2021 Chevrolet Bolt Review
2021 Chevrolet Bolt
200 HP / 266 ft-lbs TQ
Base Price: $36,620
259 Mile Range
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Guy who did stuff: Yousef Alvi
“Quick Public Service Announcement:
The is the outgoing model…the 2022 redesign was released during my week with this 2021 model”
Quick! Name 3 EVs right now. Great, now I bet you that the Chevrolet Bolt didn’t make it. Am I right? It’s a shame because the Bolt itself is a fantastic EV but it’s hamstrung by a complete lack of public awareness. Chalk it up to a combination of lack of marketing along with lack of zeal from Chevy, leaves a very capable EV collecting dust on dealer lots. It’s a borderline travesty because the Bolt deserves to be uttered in the same sentence with the likes of the Leaf, Kona and IONIQ.
Let’s go ahead and break it down:
The Great
Boasting a TARDIS like exterior vs interior volume size…the Bolt is borderline huge on the inside. Plenty of space front, rear and in the cargo hold, the Bolt can easily fit two car seats in the back along with two full sized humans up front along with their numerous accessories. The Bolt is a clear winner in the ‘one size fits all’ category.
The Good
Looking at the Chevrolet Bolt is the exact opposite of it’s driving dynamics. It’s stoic exterior hides a genuinely fun machine underneath. The EV drivetrain produces 266 ft-lbs of torque immediately and turning off traction control yields smoky tire trails well…immediately. Aim the Bolt at some corners, hit the left regen braking paddle right before corner entry (to superbly plant the nose), dive into corner and squeeze on the gas on the way out…the Bolt is downright fun!
The Bad
Do I wish the Chevrolet Bolt looked a bit more exciting? Yes. Yes I do. Unfortunately it is styled so conservatively that it is a rolling amnesia machine. Immediately wiping the memory of all that gazes unto it. But….ummm…at least the tail lights look cool?
The Ugly
Errr……Hmmmm…..Uhhhh….yeah I got nothing.
The Overall
The Chevrolet Bolt is an EV that deserves its place amongst its peers. The Bolt is not just a mere competitor though…it is a leader. Factoring in it’s 259 mile range, cavernous interior, excellent dynamics and price point…the Bolt is one of the best (if not the best) EV for under $40,000. Do not let this one go folks.
