Chevrolet
Volt
Honda
Clarity
Chevrolet Volt vs Honda Clarity: 2017 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Honda Clarity comes out ahead of the Chevrolet Volt on fuel economy and 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
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.
Clarity
Overall
Mixed sentiment with a strong positive bias among long-term owners who appreciate the vehicle's core value proposition. The Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) variant is consistently praised for its exceptional all-electric range (frequently cited as best-in-class at the time), refined and quiet cabin, comfortable ride quality attributed to a sophisticated multi-link rear suspension, and high-quality interior materials that exceed typical Honda expectations, offering an Acura-like feel. Owners report high satisfaction with the ability to conduct daily commutes entirely on electricity while having a gasoline engine for longer trips.
Best version to buy
The Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) variant is overwhelmingly the version discussed and recommended by owners. The Fuel Cell (FCV) and Battery Electric (BEV) variants are mentioned only in the context of the model's history and discontinuation, with no substantive owner feedback provided in the data.
Known issues
- ⚠Air Conditioning System Failures: Recurrent and costly failures of both the evaporator and condenser components, described as a "ticking timebomb" in used vehicles. Repairs reported in the $2,500 USD range. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Traction Battery Failure: Complete failure of the main hybrid battery pack preventing the vehicle from starting or running, requiring replacement. One report of failure at approximately 65,000 miles. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Infotainment Software Bugs: Issues with Android Auto voice navigation cutting out when music is playing; auto day/night mode for the display not functioning; system requiring resets. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Honda Clarity is the better choice for most buyers.
It has better fuel economy on its best-equipped version than the Chevrolet Volt, based on the data above. If power matters more to you than running costs, the Chevrolet Volt is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Chevrolet Volt or the Honda Clarity?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Chevrolet Volt and the Honda Clarity. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Chevrolet Volt or the Honda Clarity?
The Honda Clarity seats more passengers than the Chevrolet Volt on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Chevrolet Volt is classed as a Hatchback, the Honda Clarity as a Sedan.
Which has better fuel economy, the Chevrolet Volt or the Honda Clarity?
The Honda Clarity is more fuel-efficient on paper: 5.6 L/100km combined versus 6.3 L/100km for the Chevrolet Volt, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Chevrolet Volt or the Honda Clarity?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Honda Clarity than the Chevrolet Volt. See the known issues comparison above.