Overview & Reviews

The Chevrolet Volt represents a voyage into uncharted waters for both General Motors and automakers in general. A so-called plug-in hybrid, the front-wheel-drive Volt is a four-door, four-seat hatchback that's motivated primarily by an electric motor good for about 40 miles of range. That's enough to get most people to work and back. Should you need to go farther, a gasoline-powered engine is aboard (it acts as a generator) to extend the car's range by as much as 300 miles and essentially turn the Volt into a regular hybrid.

Truly, the Volt represents a glimpse into the future of automotive propulsion. For those with a short commute, the concept makes a lot of sense, while the car's gasoline-powered engine gives it a notable range advantage over all-electric cars like Nissan's Leaf. Moreover, with potentially hefty government tax rebates plus a $5,000 price cut for 2014, a new Volt is more attainable than ever, with used values likely to drop accordingly. We encourage early adopters to give the innovative Volt a chance.

Current Chevrolet Volt
The Chevrolet Volt is essentially a plug-in hybrid, meaning it has the ability to run much faster and farther under electric power alone than a normal hybrid. In the Volt's case, this means up to 100 mph and anywhere from 25-50 miles without using a drop of gasoline.

Once you run out of battery juice, the gasoline-powered inline-4 engine kicks in, producing electricity for the motor and actually powering the wheels in some circumstances, stretching the Volt's range by as much as an additional 300 miles. A "Hold" feature lets you choose when to bring gas power online, allowing all-electric mode to be saved for opportune stretches.

The electric motor is rated at 149 horsepower (111 kilowatts) and 273 pound-feet of torque. Drive force is sent to the front wheels through a specialized planetary gearset.

Standard feature highlights include keyless ignition/entry, automatic climate control, a split-folding rear seatback, a six-speaker sound system and GM's MyLink system that includes Bluetooth streaming audio, voice controls and enhanced smartphone integration. Major options include low-emissions equipment so it can qualify for HOV lane access (certain states only), a rearview camera, leather upholstery, heated front seats, lane departure warning, a navigation system and a Bose sound system. Volt owners can monitor the car's status and set charging times through an online Web portal or a mobile phone app.

In our reviews, we've found that the Chevrolet Volt has satisfying zip at low speeds thanks to its electric motor, which offers abundant torque. Although the Volt corners surprisingly well due to its low center of gravity, the overall driving experience is as bland as one would expect from a car designed to maximize energy efficiency. But the Volt certainly isn't a laggard, and overall performance is similar to what you'd get from a normal four-cylinder-equipped family sedan. Acceleration is the same whether or not the gas engine is in use, but there is a noticeable (though not really objectionable) increase in noise.

Inside, the Chevy Volt features a unique dashboard layout that's part spaceship, part iPod -- and pretty darn cool. There's a high-tech gauge readout behind the steering wheel and a swoopy center stack that looks like an oversized high-end electronic device. Unfortunately, the touch-activated "buttons" can be difficult to pick out at a glance, and sometimes don't respond on first press. This is definitely an instance of form over function.

The rear seat is adequate for two average-sized adults, but there's no middle seat thanks to the T-shaped battery pack, which occupies this slot as well as part of the trunk. Cargo capacity is limited due to the Volt's rakish roof line and that hefty battery pack, though the rear seatbacks do fold down.

Used Chevrolet Volt Models
The Chevrolet Volt debuted for 2011. In this first model year it came standard with navigation and the Bose sound system; they became options the following year. Note that these early Volts had a potential battery fire issue after a particularly severe side crash. As such, you'll want to make sure any early 2011 Volt has received the needed fix.

Changes have been mostly minor since, though the 2011 and '12 Volts lack the optional low-emissions equipment and lane departure and collision warning systems found on the current model. Likewise, the "Hold" mode wasn't introduced until 2013.

