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Times are changing, and electric vehicles (EVs) seem to be paving the way to an alternatively powered future. However, EVs have had difficulty keeping costs down and convenience up. As a result, consumers are slower to adopt the fully-electric lifestyle. Still, if you go for the cheapest electric cars on the market like the 2022 Nissan Leaf or Chevrolet Bolt EV, you might save some money. 

  • Nissan Leaf
  • Mini Cooper SE Hardtop
  • Chevrolet Bolt EV
  • Kia Niro EV
  • Hyundai Ioniq 5

Is the 2022 Nissan Leaf worth it?

The Nissan Leaf is worth it if you’re in the market for a cheap electric car. The Nissan Leaf is the most affordable electric car on the market for 2022. Specifically, a 2022 Nissan Leaf S starts for $28,495. Car and Driver says the 2022 Nissan Leaf S’ 147-horsepower EV motor with 149 miles of electric range has more range than more expensive competitors. Not bad for a little budget EV. 

The 2022 Nissan Leaf is one of the cheapest electric cars on the market.
2022 Nissan Leaf | Charlie Crowhurst, Getty Images

Is the 2022 Mini Cooper SE Hardtop one of the cheapest electric cars for 2022?

The Nissan Leaf might be cheap, but the 2022 Mini Cooper SE Hardtop earns its heftier price tag with style. If you want practicality above all else, the Leaf S has a longer range and smaller price than the Mini Cooper SE. However, the Mini is much better looking and, with 181 horsepower on tap, much more fun to drive. Still, you’ll have to spend around $30,750 before fees to buy that extra style. 

How much is the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV?

The little 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV starts at $32,495, making it pricier than the Mini Cooper SE. However, the Bolt EV features a redesigned visage and a 200-horsepower EV motor. In addition to the power and aesthetic, the Chevrolet Bolt EV’s 66.0 kWh battery pack promises 259 miles of electric range. Finally, with the model year 2023 bringing price cuts for the Bolt EV, the little Chevy electric car is a definite bargain.  

The 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV, like this one, is a cheap EV for savvy shoppers.
2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV | General Motors

How much will the Hyundai Ioniq 5 cost?

The new 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 starts at $41,245, making it a far cry from the Nissan Leaf’s sub-$30,000 price tag. Still, the Ioniq 5 has an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) electric range of 220 miles, much more than many cheaper options. However, if you’re willing to spend more money, you can get higher trim levels with dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) applications.  

How much does a Kia Niro EV cost?

The 2022 Kia Niro EV has a starting price of $41,285. That’s still good enough to earn it a spot on the list of the cheapest electric cars. However, with an EPA electric range of 232 miles, it is not quite up to Chevrolet Bolt EV standards. Car and Driver applauds the Niro EV for its suite of technology, including a 10.3-inch infotainment system, navigation, and factory mobile phone charger. 

Should you buy the Nissan Leaf or one of the other cheapest electric cars for 2022?

If you want a balance of range, affordability, and power, consider buying the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV. However, if you want a little style in your progressive, zero-tailpipe emissions vehicle, buy a 2022 Mini Cooper SE. Scroll down to the following article to read about EVs!

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