Best 5 EVs Under $50K — Consumer Reports' 2025 Picks
- Key Takeaways:
- Consumer Reports highlights five 2025 electric vehicles with trims under $50,000 that balance reliability, range and features.
- Standouts include the Hyundai Ioniq 6 for range, the Mustang Mach‑E for performance, and the Nissan Ariya for safety.
- Practical choices like the Kia Niro EV and Audi Q4 e‑tron offer value—each trim’s range, price, and drivetrain matter when shopping.
Why these EVs made the list
Consumer Reports evaluated reliability, driving feel, safety scores, range and available trims that fall beneath a $50,000 threshold. We prioritized models with at least one configuration under that price and strong test results.
Top picks and what to expect
Hyundai Ioniq 6 — Long range and refined ride
The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 6 stands out for its long EPA range and composed handling. The SE Long Range RWD is rated near 342 miles, while the more affordable SE Standard Range drops to roughly 240 miles.
The Ioniq 6 delivers a quiet cabin and quick acceleration in higher trims (0–60 mph in about 4.3 seconds for the AWD SE). Standard tech includes a 12.3‑inch infotainment display, adaptive cruise and keyless start.
Ford Mustang Mach‑E — Sport SUV with options
Ford’s Mustang Mach‑E mixes sporty styling with multiple powertrains. Prices start in the high $30s and climb into the mid‑$50s for top trims, keeping lower trims under $50K.
The AWD GT is the quickest, with around 480 hp and a 0–60 mph time near 4.0 seconds; more mainstream Select and Premium trims trade outright speed for better value and an estimated range up to roughly 260–280 miles.
Kia Niro EV — Affordable, practical choice
The 2025 Kia Niro Electric is the most budget‑friendly option on this list, with base pricing in the high $30,000s to mid $40,000s. It pairs a 201‑hp front‑wheel drive setup with an estimated range near 253 miles.
Acceleration and charging rates are modest, but the Niro EV earns points for reliability and essential safety tech like blind‑spot monitoring and lane‑departure warnings.
Nissan Ariya — Safety and comfort
Nissan’s Ariya offers trims that start under $40,000 and several options that remain below $50K. Consumer Reports and NHTSA safety ratings are strong across the lineup.
Power varies widely: base FWD models make about 214 hp while AWD variants push past 300 hp. Range spans roughly 205–289 miles depending on the trim.
Audi Q4 e‑tron — Luxury features at an attainable price
The Audi Q4 e‑tron brings a more premium cabin to the under‑$50K segment when selecting the Premium RWD model. That trim pairs a comfortable ride with an estimated range near 288 miles.
Expect a higher‑quality interior, AR heads‑up navigation, and typical Audi safety features—trades off some performance versus sportier rivals.
How to choose
Compare the specific trim prices, EPA range, drivetrain (RWD vs. AWD), charging speed and safety ratings. If range is priority, consider the Ioniq 6; if safety and ratings matter more, the Ariya is compelling. Test drives remain essential.
