The best used electric cars with up to 16,000 euros in government support
With the discount on used vehicles, the new subsidies could reach 16,000 euros. We searched for used electric cars with a range of over 400 km and did the calculations.
The new subsidies for purchasing electric cars announced by the Government still don’t have fully finalized rules, but they are expected to significantly impact the used car market in 2027. This is especially true because, for the first time, they will also apply to used or second-hand vehicles.
Since this measure is intended for families with lower incomes, the Government has included used electric cars up to five years old among the eligible vehicles. It is precisely in this market that we can find cars with greater range, more space, and greater versatility at prices much lower than those of new electric cars.
In this buying guide, we searched for the best options to maximize a 80% subsidy on the car’s price, excluding VAT, up to 16,000 euros, with a car available for trade-in.
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Government offers subsidies of up to 16,000 euros for buying an electric car. How does it work?
We prioritized models with at least 400 km of certified range (WLTP) and the ability to replace a gasoline car as the family’s only vehicle.
Thus, we visited PiscaPisca.pt to find used electric cars under five years old with a maximum price of 24,600 euros. Why this amount? It is precisely the figure that combines the maximum subsidy of 16,000 euros with the lowest possible financial effort on our part: 8,600 euros.
This means that those eligible for this subsidy will pay 8,600 euros for a used electric car that costs 24,600 euros on the market. Of course, if the car’s price is lower, the subsidy amount also decreases. But the final cost for the buyer will still be lower, as shown in these examples:
It’s important to note, however, that this is a theoretical exercise based on the announced conditions. The government has not yet approved the final regulations or clarified all the calculation rules, particularly regarding VAT treatment for used vehicles.
Volkswagen ID.3 Pro 58 kWh
The Volkswagen ID.3 is one of the most well-balanced options in this lineup. Despite its compact exterior dimensions, it offers plenty of interior space, especially for passengers in the rear seats.
With a 58 kWh battery, it comes in Pro versions with 145 horsepower and Pro Performance versions with 204 horsepower, both delivering certified ranges of over 400 km. This is more than sufficient for daily use and allows for longer trips without significant limitations.
The quality of some materials and the ergonomics of the touch controls remain its weakest aspects. But aside from that, the ID.3 is a comfortable, spacious, and easy-to-drive vehicle.
We found units starting at 22,450 euros, meaning the price could range from approximately 7,850 euros up to our ceiling of 8,600 euros.
Renault Megane E-Tech EV60
The Renault Megane E-Tech is one of the most well-rounded options on this list. It features a modern and well-built interior, a good driving position, and quite competent road performance. It doesn’t offer as much rear space as the ID.3, but it’s still suitable for family use.
It claims an approved range of 450 km, but only with the 60 kWh battery. It’s available with engines producing 130 hp and 218 hp. For those who frequently use public charging stations, we recommend looking for versions equipped with a 22 kW AC charger.
On Pisca Pisca.pt, we found models with prices starting below 23,000 euros, which translates to purchase prices starting around 8,000 euros for buyers.
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CUPRA Born 58 kWh
The CUPRA Born shares the platform and much of its mechanical components with the Volkswagen ID.3, but it has a distinctly different personality.
The design is more expressive, and the chassis tuning aims to provide a more engaging driving experience. Nevertheless, it retains almost all of the ID.3’s advantages in terms of space and versatility.
The 58 kWh version has 204 horsepower and claims a range of over 420 km. The interior also uses too many tactile controls, but it appears slightly more sporty than that of the Volkswagen.
Examples of CUPRA’s first electric car can be found for around 23,250 euros, or just over 8,100 euros with government subsidies.
Kia e-Niro 64 kWh
It may not be the most visually appealing car on this list, but few electric vehicles can combine space, efficiency, and ease of use as well as the Kia e-Niro.
The first generation, equipped with a 64 kWh battery and a 204 hp motor, boasts a range of up to 455 km. Its low fuel consumption allows users to make the most of this range even on longer trips.
The second generation of the e-Niro is also beginning to compete in these metrics. It features a more original and distinctive design, but it appears more divisive. The power output and battery capacity remain the same as those of the first generation, with slightly improved range.
Both generations share the advantage of being very practical, offering ample trunk space and an interior that retains physical controls for the main functions.
On PiscaPisca.pt, the lowest prices for the second-generation South Korean model are already close to our limit of 24,600 euros plus a payment of 8,600 euros. But it remains an option that must be considered. As an alternative, there’s the Hyundai Kauai, which shares its technical platform.
Tesla Model 3 RWD 60 kWh
It’s one of the top choices among used electric vehicles, and there are many good reasons for that. The Tesla Model 3 RWD offers an approved range of nearly 500 km, very low energy consumption, excellent performance, and access to the Supercharger network.
It also provides ample space for a family and two trunks. The minimalist interior continues to divide opinions. Almost all functions are concentrated on the central screen, and the build quality of the early units is far from perfect.
Given the government’s stringent eligibility criteria—which apply for up to five years—Model 3 vehicles priced below the 24,600 euro limit are rare. That said, this subsidy could bring a Tesla Model 3 to under 8,600 euros near home.
Opel Astra Electric 54 kWh
The Opel Astra Electric is a newer and more conventional alternative to some of the models on this list. For those who don’t prefer overly minimalist interiors, it might be exactly what they’re looking for.
Equipped with a 54 kWh battery and a 156 hp engine, it claims certified range of over 400 km.
The quality of the interior, comfort, and good driving position are some of its strengths. On the downside, the rear seat space is only average, falling short of industry standards. It is also available as a van.
The prices are still high, and only a few units fit within these budgets. Alternatively, if you prefer a more eye-catching style and a futuristic interior, you can choose the Peugeot E-308, which shares the same platform and mechanics. But it exceeds the 24,600 euro limit.
Volvo XC40 Recharge Plus
Those looking for an SUV with a higher driving position and a spacious family interior will find the Volvo XC40 Recharge to be exactly what they need.
The front-wheel-drive electric version has 231 horsepower and claims a range of around 425 km. Comfort, interior quality, and safety features are some of its strongest advantages.
The downside is its higher fuel consumption compared to almost all other models in this lineup, as well as charging capabilities that are less competitive than those of some rivals.
It’s also not easy to find models for less than 24,600 euros or even 8,600 euros with government support.
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And when will the subsidies take effect?
We remind you once again that this buying guide is merely a theoretical exercise. Other models may be added to the list when the program launches in 2027, assuming their prices continue to drop.
The government has not yet announced the final regulations for this subsidy program for low-income families. Some requirements are already known, as we’ve mentioned, but there are others that require further clarification, such as how the subsidy for used cars sold under the special VAT regime will be calculated. This is an issue that could significantly affect the figures presented.
And as we always recommend when buying a used electric vehicle, it’s not enough to just look at the price. It’s essential to check the battery’s condition, the maintenance history, and any remaining warranties.