Do you agree with our pick? Let us know in the comments and check out our full write-up right here for more details: www.edmunds.com/top-rated/electric-car/
I've driven a Bolt since 2020. The Chevy Bolt is NOT a winter car. Considerable range reduction (down to 175 mile range at best) with terrible tires for traction. I'm looking elsewhere for my next EV.
Edmunds - NOPE. the Chevy BOLT is a Flop. its a Compliance car built on a GAS car Platform and is 80% made by LG. gm did very little Enginering . Chevy BOLT is too SLOW, too HEAVY, its Really INEFFICIENT , its too SLOW Charging , too short RANGE, its lacking in Acceleration, lacking in REGEN , its Lacking in RELIABILITY , and Drurbility. its got NAV & INFO from the 1990's , its got PISS poor Routing to the BEST charging locations. its Lacking a good Thermal system , BMS , and HVAC. the INTERIOR is UNINSPIRING and one word " plastic" Interior. the Battery pack is OUTDATED and no even ULTIUM Arctecture. and gm is still using OUTDATED pouch cell Li battery .
Edmunds - the Chevy BOLT seats are CRAP , and you would NOT want to do LONG road trips in the BOLT. the Charging speed is too SLOW, and it has a PISS poor Charging network. Chevy BOLT is an OVERPRICED city car, with GOLF CART performance.
The Tesla Fanboys really don't like your decision. I wonder how many of them actually believe the crap they post after: The Hyperloop [a hundred year old thought experiment that would liquidfy the passengers in turns, if the vacuum could be maintained], The Boring Company [Tesla's driven by humans in a drainage pipe], The Tesla Android [man in spandex suit wearing a Robot head]. Full Autopilot in two years [first claimed almost a decade ago], Obscene Repair Costs for Tesla's, etc. etc... Of course the fact that GM is an American car company, so people who only buy Japanese cars and claim that "all American cars are Vegas" is also a strike against it in the minds of some "Liberals". For example: I recently heard someone say they bought a Prius over the Bolt because "American cars cost too much for repairs and are completely unreliable" and she believes that replacing the traction battery only costs $300 on a Prius...
My spouse and I have driven Chevy Bolt EVs (2017 & 2019 models) for more than six years now. They are our first EVs and have been the most trouble-free cars we've ever had. Easy to drive, easy to park, one pedal driving. No more "service" stations, oil changes, or smog checks. We typically get about 260 miles of range and charge weekly for free at work. Why would we ever consider buying a car with a tailpipe again?
I just love my 2023 Bolt⚡Driving conservatively it gets just over 360mi per charge! $7500 off an already low $26,500 MSRP. Carpool lane access. Extremely low maintenance. Quick acceleration. Loaded with tech\features standard. Its the absolute perfect commuter car!
No one ever seems to really "get" the Bolt for what it is, which is a super efficient affordable EV which does everything you ask of it. Best vehicle purchase I've ever made. Plus it's a hoot to drive.
It may be a geeky-looking car, but it aces its mission and purpose at a very good price and some additional incentives. The best priced commuter EV, even if it has a slow charging rate.
I've proudly owned my 2019 Bolt Premier since brand new. Whatever Bolt haters say, this is the best car in the decades of my entire driving career. Fast, reliable, stylish, ridiculously cheap to operate. Love every bit of it.
I tried to buy a Bolt EUV, after meeting with 4 dealers, they all wanted 2k above msrp. As soon as Tesla lowered their price in January, I bought a model 3 with my phone in minutes . I couldn’t be happier with my purchase.
So to avoid paying a $2K premium to a local business, you paid a $20K premium to a large corporation, and bought a car with bells and whistles you dint need?!
@@pranavpadgaonkar3824 “large corporation” is a bit misleading. Tesla still operates with a start-up mentality where as Chevy has been slow to even get on to the EV wave since the initial Bolt. The ceo of Tesla has a very lean and efficient mindset ingrained into the DNA of the company and the product and it’s popularity are a reflection of that. Until dealerships stop GUTTING consumers on mrsp tesla will continue to rightly eat their lunch. That being said. The bolt is a fantastic value with the credit if you’re able to grab one.
@@CoreanKat And the "slow" Chevy beat the "lean and efficient" Tesla to the market to launch the first practical mass-market electric car. Meanwhile, 7 years after Elon promised a $35K EV, we're still waiting. If a company that was valued at $1T last year and makes millions of cars worldwide is not a large corp., I am not sure what is!
@CoreanKatMusic Of course, those car dealers selling above MSRP suck. However, over the past two years, Tesla has raised prices multiple times and it doesn't seem to be any better. (Model Y was only $40k when it was first released) Also, Tesla is definitely a large corporation. Its market cap is almost 9 times that of GM - second largest automaker in the US. (452.50 billion vs 51.88 billion)
I have a funny feeling the same thing might happen to me. I love the Bolt EV but refuse to pay over sticker or play hide and seek with a sketchy salesman. I also think that guy (Prana) comment underneath is a bit silly. Both the Bolt EV and the Tesla Model 3 are great cars but they are not in the same class. In addition, I live on a hill, and AWD would have huge benefits in winter. In addition, Tesla has an "Off Menu" AWD non-performance Model 3 for $50k that you can order if you visit a retail store (not online). This is of course, all before rebates.
Have 23k on my 2021 Bolt base model. No Problems. 300+ miles per charge in the summer with 55mph driving and no ac. 220 in the winter with using the heater. Its 2.5 sec 30-50 makes passing fun.
@@ticenits1926 not when you drive on 55mph roads. $8 of electricity to fill my tank and get 220 to 300+ miles is. As is no sales tax and no maintenance for 100K
We could have bought a VW ID.4, Tesla Model 3, Hyundai Kona Electric or the Chevy Bolt EUV. After looking at all of them we chose the 2023 Bolt EUV Premiere Redline Edition with all options and picked it up Jan 2. No other EV even came close as far as a combination of the features, comfort, range, ease of driving and price. All the others were above the price of the Bolt and base models. The only compromise is charging time but it really isn't a concern because this is our commuting and local vehicle. So far we are charging it with the level 1 charger at the 12 amp setting which is completely acceptable. We are installing the outlet for level 2 charging which GM is paying for and the same charger that is included with the car can also charge at level 2. No other EV company is doing this only GM and it is worth between $600 and $1000 (done by a licensed electrician and is permitted and inspected). We love the Bolt and it rightly deserves to Car of the Year!
the Chevy BOLT is a Cheap PLASTIC city car , nothing more. its SLOW charging , makes it impractical for Road Trips. and the seats are just CRAP. Nothing on the market can COMPARE to the 2023 Tesla model Y , made in AUSTIN , TX and uses 4680 Cells, Structural battery pack and Underbody Gigacasting.
