With regular unleaded soaring over $2.00 per litre in some provinces, and expectations for even higher pump prices in the near future, Canadians are starting to get serious about going electric. This…
Tesla’s Model 3 is the most efficient electric vehicle available in North America, according to the U.S. EPA.
With regular unleaded soaring over $2.00 per litre in some provinces, and expectations for even higher pump prices in the near future, Canadians are starting to get serious about going electric. This brings up the question, which EV is most efficient?
While EVs capable of “going the distance” are impressive, an ability to drive 400 to 500 kilometres on a single charge might not be your best choice unless you plan to travel from Toronto to the Muskokas or Vancouver to the Okanagan on a regular basis. Efficiency, on the other hand, is paramount, because it factors in how much you’ll actually be spending. After learning this, you can compare a given EV to the conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) powered vehicle you’re driving now.
This formula would normally require the comparison of an EV’s Le/100km ranking to an ICE vehicle’s L/100km rating, but in this case, we’re borrowing info compiled by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), so you’ll be seeing MPGe. Either way, it gives us a good indication of the top 5 most efficient vehicles available in a market that’s very similar to Canada, plus, as an added bonus, we’ll also list off how the “losers” fared.
1) Tesla Model 3: Canada’s best-selling electric vehicle for good reason
The Model 3 leads in sales too.
Most popular doesn’t always translate into most practical, but in the world of electric cars, efficiency seems to matter just as much as style, performance, luxury features and premium status. The Model 3 has it all, along with best-selling BEV stats and sales leadership in its compact luxury D-segment, beating such perennial all-stars as BMW’s 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi’s A4 (see our Tesla Model 3 sales story here).
At a starting price of $45,099, the all-electric Model 3 is just $109 more expensive than the $44,990 base BMW 330e, which is merely a plug-in hybrid, while last year’s M-B C 300 4Matic Sedan (the redesigned one is not yet available) started at $49,500 with no motive electrification at all. Similarly, the 2022 Audi A4 Komfort 40 TFSI quattro incorporates no electric motivation, but at least its $43,800 window sticker saves $1,299 off the top, but that’s no small comfort when balancing off all of these German challengers’ premium unleaded requirement.
So how do the numbers stack up? As per the EPA, the Model 3 achieves 132 MPGe combined city/highway for a cost of $500 USD per year, or about $635 CAD at the time of writing. After seeing countless social media posts of Canadians filling their tanks well beyond $100 per fill per week, it doesn’t take a genius to figure out how quickly a Model 3 might pay itself off compared to the just-noted ICE vehicles it competes with.
2) Lucid Air: Gorgeous newcomer offers a lot for the luxury sedan crowd
The new Lucid Air is now the most efficient large electric sedan available, coming in second to the Tesla Model S’ sixth.
Lucid what? For many, the name Lucid won’t ring any bells, but those keeping an eye on the EV scene will already be well informed of this Tesla Model S sized competitor. Designed to compete with Tesla’s first practical passenger car (which achieves sixth place on this list), the Air is a much more modern take on luxury, plus its $105,000 entry point is much more advantageous than the Model S’ $120,700 base price.
Still, eclipsing the $100k threshold will make Lucid Motors’ initial model out of reach for the majority of Canadians, even when considering its exceptional 131 MPGe rating and second-place ranking on this list, the latter matching the Model 3 at $500 USD per year, incidentally, or $635 CAD.
3) Tesla Model Y: An even more practical Model 3
Need more space than a Model 3? Try the Tesla Model Y on for size.
For those wanting a Model 3 but requiring more space, the Model Y provides a sporty crossover alternative featuring more cargo space, a handy liftback design and a slight increase in ride height for better overall visibility.
Starting at $75,700, the Model Y brings EV ownership a bit more down to earth than the Lucid, albeit nowhere near as affordable as the Model 3. At 129 MPGe, however, its annual running costs are identical to the aforementioned EVs at about $500 USD ($635 CAD).
4) Chevrolet Bolt EV: Affordable from the get-go
Chevy’s Bolt EV offers a lot of EV efficiency for the money.
General Motors has been building electric cars longer than the majority of its competitors, giving Chevy a competitive edge that’s resulting in strong sales and low running costs.
The Bolt EV achieves a 120 MPGe rating and $550 USD ($700 CAD) per annum running costs, and when including its initial price of just $38,198, becomes one of the more affordable electric vehicles on this list, especially after factoring in any government rebates.
5) Hyundai Kona Electric:
Hyundai’s Kona Electric managed to achieve a top-5 placement for its impressive efficiency.
For only five thousand or so extra, Hyundai’s $43,899 Kona Electric competes more directly with Chevy’s $40,198 Bolt EUV crossover, but challenges the smaller bowtie model for annual running cost kudos at 120 MPGe, resulting in the same $550 USD ($700 CAD) ranking.
Kia’s EV6 joins Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 in upending the entire EV segment.
If you’re wondering how Hyundai’s $44,999 Ioniq 5 fits into the picture, which incidentally is identical under the skin to the less dominant Korean brand’s just-mentioned EV6, a ninth-place standing is respectable, plus 114 MPGe rating and $600 USD ($764 CAD) yearly running cost estimate laudable, the two new Korean models making me wonder how Kia will be able to sell any more $44,995 Niro EVs, which sits 10th on this list. That practical crossover manages 112 MPGe, however, for the same annual cost of $600 USD ($764 CAD).
Remember the Nissan Leaf? Not too long ago it was the best-selling electric car in the world, and while it’s been knocked from its pedestal it’s still a credible performer with a 111 MPGe rating and identical $600 USD ($764 CAD) running cost estimate. It shares the latter a number with the fun-loving Mini Cooper SE that achieves a 110 MPGe rating, plus the new BMW i4 (see our story here that also covers the new iX) that manages 109 MPGe, and the pricier Polestar 2 (a fancier version of the new Volvo C40 Recharge) that’s good for 107 MPGe.
Mustang Mach-E is a strong seller despite being less efficient than many EV peers
The new VW ID.4 is starting to become a common sight in some Canadian cities.
