2019 Chevy Bolt Electric Car Review Range Performance and Value

The 2019 Chevy Bolt delivers an impressive 238-mile EPA-estimated range, making it a top contender in the affordable electric vehicle market. With quick acceleration, a roomy interior, and a competitive price tag, it offers outstanding value for eco-conscious drivers seeking performance and practicality in one sleek package.

Key Takeaways

• 238-mile range: Ideal for daily commutes and weekend trips.
• Affordable pricing: Strong value with federal tax incentives.
• Spacious interior: Roomy cabin and cargo space for its class.
• Quick acceleration: Instant torque delivers responsive city driving.
• Regen braking: One-pedal driving boosts efficiency and control.
• Standard tech: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come included.
• Charging flexibility: Works with Level 1, 2, and DC fast chargers.

2019 Chevy Bolt Electric Car Review: Range, Performance, and Value

The electric vehicle (EV) revolution has been steadily gaining momentum, and the 2019 Chevy Bolt stands as a testament to how far affordable, practical EVs have come. As one of the most accessible long-range electric cars on the market, the Bolt broke new ground when it debuted, and the 2019 model year refined an already compelling package. For eco-conscious drivers, tech enthusiasts, and budget-savvy buyers alike, the 2019 Chevy Bolt offers a rare blend of range, performance, and value that few competitors could match at the time. With over 230 miles of EPA-estimated range, a spacious interior, and a price point under $37,000 before incentives, the Bolt proved that going electric doesn’t require sacrificing utility or driving enjoyment.

What truly sets the 2019 Chevy Bolt apart is its role as a game-changer in the compact EV segment. Unlike earlier electric cars that prioritized niche appeal or luxury, the Bolt was designed for everyday drivers—commuters, families, and urban dwellers—who wanted to transition to electric without compromising on practicality. From its intuitive infotainment system to its surprisingly peppy acceleration and generous cargo space, the Bolt delivers a holistic driving experience. Whether you’re navigating city streets, embarking on a weekend road trip, or simply looking to reduce your carbon footprint, the 2019 Chevy Bolt offers a compelling case for making the switch to electric. This comprehensive review dives into the Bolt’s standout features, performance capabilities, and overall value to help you determine if it’s the right EV for your lifestyle.

Design and Interior: Practicality Meets Modern Aesthetics

Exterior Design: Compact, Aerodynamic, and Functional

The 2019 Chevy Bolt features a sleek, modern design that balances aerodynamics with practicality. With a drag coefficient of just 0.32, the Bolt is engineered to slice through the air efficiently, contributing to its impressive range. The car’s hatchback profile gives it a slightly taller stance than a traditional sedan, which not only improves visibility but also maximizes interior space. The front fascia is dominated by a closed-off grille (a hallmark of EVs) and LED daytime running lights that give it a futuristic look. The sculpted hood and sharp character lines along the sides add visual interest without compromising the car’s utilitarian purpose.

At 164 inches long, the Bolt is shorter than a Honda Civic but taller, allowing it to navigate tight city parking spots with ease while offering ample headroom inside. The 17-inch aluminum wheels (standard on most trims) enhance the car’s sporty appeal, while the rear hatch design includes a wide opening for easy loading of groceries, luggage, or larger items. For example, a family of four can fit a week’s worth of groceries, a stroller, and a couple of backpacks without issue—something not all compact EVs can claim.

Interior Space and Comfort: Roomier Than It Looks

Despite its compact exterior, the Bolt’s interior is surprisingly spacious. Thanks to the flat floor and absence of a transmission tunnel (a benefit of its electric platform), rear passengers enjoy generous legroom and a comfortable bench seat. The front seats are supportive and offer good bolstering for spirited driving, while the driving position is upright and commanding—ideal for city driving.

Chevy used high-quality materials throughout the cabin, including soft-touch surfaces on the dash and doors. The centerpiece of the interior is the 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is intuitive and responsive. The digital instrument cluster behind the steering wheel provides all essential driving data, including battery charge level, energy consumption, and range estimates. One standout feature is the “One Pedal Driving” mode, which uses regenerative braking to slow the car down when lifting off the accelerator—ideal for stop-and-go traffic.

Storage is another strong point. The Bolt offers 16.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 56.6 cubic feet with the seats folded flat. For context, that’s more than a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (58.4 cubic feet max) and comparable to many compact SUVs. The front trunk (frunk) adds an extra 0.5 cubic feet, perfect for storing charging cables or small items.

Technology and Infotainment: Smart and Connected

The 2019 Bolt comes equipped with Chevrolet’s MyLink infotainment system, which includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. The 10.2-inch screen is crisp and easy to navigate, with large icons and minimal lag. Voice recognition works well, allowing you to set destinations, make calls, or change music without taking your hands off the wheel.

One unique feature is the “Energy” screen, which provides real-time feedback on energy usage, regenerative braking efficiency, and driving habits. For example, if you accelerate quickly or use climate control excessively, the system will display a message encouraging more efficient driving. This gamification of efficiency can help extend your range, especially during colder months when battery performance can dip.