@@markplott4820 The Bolt isn't a cheap plastic car but a marvel of engineering and dollar for dollar beats any overpriced Tesla! The seats aren't 'crap' and can match Tesla's and I say that having sat in a Tesla. Yes things do compare to Tesla in 2023 without any doubt no matter what your personal opinion. Edmund's is totally correct in choosing the Bolt EV of the Year for 2023!
@@chrismaxny4066 I think both euv and Y are great products. I’d take the Y, it is pricier, you’re basically paying for extra range, heat pump, twice the acceleration, comfort (I find the white seats in the 3/Y to be the most comfortable of any new car under 50k) the technology and engineering, and most importantly the super charging infrastructure. I still think the euv is a fantastic value. And better for a in town daily from a cost perspective. I have a 3 performance but have a bolt on order for my second car.
I've had my Bolt two years and still love it. I do wish it had a longer, wider wheel base, but then it would cost more. Today, used Bolts are insanely cheap, even with a new battery.
Bolt EUV Premier is the *BEST* value EV on the market right now with wireless Android auto/carplay, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, jaw dropping amount of rear legroom, super cruise (truly hands free driving unlike Tesla's fsd scam), better real life range than Tesla, and excellent design with no-nonsense interior at $29K (with the tax credit of $7500)? That's a deal and a half. The only downside is if you take frequent road trips where the slower charging and smaller trunk space will become an issue. However if you're moving then cargo space with folded rear seats of 56 cubic feet is only rivaled by Ioniq 5 with it's 59 cubic feet which is not even in same price range as Bolt EUV.
Oh yes, it's not as fun as model 3 in terms of sporty driving but it's sufficiently zippy compared to ICE cars. It's the best pragmatic EV which punches way above its weight class with some comfort and quality of life features as well.
Also people complaining about other EV charging networks, worry not, supercharger network is opening to all EVs very very soon. There is a magic dock for the CCS adapter at a supercharger station in California. That's no longer a plus point for teslas.
I own an EUV and have been driving the Bolt since 2017. Nothing but good things however the dealer markups are real stupid. 2 things to consider when getting a Bolt EV or EUV: 1) dealer markups - there is no excuse for this practice. 2) trunk space. I love my car, but can not do longer weekend trips with family. The trunk is too small for a family of 4's luggage. 3) fast charging speed. Instead of 20 minutes to charge 80% like some EVs by other brands, it will take longer. However I charge 100% at home for my commute so it is a non-factor.
I’ve had a 2023 Bolt EV 2LT for a little over a month now, and I really love it. It’s not my first EV (I’ve had a Tesla 3 for a couple of years now), but it’s a very good one. Comes with some wonderful options (heated seats and steering wheel, integrated charging pad, wireless Carplay, rear seat USB-C ports). The one big drawback is the battery itself; the car is wasteful in terms of energy; it doesn’t hold it’s charge nearly as well as the Tesla. Where a Tesla will use 1 mile of charge for 1 mile of driving, the Bolt will often use somewhere around 3 miles in 1 mile, depending. The Bolt’s charge is very sensitive to various factors while driving, thus the charge depletes much faster than a Tesla. So, the 259 miles on 1 charge is more around 220 on 1 charge. That said, most EVs fail to get the quoted max distance on 1 charge. The other big drawback is the lane keep assist, which really doesn’t work, so I don’t use it. But, I would still recommend this car. It’s a good size, good price (even better after incentives), and a pleasure to drive.
I've had a 2017 Bolt I bought in 2020 with 16k miles and have loved it. So much so that I just bought the same car as you, a 2023 Bolt 2LT with 4k miles for 23k. This award further confirms my choice. As for the battery inefficiency, I haven't had that experience with my 2017. (I lucked out with the recall and got the new battery in the current Bolts) I've never owned a Tesla but I find the charge only depletes faster on the Bolt with prolonged freeway driving over 70mph, but then isn't that also true for the Tesla? As for the lane assist, I don't plan on using it much as it isn't quite ready for prime time yet. But the upgraded suspension, new powered drivers seat and new tech are awesome. My one beef is that Chevy didn't include Homelink for the garage door which I have on my 2011 Prius. Such a simple thing I don't understand why?
Very true about the Homelink. Tesla doesn’t come with anything either. Guess it’s something some automakers are choosing to leave out for some reason. Tesla’s garage door opener is ridiculously expensive too. One other major drawback for me with the Bolt is the lack of a frunk. This is an issue with most EVs. I use the frunk on the Tesla all the time, and just don’t understand why so many other EVs don’t have one, or have frunks that are ridiculously tiny. Not a big deal, but still would be nice to have. Considering how incredibly strong the lane keep assist is on the Tesla, it is bothersome for me to have such an inexplicably inefficient lane keep assist on the Bolt. It’s weird. Even more, it’s an option on the Bolt that affects the price to a certain degree, and the fact that it doesn’t work feels like a bit of a rip off. However, I love the turbo button (I guess it’s called). Really adds good torque, and I love the regen paddle, which works 100 times better than the Honda Accord regen paddles. I wish Teslas had regen paddles. I do really like that the Bolt is built higher off the ground. That worked great when I had an issue with my back. There was no way I could get in and out of the Tesla. I was overjoyed we had the Bolt. lol! I do appreciate having Carplay over Tesla’s Bluetooth. It’s much easier and nicer to use. At the end of the day, there is no perfect car. We just have to get what works best for us, and brings us the most joy without breaking the bank. I really wanted the Bolt, and knew it would be the best secondary EV for us, and it really is. I definitely prefer the Tesla overall, but again, there are features that make the Bolt a nice choice among EVs. I think it’s cuter than other small EVs like the Hyundai Kona. Best of all, it’s so much more affordable than pretty much all other EVs. I can totally understand getting another Bolt. I would definitely consider it myself. Such a shame that Chevy discontinued them. What a slap in the face! Apparently, they’re completely revamping and rebranding it. Ugh! Whatever. It’s generally fine as it is.