Considering its success on the sales charts, Ford’s Mustang Mach-E should seemingly be ranked higher on this list, but its 103 MPGe and $650 USD ($827 CAD) annual running cost estimate won’t allow, although it’s more or less matched to its main competitor, Tesla’s Model X that achieves the same yearly electrical costs, albeit just 102 MPGe. The sharp looking new Volkswagen ID.4 ranks the same for running costs too, but with a 99 MPGe fuel economy estimate.
Those able to afford the new Mercedes-Benz EQS probably won’t care that its 97 MPGe rating and $700 USD ($891 CAD) cost per annum ranking put it way down the list, but take note it competes directly with the aforementioned Tesla Model S and Lucid Air that do much better, not to mention the Porsche Taycan and Audi RS E-Tron GT.
Audi’s Q4 E-Tron (not to be confused with the larger E-Tron), which ranked second to last, is good for a 95 MPGe rating and the same $700 USD ($891 CAD) yearly cost in both its regular crossover SUV design and the swoopier Sportback, whereas the last-place Mazda MX-30 achieves a 92 MPGe rating and identical $700 USD ($891 CAD) cost.
Story credits: Trevor Hofmann
Photo credits: various
With an estimated 200,000-plus F-150 Lightning orders in the books, Ford has clearly shown the market is ripe for full-size electric pickup trucks. In fact, the books are likely full for 2022. Added to…
The 2024 Silverado EV, shown here in top-line RST trim, is more of a styling departure from its namesake forebear than Ford’s F-150 Lightning.
With an estimated 200,000-plus F-150 Lightning orders in the books, Ford has clearly shown the market is ripe for full-size electric pickup trucks. In fact, the books are likely full for 2022. Added to that, microchip shortages and recent talk about a coming battery shortage means the Dearborn-based automaker’s ability to fully deliver on these orders is suspect, but nonetheless, if a history of BEV customer patience is anything to go by, particularly with respect to Tesla, the blue-oval brand may garner a lot of market share and win out in the end.
This scenario would see Chevrolet, a leader in battery-electric vehicles, come up short by being late to the electrified truck party. If the bowtie brand had been quicker to the draw, they could have capitalized on Ford’s temporary weakness, but instead the new Silverado EV pickup, introduced at the 2022 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas last week, won’t be available until 2023 as a 2024 model. Just the same, fleet buyers and eco-minded consumers may want to wait for the General’s new model, because its unique features really set it apart.
The Silverado EV RST’s rear styling certainly looks conventional enough.
First off, and possibly most critical, the Silverado EV is based on General Motors’ new Ultium platform, an electric-specific truck and SUV chassis. The Lightning rides on Ford’s conventional F-150 chassis architecture, which is likely why it was quicker to market. Most electric vehicle fans will give a nod of approval to GM for going the extra mile of taking this pure-EV route, but the optimal choice is not yet clear. The F-150’s body-on-frame layout is a very well-known entity, whereas the Silverado EV’s design is mostly uncharted territory. It’s a mix between a traditional truck frame and unibody, which will hopefully end up being a best-of-both-world’s scenario.
The Silverado EV’s Midgate bed extension system is a major differentiator in this market segment.
Two trims will be available at launch, including a WT (Work Truck) version designed specifically for the aforementioned fleet market and individual contractors, plus another that’s dubbed RST, focused on personal use. Initially, the latter will get the moniker RST First Edition, although to be clear it will show up in the fall of 2023, after the WT arrives that spring.
The RST First Edition will be good for a range of 640 km between charges, albeit probably not while towing up to 10,000 lbs (4,536 kg) of trailer, or for that matter a full payload of passengers and cargo, or 1,300 lbs (590 kg). While towing capacity is very strong, the electric model doesn’t compare all that well against a conventionally-powered Silverado 1500, which is good for a payload range of 1,870 to 2,280 lbs (848- 1,034 kg).
2024 Silverado EV RST’s Multi-Flex Tailgate is similar to what’s already available from today’s Silverado.
Still, the Silverado EV should be mighty quick off the line when its WOW (Wide Open Watts) maximum power mode is engaged, thanks to 660 horsepower and 780 lb-ft of torque. Smart, Chevy. Not as brilliantly silly as Tesla’s Ludicrous mode, referencing the 1987 space parody film Spaceballs (Mel Brooks, Bill Pullman, John Candy and Rick Moranis), but clever just the same.
It should be noted that a WT model capable of towing up to 20,000 lbs (9,072 kg) will be made available sometime after lesser trims are introduced, while no matter the trim level a Tow/Haul mode will be included, while trailer hitch provisions, an integrated trailer brake controller, and a Hitch Guidance system as part of Chevrolet’s Advanced Trailering System, will be available. It should be mentioned that base WT trucks only be able to haul 8,000 lbs (3,629 kg), plus a payload of just 1,200 lbs (544 kg) due a performance downgrade of 510 horsepower and 615 lb-ft of torque. Notably, this model will be upgradable to 640 km of range.
The Silverado EV RST’s interior looks ultra-premium.
As standard, at least initially, both trims will receive a DC fast charging system with up to 350 kilowatts of capability, while both models will be available with up to 10.2 kW of offboard power delivery, meaning contractors and tradespeople will be able to plug in their tools while using the lowered tailgate as a workbench, plus campers will be able to light up and even heat their tents and trailers with an extension cord. And speaking of cords, the electrified Chevy truck will be capable of charging another EV via its optional accessory charge cord.
The Silverado EV, which is set to be assembled at GM’s Detroit and Hamtramck, Michigan-based Factory ZERO, comes with an adaptive air suspension that can be raised or lowered by up to 50 mm (2.0 in). Additionally, four directional wheels should make it capable of rotating on the proverbial dime. GM will also provide its Super Cruise semi-autonomous drive system as an option, which will even be functional when towing.
The 8.0-inch driver’s display appears well equipped with features.
