 2025 Nissan Leaf starts at $28,140, making it the cheapest new electric car money can buy in the US right now.
Some sources, such as Cars.com, list it as high as $29,280 when destination fees are included, which is still lower than every other EV on the market.
You’re getting:
- A proven legacy vehicle that’s been in the EV game since 2010.
- 149 miles of range on the base S 40 kWh model.
- An established network of service centres and parts availability.
It’s not the flashiest, longest-range, or fastest-charging EV, but it nails what it’s built for: affordable, reliable urban driving.
Who’s the Competition?
Below are the contenders, based on starting MSRP with destination fees included:
| Rank | Model | Starting Price | Range (EPA Estimated) |
| 1 | Nissan Leaf | $29,280 | 149-212 miles |
| 2 | Hyundai Kona Electric | $34,470 | 200-261 miles |
| 3 | Chevrolet Equinox EV | $34,995 | 307-319 miles |
| 4 | Toyota bZ4X | $38,520 | 222-252 miles |
| 5 | Hyundai Ioniq 6 | $39,045 | 240-342 miles |
| 6 | Subaru Solterra | $39,915 | 222-227 miles |
| 7 | Ford Mustang Mach-E | $39,990 | 240-320 miles |
| 8 | Kia Niro EV | $40,995 | 253 miles |
| 9 | Nissan Ariya | $41,160 | 205-289 miles |
| 10 | Tesla Model 3 | $43,880 | 298-363 miles |
| 11 | Lexus RZ | $44,095 | 196-266 miles |
(Source: InsideEVs)
The Leaf undercuts all its rivals by a wide margin. The next cheapest EV costs over $5,000 more.
Why Is the Nissan Leaf Still So Cheap?
Three key reasons:
- Battery Simplicity: The 40 kWh battery offers lower range, but also lower cost.
- Long Market Presence: Manufacturing efficiencies and established platforms reduce costs.
- Incentives: While the MSRP is $28,140, federal tax credits (up to $7,500) and dealer incentives can bring the cost down to around $21,000.
According to Coltura, with full incentives applied, the Leaf becomes one of the most accessible EVs in modern history.
What About Chinese EVs?
Yes, China is producing some of the world’s cheapest Electric car, like the BYD Seagull, which sells for under $15,000 in China. But due to:
- 100% tariffs
- US regulatory restrictions
- Safety and import compliance issues
…you won’t see these options on American dealership lots anytime soon.
As of July 2025, Chinese EVs are practically unavailable in the US.
Looking Ahead: Any Cheaper Models Coming Soon?
Possibly. Some notable future options:
- 2026 Chevrolet Bolt EUV: Expected to return under $30,000
- Kia EV3: Anticipated post-2025 around $35,000
- Ford $25K EV (in development): Rumoured for 2026 or beyond
- Jeep Electric Renegade: Expected around $25,000 but not before 2027
For now, they’re still “on the way.” If you need a car now, they’re not part of the equation.
Downsides of the Nissan Leaf
Let’s keep it honest. The Leaf is not without compromises:
- A 149-mile base range can be limiting for long trips.
- Charging speed is slower than newer EVs.
- The design feels dated compared to sleeker Electric car.
- The CHAdeMO fast-charging port is becoming obsolete.
But for city drivers or short-range commuters, these may not be deal-breakers.
Verdict: Who Should Buy the 2025 Nissan Leaf?
If you:
- Drive mainly within the city or the suburbs
- Don’t want to spend more than $30K
- Want to own an EV today, not wait for tomorrow’s models
…then the Nissan Leaf is a smart buy. It may not be the sexiest EV on the road, but it wins the price game.
Factor in potential incentives, and you could drive home a brand-new EV for less than a used Toyota Camry.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Nissan Leaf continues to prove that EVs don’t have to be expensive. With a base price of $28,140 and the potential for steep discounts, it remains the cheapest electric car in the U.S. today.
So, if you’re on a budget but ready to make the electric switch, there’s no real debate that the Leaf is your best bet.
