DETROIT -- Mitsubishi's 2016 iMiev will remain the cheapest electric car on the market when it goes on sale in the U.S. next month.

The tiny four-seater starts at $22,995, the same as the previous model year. With a $7,500 federal tax credit, the price drops to $15,495.

Standard features include heated front seats, remote keyless entry and an eight-year, 100,000-mile warranty on the battery pack.

The iMiev was introduced in 2011. Two years later, Mitsubishi dropped its price by $5,000 to ensure it would be cheaper than newer entries like the electric Chevrolet Spark.

But the car hasn't been a big seller. Mitsubishi sold 196 iMievs in the U.S. last year, down 81 per cent from the previous year. By comparison, Nissan sold more than 30,000 electric Leaf sedans.