Sorry to hear that some Chevrolet dealers are selling above MSRP. I purchased mine in 2021 just before the battery recall. I looked at other EVs but waited out the EUV thinking that I would receive a vehicle which was well sorted because two giant corporations had their reputations on the line. In July my EUV came through.
They are fully discontinued already. GM said so on Monday morning 4-24-23. We unfortunately have a 2020 and no recall fix or idea when it will happen in 2023. Cat Lady CEO is just talking about their " Plan " to do something in the future with EVs ....... I hope nobody gets into their EVs and gets ignored and passed over exactly like all of us others out there. IF you are in an accident ..... Your car will be totaled because there are no parts to fix it. The Equinox EV is a sham. They are only selling TOP TRIM LEVEL ones for the first year. That is IF you can get one in a year. The one thing Chevy are good at is NOT delivering EVs. If they made the order Non Refundable there would be less than a thousand. Also the Equinox they PLAN on making at the bottom level trims are far more expensive than a Bolt and will have over 50 miles less range and weaker motor. FACTS. If you don't spend over 40 thousand dollars you will be screwed and road trips won't be an option. Front wheel drive will make your tires last 10,000 to 20,000 miles from now on. You can't tow any weight with front wheel drive without a front motor and transmission to counter weight it. Tires will not grip in dry conditions.... Just spin. Chevy is ready for bankruptcy and deserves it fully. Stealerships will be the next to go with the Bolt and Bolt EUV. None of it will be missed at all.
I want a bolt myself as a around town and commute from wrk people always crying about how high car's are you pic a affordable one they crying wtf 🤦 it has range better than these 50-80 thousand car's and you can get super cruise sunroof all that for under 40 I'm in
I love how those with no experience with a car belittle it as if they know anything :) The Bolt's not trying to be anything other than what it is. Most Bolt owners love their cars: ask them; the ones who don't like the range and/or slower charging sell them and lose little money, if any. The order list is still months long, so there is strong demand for them. Bolts are a great, efficient people movers for those who don't need a car to prop up their fragile egos.
@Mark Plott -- It's great that you love your Teslas. If you haven't owned a Bolt, you don't know anything about them; I like that the Bolt's not trying to be a Tesla.
@@Davran2742 _ I recently rented a 2023 Bolt from HERTZ, not a good car . its Overpriced even as a City car. its NOT as Light & Nimble as my M3P, the Tesla has more cargo , has a Frunk , and the Stock Performance is a Great canyon carver. with Stock mods from up+ , it can be a Track car and Embarrass Mustangs, Hellcats & Demons.
The diff looks even more dramatic if you look at $ after incentives, (ex.-$9500) $20,500 for a bolt versus $30,500 for tesla, Etc then add proportionally lower sales tax, registration and insurance
@@pranavpadgaonkar3824 most people don't pay in cash, so if anything he's paying an extra $100 per month for a car with a vastly superior charging network, build quality, curb appeal, and proven track record ( hint: no spontaneous combustion )
@pranavpadgaonkar3824 more likely $7.5K fed + $2K state if you make under $200K in California (that's not rich in Cal). (Wrong topic) $10K more +more tax & insurance. Go for it.
We ordered ours July 5th and it has still not yet been made. The ordering process with Chevy has been extremely disappointing. People will have other experiences, and that is in fact the most disappointing factor about it. Chevy does not care about when I ordered the car. People get orders fulfilled through some complex system of allocations and so on, but this is barely, if at all, related to when Chevy's customers order a Chevy car.
It's not a great system for sure - I'd recommend finding one on the ground. I discovered that filling out an order with the dealer is meaningless until they have one coming, then they can adjust the one coming to match your order. Odds are the order hasn't even been placed.
Dealer BS is maddening, MANDATORY add-ons, $1K digital license plate, $1600 paint protection BS, expensive lojack type device. It would be really nice to purchase direct like Tesla, but I held out, got a Bolt 2LT off the lot for under $30K with no add-ons, best deal. +$10K to bypass BS was not an option, no matter how great base T M3 is. End result $20.5K vs $30.5K+ + tax... hopefully.
Problems with all these EVs are the greedy dealerships - who want ridiculous markup $$$ above MSRP (like the $40K demanded for the F-150 Lightning). Doesn't matter how good the car is - just don't like being ripped off by these vultures .. So good luck on getting that EV on the "cheaps".
Dealer BS is maddening, MANDATORY add-ons, $1K digital license plate, $1600 paint protection BS, expensive lojack type device. It would be really nice to purchase direct like Tesla, but I held out, got a Bolt 2LT off the lot for under $30K with no add-ons, best deal. +$10K to bypass BS was not an option, no matter how great base T M3 is. End result $20.5K vs $30.5K+ + tax... hopefully.
@@toyotaprius79 Edmunds tries to present us with totally false promises of good cars in every category and aspect. They just want to mock us all. Useless. If i want to be ridiculed i watch politics or watch/read mainstream media like NBC or New York Times.
@@toyotaprius79 I don't care what the automakers do, just in their products. Presenting the worst of the bunch as "top pick" just shows to me that they Edmunds is not even a kindergarten show. They are not even capable of binding their own shoes.
The original Bolt sadly. That's what happens in an obsessive competitive market, the voltage of cells are pushed to extremes just to eek out more capacity.
What about the ride ? We have the 2020 Bolt, very nice in town and will get very bumpy on rough roads. Very loud on the freeway. Since Tesla dropped priced there is no way I’d pick a Bolt over an ID4/EV6/M3
Even IF T3 is 2x as good as Bolt, +$10k makes it out of the question, it's a vehicle, not a house. Dealer nonsense makes it challenging, I held ou for no markup & no addons. I got a 23 bolt EV lt2, I still think my old Fiat 500e is a great car. A vast majority of my drive time is in heavy traffic to work, or wide open to home. I beat a model 3 plaid in heavy traffic in my Fiat.