While the above features are strongpoints, the truck’s Multi-Flex Tailgate (similar to what’s already available from today’s Silverado) and Chevy Avalanche-style Midgate bed expansion system, provide much greater cargo functionality than anything currently on the market. Where the just=noted 2001-2013 Avalanche (and the 2002-2013 Cadillac Escalade EXT) featured a single-piece Midgate, the Silverado EV’s is split in a 60/40 configuration, which allows longer items to be loaded while a third occupant sits in back. Those items can be up to 10 feet, 10 inches long when the tailgate is closed, by the way, which almost doubles the Silverado EV’s five-foot, 11-inch bed-length. This creative cargo solution could become a key reason for BEV truck buyers to wait for the Silverado EV over a Lightning, Rivian R1T, or any other electric pickup.
The column-mounted shifter looks positively old-school, but we like the packaging efficiency of this type of design.
The wait certainly won’t be for its compact dimensions. In fact, the new Silverado EV, which will only be available in one Crew Cab body style, measures 5,918 mm (233 in) from nose to tail, making it slightly longer than today’s 5,885 mm (231.7-in) 2022 Silverado Crew Cab, although the two models’ heights are approximately the same.
Like its size, few should complain about the Silverado EV’s styling, as it builds on the conventional model’s current design theme, albeit with more modern lines and details. It should appeal more to those who prefer smooth, flowing, wind tunnel-formed designs than folks with a greater focus on tradition than aerodynamics.
Is 17 inches large enough for a touchscreen? As far as Silverados go, it’s go big or go home.
To the latter point’s end there’s no conventional grille. The bowtie badge is merely placed at the centre of a Tesla-like body-colour panel, all of which sits below an elegant strip of LED lighting that spans the entire width of the vehicle before melding into the headlight clusters. These are slim LEDs, while just underneath is a complex set of driving/fog lamps divided by a knife-like chrome bezel. A rugged matte black and silver bumper cap finishes off the frontal look before it rounds each corner and joins up with the truck sector’s usual swollen fender flares, which are finished in gloss black for a classier appearance than the usual matte application. Lastly, the rear design is appropriately more conventional with an upright box and traditional tailgate that’s bookended by a stylish set of LED taillights.
DC fast charging system with up to 350 kilowatts of capability comes standard.
What appears to a premium-level interior will come standard with a panoramic glass roof in First Edition trim, as will a glossy infotainment display above the centre stack, measuring 17 inches from corner to corner. Lesser Silverado EV trims, including the WT, will feature a reasonably sized 11-inch touchscreen, which should be more than suitable for most peoples’ needs. Similarly, the top-line model’s 8.0-inch configurable driver’s display shrinks down to 7.0 inches in lower trims.
Like Ford’s Lightning, interested parties only need a $100 deposit to reserve their Silverado EV, so as long as buyers don’t mind waiting until 2023 to take delivery, and can afford the RST First Edition’s $119,948 base price, it will likely steal sales from the blue-oval truck. Then again, Chevy won’t have anything to compete against the Lightning XLT’s $68,000 initial base price, which is expected to go down once lower-end trims become available.
The Silverado EV RST certainly looks roomy.
To deal with this issue, General Motors promises more affordable consumer variants, although buyers will likely have to wait another 12 months for delivery, pushing these less expensive Silverado EVs into the 2025 model year. On the other side of the pricing spectrum, GM president Mary Barra alluded to a potential Trail Boss edition during the live model launch program, which would certainly garner some attention in both EV and off-road camps.
And now for the ultimate electric pickup truck question: is there a frunk? Yes, a front-trunk (frunk) is included, but Chevy calls it an eTrunk. It’s lockable and weatherproof, of course, plus large enough to stow a big hard-shell suitcase along with a few smaller items.
Story credits: Trevor Hofmann
Photo credits: Chevrolet
As far as subcompact hatchbacks go, Chevy’s Bolt is la crème de la crème. Some time ago I might have said something similar about Ford’s Fiesta ST when referring to straight-line performance and…
Now in its fifth year of availability, albeit not without updates, the Bolt EV still looks fresh for its subcompact class.
As far as subcompact hatchbacks go, Chevy’s Bolt is la crème de la crème. Some time ago I might have said something similar about Ford’s Fiesta ST when referring to straight-line performance and handling, or Honda’s Fit as far as cargo carrying capability, but those two, like so many others in this class, are gone, leaving a shrinking subcompact market segment that’s now a mere shadow of what it once was only a few short years ago.
Fortunately, the current 2021 Bolt includes a few crossover-like styling cues, such as roof rails plus some thick black cladding around its wheel cutouts and rocker panels, as well as an ever-so-slightly raised stance, so it kind of qualifies for subcompact SUV status. Either way, the tiny rocket would probably beat the aforementioned Fiesta ST off the line, let alone a Mini Cooper JCW, while the impressive load of features in my top-level Premier model comes close to promoting it to premium status.
The Bolt features a long wheelbase that improves legroom as well as high-speed stability and ride comfort.
By all accounts it’s a rather unassuming looking hatchback, not unlike the Spark and Sonic that came before. It’s sized more like the latter car, but provides a sleeker, more windswept look than the now discontinued Chevy subcompact, and certainly more road presence than the tiny little Spark, which has now taken over the mantle of Canada’s most affordable new car from Nissan’s cancelled Micra and Mitsubishi’s slightly pricier Mirage.
The Bolt gets plenty of crossover SUV-like styling details, such as roof rails, black lower body cladding, and Chevy’s floating rear roof pillar design.
Having only arrived in 2017, the Bolt has quickly taken over sales chart superiority in the subcompact segment, with last year’s 4,026 Canadian deliveries clearly outpacing the category’s second-best-selling Kia Rio that only managed to find 3,868 buyers, a far cry from the 15,601 new owners it earned in 2013, a year that saw Hyundai’s Accent in first with 18,884 sales. Interestingly, 2013 wasn’t even the Accent’s most successful year, with 2008 notching up 29,751 unit-sales, this being the highest number of sales that a vehicle in this class has ever managed over a calendar year in Canada. The entire segment didn’t even break 16,000 deliveries in 2020, incidentally, and if it wasn’t for the Bolt, it probably wouldn’t have come close to that number. Looking back now, it’s bizarre to fathom that Canada’s subcompact category almost hit 100,000 units in 2014.