Other tech highlights include:

• Available wireless phone charging
• Six-speaker audio system (upgradable to a Bose premium system)
• OnStar with automatic crash response and remote vehicle diagnostics
• Teen Driver mode with customizable speed alerts and audio volume limits

Range and Charging: Real-World Usability

EPA-Estimated Range: 238 Miles on a Single Charge

The 2019 Chevy Bolt delivers an EPA-estimated 238 miles of range on a full charge, making it one of the longest-range affordable EVs of its time. This range is sufficient for most daily commutes (even 100-mile round trips) and eliminates range anxiety for most drivers. For context, the average American drives about 37 miles per day, meaning the Bolt could go nearly a week without charging under normal conditions.

Real-world testing has shown that the Bolt often achieves close to its EPA rating, especially in mild climates and city driving. For example, a driver in San Diego reported an average of 230 miles on a single charge during a mix of city and highway driving, while a driver in colder Minnesota saw closer to 190 miles in winter due to reduced battery efficiency and increased HVAC usage. This variability is normal for all EVs and underscores the importance of understanding your driving habits and climate when evaluating range.

Charging Options: From Level 1 to DC Fast Charging

The Bolt supports three charging levels:

1. Level 1 (120V): The standard 120-volt household outlet adds about 4 miles of range per hour. While convenient for overnight charging, it’s not practical for daily use unless you drive very little.
2. Level 2 (240V): A 240-volt home or public charger adds about 25 miles of range per hour. A full charge takes approximately 9.5 hours, making it ideal for overnight charging or topping up during the day. Installing a Level 2 charger at home is highly recommended for Bolt owners.
3. DC Fast Charging (50 kW): The Bolt supports DC fast charging via the CCS (Combined Charging System) port, adding up to 90 miles of range in about 30 minutes. This is perfect for road trips or when you need a quick top-up. However, fast charging is less efficient than Level 2 and should be used sparingly to prolong battery life.

Pro Tip: Use the myChevrolet app to locate nearby charging stations, check availability, and even start/stop charging remotely. The app also sends alerts when your car is fully charged or if charging is interrupted.

Energy Efficiency: 119 MPGe Combined

The Bolt achieves an EPA-rated 119 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) combined, with 128 MPGe in the city and 108 MPGe on the highway. This means it’s more efficient than most hybrids and far more efficient than gas-powered cars. For example, driving 15,000 miles per year at $0.13 per kWh would cost about $495 in electricity—less than half the cost of fueling a comparable gas car.

To maximize efficiency, use the “Eco” mode, which reduces acceleration responsiveness and adjusts climate control settings. Preconditioning the cabin while plugged in (using the app) also helps save battery, as heating or cooling the interior while charging is more efficient than doing it on the go.

Performance and Driving Experience: Zippy and Refined

Electric Powertrain: 200 HP and Instant Torque

The 2019 Bolt is powered by a 60 kWh lithium-ion battery and a single electric motor that produces 200 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Unlike internal combustion engines, electric motors deliver 100% of their torque from a standstill, giving the Bolt brisk acceleration. It sprints from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.5 seconds—faster than many compact SUVs and even some sports sedans.

The instant torque makes the Bolt feel lively and responsive, especially in city driving. Merging onto highways or passing slower traffic is effortless, and the car maintains its pep even at higher speeds. The electric motor is nearly silent, contributing to a peaceful cabin experience. Road and wind noise are well-isolated, making long drives comfortable.

Handling and Ride Quality: Balanced and Confident

The Bolt’s low center of gravity (thanks to the floor-mounted battery pack) gives it excellent stability in corners. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and potholes with ease, while still providing enough feedback to feel connected to the road. Steering is light but precise, making the Bolt easy to maneuver in tight spaces.

Regenerative braking is a standout feature. In “Low” mode, the car slows down significantly when you lift off the accelerator, allowing for one-pedal driving in stop-and-go traffic. In “Drive” mode, the car coasts more freely, which is better for highway driving. The transition between regenerative and friction braking is smooth, with no noticeable lag.

Example: A Bolt owner in Seattle reported that one-pedal driving reduced their brake wear by over 50% during daily commutes, saving money on maintenance.

Regenerative Braking and One-Pedal Driving

The Bolt’s regenerative braking system is highly effective. When activated, it captures energy during deceleration and feeds it back into the battery, extending range. The “Regen on Demand” paddle on the steering wheel allows you to increase regenerative braking manually, which is useful for downhill driving or when approaching a red light.

For drivers new to EVs, mastering one-pedal driving takes a bit of practice. Start by using the paddle to modulate speed in traffic, then gradually rely less on the brake pedal. Over time, it becomes second nature—and a lot of fun.

