The 2020 Chevy Bolt EV: Revisited

The Chevrolet Bolt took the crown in MotorTrends 2017 Car of the Year competition, and at the time, it certainly deserved it, but does the new 2020 model still stand strong among the vast electric vehicle landscape that has grown since then? New EV models from brands such as Tesla, Hyundai, Kia, and Nissan are all notable arrivals that have become fierce competitors to the Bolt. So the question stands, has the groundbreaking Bolt stood the test of time, or has it lost its luster? MotorTrend set out to answer that question in their recent article, 2020 Chevrolet Bolt Review: Checking in With Our Former Car of the Year.

For the 2020 model year, MotorTrend points out that Chevy improved the Bolt’s battery to squeeze an extra 21 miles of range, making its new estimated range 259 miles and highly competitive against its new rivals. The Bolt also recharges at a rate of 4 mph with a 120V plug, and about 10 hours with a 240V home charger, as well as about 100 miles in 30 minutes using a DC fast charging station. The 2020 models provide a healthy 200 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque, similar to earlier versions of the Bolt. However, at the track, a 2020 Bolt ran from 0-60 mph in 6.3 seconds, which came in third place out of its other competitors highlighted in the article, after the Tesla Model 3 and Kia Niro EV.

As far as the Bolt interior, MotorTrend was able to find plenty of things they liked about it. The low placement of the windshield and side windows allow the cabin to feel more open than a small hatchback should, while also providing excellent visibility. The best part, however, is the technology. With two digital screens and intuitive controls, the Bolt has an advantage over rivals when it comes to interior technology. The trunk of the Bolt is smaller than that of rivals, but fold down the rear seats and cargo space expands to 56.6 cubic feet, more space than all rivals listed in the article. It also has plenty of room for passengers, with 36.5 inches of rear legroom, it offers more room than most competitors.

So, is it worth it? It has a reasonable entry price of $37,495, zippy performance, and practical range make a strong case for the Bolt EV. One judge from MotorTrend summed up the Bolt with, “It is not just a great electric vehicle but also a great commuter vehicle in every respect. … Well done, GM. You are now the leader.”

Check out the full article here at MotorTrend: https://www.motortrend.com/cars/chevrolet/bolt-ev/2020/2020-chevrolet-bolt-first-test-review/

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