2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Performance

The Bolt EUV was never meant to set the world on fire with Tesla Model S Plaid levels of electric performance, but there's no denying the fact that this little crossover SUV (which is really a front-wheel-drive hatchback) is eager to please. With 200 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque directed to the front wheels, the Bolt EUV can struggle for traction, but the instantaneous torque of the permanent magnetic drive motor is impressive and gets the Bolt EUV to 60 mph in only seven seconds, making it as quick as a 1988 BMW M3 Coupe. An AWD option would solve the traction issue and slot in perfectly with the EUVs crossover SUV act, but unfortunately, there's only an FWD option for now. Top speed for the Bolt EUV is in the mid-90 mph range, which shouldn't be an issue if you mainly stick to suburban streets.

The powertrain in this compact crossover is a simple one: you get a 65 kWh battery connected to a single permanent magnetic drive motor that produces 200 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels exclusively via a single-speed transmission, and with a set of eco-focused tires at all four corners, the instant shunt of electric torque can cause serious wheelspin. Acceleration is relatively brisk, and most first-time EV drivers will be pleasantly surprised at just how smooth the Bolt EUV's power delivery is. All that torque makes driving in the city a pleasurable experience, and overtaking and taking gaps in traffic is stress-free. The Bolt EUV runs out of steam rather quickly though, and when cruising on the highway, don't expect massive top-end performance.

The Bolt EUV shares its 65-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack with the standard Bolt and provides an estimated range of 247 miles. Public DC fast chargers will add 95 miles of range in 30 minutes. The manufacturer claims a full charge can be achieved in around seven hours on a 240V outlet. On a fast charger, the battery can gain 95 miles of range in just 30 minutes.

According to official EPA numbers, the Bolt EUV will manage 125 MPGe in the city, 104 MPGe on the highway, and a combined figure of 115 MPGe, which works out to 29 kWh per 100 miles. While the Volkswagen ID.4 has a similar range of 250 miles, city/highway/combined figures aren't quite as impressive, at 107/91/99 MPGe in the most efficient guise.