Is it worth buying a second-hand EV in 2026?

Yes. As the Australian market matures, buying a second-hand EV allows you to bypass the initial depreciation hit while still accessing advanced battery tech and lower running costs.

Can I get a novated lease on a used electric vehicle?

Absolutely. At WhipSmart, we specialize in used EV novated leases, which can further reduce your taxable income and lower the total cost of ownership compared to a traditional car loan.

What should I check when buying a used EV?

Focus on three pillars: Battery Integrity (State of Health), Value Retention (resale history), and Tech Longevity (software update compatibility).

Does the Kia 7-year warranty transfer to used owners?

Yes, Kia’s industry-leading warranty is generally transferable to the second owner, making models like the EV6 a very safe used purchase.

Top 10 Second Hand EVs: Best Used Electric Cars

16 February 2026

Top 10 Second Hand EVs

As the electric vehicle market in Australia matures, the second-hand market is becoming a goldmine for savvy buyers. By opting for a pre-owned EV, you can bypass the initial depreciation hit while still enjoying cutting-edge tech and significant fuel savings. When combined with a novated lease, these benefits are amplified; depreciation costs are even lower than they normally are, making top-tier brands surprisingly affordable. Additionally, used EVs often benefit from lower insurance premiums, all while remaining the most environmentally friendly choice for the road.

Interested in any of the below cars, or any other second hand vehicle? Contact us here.

What makes a car the best for second-hand? To help you navigate the market, we have applied a WhipSmart Used-EV Rating to each vehicle based on three pillars:

Battery Integrity: How well the range and health hold up over time.
Value Retention: The balance between the used purchase price and future resale.
Tech Longevity: Whether the software and features still feel current years later.

1. Tesla Model 3

The Tesla Model 3 remains the benchmark for used EVs in Australia. Whether you’re looking at the RWD for daily commuting or the Long Range for interstate trips, the Model 3 offers a level of software integration and performance that is hard to beat.

Why it’s #1: Access to the seamless Tesla Supercharger network and frequent over-the-air updates mean even a three-year-old Model 3 often feels like a brand-new car.
The Used Advantage: Tesla’s powertrain is engineered for high mileage, and because the car is so software-heavy, it doesn’t “age” aesthetically or functionally as fast as traditional cars. You are buying into an ecosystem that stays relevant.

2. Tesla Model Y

If you need more space, the Model Y is the undisputed king of the family SUV segment. Its massive cargo capacity and commanding driving position make it the most searched-for used EV for Australian families.

Pros: Incredible practicality and market-leading tech.
The Used Advantage: Since the Model Y is the best-selling EV in the world, the used market is healthy with plenty of stock. Buying used allows families to jump into a premium SUV category that might have been out of budget when brand new.

3. Polestar 2

Moving up our list this year is the Polestar 2. This is the choice for those who want a premium, high-tech experience but prefer Scandinavian minimalism over Tesla’s aesthetic.

The Vibe: It offers a “luxury car” feel with exceptional build quality and a Google-built infotainment system.
The Used Advantage: The Polestar 2 has a very robust build quality. As a second-hand purchase, it offers one of the best “luxury-per-dollar” ratios, as the initial premium price drops significantly, allowing you to pick up a dual-motor performance variant for a steal.

4. Kia EV6

The Kia EV6 is a standout for its “retro-futuristic” design and ultra-fast 800V charging architecture. It’s one of the few cars on this list that can charge from 10% to 80% in under 18 minutes.

Pros: Striking looks, engaging driving dynamics, and Australian-tuned suspension.
The Used Advantage: Kia’s industry-leading 7-year warranty is often transferable to the second owner. This provides a massive safety net for used buyers, ensuring peace of mind regarding the motors and battery for years to come.

5. BYD Atto 3

The Atto 3 made EVs affordable for the Australian masses. In the second-hand market, it represents some of the best value for money in a mid-sized SUV.

Key Feature: The “Blade Battery” technology is renowned for its safety and durability.
The Used Advantage: The Atto 3 was built to be a workhorse. Used models are proving to be incredibly reliable, and because they were affordable to begin with, the second-hand entry point is exceptionally low for a modern SUV.

6. BYD Seal

The Seal is BYD’s answer to the Model 3. It’s sleek, incredibly fast in its ‘Performance’ trim, and features the famous rotating touchscreen.

The Appeal: Higher-end interior materials and a very competitive price point.
The Used Advantage: For performance enthusiasts, a used Seal is the cheapest way to get 0-100km/h times under 4 seconds. It brings high-end sports car stats to the used market at a fraction of the cost.

7. MG4

If you are looking for a “driver’s car” on a budget, the MG4 is the answer. This rear-wheel-drive hatchback is nimble, fun, and surprisingly spacious inside.

Best For: First-time EV buyers or urban professionals.
The Used Advantage: The MG4 is incredibly efficient. Buying one second-hand means your “total cost of ownership” is among the lowest in Australia, making it the perfect entry point for those cautious about their first EV.

8. Hyundai Ioniq 5

Sharing its platform with the Kia EV6, the Ioniq 5 is a design icon. Its “lounge-like” interior with a flat floor makes it feel much larger than it looks.

Why buy used: It’s a premium vehicle with ultra-fast charging that has already won numerous ‘Car of the Year’ awards.
The Used Advantage: The Ioniq 5 is built on a dedicated EV platform (E-GMP), meaning it isn’t a “converted” petrol car. This specialized engineering holds its value better and ensures the battery management remains top-tier even after several years.

9. Hyundai Kona Electric

The Kona Electric is the “sensible” choice. It doesn’t scream “I’m an EV,” and it features a proven, reliable platform with excellent real-world range.

The Practical Choice: Great for those transitioning from a petrol car.
The Used Advantage: The Kona has been around longer than many others, meaning there is a wealth of data proving its long-term battery reliability. It is a “safe” used buy with very few surprises.

10. BYD Sealion 7

As a newer entry, the Sealion 7 is just starting to appear in second-hand listings as demos or low-km examples.

Verdict: A strong contender for those who want a modern, feature-packed family cruiser.
The Used Advantage: Picking up a “near-new” Sealion 7 allows you to skip the “luxury car tax” and initial showroom depreciation while still getting a car that is effectively in its first year of life.

Ready to make the switch? Buying second-hand through a novated lease can save you even more on GST and income tax. Check out our latest stock or get a quote today at WhipSmart.au.