The Bolt’s standard auto on/off HID headlamps can be had with available automatic high-beams.
Of course, the Bolt has about as much in common with today’s Kia Rio or Nissan Versa (the only two mainstream volume-branded subcompact models left) as a BMW 3 Series. Sure, it might be sized like the little Korean and Japanese models, but it’s plug-in battery-powered and therefore priced more like the Bavarian luxury sedan. In fact, you can buy the Bimmer for $48 less (not factoring in dealer discounts or government subsidies); the 330e plug-in hybrid starting at $44,950, compared to the base Bolt LT’s starting price of $44,998.
Sporty machine-finished 17-inch alloy wheels with painted pockets come standard across the line.
My Bolt Premier tester will set you back $50,298, including its vibrant Oasis Blue paint, this standout hue of blue being one of two standard colours including Summit White, while Silver Ice Metallic (exclusive to this trim), Nightfall Grey Metallic, Mosaic Black Metallic, Kinetic Blue Metallic, Cayenne Orange Metallic, and Slate Grey Metallic cost $495 extra, and Cajun Red Tintcoat is slightly more at $595.
You’ll need to pay $750 more for a Driver Confidence II package if you want to get following distance indicator, forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking with front pedestrian braking, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, and IntelliBeam automatic high beams, items normally standard in this price range, thus pushing the base price up over $51,000, while Chevy also offers a 120-volt charging cord for $850, plus aluminum sill plates for $155, a number of carpeted and all-weather floor and cargo mats, an interior protection package, a cargo net, and the list goes on.
The Bolt’s charging port is up front next to the driver’s door where it’s easy to access.
Standard LED taillights make a nice visual statement at night.
While the price of entry is staggeringly high for the Bolt’s subcompact class, its base sticker costing more than twice as much as the most expensive 2021 Kia Rio 5-Door EX Premium, keep in mind that base models qualify for the federal government’s $5,000 rebate, while BC offers another $5,000 rebate (my total rebate was shown as $8,000 after configuring) and residents of Quebec a maximum of $8,000 (check with each jurisdiction for eligibility), so other than the fact that these incentives are paid by regular Canadian taxpayers (many of which are poor folk barely managing to keep making payments on their Sparks, Micras and Mirages, let alone bus passes), it can significantly reduce the cost of EV ownership.
The Bolt Premier’s interior is nicely designed with impressive digital displays, but it’s materials quality can’t measure up to conventionally-powered cars costing tens of thousands less.
With or without the just-noted extras, the Bolt Premier’s cabin is very inviting, with a lot of light and medium grey colour tones combined with orange stitching on the perforated two-tone leather seats. It’s a sporty look that nicely matches the little electric car’s spunky character.
The driver’s position is excellent, and dash layout a real treat for digital savvy drivers.
Most eye-catching is the digital gauge cluster and large infotainment touchscreen, the former bright, colourful and filled mostly with primary driving information, albeit featuring a useful multi-information display at centre. The main touchscreen on the centre stack was bright and colourful too, plus extremely well-organized with most of the features new car buyers expect these days, such as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as all the usual audio features like SiriusXM satellite radio and Bluetooth streaming. Redundant controls are included for the single-zone auto climate system too, plus in-depth pages for powertrain efficiencies.
The Bolt’s fully-digital gauge cluster is stunning and highly utile.
Considering the lofty price, I found it odd that no navigation system was included, especially now that some electric cars provide sophisticated navigation equipment that effectively maps out range and finds the nearest public charging location. Of course, you’ll be able to use your smartphone’s navigation via the aforementioned Google and Apple apps for directions, even if these don’t include the types of EV-specific functions $50k should provide. Fortunately, the just-noted audio system is a good enough distraction to lessen any range anxiety that might develop by not knowing where to hook up, while the moving guideline-enhanced backup camera with its separate overhead view will make slotting into the EV charger’s parking spot a near effortless experience when you’ve finally located one.
The centre stack is well laid out and easy to use.
Charging is almost a non-issue, by the way, thanks to so much range that you might find yourself blasting up and down the highway just to see if you can drain it, like I did for part of my test. In fact, I drove it most of the week without the need to charge, but take note that larger batteries need longer to top up. Chevy claims about 40 km of range per hour of charging on a 240-volt system, which you can purchase for your home or find elsewhere in shopping mall parking lots, public building parking, or private charging resellers like ChargePoint or Flo, while a public-access DC fast charger only needs 30 minutes on the plug to generate up to 145 km of range.
The large centre display is filled with useful features.
Max range on a full charge is 417 km, although this is an estimate that depends on plenty of factors, from the load you’re carrying (including bodies and cargo), exterior temperature (colder weather means less range), driving style (if you’re stomping on the throttle all the time, or putting on a lot of highway miles, you’ll dramatically reduce distance to empty), plus more.
Yes, the “tiny rocket” descriptor I used at the beginning of this review says it all, the Bolt lives up to its name and then some. Jabbing right foot to the floor results in seriously neck-snapping straight-line acceleration, the direct result of all the big battery’s 66-kWh capacity and the immediacy of an electric motor’s power delivery, especially one putting out 200 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. With Sport mode engaged (which really does make a difference), it’s 0.2 seconds quicker off the line than the long-gone Fiesta ST, by the way, the Bolt launching from standstill to 100 km/h in just 6.5 seconds, but its 1,616-kilo (3,563-lb) curb weight is just too much to make it as agile through the corners as the 1,234 kg (2,721 lb) blue-oval hatchback.
The split-screen parking monitor, complete with an overhead bird’s-eye view, makes parking ultra-easy.
