Why 2026 Is the Best Year to Buy a Used EV in Ireland
Used electric vehicle prices in Ireland have fallen significantly since their 2022 peak, and 2026 is shaping up to be the best year yet to make the switch. Used EVs are now priced around €7,000 less than comparable diesel cars on average — and with battery technology from 2021 onwards offering 400km or more of real-world range, the case for going electric has never been stronger.
At Kennedy Auto Sourcing, we source premium used EVs across Ireland and the UK. Here’s our honest guide to the best used electric cars available under €35,000 in Ireland right now.
1. Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD — The Benchmark
Typical price: €24,000–€32,000 | Range: 580km WLTP
The Tesla Model 3 Long Range remains the defining used EV purchase in Ireland. The Supercharger network alone makes it the most practical choice for long-distance driving — no other used EV under €35k comes close for charging speed and coverage. Dual Motor AWD, over-the-air software updates, and a minimalist interior that still feels premium make this the car to beat.
What to check: Battery health report, software version, any accident history. Look for 2021 onwards for the refreshed hardware.
2. Tesla Model S Long Range — Premium at a Used Price
Typical price: €30,000–€45,000 | Range: 600km+ WLTP
If you want the ultimate used EV experience under €35k, a 2019–2020 Model S Long Range is within reach. Supercharger access, genuine 500km+ real-world range, and a presence on the road that no other car in this price bracket can match. Running costs are minimal and the over-the-air update system keeps the car feeling current.
What to check: Battery health is critical — request a full diagnostic. Look for examples with under 150,000km.
3. Hyundai Ioniq 5 — The Best All-Rounder
Typical price: €28,000–€35,000 | Range: 480km WLTP
The Ioniq 5 is one of the most complete used EVs on the market. Ultra-fast 800V charging architecture (up to 220kW), a genuinely spacious interior, and vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology that lets you power devices from the car. The interior design is genuinely distinctive. 2022 examples are hitting the used market now at strong value.
What to check: Confirm latest software updates applied. Check battery health via dealer diagnostic.
4. Volkswagen ID.4 — The Practical Family EV
Typical price: €24,000–€32,000 | Range: 520km WLTP
The ID.4 is a proper family SUV with genuine EV credentials. Post-2022 examples resolved the early software issues that affected first-year cars. The 77kWh Pro Performance with 204hp RWD is the sweet spot — comfortable, practical, and well-suited to Irish roads. Strong dealer network for servicing.
What to check: Confirm software is fully updated. Avoid early 2021 production cars if possible.
5. MG4 Long Range — Outstanding Value
Typical price: €20,000–€26,000 | Range: 450km WLTP
The MG4 Long Range is arguably the best value used EV available in Ireland under €25k. 135kW DC charging, 400km+ real-world range, and rear-wheel drive dynamics that make it genuinely enjoyable to drive. Early software could be laggy — confirm OTA updates have been applied.
What to check: Software updates, battery health report, charging history.
Key Things to Check Before Buying Any Used EV
- Battery health report — The single most important check on any used EV. A battery degraded from 75kWh to 65kWh has lost 13% range and is materially worth less. Always request a diagnostic report before agreeing a price.
- Remaining warranty — Most manufacturers offer an 8-year / 160,000km battery warranty that transfers to second owners. A 2021 car bought today still has three or more years of coverage remaining.
- Charging history — High frequency of DC rapid charging can accelerate battery degradation over time. Check the car’s charging profile if available.
- Software version — Particularly relevant on Volkswagen Group and MG vehicles. Outdated software can cause range estimation and charging issues that are easily resolved with an update.
- Home charging setup — SEAI still offer up to €300 towards a smart home charger installation, even for used EV buyers. Worth factoring into your budget.
How Kennedy Auto Sourcing Can Help
Finding the right used EV at the right price takes time, knowledge, and access to stock that never makes it to the public market. At Kennedy Auto Sourcing, we source premium used electric vehicles across Ireland and the UK — checking battery health, verifying history, and negotiating on your behalf.
Whether you’re looking for a Tesla Model 3, a Hyundai Ioniq 5, or something more specific, we can find it. Our sourcing service is transparent, straightforward, and built around getting you the right car at the right price.
Get in touch to start a sourcing enquiry — no obligation, just a straight conversation about what you’re looking for.