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2019 Chevrolet Volt

Photo credit: The Manufacturer - Car and Driver
Photo credit: The Manufacturer - Car and Driver

From Car and Driver

Overall Rating:

The Chevrolet Volt remains one of the best plug-in hybrids on the market, with impressive all-electric range and everyday practicality. Its understated styling doesn't draw attention the way some electrified alternatives (such as the Toyota Prius or the Toyota Prius Prime) do, but instead assimilates with mainstream cars. Unlike many plug-in hybrids that have about 20 miles or less of electric-only range, the Volt can travel up to 53 miles before its gasoline engine fires up. The Chevy also boasts a satisfying driving experience, with prompt acceleration and solid handling. While the hybrid hatchback has some flaws-such as a mediocre interior with a cramped back seat-it continues to be an exceptional hybrid and an excellent car.

What's New for 2019?

The Volt receives a handful of meaningful updates for 2019, including a newly available built-in charger that cuts charging time nearly in half. Its regenerative-braking system is refined so that drivers can use the brake pedal less when driving in Low mode or using the paddle on the steering wheel. The Volt's heating system is revised so that the engine can now automatically kick on at lower temperatures, which increases all-electric range in colder climates. Every model receives a new higher definition 8.0-inch touchscreen powered by the company's latest Infotainment 3 system. Other enhancements include improved active-safety features and more interior options.

Trims and Options We'd Choose

The base Volt LT costs $34,395, which is $300 more than in 2018. It's already comprehensively equipped and comes with this car's most important standard feature: 53 miles of guilt-free driving on electricity alone. The Premier trim adds a better audio system, heated front and outboard rear leather seats, and a heated steering wheel, among other features. But that option also adds more than $4000 to the bottom line, so we'd skip it. Standard features on the base LT include:

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  • Infotainment 3 system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, two USB ports, and a 4G LTE–powered Wi-Fi hotspot

  • Proximity entry with push-button start

  • Single-zone automatic climate control

Purchasing the Volt can qualify buyers for the federal tax credit of $7500 that is available to electric-vehicle buyers (not included in our calculations above). Some states offer additional rebates, tax credits, and other incentives to EV buyers as well. Here’s our explanation of how the EV tax credit works.

For details about the 2018 Chevrolet Volt, see our in-depth review.

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