Well...between choosing the CVRP and a CAV decal, I would take the decal. It makes sense to be to discontinue the CVRP because middle-class people can afford an EV, such that any incentives should pivot closer to working class that need the rebate more.
Well that didn’t feel genuine… you picked apart every other option and discussed pros. But with the winner, you just say well it’s the cheapest so it wins?
@@davidhollenshead4892 - Actually TESLA is Price PARITY with GAS cars Already, In Oregon & some states the Tesla model 3 is $27k after Incentives, let that SINK in. and TESLA is not even the MOST Expensive, the Loooocid motors, GMC Hummer EV, the EQS and MBW i7 are both MORE Expensive.
Be careful with Chevy, my 2020 Bolt EV Premier has a bad battery that has already had a module fail and kill the car! Fortunately my house didn’t burn down and they changed the module but now they say mine was a good one , even though it failed, and only needed a final software update! So now I have a dangerous car that I can’t trust! So I leave it outside in snow and rain until it disintegrates! I hope Dodge does the Charger EV soon as the Mustang has a tub type body like the Jeep Wrangler that would trip you getting out! Everyone has forgotten customer service and maybe building a usable car!
cliff notes for video: Model 3 and Taycan are the cars to get in this category but if you are broke, get the Bolt EV instead. Seriously Edmunds?!?! You put the 3 and Taycan in the same comparison category as the Bolt... like comparing regular beef to Kobe!
Even Steve Wozniak thinks that his Bolt is better than his Model S. Why is that??? [ Hint, he evaluates technology and understands what most people need it for]
The bolt is on the top rated list, yet it's being canceled because it catches fire and it has poor quality interior. And most people hate the way it looks.
Not at all why it is being cancelled. It is being cancelled because Chevy is moving to a new battery platform (Ultium). This has been well known and easily searchable for ages...
And GM changed their mind. I have a 2022 Bolt and got an email from GM that stated, "You Spoke, we listened", the Bolt is back. It will have the new battery platform.@@desiv1170
That honor goes to Consumer Reports as they considered the Honda Passport a best buy and the Isuzu Rodeo a worse buy. [the Passport was a re-badged Rodeo with different colored paint, interior fabric and brand of tires...]
I can accept if you name a Lucid as your top pick, or the Rivian R1S, even the Ford F150 Lightning and - accepting that US boys must always have the "biggest" - i can even acept the GMC Hummer EV as the your top pick. But if you select the worst of all EVs available in the US as your personal top pick i believe you do not have all screws torqued down to specs in your head.
I really like mine - hard to beat the value for money and the size is perfect for zipping around. I mean, of course it's not as nice as the ones that cost 2 or 3 times more.
To be meaningful to the market, a "car of the year" should at least be accessible to a majority of the market, that is, below the average price in the market. None of the cars you mentioned fit that basic criterion. Alternately, it should "move" the whole market, like the original Model S did. None of the cars you listed do that either. They're really poor candidates whichever way you look at it.
@@pranavpadgaonkar3824 I would say you are right if there would be even one viable candidate. I don‘t see one. Either they are cheap and (fossil) dirty or they are dirty cheap and unusable.
Because they picked the best commuter EV on the market??? Comparing the Bolt to Teslas that cost twice to six times as much is comparing apples to oranges... I love my Vanagon Westy camper van but wouldn't claim that it was the best half ton van on the market when it was made as the Chevy Astro was a more reliable and durable product at a lower cost. So I wouldn't even make the comparison...
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Do you agree with our pick? Let us know in the comments and check out our full write-up right here for more details: www.edmunds.com/top-rated/electric-car/
I've driven a Bolt since 2020. The Chevy Bolt is NOT a winter car. Considerable range reduction (down to 175 mile range at best) with terrible tires for traction. I'm looking elsewhere for my next EV.
Edmunds - NOPE.
the Chevy BOLT is a Flop. its a Compliance car built on a GAS car Platform and is 80% made by LG.
gm did very little Enginering .
Chevy BOLT is too SLOW, too HEAVY, its Really INEFFICIENT , its too SLOW Charging , too short RANGE, its lacking in Acceleration, lacking in REGEN , its Lacking in RELIABILITY , and Drurbility.
its got NAV & INFO from the 1990's , its got PISS poor Routing to the BEST charging locations.
its Lacking a good Thermal system , BMS , and HVAC.
the INTERIOR is UNINSPIRING and one word " plastic" Interior.
the Battery pack is OUTDATED and no even ULTIUM Arctecture.
and gm is still using OUTDATED pouch cell Li battery .
Edmunds - the Chevy BOLT seats are CRAP , and you would NOT want to do LONG road trips in the BOLT.
the Charging speed is too SLOW, and it has a PISS poor Charging network.
Chevy BOLT is an OVERPRICED city car, with GOLF CART performance.
Good call - The Bolt EV is the best value for money car, irrespective of engine type, on the US market right now!
The Tesla Fanboys really don't like your decision. I wonder how many of them actually believe the crap they post after:
The Hyperloop [a hundred year old thought experiment that would liquidfy the passengers in turns, if the vacuum could be maintained],
The Boring Company [Tesla's driven by humans in a drainage pipe],
The Tesla Android [man in spandex suit wearing a Robot head].
Full Autopilot in two years [first claimed almost a decade ago], Obscene Repair Costs for Tesla's, etc. etc...
Of course the fact that GM is an American car company, so people who only buy Japanese cars and claim that "all American cars are Vegas" is also a strike against it in the minds of some "Liberals". For example: I recently heard someone say they bought a Prius over the Bolt because "American cars cost too much for repairs and are completely unreliable" and she believes that replacing the traction battery only costs $300 on a Prius...
'23 owner here. My car has made V8 SUV fans at work shout obscenities . Both at how quick it is, and how much less I pay for "fuel"
My spouse and I have driven Chevy Bolt EVs (2017 & 2019 models) for more than six years now. They are our first EVs and have been the most trouble-free cars we've ever had. Easy to drive, easy to park, one pedal driving. No more "service" stations, oil changes, or smog checks. We typically get about 260 miles of range and charge weekly for free at work. Why would we ever consider buying a car with a tailpipe again?
Fun. Soul. Experience.