It holds its own nonetheless, and provides a more comfortable ride, which no doubt matters more to the majority of EV buyers. On that note, I left it in one-pedal mode most of the time, what you get by pulling the gear lever rearward to its L position. This allows you to drive by just using the throttle; what might otherwise be called the gas pedal in a conventional vehicle, or we could call it the go-pedal if you prefer. So set, braking is mostly automatic via electric motor drag when lifting the right foot. It’s an incredibly smooth operator, much better, in fact, than any previous system like this I’ve used. Normally there’s too much braking power, causing everyone’s heads to bob back and forth uncomfortably when pressing and lifting off the go-pedal, but the Bolt was really smooth and easy to modulate.
Simply pull the electronic shift lever rearward to “L” in order to engage one-pedal drive mode, which will do most of the braking for you automatically.
Chevy also provides a paddle on the left side of the steering wheel that effectively does the same when it comes to braking, so if you prefer to have less rolling resistance for a more traditional feel when driving around, you can just leave it in drive and use the steering wheel paddle to brake when needed. Of course, there’s a big brake pedal in the usual spot, just in case you need to stop quickly.
The steering wheel rim next to braking paddle is heatable, incidentally, while the Bolt Premier’s three-way heated front seats were capable of therapeutic levels of warmth. Additionally, a wireless device charger was integrated within the lower centre console, purposely tucked away so drivers won’t be tempted to glance down at an incoming message when on the road. Chevy made sure that texts can be viewed and responded to (via stock answers) on the centre display, so there’s less need to touch it while driving. Two USB-A connectors and a powered auxiliary port can be found right beside the wireless charging pad, while another two USB-A charging points are located on the backside of the front console for rear passengers.
Chevy didn’t include a power-adjustable driver’s seat, but it was very comfortable just the same.
In case you were wondering if the Bolt Premier’s $50k-plus retail price buys you lavish levels of luxurious finishings, Chevy wasn’t feeling generous when applying the types of soft-touch synthetic surfaces found in cars costing upwards of $30,000. Instead, it gets a small rubber armrest on each door panel, plus a more comfortable padded leatherette one in the middle. I found the seats excellent, offering good support all around, but surprisingly they’re not powered. Should we chalk that up to environmentally conscious weight savings?
The rear passenger area has impressive legroom and headroom, plus heated outboard seats.
Along with the manual seats and lack of navigation, my top-line Bolt was also missing a sunroof, and just in case you didn’t notice me mention it above, the automatic HVAC system only has one single zone. Some of these items can be found in similarly sized subcompact hatchbacks sold in the low $20,000s, so when it comes to these creature comforts, at least, be prepared to pay more for less.
Of course, the majority the money goes towards the big battery pack and electrical drive system that makes driving it so much fun, and so ultimately efficient. It’s also roomy, especially for legroom and headroom. Chevy designed it with a long wheelbase to accommodate the battery, which spans the entire floor, from the front foot well to rearmost portion of the back seat. The end result is a noticeable improvement in legroom over its subcompact peers, while head space in this class is almost always open and airy. This said it’s narrower than compacts like Chevy’s old Cruze and Volt, but not by much, while it’s a lot wider than the little Spark, so there’s more room for elbows and knees.
The rear hatch lifts up high out of the way, and the dedicated storage are is quite large for the class.
The driver’s position fit my long-legged, short-torso body ideally, with excellent reach from the tilt and telescopic steering wheel, while most rear passengers should be able to stretch their legs out to some extent, due to feet slotting easily underneath the front seat. A nice large folding armrest can be found at the centre of the rear row, while heated seats are included in back too. There’s decent storage as well, with 1,603 litres (56.6 cu ft) available when the 60/40-split rear seatbacks are folded flat, making this a very practical little electric. Chevy even includes a removable cargo floor for fitting in taller cargo or stowing belongings below, one item of which was the aforementioned 120-volt household-style charge cord that can be used at home while waiting for a 240-volt system to be installed.
A 60/40-split rear seatback increases cargo carrying capacity to 1,603 litres, while the floor is removable for hiding valuables or fitting in tall items.
So that’s the 2021 Chevy Bolt from front to back, with a little sales info and road testing to spice things up in between. If you’re looking for the best deal on a subcompact hatchback it’s probably not the car for you, but if you want the most advanced small hatch on the market, not to mention one of the more affordable new electric cars available, it’s a very good choice that I can’t help but recommend. Its overall performance is strong, range superb, infotainment technology impressive, overall livability great for the small car sector, and overall design appealing for a car in its class.
The all-new 2022 model will remedy a significant portion of my pricing complaint, so if you’re considering one of these outgoing 2021 models, make sure to aggressively push for a final price that comes closer to matching the much more affordable new version. If your Chevy dealer can’t do that, you should probably choose a 2022.
Review and photos by Trevor Hofmann
The Bolt EV, which currently combines subcompact-sized hatchback practicality with a zero-emissions plug-in battery-powered electric drivetrain that’s more fun to drive than anything available at its…
Chevrolet has redesigned its 2022 Bolt EV with much more complex headlamp clusters and fog light bezels, plus a grey-painted and textured grille panel.
The Bolt EV, which currently combines subcompact-sized hatchback practicality with a zero-emissions plug-in battery-powered electric drivetrain that’s more fun to drive than anything available at its entry-level size, is getting a major update for 2022, including an even more practical EUV crossover variant.
Think of the latter as the modern-day version of the now defunct Prius V, which was a good idea from a practical standpoint, albeit the EUV is purely electric instead of hybrid powered, and arguably more attractive to a broader consumer base. The two Chevy EVs are also smaller than anything that currently wears the Prius nameplate, with even the updated regular variant sized closer to the subcompact Prius C, which was also discontinued for lack of sales.
New for 2022 is the extended Bolt EUV, which gets unique front styling while increasing rear seat legroom.
Despite mighty Toyota failing to create a brand within a brand with its highly successful Prius nameplate, now only offering two slightly different looking versions of the same compact/mid-size hatchback, one hybrid-powered and the other upgraded with a larger battery and plug-in capability, General Motors’ most popular brand will take a stab at the sub-brand business model, but to Chevrolet’s credit their new EUV actually looks like a subcompact crossover, so maybe it will fare better in this daunting quest than Toyota.