User Reviews:

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  Love my Volt. Never kept a car this long before. - 2013 Chevrolet Volt
  By Anthony Florida - November 21 - 6:45 am

  I love cars and have a terrible new car addiction. Over the years I have had well over 20 cars in all different price ranges. I bought the Volt new in 2013 and still own it today, it has kept my interest longer than any other car I have had. I was looking for a 4 door hatchback/wagon that would be economical and I wanted the tax credit. After the tax credit, GM rebate and dealer discount I paid about $26,500 for one with leather, Bose and a somewhat worthless navigation system. The Navigation and poor user interface would be my biggest gripe about the car. I like the style, it drives really nice, rides good and is quiet. I love plugging in at home and not stopping for gas. Not sure I could go back to a gas only car. I bought the home charger and think that improves the experience 100%. Messing with the cord and slow charging is a PITA, get the fast charger. I had a few repairs, it had to be towed when it was newer because a battery control module was bad. All repairs were under warranty and havent had any issues the last 2-3 years.

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  Im 47 years old and this is my 77th car! Crazy! - 2016 Chevrolet Volt
  By David Marks - November 16 - 2:38 pm

  Yes. The title of the review is true. Im 47 years old and I have had 77 cars. My wife thinks Im crazy but I just love cars. I usually buy cars with great resale value and have been able to finance at very low rates over the last 10 years. Usually after a few years I owe less than what the car is worth so I can easily get a new car and keep my payment the same. I have had a ton of Hondas and Acuras over the years an I worked for Acura for a few years so I have been biased towards those brands. Mazda and Nissan are also very high on my preference list. I owned domestic vehicles back in the 80s( Mainly GM products) Actually never owned a domestic vehicle that was not GM. From 1990 to 2015 I drove mostly Japanese import cars. They were reliable , they had good resale and they got good gas mileage. Well about a month ago that all changed and I bought a 2016 newly designed Chevy Volt. I am one of the first people in our area to drive one and I think I am one of the first to write a review. This is actually the first review I have ever written but I am extremely excited about the car and I wanted to send this in. I bought the LT model with leather and heated seats. After the $7500 tax rebate my car payment is about the same as the car I traded in( 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek) My payment is about $390 a month or $13 a day. I used to spend about $8 a day on gas($2400 year) Since I got the Volt I have spent less than $30 on gas. It only costs $15 to fill it up too. I think I am going to save $200 a month on gas plus the annoyance of just going to the gas station. So yes, the car is very economical but that is just the beginning. The car is really fast compared to cars I have had before.( No, not as fast as the Tesla which I drove as well) Zero to 60 is impressive with the Volt but zero to 30 is even more impressive. The car is so much fun to drive and handles beautifully. It is definitely the quietest cat I ever had. I snore louder than this car. The Volt is super sharp too but not snobby. It is a fresh design inside and out and has every option you can ever want. I love Hondas because of their ergonomics but the Chevy Volt was built to fit the likes of the driver. Some cars are just built and then you must adjust to the car. The Volt feels right from the very first mile. I love driving the Volt and actually look for reasons to go out and drive it. I have not had a car that felt cool in a while. I did not think you could be cool and practical at the same time. I think GM has a real winner with this car and I was even thinking of investing in GM stock. A good friend of mine always would poke fun of me for not driving a car made in america. I called him the other day to tell him that I was driving a 2016 Chevy Volt and he was excited for me and a little envious. He wanted to buy one to but has a minivan instead because he has a big family. Ok I know it has only been a month or so but I am beyond impressed and I am looking forward to keeping this car for a while. I love the fact that I hardly ever need to put gas in the car and I also love the fact that I do not have range anxiety like on other plug in cars. After the first 50 or so miles the gas engine kicks in and I can go over 350 more miles. A lot of my friends thought I would get to 100 cars by the time I am 70. I think the Chevy Volt might put the breaks on all my car buying. It will be hard to find a comparable replacement .

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  Love being in my EV vehicle - 2016 Chevrolet Volt
  By John Mahaffey - September 15 - 7:24 am

  This is the car you want if you dont like to pay for gas yet you dont want to be completely dependent on electricity. I have only gone to the gas station once since I purchased the Chevy Volt. Since my last fill-up of gas I am at 250 mpg. My mpg since I got the car sits at 140 mpg. This is an extremely sporty car compared to the Prius. There is a lack of space in the rear seats but is surprisingly roomy in the front and has a decent amount of trunk space. You will be amazed at the amount of power/acceleration this EV has!! The best part of this car is the cost. With the Federal and State rebates, the hit to the pocket book is minimal.

