A Closer Look at the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV

With notable rivals like the Mini Cooper SE, Tesla Model 3, Hyundai Kona Electric, and Nissan Leaf, the Chevrolet Bolt has had to up its game this year. The 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV is a slight improvement on the 2022 model, which is understandable because the 2022 model received significant upgrades last year. It continues to be one of the most affordable electric vehicles on the market, offering a modern aesthetic that is hard not to love. It does not go overboard with the sci-fi design elements, choosing instead to flaunt its modernity through pert proportions, sculpted sides, and narrow headlights. Let’s take a closer look at what is new for the latest model.

Overview

Chevrolet knows how to meet consumer needs, and the American driver will love the new Bolt EV’s body style. The car takes the underpinnings of the regular Bolt EV and adds sheetmetal to make it resemble an SUV more. As a highlight, the 65.0-kWh battery pack produces around 250 miles of driving range. Meanwhile, the 200-hp electric motor might not be the bargain drivers are looking for as it limits the vehicle’s off-road capability despite providing decent performance. This is in line with many of the Bolt EV’s rivals, as off-road capability does not seem to be a priority among these cars. In terms of tech, the new Bolt EV has most of its rivals beat. The Premier trim comes with a Super Cruise hands-free driving feature from General Motors, which is a major perk. Another selling point for this model is the recent price reduction in the segment, which has reduced the Bolt EV’s base price.

EV Motor, Performance, and Power

None of the EVs come with an all-wheel-drive option. A 200-hp electric motor and front-wheel-drive powertrain option is offered on all models. Thanks to the electric motors and their characteristic instantaneous power delivery, the acceleration is smooth and effective. Regenerative braking also facilitates one-pedal driving while recapturing energy extends the car’s range. Overall, the handling is efficient and competent, providing adequate ride comfort, including on broken pavement.

Interior, Cargo, and Comfort

The 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV has a nicely trimmed and stylish interior. It is taller, wider, and longer than the regular hatchback from Chevrolet, and all this extra space can be enjoyed in the rear seat, which has a 3-inch longer legroom. Despite this extra legroom and length, however, the EV has relatively less cargo space. Still, it should be enough for freight like groceries and luggage. The design is chic and modern, with a push-button gear selector and flat-bottom steering wheel coming standard with all trims. The geometric pattern on the seat upholstery can be described as fun.

Battery Life, Range, and Charging

You can charge your Chevrolet Bolt EV through a standard 120-volt household outlet. However, you can get shorter charger times by using a 240-volt connection. You can also use DC fast charging, which, according to Chevrolet, should give you a 95-mile range in only 30 minutes. All trims feature a 65.0-kWh battery pack, which the EPA estimates should provide a 247-mile range. But while the figure is remarkable compared to other electric SUVs, the Tesla Model Y’s battery pack is larger and provides 326 miles of range.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The new Bolt UV features a standard large 10.2-inch infotainment touchscreen and digital gauge display. The former comes with integrated climate controls, which complement other connectivity features in the car like integrated Wi-Fi hotspot, Amazon’s Alexa, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. Additionally, the car can communicate with the driver remotely through a smartphone app. You can set it up to connect with nearby charging networks and send charging alerts.

Driver-Assistance Features and Safety

The 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV includes several standard driver assistance features, including lane-keeping assist and automated emergency braking. If you are looking for more advanced features, you can get the Premier trim and enjoy tech like the Super Cruise hands-free driving system. Meanwhile, the car’s crash results are satisfactory, per the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Key safety features for this model include:

Adaptive cruise control comes with hands-free driving mode (available)
The lane-departure warning comes with a lane-keeping assist (standard)
Automated emergency braking comes with pedestrian detection (standard)

Maintenance Coverage and Warranty

The car’s electric-powertrain features are covered by a standard coverage from Chevrolet, which also includes your first maintenance visit. The coverage offers the following:
Powertrain warranty covering 60,000 miles or five years
Coverage for electric components for 100,000 miles or eight years
A limited warranty covering 36,000 miles or three years
One maintenance visit is covered by a complimentary maintenance cover.

Cost and Trims

The new Bolt EV is offered in two trims, the LT, which costs $28,195, and the Premier trim, which has a $32,695 base price. The high-end Premier trim might be a little expensive, but it is the better bargain. In addition to costing less than the previous model, it comes with several standard pieces of equipment.

Conclusion

The 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV comes with a new Redline Edition package that can be added to the Premier or LT trim. This package replaces the standard chrome exterior with a glossy black finish and red stripes on the wheels. According to Motortrend, the highlight for this year, however, is the substantial price cut that brings the Bolt EV’s base price down by $6300 that makes it one of the most affordable electric cars today.