The current first-generation Bolt is a raised hatchback as well, and therefore similarly crossover-like. In another attempt to give it crossover status, the new version, shown on a sandy beach in some of its press photos (which is never a smart place to park without four-wheel drive), once again gets a slight lift along with blacked out trim around its lower regions and wheel cut outs, with only a set of black roof rails needed to finish off the SUV look. Alas, you’ll need to step up to the new EUV to get those.
The longer EUV looks similar to the regular Bolt from behind.
The Bolt EUV also grows the regular model in every dimension, although it’s really only adding 161 mm (6.3 in) of length, being that it’s just 5 mm (0.2 in) wider with 10 mm (0.4 in) more track, plus 5 mm (0.2 in) taller. This improvement, which adds 75 mm (3 in) of wheelbase, allows the EUV to gain 78 mm (3.1 in) of legroom in back, but oddly cargo space is down a fraction, from 470 litres (15.6 cu ft) with the seats up and 1,614 litres (57.0 cu ft) when lowered, to 462 and 1,611 litres (16.3 and 56.9 cu ft) respectively in the larger EUV.
Those will smaller children or little need to carry along rear passengers should be fine with the regular-length Bolt EV.
Despite the increase in height, the EUV’s headroom is also lower by a literal 0.2-mm (0.1-in) hair front to back, while it loses 24 mm (0.9 in) more up front when the sunroof is added. Shoulder room gets reduced nominally in the second row too, whereas hip room increases by a similarly wafer-thin sliver up front yet decreases by slightly more in back, so therefore the move up to the larger EUV really only benefits rear passenger legroom, an issue that reportedly causes complaints from current Bolt owners. At least the little crossover’s curb weight only increases by 41 kilos (90 lbs).
The added weight won’t likely be felt by EUV buyers thanks to the aforementioned performance of today’s Bolt, a power unit that Chevy saw no need to upgrade, although it will shave approximately 15 km (9 miles) from the larger model’s estimated range, from 417 km (259 miles) to 402 (250). This means the new 2022 Bolt EV and EUV will both be powered by a permanent magnetic electric drive motor and 65-kWh, 288-cell lithium-ion battery that combine for a very healthy 200 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. Both models will be front-wheel drive only, like a number of other small crossover SUVs currently available.
Both Bolt EV and EUV (shown) interiors look similar and more conventional than their predecessor in layout and design.
DC fast charging capability is standard, which provides about 150 or 160 km (100 or 95 miles) of respective EV or EUV range after a 30-minute recharge, while a new dual-level charge cord allows its owner to hook up to either a 240-volt charging station or 120-volt household-type three-prong outlet.
Anyone familiar with the current Bolt will see the new models’ most significant changes inside, where both the EV and EUV receive cabins featuring a more horizontal theme to create a wider visual presence. The new layout is more conventional too, with a less pod-like centre stack that flows downward into a traditional lower console. It remains filled with the same standard 10.2-inch touchscreen, which is not only large for the subcompact class, but has been refreshed with new graphics. The system continues to offer a full assortment of functions, including standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, plus available navigation, while it’s now supported by standard wireless charging. On the contrary, the fully digital primary instrument cluster appears identical to that in the outgoing car.
The new Bolt EV (shown) and EUV feature a fully digital gauge cluster that appears identical to the outgoing model.
Along with the current Bolt’s previously noted rear legroom shortcomings, customers also complained about seat comfort and substandard interior materials quality. While there’s never an excuse for the former, the latter wouldn’t normally be an issue amongst subcompact vehicles, but being that the Bolt EV nudges up against $45,000 before any government rebate programs, more soft-touch synthetics probably should have been part of this EV’s offering all along. Therefore, 2022 variants will reportedly get better perceived quality, with some dash-mounted faux leather even appearing in the press images. Interior switchgear has also been improved, although nothing appears premium-like in its design or execution.
The Bolt EV and EUV’s (shown) centre stack is all-new, featuring a large 10.2-inch touchscreen that integrates an updated interface.
The redesigned lower centre console features a new gear selector, however, ditching the conventional shift lever for a narrow row of Acura/Honda-like push and pull buttons. A green-lit button closest to the driver engages one-pedal driving, which is a more effective way than sliding the shift lever into the “L” position, a system used for the current Bolt and other GM EVs and plug-ins. More familiar to Bolt and Volt users are paddles on the backside of the new flat-bottom steering wheel, which can be used to assist braking and recharge the battery via regenerative kinetic energy.
Speaking of tech, the top-tier EUV Premier will be the first Chevy to offer GM’s Super Cruise hands-free semi-self-driving technology, functional on median divided highways. The EUV Premier also boasts adaptive cruise control and an HD 360-surround parking camera.
As for new Bolt family styling, most should find the smaller EV more attractive than its already reasonably handsome (for a subcompact hatchback) predecessor, unless its prospective owners would rather look at a more traditional grille-filled front fascia. The new car does away with the black mesh grille insert for a grey-painted and patterned panel within an ovoid outline, a very slender opening slotting below being the only real opening. This at least creates a familiar face compared to the Tesla Model 3 that looks as if it’s one of those non-branded cars used for insurance company advertising (and the like).
The new Bolt EV (shown) and EUV receive a Honda-like row of gear selector controls.
Chevy once again ties a black strip of fender trim into the headlight clusters, which are now LEDs to enhance forward visibility and potentially lead to a higher IIHS Top Safety Pick rating, but those lighting elements are much more complex than the ones departing. The main lenses are narrower, thanks to the just noted LEDs within, while the old car’s traditional fog lamps get replaced by an extension of said black trim, not unlike today’s Cadillac front fascia designs.
The EUV gets a different frontal look, separating the headlamps and vent-like fog lamp bezels, and providing a deeper air intake at the base of the solid grey grille insert. The aforementioned black fender trim piece flows into the mirror caps of both cars, and appears to follow the black-painted window trim around the glass to a floating roof, similar to the car it replaces and other Chevy vehicles. While the backsides of both models are quite different in execution, they have similar designs overall, with neat, horizontally-shaped LED-infused taillights at each corner, plenty of glossy black composite in between, and big matte black bumpers at the bottom, the EUV a bit dressier thanks to a set of aluminum-look faux skid plates front to rear.