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  Amazing technology for the money - 2016 Chevrolet Volt
  By Rand - June 21 - 6:49 pm

  i have wanted an electric vehicle for several years since I installed solar panels that could offset the cost of gasoline and to reduce pollution. I looked at the leaf and even tesla(way too expensive). The other EVs keep you tethered to a charging station for out of town trips. The second gen Chevy Volt finally had the electric range plus the gas engine backup for long distance travel, I needed so I took the plunge. With the tax credit and dealer discounts my fully loaded premier with both safety/confidence packages ended up costing $26,500 before tax and license. This car has the smoothest ride and is the most fun to drive Ive ever had. It gets 55 miles on a full electric charge and should go up on warmer weather. Im also seeing almost 50 mpg on gas but havent used much yet. The safety packages are worth it and have helped miss several potential accidents. Its very comfortable in the front and Im 5 11". The back is comfortable too but tight if you are tall but we usually only have two in the car. Plugging in using the 110 power cord works for me as I dont mind the overnight charging. Using the brake paddle on the steering wheel I can drive mostly with just one pedal. The infotainment and navigation work better than I expected and the touchscreen reminds me of my iPad in how well it responds. Cargo space is decently sized for a compact car. Great design and features at a price that rivals mostly inferior competitors. The quality of the build seems above average and is great entry into the electric car market with no worries about range.

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  Buy This Car - 2013 Chevrolet Volt
  By Dillon - June 16 - 4:46 pm

  This is a great car. I couldnt be happier with my purchase. Chevy really did a great job engineering this vehicle and they thought about every little detail. If youre looking for a Lexus then dont buy this car but for what you get in this price range its definitely the best buy. Its a really advanced car with a lot of features that make it a joy to drive. Everyone loves my car and theyre blown away by how well it drives, how nice it looks, and how quiet it is. The regenerative braking is one of my favorite features, youd be surprised how many extra miles you get just from recharging your batter whenever you slow down, come to a stop, or even let the car coast. This is a huge money saver and makes changing your break pads a very rare occasion.

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  Great commuter, fun - 2013 Chevrolet Volt
  By Dave Vollmer - February 5 - 3:41 am

  Great commuter, constant 50 mile summer range, 35 miles in winter, best 59.3 miles. Bought with 48k miles, now 64k, still less than 80 gallons of gas used, 200 mpg o/a. Overnight charging runs $0.75 per completely discharged battery (35-50 miles), gas ICE backup, 35 to 40 mpg. Nice looking, quick acceleration, low maintenance. No repair issues. Quiet.

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  My first electric car - 2016 Chevrolet Volt
  By Zacattack - November 7 - 10:47 am

  Just got the car yesterday, to soon to evaluate some of the questions. Very excited to see the economic savings. Will review in three to six months

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  Had it for 6 months now and love it - 2015 Chevrolet Volt
  By Jim H - July 10 - 2:35 am

  This is amazing. I have spent 23 dollars in gas for 6 months. I just went in for my service and free tire rotation. Great car fun to drive. Love not using gas. I drive 15 miles 1 way to work and another 15 miles back, and dont have to worry about running out of electric power.

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  Its a VOLT - 2013 Chevrolet Volt
  By gardwi - April 15 - 7:22 am

  Its electric

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  Amazing technology in a small package - 2013 Chevrolet Volt
  By Derek C. - December 26 - 4:11 pm

  The 2013 Chevy Volt is a small car with a big package! The interior is well made with many features. The drivetrain is the best in its class (PHEV). Its the only PHEV that can use full acceleration without the gas engine coming on until the battery is used up (avg 40 miles). Battery range is less in cold weather. Driving it is still enjoyable after 5 years of ownership and 70K miles. This is the most flexible EV on the road - 30-40 miles of all-electric range with a fully capable gas backup for unlimited travel without waiting for a charge - just fill up with gas in 3 minutes like everybody else and keep on driving!