Chevrolet
Bolt EV
Owner report available
Chevrolet
Volt
Owner report available
Chevrolet Bolt EV vs Chevrolet Volt
The short answer
Based on available data, the Chevrolet Bolt EV comes out ahead of the Chevrolet Volt on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Bolt EV
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment among owners, centered on exceptional value, low operating costs, and reliable daily practicality. The vehicle is consistently praised as an affordable, long-range EV that dramatically reduces fuel and maintenance expenses compared to internal combustion engine vehicles. Owners report high satisfaction with its acceleration, quiet and smooth driving experience, and sufficient range for daily commuting and regional trips.
Best version to buy
Post-recall models with new battery packs. For specific model years, the 2020+ models are noted for an improved DC fast charging curve.
Known issues
- Slow DC Fast Charging (DCFC) Speed: Maximum rate of approximately 55 kW, with some mentions of 70 kW; significantly slower than newer EVs, making long trips less convenient. Frequency: very frequent.
- Historical Battery Fire Recall: Affected primarily 2017-2019 model years; required full battery replacement under manufacturer program. Frequency: very frequent (as a historical context point).
- Dealership Service Quality: Inconsistent service experience; many dealers have only one EV-trained technician, leading to long wait times and potential lack of courtesy vehicles. Frequency: recurrent.
Volt
Overall
Mixed to highly positive sentiment, heavily dependent on model year and specific ownership experience. The vehicle is widely praised for its innovative plug-in hybrid design, offering substantial all-electric range (reported 40-60 miles for Gen 2, 35-43 miles for Gen 1) for daily commuting, with a gasoline range extender eliminating long-distance anxiety. Owners frequently describe it as a practical, low-cost commuter with minimal fuel consumption (reports of 1.5L/100km or ~8000 miles on a single 9-gallon tank are cited) and extremely low maintenance requirements when operating primarily on electricity.
Best version to buy
Gen 2 (2016-2019) Premier/LTZ trim. This generation is noted for its improved electric range (53 miles EPA), more refined infotainment system with available Android Auto/Apple CarPlay (after software update), and generally better interior materials.
Known issues
- Shift-to-Park failure: Micro-switch in the shifter fails, preventing the car from recognizing it is in Park, causing inability to turn off the vehicle. Frequency: very frequent.
- Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) failure: Causes stalling, reduced propulsion, inability to start, or failure to restart. Parts are frequently on extended backorder. Frequency: very frequent.
- 12V accessory battery problems: Parasitic drain or failure causes a multitude of error messages (Service High Voltage Charging System, Service Stabilitrak, Service Power Steering, Theft Deterrent) and complete no-start conditions.
The verdict
The Chevrolet Bolt EV is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Chevrolet Volt, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Chevrolet Volt is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Common problems by model year
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Chevrolet Bolt EV or the Chevrolet Volt?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Chevrolet Bolt EV and the Chevrolet Volt. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Chevrolet Bolt EV or the Chevrolet Volt?
The Chevrolet Bolt EV seats more passengers than the Chevrolet Volt on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Chevrolet Bolt EV is classed as a Hatchback, the Chevrolet Volt as a Hatchback.
Which has better fuel economy, the Chevrolet Bolt EV or the Chevrolet Volt?
The EPA rates the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV at 120 MPGe combined and the 2019 Chevrolet Volt at 42 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Chevrolet Bolt EV or the Chevrolet Volt?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.