Chevrolet
Volt
Mitsubishi
i-MiEV
Chevrolet Volt vs Mitsubishi i-MiEV: 2016 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Chevrolet Volt comes out ahead of the Mitsubishi i-MiEV 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
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.
i-MiEV
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and highly dependent on purchase context and expectations. Among owners who purchased the vehicle used for a very low price (e.g., $6,100 USD for a 2012 model with 22,000 miles), it is viewed positively as a reliable, economical "running around town" car, perfect for short commutes, school runs, and local errands. These owners appreciate its minimal maintenance costs and suitability as a first car or secondary urban vehicle.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to distinguish between model years or trims. No specific "best" version is identified in the discussions.
Known issues
- ⚠Severely limited range, especially in cold weather: real-world range can drop to approximately 40 miles (64 km) in temperatures between 0-32°F (-18-0°C). Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Significant battery degradation: cited alongside the first-generation Nissan Leaf as an EV with notable battery degradation issues, attributed in part to its air-cooled battery pack. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Underpowered performance: described as sluggish, with poor acceleration; notably lost a drag race against a Smart ED. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Mitsubishi i-MiEV is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Chevrolet Volt, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Mitsubishi i-MiEV are a dealbreaker, 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 Mitsubishi i-MiEV?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Mitsubishi i-MiEV than the Chevrolet Volt. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Chevrolet Volt or the Mitsubishi i-MiEV?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Chevrolet Volt or the Mitsubishi i-MiEV?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Chevrolet Volt or the Mitsubishi i-MiEV?
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.