@@CoreanKatEV's are plenty fun, coming from a previously manual-only driver.
Love my 2023 Bolt. No issues, great car. No maintenance except for tire rotation.
I just love my 2023 Bolt⚡Driving conservatively it gets just over 360mi per charge! $7500 off an already low $26,500 MSRP. Carpool lane access. Extremely low maintenance. Quick acceleration. Loaded with tech\features standard. Its the absolute perfect commuter car!
No one ever seems to really "get" the Bolt for what it is, which is a super efficient affordable EV which does everything you ask of it. Best vehicle purchase I've ever made. Plus it's a hoot to drive.
Exactly right! The most underratted EV on the market.
It's a great all around EV
The 2023 Bolt has a much-improved battery, it is an overlooked EV!
Couldn’t agree more. We LOVE ours!
It may be a geeky-looking car, but it aces its mission and purpose at a very good price and some additional incentives. The best priced commuter EV, even if it has a slow charging rate.
I've proudly owned my 2019 Bolt Premier since brand new. Whatever Bolt haters say, this is the best car in the decades of my entire driving career. Fast, reliable, stylish, ridiculously cheap to operate. Love every bit of it.
Time tested 17-23
It is good-looking, anyone can call anything ugly they want but that doesn't make it true
I tried to buy a Bolt EUV, after meeting with 4 dealers, they all wanted 2k above msrp. As soon as Tesla lowered their price in January, I bought a model 3 with my phone in minutes . I couldn’t be happier with my purchase.
So to avoid paying a $2K premium to a local business, you paid a $20K premium to a large corporation, and bought a car with bells and whistles you dint need?!
@@pranavpadgaonkar3824 “large corporation” is a bit misleading.
Tesla still operates with a start-up mentality where as Chevy has been slow to even get on to the EV wave since the initial Bolt.
The ceo of Tesla has a very lean and efficient mindset ingrained into the DNA of the company and the product and it’s popularity are a reflection of that. Until dealerships stop GUTTING consumers on mrsp tesla will continue to rightly eat their lunch.
That being said. The bolt is a fantastic value with the credit if you’re able to grab one.
@@CoreanKat And the "slow" Chevy beat the "lean and efficient" Tesla to the market to launch the first practical mass-market electric car. Meanwhile, 7 years after Elon promised a $35K EV, we're still waiting.
If a company that was valued at $1T last year and makes millions of cars worldwide is not a large corp., I am not sure what is!
@CoreanKatMusic Of course, those car dealers selling above MSRP suck. However, over the past two years, Tesla has raised prices multiple times and it doesn't seem to be any better. (Model Y was only $40k when it was first released) Also, Tesla is definitely a large corporation. Its market cap is almost 9 times that of GM - second largest automaker in the US. (452.50 billion vs 51.88 billion)
I have a funny feeling the same thing might happen to me. I love the Bolt EV but refuse to pay over sticker or play hide and seek with a sketchy salesman. I also think that guy (Prana) comment underneath is a bit silly. Both the Bolt EV and the Tesla Model 3 are great cars but they are not in the same class. In addition, I live on a hill, and AWD would have huge benefits in winter. In addition, Tesla has an "Off Menu" AWD non-performance Model 3 for $50k that you can order if you visit a retail store (not online). This is of course, all before rebates.
Have 23k on my 2021 Bolt base model.
No Problems.
300+ miles per charge in the summer with 55mph driving and no ac.
220 in the winter with using the heater.
Its 2.5 sec 30-50 makes passing fun.
Driving slow being a nuisance on the road with no climate control is not exactly a selling point
@@ticenits1926 not when you drive on 55mph roads. $8 of electricity to fill my tank and get 220 to 300+ miles is. As is no sales tax and no maintenance for 100K
@@michaelhogan6770 heck why not stick to 35mph roads?
@@ticenits1926 ?
I drive on the 65mph roads also, and I think its great that none of my $ is going to nations that hate us and caused 9/11
@@ticenits1926 Why? I drive the speed limit.
Don't you?
We could have bought a VW ID.4, Tesla Model 3, Hyundai Kona Electric or the Chevy Bolt EUV. After looking at all of them we chose the 2023 Bolt EUV Premiere Redline Edition with all options and picked it up Jan 2. No other EV even came close as far as a combination of the features, comfort, range, ease of driving and price. All the others were above the price of the Bolt and base models. The only compromise is charging time but it really isn't a concern because this is our commuting and local vehicle. So far we are charging it with the level 1 charger at the 12 amp setting which is completely acceptable. We are installing the outlet for level 2 charging which GM is paying for and the same charger that is included with the car can also charge at level 2. No other EV company is doing this only GM and it is worth between $600 and $1000 (done by a licensed electrician and is permitted and inspected). We love the Bolt and it rightly deserves to Car of the Year!
the Chevy BOLT is a Cheap PLASTIC city car , nothing more.
its SLOW charging , makes it impractical for Road Trips.
and the seats are just CRAP.
Nothing on the market can COMPARE to the 2023 Tesla model Y , made in AUSTIN , TX and uses 4680 Cells, Structural battery pack and Underbody Gigacasting.
@@markplott4820 The Bolt isn't a cheap plastic car but a marvel of engineering and dollar for dollar beats any overpriced Tesla! The seats aren't 'crap' and can match Tesla's and I say that having sat in a Tesla. Yes things do compare to Tesla in 2023 without any doubt no matter what your personal opinion. Edmund's is totally correct in choosing the Bolt EV of the Year for 2023!
@@chrismaxny4066 - Watch MUNRO teardown of Chevy BOLT , its Garbage.
RWD mod 3 seats are BETTER.
is only car MUNRO will ever Road Trip in.
@@markplott4820 Yes I have watched Munro's latest assessment of the Bolt and he praised the car! The video you refer to is an older one.
@@chrismaxny4066 I think both euv and Y are great products. I’d take the Y, it is pricier, you’re basically paying for extra range, heat pump, twice the acceleration, comfort (I find the white seats in the 3/Y to be the most comfortable of any new car under 50k) the technology and engineering, and most importantly the super charging infrastructure. I still think the euv is a fantastic value. And better for a in town daily from a cost perspective.
