Quick Verdict
For readers seeking the longest EPA range per charge on a budget-friendly EV, the Tesla Model 3 offers the best balance with 321 mi EPA range at $36,990 starting MSRP, making it the top choice among the three for those who value range without compromising too much on price.
When choosing an electric vehicle for daily use, range becomes a critical factor for many buyers. This comparison focuses on how far each affordable EV can travel on a single charge.
Understanding which model offers the greatest range helps EV owners make informed decisions without compromising on cost or practicality.
Side-by-Side Snapshot
| Tool | Price | Free Plan | Verified |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tesla Model 3 | $36,990 starting MSRP (RWD) — 321 mi EPA range | N/A — vehicle purchase | 2026-09-16 |
| Nissan Leaf | $29,990 starting MSRP (2026 S+ FWD) — 303 mi EPA range | N/A — vehicle purchase | 2026-09-16 |
| Hyundai Ioniq 5 | $35,000 starting MSRP (2026 SE Standard Range) — 245 mi EPA range | N/A — vehicle purchase | 2026-09-16 |
Where These Numbers Come From
The prices and plan details in the table above are what we recorded for each option, last checked on . Each section below links to the official site. Prices change often, so confirm the current price there before you decide.
Tesla Model 3
Verified 2026-09-16Overview
The Tesla Model 3 is an electric vehicle (EV) model offering a starting MSRP of $36,990 for the rear-wheel drive (RWD) configuration with a 321-mile EPA estimated range. It is designed for those seeking a practical and efficient electric car with strong performance and technology features.
- Rear-wheel drive (RWD) starting at $36,990 MSRP
- 321-mile EPA range
- Vehicle purchase option for free plan
Best for budget-conscious EV buyers looking for a practical vehicle with a good balance of range and affordability.
- Competitive starting price for an EV
- EPA range of 321 miles
- Vehicle purchase option is not available for free plan
Nissan Leaf
Verified 2026-09-16Overview
The Nissan Leaf is an electric vehicle model with a starting MSRP of $29,990 (2026 S+ FWD) and an EPA range of 303 miles. It is designed for those seeking a practical, affordable electric vehicle with a focus on ownership costs.
- EPA range of 303 miles
- Starting MSRP of $29,990 (2:026 S+ FWD)
- Vehicle purchase option
Best for budget-conscious EV buyers looking for a practical vehicle with a reasonable range and low initial cost.
- Affordable starting price for an EV
- Good EPA range for daily driving
- No free plan available for vehicle purchase
Hyundai Ioniq 5
Verified 2026-09-16Overview
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is an electric vehicle model with a starting MSRP of $35,000 for the 2026 SE Standard Range version, offering a 245-mile EPA range. It is designed for buyers seeking a practical electric vehicle with a focus on affordability and efficiency.
- 245-mile EPA range for daily driving needs
- Starting MSRP of $35,000 for the 2026 SE Standard Range
- Vehicle purchase option available
Budget-conscious EV buyers looking for a practical vehicle with a decent range and competitive starting price.
- Affordable entry price for electric vehicles
- Good EPA range for everyday use
- No free plan available for vehicle purchase
What to Weigh Before You Choose
How pricing is structured
Pricing structures vary significantly among electric vehicles, affecting total cost of ownership. Check whether the starting price includes all features or if additional costs like optional packages or taxes apply.
EPA range specifications
EPA range ratings indicate how far an electric vehicle can travel on a single charge under standard conditions. Verify that the range figure matches the specific vehicle model and year to avoid misleading comparisons.
Charging infrastructure access
Access to charging networks impacts how frequently and easily you can recharge your vehicle. Ensure the vehicle's compatibility with available chargers and consider membership costs for premium charging services.
Real-world driving conditions
Actual driving conditions can affect how efficiently an electric vehicle uses energy. Factors like climate, terrain, and driving habits influence the vehicle's performance and range in practice.
Battery technology and capacity
Battery size and technology directly determine the vehicle's energy storage and overall range. Higher capacity batteries generally provide longer range but may increase the vehicle's weight and cost.
Run the numbers for your own driving
Enter your mileage and electricity rate in the EV vs Gas Cost Calculator to see a yearly estimate.
Our Pick and Who It Fits
The Tesla Model 3 is best for readers prioritizing the highest EPA range (321 mi) without significant price premium, while the Nissan Leaf suits those seeking the most affordable entry price ($29,990) with a slightly lower range (303 mi). The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is ideal for budget-conscious buyers who need a compact EV with 245 mi EPA range but may prioritize cost savings over range.
Common Questions
Which EV has the highest range according to the given data?
The Tesla Model 3 has the highest range among the listed vehicles.
What is the range of the Tesla Model 3?
The Tesla Model 3 has a range of 350 miles on a single charge.
What is the range of the Nissan Leaf?
The Nissan Leaf has a range of 250 miles on a single charge.
What is the range of the Hyundai Ioniq 5?
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 has a range of 300 miles on a single charge.
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Pricing shown was accurate at the time of publishing and may change — verify on the official site.