Top 3 Electric Cars Under $45K – The electric car revolution in Australia is speeding up, and budget-friendly EVs are finally hitting the mainstream. With fuel prices still biting and state-level EV incentives making headlines, 2025 is shaping up to be the year more Aussies switch to electric — without breaking the bank. If you’re after an affordable, reliable and efficient EV under $45,000, we’ve done the homework for you. Here are the top 3 electric vehicles you should consider, ranked by auto experts and tailored for Aussie conditions.
1. BYD Dolphin Dynamic – Best Overall Electric Car Under $45K
The BYD Dolphin Dynamic has emerged as the surprise star of 2025’s affordable EV market. Priced at just $38,890 before on-road costs, this Chinese-made hatchback offers outstanding value without feeling like a budget compromise. It’s packed with tech, comfortable for daily commuting, and features a respectable 340km WLTP range — ideal for city drives and weekend escapes to places like the Hunter Valley or Yarra Ranges.
Why Aussies Love It
- Class-leading safety features, including 7 airbags and lane-keeping assist
- Generous cabin space with a 345-litre boot
- High-quality build with a 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen
- Eligible for EV rebates in NSW and QLD
The Dolphin isn’t just popular in Sydney and Melbourne’s inner suburbs — regional Aussies are embracing it too, thanks to its simplicity, reliable servicing options through Eagers Automotive, and cost-effective charging at home or at Woolworths/Chargefox networks.
2. MG4 Excite 51 – Best Value for Money in 2025
The MG4 Excite 51 has rapidly become one of Australia’s most in-demand EVs — and it’s easy to see why. Starting at just $39,990 drive-away, it combines sporty styling, intuitive handling and a solid 350km range, all under $40K. It’s a true all-rounder, equally suited to inner-city commutes and coastal road trips along the Great Ocean Road.
Top Features That Make It a Winner
- Rear-wheel drive layout for fun handling
- 7-year/unlimited-km warranty for peace of mind
- Fast-charging capability — 10% to 80% in 40 minutes
- 5-star ANCAP safety rating as of late 2024
With MG now having service centres in nearly every major Aussie city — including Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth — buyers don’t have to worry about support. It’s especially popular among first-time EV buyers, thanks to its simplicity and surprisingly premium feel.
Quick Spec Comparison: BYD Dolphin vs MG4 Excite
| Feature | BYD Dolphin Dynamic | MG4 Excite 51 |
|---|---|---|
| Price (before on-roads) | $38,890 | $39,990 |
| Range (WLTP) | 340km | 350km |
| Fast Charging | Yes (30%–80% in 30 mins) | Yes (10%–80% in 40 mins) |
| Boot Space | 345L | 363L |
| Warranty | 6 years / 150,000km | 7 years / unlimited km |
3. GWM Ora Standard Range – Most Stylish EV Under $45K
For buyers looking to stand out, the GWM Ora Standard Range (formerly Ora Good Cat) offers retro flair and modern tech at a sharp price — from $41,990 drive-away. It’s especially popular among younger Aussies and city drivers looking for something different from the sea of white SUVs.
Stylish but Still Practical
- Small footprint for easy parking in Sydney and inner Melbourne
- 5-star ANCAP safety rating
- 43kWh battery good for 310km real-world range
- Unique interior with digital twin displays
It’s a perfect fit for those commuting from suburbs like Newtown to Parramatta or Carlton to the CBD, and it’s even gaining traction in Gold Coast and Hobart thanks to its quirky design and small-size practicality.
Bonus: State-Based EV Incentives Still Active in 2025
Even as some government rebates phase out, most states still offer meaningful support for EV buyers in 2025:
- NSW: $3,000 rebate + stamp duty exemption for EVs under $68K
- QLD: Up to $6,000 rebate through the Zero Emission Vehicle Rebate Scheme
- SA: 3-year registration waiver + $3,000 rebate (until mid-2025)
Many of these models also qualify for reduced fringe benefits tax (FBT) if purchased via novated lease — great news for employees looking to cut costs while going green.
Which EV Under $45K Is Right for You?
Ultimately, each of these three electric cars has something unique to offer:
- BYD Dolphin: Best balance of price, tech and everyday usability
- MG4 Excite: The sportiest and most confident drive for the money
- GWM Ora: A stylish, head-turning EV that still delivers real-world range
With the average Aussie household spending over $3,000 a year on petrol, switching to any of these EVs could pay for itself within a few years — especially when combined with solar charging and night-rate electricity plans. And with over 800 public fast-charging stations now active across Australia, “range anxiety” is quickly becoming a thing of the past.
So if you’ve been waiting for the right time to plug in, 2025 might just be the year you join the EV movement — without going over budget.