I have a 3 performance but have a bolt on order for my second car.
I've had my Bolt two years and still love it.
I do wish it had a longer, wider wheel base, but then it would cost more.
Today, used Bolts are insanely cheap, even with a new battery.
love my bolt, it has better range than my SR+ Model 3.
@T R good luck. Been gas free since 2012 (Nissan leaf) and never looked back.
Bolt EUV Premier is the *BEST* value EV on the market right now with wireless Android auto/carplay, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, jaw dropping amount of rear legroom, super cruise (truly hands free driving unlike Tesla's fsd scam), better real life range than Tesla, and excellent design with no-nonsense interior at $29K (with the tax credit of $7500)? That's a deal and a half. The only downside is if you take frequent road trips where the slower charging and smaller trunk space will become an issue. However if you're moving then cargo space with folded rear seats of 56 cubic feet is only rivaled by Ioniq 5 with it's 59 cubic feet which is not even in same price range as Bolt EUV.
Oh yes, it's not as fun as model 3 in terms of sporty driving but it's sufficiently zippy compared to ICE cars. It's the best pragmatic EV which punches way above its weight class with some comfort and quality of life features as well.
Also people complaining about other EV charging networks, worry not, supercharger network is opening to all EVs very very soon. There is a magic dock for the CCS adapter at a supercharger station in California. That's no longer a plus point for teslas.
I own an EUV and have been driving the Bolt since 2017. Nothing but good things however the dealer markups are real stupid. 2 things to consider when getting a Bolt EV or EUV: 1) dealer markups - there is no excuse for this practice. 2) trunk space. I love my car, but can not do longer weekend trips with family. The trunk is too small for a family of 4's luggage. 3) fast charging speed. Instead of 20 minutes to charge 80% like some EVs by other brands, it will take longer. However I charge 100% at home for my commute so it is a non-factor.
I’ve had a 2023 Bolt EV 2LT for a little over a month now, and I really love it. It’s not my first EV (I’ve had a Tesla 3 for a couple of years now), but it’s a very good one. Comes with some wonderful options (heated seats and steering wheel, integrated charging pad, wireless Carplay, rear seat USB-C ports).
The one big drawback is the battery itself; the car is wasteful in terms of energy; it doesn’t hold it’s charge nearly as well as the Tesla. Where a Tesla will use 1 mile of charge for 1 mile of driving, the Bolt will often use somewhere around 3 miles in 1 mile, depending. The Bolt’s charge is very sensitive to various factors while driving, thus the charge depletes much faster than a Tesla. So, the 259 miles on 1 charge is more around 220 on 1 charge. That said, most EVs fail to get the quoted max distance on 1 charge.
The other big drawback is the lane keep assist, which really doesn’t work, so I don’t use it. But, I would still recommend this car. It’s a good size, good price (even better after incentives), and a pleasure to drive.
I've had a 2017 Bolt I bought in 2020 with 16k miles and have loved it. So much so that I just bought the same car as you, a 2023 Bolt 2LT with 4k miles for 23k. This award further confirms my choice. As for the battery inefficiency, I haven't had that experience with my 2017. (I lucked out with the recall and got the new battery in the current Bolts) I've never owned a Tesla but I find the charge only depletes faster on the Bolt with prolonged freeway driving over 70mph, but then isn't that also true for the Tesla? As for the lane assist, I don't plan on using it much as it isn't quite ready for prime time yet. But the upgraded suspension, new powered drivers seat and new tech are awesome. My one beef is that Chevy didn't include Homelink for the garage door which I have on my 2011 Prius. Such a simple thing I don't understand why?
Very true about the Homelink. Tesla doesn’t come with anything either. Guess it’s something some automakers are choosing to leave out for some reason. Tesla’s garage door opener is ridiculously expensive too.
One other major drawback for me with the Bolt is the lack of a frunk. This is an issue with most EVs. I use the frunk on the Tesla all the time, and just don’t understand why so many other EVs don’t have one, or have frunks that are ridiculously tiny. Not a big deal, but still would be nice to have.
Considering how incredibly strong the lane keep assist is on the Tesla, it is bothersome for me to have such an inexplicably inefficient lane keep assist on the Bolt. It’s weird. Even more, it’s an option on the Bolt that affects the price to a certain degree, and the fact that it doesn’t work feels like a bit of a rip off. However, I love the turbo button (I guess it’s called). Really adds good torque, and I love the regen paddle, which works 100 times better than the Honda Accord regen paddles. I wish Teslas had regen paddles.
I do really like that the Bolt is built higher off the ground. That worked great when I had an issue with my back. There was no way I could get in and out of the Tesla. I was overjoyed we had the Bolt. lol!
I do appreciate having Carplay over Tesla’s Bluetooth. It’s much easier and nicer to use.
At the end of the day, there is no perfect car. We just have to get what works best for us, and brings us the most joy without breaking the bank. I really wanted the Bolt, and knew it would be the best secondary EV for us, and it really is. I definitely prefer the Tesla overall, but again, there are features that make the Bolt a nice choice among EVs. I think it’s cuter than other small EVs like the Hyundai Kona. Best of all, it’s so much more affordable than pretty much all other EVs. I can totally understand getting another Bolt. I would definitely consider it myself. Such a shame that Chevy discontinued them. What a slap in the face! Apparently, they’re completely revamping and rebranding it. Ugh! Whatever. It’s generally fine as it is.
Don't believe the guess-o-meter
Sorry to hear that some Chevrolet dealers are selling above MSRP. I purchased mine in 2021 just before the battery recall. I looked at other EVs but waited out the EUV thinking that I would receive a vehicle which was well sorted because two giant corporations had their reputations on the line. In July my EUV came through.
