More electric vehicle (EV) choices means more buzz and reviews that hook you until you see the prices. But wait, there are some affordable EVs hitting the market.
The 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV, which was introduced last year, is bigger than the Bolt by a good six inches and has a starting price under $30,000. For that price, you get a nicely equipped, small crossover with that extra space, paying dividends for passengers in the back seat. It offers extra legroom compared to the smaller Bolt.
Spend a bit extra for the Premier model and enjoy heated and ventilated leather seats and a smooth, heated leather steering wheel. The interior quality has also improved from previous economy-minded or small Chevrolet crossovers from just a few years ago.
Some EVs I have driven lately are like rocket ships on wheels. The Bolt EUV is more in line with normal car acceleration. While there’s no slouch when you hit the gas pedal, the small Chevy will not scare you or your passengers like some others. With the touch of a button, the Bolt EUV can drive with one pedal most of the time.
The suspension is surprisingly good at providing a pleasant ride, but it gets a bit upset on larger bumps. The road and wind noise at highway speed is in check. A nifty system — the optional Super Cruise — will handle the driving on some highways, hands free. Range is about average for the class and Chevy will cover standard installation of a level-two charging outlet, making charging at home easier.
The new Bolt EUV has a look that stands out even in the EV market. It sports a more futuristic looking front end without the normal grill that usually takes up the entire front of cars. The sleek and slender LED lighting gives this EV an expressive style in today’s market.
The Bolt EUV’s extra length gives this Chevy an improved look over the regular Bolt. The Bolt EUV can now be dressed up with the Redline factory appearance package that adds red stripes on the wheels, outside mirrors and even some colorful badges standout.
Cost: $31,700; as tested $37,885
MPG: 125 MPGe City and 104 MPGe Highway. I managed 4.1mi/kWh in 272 miles of mixed driving.
Options: $2,495 sun and sound package; $2,200 super cruise package; $495 redline appearance package; $995 destination charge
Safety: HD surround vision; rear park assist; Chevy safety assist; front pedestrian braking; lane keep assist/lane departure warning; following distance indicator; forward collision alert; pedestrian friendly alert; lane change alert with side blind zone alert; tire fill alert; rear camera mirror; cross traffic alert; super cruise; enhanced automatic emergency braking.
Things to know: The larger Chevy Bolt EUV adds more space and a more manageable price tag. This small crossover is easy to live with and its improved technology makes this a solid choice in today’s market.
Pros:
- A cost effective way to buy an EV crossover
- Technology like Super Cruise in an affordable vehicle
- Qualifies for the tax break
Cons:
- Slower charging times at D.C. charging station than some rivals
- Not as spacious as some of the competitors
- No AWD version is available
