What's New
As the junior sibling to its EUV stablemate, Chevrolet’s compact Bolt EV remains unchanged for the 2023 model year. It’s still a two-model range, but prices have dropped significantly from last year. There’s effectively been a $11,000 price cut compared to the 2021 model year, partly to compensate for the loss of federal tax credits.
Choosing Your Chevrolet Bolt EV
With a single powertrain configuration, your only choice in the dealership involves trim levels. Base 2023 Bolt EV 1LT models are priced at $26,595 including destination, while our preferred 2LT is available for $29,795. Separately, Chevy also offers a more SUV-like body style called the Bolt EUV with a slightly higher MSRP.
Engine Choices
The 2023 Bolt EV uses the now-ubiquitous combination of batteries and an electric motor to generate 200 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, which is fed exclusively to the front wheels. There are no gears to worry about, and engaging the One Pedal Driving mode effectively means there’s only one pedal to worry about, too.
Fuel economy for this electric vehicle is an EPA-estimated 131 MPGe city, 109 highway and 120 combined. The estimated battery range is 259 miles, and DC fast charging can replenish up to a hundred miles of range inside half an hour.
Engine Type | Horsepower | Torque | Fuel Economy (City/Highway/Combined) |
Electric motor | 200 hp | 266 lb-ft | 131/109/120 MPGe |
Passenger and Cargo Capacity
Cargo capacity for the five-seater 2023 Bolt EV stands at 16.6 cu ft with the rear seats in place, and 57 cu ft once they’re dropped.
Safety Features
Safety is a strong suit across the Bolt range. Despite its compact size, it’s fitted with ten airbags including a quartet of seat-mounted airbags and two knee ‘bags. Chevy’s Safety Assist suite includes lane keep assist with lane departure warning, a following distance indicator, and automatic high beams.
Cruise control is standard on both trims, with front pedestrian braking at speeds below 50 mph in tandem with a pedestrian safety signal to warn of this near-silent EV’s approach. However, you’ll need 2LT trim to benefit from rear cross-traffic alerts, rear park assist or lane change alerts with side blind spot warnings.
Connectivity
The 2023 Bolt EV's infotainment package is a stock six-speaker audio setup, though 2LT buyers can upgrade to a Bose system with an extra speaker and subwoofer. This also bundles in wireless device charging and rear USB ports.
An eight-inch driver information center can be customized, while wireless smartphone mirroring and satellite radio are managed through a generous 10.2-inch touchscreen with voice recognition.
2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV 1LT – MSRP From $26,595
The most affordable Bolt EV has heated power outside mirrors and LED taillamps, riding on 17-inch aluminum wheels. Remote keyless entry and remote start precede access to a cabin chilled with automatic climate control, power windows and door locks, plus automatic headlamps.
2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV 2LT – MSRP From $29,795
2LT models enjoy heated front seats, a flat-bottom leather steering wheel and HD surround vision using multiple cameras to display the area around the car. Ambient instrument panel lighting and an auto-dimming rearview mirror are other upgrades.
Safety is enhanced with the addition of rear cross-traffic alerts, and comfort is augmented with standard eight-way power for the driver’s seat including two-way power lumbar.
Compare Bolt EV Trims Side-By-Side
Although it costs $3,200 more, the Bolt 2LT feels far more grown up than its cheaper sibling. The safety improvements alone make this the Bolt EV trim to choose.