Strangely enough, the shorter Bolt EV (shown) has slightly more cargo space than the longer EUV.
Pricing for the 2022 Bolt EV will start at just $38,198 plus freight and fees, which is an impressive $6,800 less than the outgoing 2021 Bolt EV, whereas the new Bolt EUV will be available from only $40,198. Just as importantly, loading them up should keep their end numbers below $45k, which if exceeded disallows them from government rebate programs. Currently, only the base 2021 Bolt LT, at $44,998, qualifies for the most generous government handout, while the better equipped Bolt Premier’s $50,298 MSRP disqualifies it from any rebates. The new models are expected to arrive at GM retailers this summer, so we expect GM to offer ever-increasing incentives in order to rid dealerships of the current model.
Most shouldn’t notice the EUV’s (shown) cargo deficit.
So far CarCostCanada is only showing up to $1,000 in additional incentives on 2021 Bolts, and up to $2,000 on 2020 models, but you’ll need to become a member to find out the details. CarCostCanada’s inexpensive membership provides the latest info on manufacturer rebates, when available, plus up-to-date details on factory leasing and financing deals, while best of all you’ll receive dealer invoice pricing to help you get the optimal deal on any new vehicle.
It’s all available from their website or via a smartphone app you can download from the Google Play Store or the Apple Store. CarCostCanada members are currently averaging $3,000 in savings from the 2021 Bolt, so make sure to find out how the CarCostCanada system works in order to get the best possible deal on your next new car.
Also, make sure to check out our complete 2021 Bolt EV and EUV photo gallery above, and enjoy the following videos from Chevy’s YouTube page:
Magic is Electric | Bolt EUV Reveal | Chevrolet (1:30):
Behind the Magic | Bolt EUV Reveal | Chevrolet (14:25):
Super Cruise | Bolt EUV | Chevrolet (0:30):
Story credits: Trevor Hofmann
Photo credits: Chevrolet
What do you get when you combine a Camaro and a Traverse? No, I wasn’t going to say Caverse or Tamaro, as fun as such word games are (not), but if you guessed Blazer (the title might’ve given it away)…
It’s easy to see the Camaro’s influence in the new Chevrolet Blazer RS’s styling.
What do you get when you combine a Camaro and a Traverse? No, I wasn’t going to say Caverse or Tamaro, as fun as such word games are (not), but if you guessed Blazer (the title might’ve given it away) you’d be right.
Of course, any comparisons to the Camaro are relegated to the new Blazer’s outlandish styling, especially in sportiest RS trim, along with the top-line models’ 3.6-litre V6, which combine for one of the hottest looking and fastest crossover SUVs in the mainstream volume sector.
What it’s not is, um, a Blazer, or at least not in the traditional sense. Unlike in other markets where the similarly named Trailblazer is a now non-conventional body-on-frame truck-based SUV that shares its underpinnings and body shell hard points with the Isuzu mu-X, our Blazer is a similarly sized crossover SUV based on Chevy’s new(ish) C1XX platform architecture shared with the GMC Acadia and Cadillac XT5, plus the aforementioned Traverse, Buick Enclave and Caddy XT6 in extended form, and via the car-designated E2XX platform, the Chevy Malibu, various now discontinued Buick Regal models, and Cadillac XT4 (as well as the defunct Chevy Impala and Buick Lacrosse in extended P2XX form). Got that?
The Blazer RS’ blackened trim and big black 21-inch alloys give it a sportier look than every competitor.
While that 2.8-litre turbo-diesel-powered Trailblazer is a go-anywhere rock crawler, river runner, mud-spewer, etcetera capable of negotiating the nether-regions of the Grand Canyon (possible via the Diamond Creek road that departs from the town of Peach Springs, Arizona located on the famed Route 66, incidentally), mated to a solidly built six-speed automatic that drives a part-time 4WD system, the new Blazer RS is more of a canyon carver sporting a detuned version of the aforementioned Camaro V6, a new nine-speed autobox, and standard AWD.
This is where I start grumbling about an opportunity lost, especially egregious now that FoMoCo fanatics are whooping it up over the all-new Bronco lineup, and the Jeep faithful are forever laughing in the faces of disenfranchised bowtie fanboys crying in their herbal tea at the loss of the once great Blazer nameplate.
As the saying goes, the devil is in the details, but the new Blazer RS is downright mephistophelian.
Sure, the General still makes a body-on-frame SUV, but for many the full-size Chevy Tahoe/GMC Yukon are too big, these Silverado/Sierra related SUVs actually the spiritual successors of the original 1969–1994 Blazer K5/Jimmy. The ‘70s fuel crisis and call to go small that followed, resulted in the compact pickup-based 1983–2005 S-10 Blazer and S-15 Jimmy, which were sized more along the lines of the current Wrangler and Bronco, this now being the 4×4 sweet spot due to off-road manoeuvrability, agility and the ability to drive farther into wilderness on a tank of fuel. But where is the Blazer? It’s taking the kids to school and running mall errands.
Sporty enough for you? It sure looks hot, but those dual exhausts are tuned more for allowing babies to sleep in the back seat than stirring the souls of muscle car fans.
It’s not like 4×4-capable SUVs aren’t popular these days. They’re selling well and doing their best to enhance brand images that, trucks aside, are somewhat soft around their edges now that most SUVs are car-based. Like this Blazer, the majority aren’t even attempting to look like traditional sport utilities anymore, let alone claim any off-road territory. Those who read my ramblings regularly know that I’d never normally complain about this soft-ute scenario, because some truly spectacular performance-oriented car-based utilities have been introduced in recent years, but diluting a classic 4×4 name like Blazer to grocery-getter status is almost as bad as slapping the Camaro badge on an electric crossover! Yup, I’m talking to you Mustang Mach-E.
