Chevrolet’s new Bolt EUV offers a practical and efficient electric driving experience with the added bonus of a spacious interior. Unlike the Bolt EV, which is a hatchback, the Bolt EUV is a compact SUV with a longer wheelbase, offering more passenger and cargo space. Additionally, the Bolt EUV features advanced technology and a range of up to 247 miles on a single charge, making it an attractive option for those seeking a reliable and sustainable mode of transportation.
EXTERIOR/INTERIOR
With its bold and distinctive design, the sleek and sporty exterior of the Bolt EUV Premier is guaranteed to capture attention.Paired with the Redline appearance package, the Silver Flare Metallic paint job adds an extra level of flair to the Chevrolet Bolt EUV Premier. Additionally, the black wheels with red accents and black interior with red stitching give the car a more personalized and athletic look. For those who want to add a touch of customization to their Bolt EUV, the Redline package is a $495 option.
Among its various options, the Bolt EUV presents the Super Cruise package at a cost of $2,200. A more sophisticated take on conventional cruise control, Super Cruise enables hands-free driving on select highways. Through the utilization of a combination of sensors, cameras, and mapping data, the car can maintain its position in its lane and distance from other vehicles. While the driver can remove their hands from the wheel, they are still required to remain alert to their surroundings and be prepared to take over if necessary. Additionally, the Super Cruise package provides several safety features such as automatic emergency braking and forward collision alert.
Imagine yourself cruising down the road with the wind blowing through your hair and the sun shining down on you. That’s the feeling you get with the Sun & Sound package for the Chevrolet Bolt EUV. This upgrade, priced at $2,495, boasts a panoramic sunroof that spans over the front and rear seats, showering the interior with natural light and creating a sense of roominess. But wait, there’s more! The package also includes a top-of-the-line Bose audio system, featuring seven speakers, a subwoofer, and amplifier, delivering a sound quality that will take your breath away. And the best part? You can control it all through the 8-inch touchscreen display, complete with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
PERFORMANCE
Boasting a 200-hp electric motor and front-wheel drive, the Bolt EUV Premier delivers lively acceleration, thanks to the immediate power delivery inherent to electric motors. While it’s not the fastest electric SUV out there, it still manages to reach 60 mph in a decent 6.8 seconds. What’s more, the regenerative braking system enables one-pedal driving while also recapturing energy to extend the Bolt EUV’s range. As for ride comfort, even on bumpy roads, it’s agreeable, and while the handling may not be mind-blowing, it’s competent nonetheless. The driving range of the Bolt EUV is a notable feature, as it can reach up to 247 miles. However, my personal experience yielded a range of around 190 miles from the 65.0-kWh battery pack. This is still a noteworthy achievement.
When it comes to charging, the Bolt EUV offers several options, including Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast charging stations. With a Level 1 station, the Bolt EUV can add about 4 miles of range per hour of charging, while a Level 2 station can provide a full charge from empty in roughly 7 hours, charging at a rate of up to 11 kW. For those in a hurry, the Bolt EUV can charge at up to 55 kW with a DC fast charging station, delivering up to 100 miles of range in just 30 minutes. However, it’s worth noting that the DC fast charging rate of 55 kW is similar to that of the 2019 Bolt, and other electric vehicles like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 have demonstrated even faster charging rates.
COMPETITION
Electric vehicles are taking the world by storm, but not all models are created equal. The 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV and EUV are still using dated hardware, while the Nissan Leaf is an even older and less trendy option. If you’re looking for something more impressive, the Ford Mustang Mach-E has a sleeker design, powerful engine, and all-wheel drive. However, if you’re willing to pay more for the latest technology, the Tesla Model 3 compact sedan and Model Y compact crossover have more advanced features and longer ranges. For those who value style and performance, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 leads the pack with superior charging capabilities, more power, and enhanced handling.
With its budget-friendly price and the Super Cruise option, the Bolt EV and EUV possess a clear advantage. Chevrolet’s 2023 price cut of $6,300 now makes the Bolt EUV the second most affordable electric vehicle on the American market, with only the Bolt EV priced lower at $26,595. Even the fully-loaded Bolt EUV Premier, which is the car reviewed in this article, seems like a bargain in today’s market. The Bolt EUV is also making advanced driver-assistance technology accessible to more drivers.
For just $2,200, GM’s optional Super Cruise system enables supervised hands-free driving on more than 400,000 miles of American and Canadian highways. Keep in mind that an OnStar subscription (currently $25 per month) will be required after three years of using Super Cruise. In contrast, Tesla’s Full Self-Driving Capability is much more expensive and less reliable, and it still requires the driver to keep their hands on the wheel.
Reviewed in our test drive, the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Premier has an MSRP of $31,700, with a total of $37,885 after considering the available options.
Don’t forget to check out our video review for the Bolt EUV by clicking on this link.
Photo Credit: Copyright 2023 Angel Mosqueda / Car Fanatics Blog
