5 Amazing and Affordable EVs to Consider in 2022
With gasoline prices spiking yet again, drivers are looking at electric vehicles as an off-ramp from rising prices. We’ve found 5 EVs that you’ll want to test drive at your local Ford, Kia, and Hyundai dealer.
Save Money on Gas and…Taxes?
Aside from the obvious reason drivers are looking at EVs more than ever, going green can reduce the amount of money you hand over to Uncle Sam. Most—but not all—EVs are eligible for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500.
One BIG caveat: $7,500 is the maximum credit allowed. Many EV credits are less but still worth taking into account when you’re shopping for your next vehicle. And some brands, such as Tesla, no longer qualify for the federal tax credit.
Now that we’ve cleared that up, here are 5 amazing and affordable EVs that are quiet, capable, and roomy, and they offer the best range for the money.
1. Kia Niro EV EX
MSRP: $41,205 | Range: 239 miles
The 2022 Kia Niro EV EX gets just about everything right. You’ll get a surprisingly posh interior with creature comforts like dual-zone automatic climate control. The Niro EV EX offers an engaging driving experience and includes a full slate of driver aids. Best of all, the Kia Niro EV qualifies for the whole $7,500 tax credit.
Mustang Mach-E
MSRP: $43,995 | Range: 314 miles
Inheriting a badge from a legendary pony car is a lot to live up to, but the Mustang Mach-E was an instant hit. It even toppled the Tesla Model 3 from the top of the EV hill. It’s one of the faster EVs on the road, sprinting from 0-60 in a little over 5 seconds. The cargo hatch is roomy, and, well, what’s not to love about the “frunk” that doubles as an ice chest? Ford still has EV credits, making the Mustang Mach-E eligible for the full $7,500 credit.
Hyundai Ioniq 5
MSRP: $44,895 | Range: 256 miles
The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 checks every box. It offers generous passenger and cargo room, hits freeway speed in well under 5 seconds, and is one of the most comfortable electric SUVs available. The Ioniq 5 has already made an impression with critics: Cars.com recently named it a top pick in family EVs. It’s currently eligible for the $7,500 credit, but it’s a good idea to double-check with your Hyundai dealer to make sure there are manufacturer credits available.
Volkswagen ID.4 Pro
MSRP: $41,955 | Range: 260 miles
Volkswagen’s entry into the electric SUV market is a head-turner. Besides its ruggedly refined style, the ID.4 is roomy and swallows a lot of cargo. What it lacks in quickness compared to its rivals, it more than makes up for in value. In addition to the $7,500 federal credit, Volkswagen offers three years of free half-hour charging sessions at Electrify America stations.
Chevrolet Bolt EUV
MSRP: $33,995 | Range: 247 miles
Even though it’s no longer eligible for the federal credit, the Chevrolet Bolt EUV is inexpensive and chock-full of features. And General Motors sweetens the pot by offering to pay to install a home charging station for qualified customers. The Bolt EUV is spacious inside, yet small and agile enough to easily access those tight parking spots other SUVs have to pass up.
Save Green by Going Green
Although electric vehicles still cost more than gasoline-powered vehicles, that gap is closing, especially when you factor in fuel and maintenance savings as well as financial incentives.
For drivers wanting to get out of Big Oil’s grasp, modern EVs provide a functional and stylish alternative to gas-powered cars. And with more competition in the EV market, finding a good deal on one is easier than ever.