The Blazer RS interior combines quality materials and refinement with a uniquely sporty character.
At least the Blazer RS kind of looks like a Camaro, especially in its raciest red colour scheme. Love it or lump it, no one can argue against its ability to pull eyeballs, but don’t expect its squared-off dual exhaust to rumble like a ZL1, let alone an LT1 with the V6 upgrade. The Blazer’s version of Chevy’s 3.6-litre six doesn’t make 335 horsepower and 284 lb-ft of torque either, although in this bread-and-butter class its 308 hp and 270 ft-lb are nothing to sneeze at, resulting in a respectable sprint of about 6.5 seconds from zero to 100 km/h. Sure, that’s still 0.5 seconds shy of Ford’s Edge ST, but you look faster standing still in the Chevy.
That in mind, be grateful we don’t get the U.S.-spec 2.5-litre four as our base engine, that mill only churning out 193 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque. Instead, our entry-level Blazer powerplant is more or less the same 2.0-litre turbo-four found in the base Camaro (see a pattern here?), pushing out 227 ponies and 258 lb-ft instead of 275 and 295 respectively in the less muscular version of Chevy’s muscle car. This is where I probably shouldn’t mention that the 2.0-litre turbo in Ford’s base Edge is good for 250 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, but I never was very good at holding back things I shouldn’t say.
The well laid out Blazer RS instrument panel gets plenty of red highlights to help it stand out from its peers.
The just-noted Ford gets an eight-speed automatic throughout its range, which is impressive, but kudos to Chevy for going one step further by mating both Blazer engines to a fancy new nine-speed autobox. It gets no paddles, mind you, even in its sportiest RS trim, leaving those who want to get frisky a little thumb-actuated rocker switch on the shifter knob that, truth be told, isn’t any more engaging than slapping the entire gear lever back and forth. Fortunately, the transmission shifts effortlessly if not quickly, but even with its racy looks I don’t see most owners rowing through their Blazer RS gears as if this SUV were a Le Mans-spec’d Corvette C7.R.
The Blazer RS gauge cluster features a high resolution 8.0-inch multi-info display.
As noted earlier, all RS trimmed Blazers come standard with all-wheel drive in Canada, and I like that it’s a part-time system that can be driven solely by the front wheels when rear traction is not needed, helping save money at the pump, where V6-powered Blazers get a claimed 13.1 L/100km in the city, 9.4 on the highway and 11.4 combined. When all wheels are required, simply turn a rotating knob on the lower console from “x2” to “x4” and you won’t be slip-sliding away any longer. Another twist of the dial engages sport mode, while mountain and towing modes are also included.
The Blazer’s vertical tablet-style infotainment touchscreen is a class act.
With sport mode engaged, the V6-equipped Blazer really pulls strongly from standstill, almost fully living up to the performance promised by its neck-snapping styling. The transmission’s two-second-plus shift intervals will quickly tame any unbridled enthusiasm, which is likely why no paddles were included, but the gearbox kicks down nicely for passing purposes and very real power is ever-present, this a real bonus through the corners was well.
Yes, the RS, complete with nice meaty 265/45R21 Continental CrossContact all-seasons, did a good job carving up the local country backroads, always remaining planted in its lane even when pushed hard, and not leaning over as much as most in this class. Still, its well-sorted suspension never got too harsh, defaulting to compliance as a vehicle in this family class should.
Chevy’s 9-speed automatic is wonderfully smooth, but it’s not very sporty. A rocker switch on the shift knob is used for manual shift mode.
Comfort is king in the SUV sector, and nowhere is this more obvious than the new Blazer RS’ cabin. Sure, its interior styling does its best to pull off a five-seat Camaro look, but Chevy isn’t fooling anyone, which is a good thing. Let’s face it, as impressive as the Camaro is as a muscle car, it’s not designed for hauling families. That’s the Blazer’s first priority, and it does a better job of this than anything else.
It’s wide and long for a five-seater, with ample cabin space for large folks front to rear, not to mention cargo aplenty in back. It gets the usual 60/40-split rear seatbacks for expanding its gear-toting capacity, so should serve most buyers’ needs to a tee.
Blazer RS seats are comfortable and supportive, while the SUV’s seating position should be good for most body types.
It’s also quite luxurious for the class, with no shortage of soft-touch surfacing throughout, Chevy continuing the black on red exterior theme with a red on black motif inside, including the circular dash-mounted HVAC bezels, the perforated leather seats, the piping and contrast stitching on those seats and elsewhere, and even a little “RS” badge on the shift knob. The interior further gets a tasteful assortment of bright and brushed metallic trim too, with its general fit, finish, materials quality up to par with others in this class.
Better than many, however, is the Blazer’s collection of electronic displays, this being a criterion that Chevy deserves high marks. The gauge cluster isn’t fully digital, but the 8.0-inch multi-information display at centre is brilliantly executed with clear, high resolution quality, nice brightly coloured graphics, and a serious assortment of functions. The main infotainment touchscreen at dash-central is even better, mostly because of its simple, straightforward yet highly attractive graphics and all-round ease-of-use. It also comes packed full of features, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, an accurate navigation system, a clear rearview camera, and more.
Rear seat roominess is generous.
Additional RS features included a large panoramic glass sunroof overhead, a heatable steering wheel and heated front seats, dual-zone auto HVAC, a hands-free power liftgate, a sportier grille, and all the blackened exterior trim noted before.
In the end, the new Blazer RS is either going to rock your world or leave you wondering what Chevy was even thinking, there is no middle ground. I like the brand’s boldness in this regard, and on that note the Blazer name is theirs, and they can do with it what they want, Chevy 4×4 loyalists be damned. You’ve got to respect that kind of bravado, good choice or bad.
There’s no shortage of cargo space in back.
Base Blazer LT pricing starts at $37,198 plus freight and fees, with the as-tested RS model available from $46,698. Sales of all trims have been quite strong, so obviously it has targeted the Canadian market well and deserves the success it’s achieving.