Safety and Reliability: Peace of Mind on the Road

Standard and Available Safety Features

The 2019 Bolt comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including:

• Forward Collision Alert with Automatic Emergency Braking
• Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
• Rearview camera
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• Side Blind Zone Alert

Available features (on the Premier trim) include:

• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Automatic High Beams
• Rear Parking Sensors
• Surround Vision Camera System

The surround vision camera is particularly useful for parallel parking or navigating tight spaces. It provides a bird’s-eye view of the car and surrounding obstacles, making it easier to avoid scrapes and dings.

Crash Test Ratings and Reliability

The Bolt earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named it a “Top Safety Pick,” praising its crashworthiness and advanced driver aids.

Reliability has been solid, with few widespread issues reported. The most common complaints include occasional software glitches in the infotainment system (usually fixed with updates) and minor battery degradation over time (typical for all EVs). Chevy offers an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty on the battery and electric components, providing long-term peace of mind.

Value and Ownership: A Smart Financial Choice

Pricing and Trim Levels

The 2019 Chevy Bolt was offered in two trims:

Trim	Starting MSRP	Key Features
LT	$36,620	10.2-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, 6-speaker audio, LED headlights
Premier	$41,020	Leather seats, Bose audio, heated front/rear seats, adaptive cruise, surround vision camera

Both trims are eligible for the federal tax credit of up to $7,500 (subject to phase-out), which can reduce the effective price to $29,120 for the LT and $33,520 for the Premier. Many states offer additional rebates and incentives, such as California’s Clean Vehicle Rebate Project ($2,000) and New York’s Drive Clean Rebate ($2,000).

Total Cost of Ownership: Lower Than Gas Cars

EVs like the Bolt have significantly lower operating costs than gas-powered cars:

• Fuel: Electricity is cheaper than gasoline. At $0.13/kWh, the Bolt costs about $0.03 per mile, compared to $0.12 per mile for a 30 MPG car.
• Maintenance: No oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust systems. The Bolt requires minimal maintenance—mainly tire rotations, cabin air filter changes, and occasional brake fluid flushes.
• Insurance: Slightly higher than gas cars due to the battery, but many insurers offer discounts for EVs.
• Depreciation: The Bolt holds its value well, with a 5-year depreciation rate of about 45%—better than many gas-powered compacts.

Example: Over five years, a Bolt owner could save over $5,000 in fuel and maintenance costs compared to a comparable gas car, even after accounting for the higher initial price.

Warranty and Incentives

The Bolt comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and an 8-year/100,000-mile battery and electric component warranty. Chevy also offers roadside assistance and a 3-year trial of OnStar services. Buyers who purchase or lease a new Bolt may also qualify for free Level 2 home charger installation through the Chevrolet Clean Energy program.

Conclusion: A Standout in the EV Landscape

The 2019 Chevy Bolt is a well-rounded, practical, and affordable electric car that delivers on its promises of range, performance, and value. With 238 miles of range, a spacious and tech-filled interior, and a driving experience that’s both fun and efficient, the Bolt stands out in a crowded EV market. It’s not perfect—the infotainment system can be glitchy, and the ride can feel firm on rough roads—but these are minor trade-offs for what the Bolt offers.

For drivers looking to make the switch to electric, the Bolt is an excellent entry point. It’s ideal for city dwellers, suburban commuters, and even road-trippers who plan ahead. The combination of low running costs, generous incentives, and long-term reliability makes it a smart financial decision. And with Chevy’s strong warranty and growing charging infrastructure, owning a Bolt is easier than ever.

In a world where electric cars are becoming the norm, the 2019 Chevy Bolt proved that affordable doesn’t mean basic. It’s a car that delivers on the fundamentals while offering a glimpse into the future of sustainable transportation. Whether you’re a first-time EV buyer or a seasoned electric driver, the Bolt is worth serious consideration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range of the 2019 Chevy Bolt electric car?

The 2019 Chevy Bolt offers an EPA-estimated range of 238 miles on a full charge, making it one of the most competitive options in its class for long-distance EV driving. This range suits daily commutes and weekend trips alike.

How fast does the 2019 Chevy Bolt charge?

Using a Level 2 charger, the 2019 Chevy Bolt can fully recharge in about 9.5 hours. With a DC fast charger, it gains up to 90 miles of range in just 30 minutes, adding convenience for road trips.

Is the 2019 Chevy Bolt electric car a good value?

Yes, the 2019 Chevy Bolt combines a spacious interior, strong performance, and a competitive price tag under $37,000 (before incentives), offering excellent value for an affordable EV with 200+ miles of range.

What is the performance like in the 2019 Chevy Bolt?

The 2019 Chevy Bolt delivers 200 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of instant torque, enabling quick acceleration (0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds) and nimble handling, ideal for city and highway driving.

Does the 2019 Chevy Bolt qualify for federal tax credits?

Yes, the 2019 Chevy Bolt electric car is eligible for the full $7,500 federal tax credit, as it was purchased before GM hit the 200,000-vehicle threshold. State incentives may also apply.

What safety features come standard on the 2019 Chevy Bolt?

The 2019 Chevy Bolt includes standard features like 10 airbags, a rearview camera, and stability control, with available driver aids like forward collision alert and lane keep assist for added protection.