They are fully discontinued already. GM said so on Monday morning 4-24-23. We unfortunately have a 2020 and no recall fix or idea when it will happen in 2023. Cat Lady CEO is just talking about their " Plan " to do something in the future with EVs ....... I hope nobody gets into their EVs and gets ignored and passed over exactly like all of us others out there. IF you are in an accident ..... Your car will be totaled because there are no parts to fix it. The Equinox EV is a sham. They are only selling TOP TRIM LEVEL ones for the first year. That is IF you can get one in a year. The one thing Chevy are good at is NOT delivering EVs. If they made the order Non Refundable there would be less than a thousand. Also the Equinox they PLAN on making at the bottom level trims are far more expensive than a Bolt and will have over 50 miles less range and weaker motor. FACTS. If you don't spend over 40 thousand dollars you will be screwed and road trips won't be an option. Front wheel drive will make your tires last 10,000 to 20,000 miles from now on. You can't tow any weight with front wheel drive without a front motor and transmission to counter weight it. Tires will not grip in dry conditions.... Just spin. Chevy is ready for bankruptcy and deserves it fully. Stealerships will be the next to go with the Bolt and Bolt EUV. None of it will be missed at all.
I want a bolt myself as a around town and commute from wrk people always crying about how high car's are you pic a affordable one they crying wtf 🤦 it has range better than these 50-80 thousand car's and you can get super cruise sunroof all that for under 40 I'm in
I love how those with no experience with a car belittle it as if they know anything :) The Bolt's not trying to be anything other than what it is. Most Bolt owners love their cars: ask them; the ones who don't like the range and/or slower charging sell them and lose little money, if any. The order list is still months long, so there is strong demand for them. Bolts are a great, efficient people movers for those who don't need a car to prop up their fragile egos.
Chevy BOLT is an OVERPRICED city car w/ PISS poor range & Efficiency.
@Mark Plott -- I bet you don't have one, and have no idea what you're talking about :)
@@Davran2742 - I own 4 TESLA 2010 Roadster SPORT, 2021 Tesla PLAID, 2020 mod 3 , 2021 mod Y . BEST cars I have ever owned.
@Mark Plott -- It's great that you love your Teslas. If you haven't owned a Bolt, you don't know anything about them; I like that the Bolt's not trying to be a Tesla.
@@Davran2742 _ I recently rented a 2023 Bolt from HERTZ, not a good car .
its Overpriced even as a City car.
its NOT as Light & Nimble as my M3P, the Tesla has more cargo , has a Frunk , and the Stock Performance is a Great canyon carver.
with Stock mods from up+ , it can be a Track car and Embarrass Mustangs, Hellcats & Demons.
The diff looks even more dramatic if you look at $ after incentives, (ex.-$9500) $20,500 for a bolt versus $30,500 for tesla, Etc then add proportionally lower sales tax, registration and insurance
The Bolt EUV has great torc as well!
Go Bolt!
ironically, the low price is perhaps the main reason chevy decided to stop making the bolt. that and the upgraded technology of the ultium battery.
GM changed their mind and will make the Bolt with the ultium, battery pack.
I like the bolt, I test drove it last year, but I’m leaning toward the Model 3.
Are you leaning towards the M3, or towards a Bolt EV + $15K cash? :-)
Compare replacement part prices
@@pranavpadgaonkar3824 most people don't pay in cash, so if anything he's paying an extra $100 per month for a car with a vastly superior charging network, build quality, curb appeal, and proven track record ( hint: no spontaneous combustion )
@pranavpadgaonkar3824 more likely $7.5K fed + $2K state if you make under $200K in California (that's not rich in Cal). (Wrong topic) $10K more +more tax & insurance. Go for it.
Equinox Ev is next level.
We ordered ours July 5th and it has still not yet been made. The ordering process with Chevy has been extremely disappointing. People will have other experiences, and that is in fact the most disappointing factor about it. Chevy does not care about when I ordered the car. People get orders fulfilled through some complex system of allocations and so on, but this is barely, if at all, related to when Chevy's customers order a Chevy car.
It's not a great system for sure - I'd recommend finding one on the ground. I discovered that filling out an order with the dealer is meaningless until they have one coming, then they can adjust the one coming to match your order. Odds are the order hasn't even been placed.
Patience, my friend. It's worth the wait.
Dealer BS is maddening, MANDATORY add-ons, $1K digital license plate, $1600 paint protection BS, expensive lojack type device. It would be really nice to purchase direct like Tesla, but I held out, got a Bolt 2LT off the lot for under $30K with no add-ons, best deal. +$10K to bypass BS was not an option, no matter how great base T M3 is. End result $20.5K vs $30.5K+ + tax... hopefully.
Problems with all these EVs are the greedy dealerships - who want ridiculous markup $$$ above MSRP (like the $40K demanded for the F-150 Lightning). Doesn't matter how good the car is - just don't like being ripped off by these vultures .. So good luck on getting that EV on the "cheaps".
Dealer BS is maddening, MANDATORY add-ons, $1K digital license plate, $1600 paint protection BS, expensive lojack type device. It would be really nice to purchase direct like Tesla, but I held out, got a Bolt 2LT off the lot for under $30K with no add-ons, best deal. +$10K to bypass BS was not an option, no matter how great base T M3 is. End result $20.5K vs $30.5K+ + tax... hopefully.
And the winner is…
Sticker price 🎉
Yes. They are just useless. Sad.
The lowest is the best.
But every automaker is fixated on what's most profitable short term
@@wolfgangpreier9160 uselessly.. what?
@@toyotaprius79 Edmunds tries to present us with totally false promises of good cars in every category and aspect. They just want to mock us all.
Useless.
If i want to be ridiculed i watch politics or watch/read mainstream media like NBC or New York Times.
@@toyotaprius79 I don't care what the automakers do, just in their products.
Presenting the worst of the bunch as "top pick" just shows to me that they Edmunds is not even a kindergarten show. They are not even capable of binding their own shoes.
Surprised you didn’t mention the ongoing battery recall issue with the Bolt. That issue alone should have dropped it from your list.
The original Bolt sadly.
That's what happens in an obsessive competitive market, the voltage of cells are pushed to extremes just to eek out more capacity.
And this is the last model year for the bolt since it is officially canceled.
The 2023 model doesn't have that problem.
@@bashfullJ88 source?
@@vincenty747
Not yet , it’s only January, how many 2023 models have been sold ?
First they hurt it's feelings, then they give it the gold medal.
Because money is a thing, reality
What about the ride ? We have the 2020 Bolt, very nice in town and will get very bumpy on rough roads. Very loud on the freeway. Since Tesla dropped priced there is no way I’d pick a Bolt over an ID4/EV6/M3
All EVs are loud on the freeway, m3 included.
