What I liked about the Chevrolet Volt:
- All the environmental benefits of a battery-powered EV with no range anxiety
- Easy to drive and live with
- Well equipped
- A true technical tour de force -- and it's American!
What I didn't like:
- High starting price (tax credit notwithstanding)
- Small, cramped interior
- Pricey options
Who should buy the Chevrolet Volt:
Those who want to reduce their use of non-renewable oil, but need more flexibility than a true EV or natural-gas-powered car can provide
Who should not buy the Chevrolet Volt:
Those who frequently drive long distances -- they'll be better off with a hybrid
Details and specs:
- Body style: 5-door hatchback
- Seating capacity: 4
- Trim levels: (one)
- Price range: $41,000 - $44,680 (less $7,500 Federal tax credit)
- Base engine: Electric motor, 149 hp/368 lb-ft, plus 1.4 liter 84 hp gasoline engine-generator set
- Optional engine: None
- Premium fuel required? Yes
- Transmission: Planetary power-split
- Driveline: Front engine, front-wheel-drive
- EPA fuel economy estimates: TBD
- Trunk space: 10.6 cu. ft.
- Where built:United States
- Standard safety equipment: Front airbags, front-passenger knee airbags, front-seat-mounted side airbags, two-row side curtain airbags, antilock brakes, electronic stability control
- Optional safety equipment: None
- Major standard features: Power windows, mirrors and locks, remote keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, AM/FM/CD/DVD stereo with iPod connectivity, navigation, alloy wheels
- Major options: Leather upholstery, heated seats, backup camera, polished wheels, premium paint colors
- Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper, 5 years/100,000 miles powertrain, 8 year/100,000 miles battery, 6 years/100,000 miles outer body rust-through
- Roadside assistance/free maintenance: 5 years/100,000 miles roadside assistance
Best rivals:
- Nissan Leaf
- Honda Insight
- Toyota Prius
- Honda Civic GX