You want a 'nicer' ride then you pay more. But coming from a 90s econobox, the bolt drives like a dream
The 2023 has a redesigned suspension and it rides really nice now.
Makes sense, only $10K more + tax & insurance. Get a Lucid instead.
Makes sense, only $10K more + tax & insurance. Get a Lucid instead.
Even IF T3 is 2x as good as Bolt, +$10k makes it out of the question, it's a vehicle, not a house. Dealer nonsense makes it challenging, I held ou for no markup & no addons. I got a 23 bolt EV lt2, I still think my old Fiat 500e is a great car. A vast majority of my drive time is in heavy traffic to work, or wide open to home. I beat a model 3 plaid in heavy traffic in my Fiat.
True, me 2
They charge VERY slow. An hour of DC " Fast " Charging won't get you to 100%. It slows down at 80% big time
Slows down at 80% like most EVs. Up to 100 miles of range in 30 min.
Charging to 100% is not how you fast charge
Ah yes. The proletariat car. The modern day Trabant. Thanks to all the Supreme elite for allowing us to have this.
golden
Wow, the amount of hate is stinky here. Keep getting your assess burned boys.
NO CALIFORNIA REBATE! California Clean Vehicle Rebate Project is over: Effective November 8, 2023, CVRP will no longer be accepting new applications.
Well...between choosing the CVRP and a CAV decal, I would take the decal. It makes sense to be to discontinue the CVRP because middle-class people can afford an EV, such that any incentives should pivot closer to working class that need the rebate more.
@@terrancecloverfield6791there are more or greater incentives that are Income qualified
Lower income can use more help, higher income still gets gassers off the road and supports the used car market, which lower income qualify for
Well that didn’t feel genuine… you picked apart every other option and discussed pros. But with the winner, you just say well it’s the cheapest so it wins?
R.I.P. Chevy Bolt
Not a huge difference between the first gen Bolt EV and the current one. The difference in perception really comes down to price.
Model Y made is Austin is the BEST made car World Wide.
@@markplott4820 BS. Nothing made by Tesla is the "BEST", only the most exspensive...
@@davidhollenshead4892 - Actually TESLA is Price PARITY with GAS cars Already, In Oregon & some states the Tesla model 3 is $27k after Incentives, let that SINK in.
and TESLA is not even the MOST Expensive, the Loooocid motors, GMC Hummer EV, the EQS and MBW i7 are both MORE Expensive.
Just shows a huge company like Edmunds can blow it? P.O.S. EV.
incoming Tesla fanboys....
Exactly !!!
Be careful with Chevy, my 2020 Bolt EV Premier has a bad battery that has already had a module fail and kill the car! Fortunately my house didn’t burn down and they changed the module but now they say mine was a good one , even though it failed, and only needed a final software update! So now I have a dangerous car that I can’t trust! So I leave it outside in snow and rain until it disintegrates! I hope Dodge does the Charger EV soon as the Mustang has a tub type body like the Jeep Wrangler that would trip you getting out! Everyone has forgotten customer service and maybe building a usable car!
cliff notes for video: Model 3 and Taycan are the cars to get in this category but if you are broke, get the Bolt EV instead.
Seriously Edmunds?!?! You put the 3 and Taycan in the same comparison category as the Bolt... like comparing regular beef to Kobe!
Even Steve Wozniak thinks that his Bolt is better than his Model S. Why is that???
[ Hint, he evaluates technology and understands what most people need it for]
Beef is delicious, it helps if you cook it right.
The original Bolt (minus the recalls) is a better designed car than the new Bolt. 🤷 That's often overlooked.
How so?
The bolt is on the top rated list, yet it's being canceled because it catches fire and it has poor quality interior. And most people hate the way it looks.
That was the previous gen bolt. This new one (the ev and euv) are completely different.
Not at all why it is being cancelled. It is being cancelled because Chevy is moving to a new battery platform (Ultium). This has been well known and easily searchable for ages...
And GM changed their mind. I have a 2022 Bolt and got an email from GM that stated, "You Spoke, we listened", the Bolt is back. It will have the new battery platform.@@desiv1170
Cancel the 2022, extended one year due to popular demand
And the winner came from the ones who paid us!!
That honor goes to Consumer Reports as they considered the Honda Passport a best buy and the Isuzu Rodeo a worse buy.
[the Passport was a re-badged Rodeo with different colored paint, interior fabric and brand of tires...]
I can accept if you name a Lucid as your top pick, or the Rivian R1S, even the Ford F150 Lightning and - accepting that US boys must always have the "biggest" - i can even acept the GMC Hummer EV as the your top pick.
But if you select the worst of all EVs available in the US as your personal top pick i believe you do not have all screws torqued down to specs in your head.
I really like mine - hard to beat the value for money and the size is perfect for zipping around. I mean, of course it's not as nice as the ones that cost 2 or 3 times more.
To be meaningful to the market, a "car of the year" should at least be accessible to a majority of the market, that is, below the average price in the market. None of the cars you mentioned fit that basic criterion. Alternately, it should "move" the whole market, like the original Model S did. None of the cars you listed do that either. They're really poor candidates whichever way you look at it.
@@pranavpadgaonkar3824 I would say you are right if there would be even one viable candidate. I don‘t see one. Either they are cheap and (fossil) dirty or they are dirty cheap and unusable.
That's why we go to Edmunds not randomnobodyhater
@@rp9674 Edmunds is of course better. You must trust your states propaganda channels.
that tax payer funded gov bail outs going to hurt but
the United States subsidizes the fossil fuel industry with taxpayer dollars
The problem with the Bolt is LG, Daewoo, and GM all worked on it. Thats quite the trio of garbage. Not even surprised they catch on fire.
LG Chem is far from garbage and is supplying a ton of new EVs. And how was Daewoo involved, besides being the Korean Chevrolet?
What an absolute joke.
Because they picked the best commuter EV on the market???
Comparing the Bolt to Teslas that cost twice to six times as much is comparing apples to oranges...
I love my Vanagon Westy camper van but wouldn't claim that it was the best half ton van on the market when it was made as the Chevy Astro was a more reliable and durable product at a lower cost. So I wouldn't even make the comparison...