2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV is a fuss-free, affordable ride
Many car buyers are considering electric vehicles for the first time and they’re facing more choices than ever. They are also facing sky-high prices. The average transaction price of an EV in July was $66,000, according to Cox Automotive. That makes the price of the Chevrolet EUV, a crossover rendition of the smaller Bolt EV, well worth considering despite the lack of a $7,500 federal tax credit.
The Bolt EV was followed by the Bolt EUV, or Electric Utility Vehicle, that’s 6.3 inches longer than the Bolt EV while being only 0.2 inch taller and wider. This adds a meaningful 2.6 cubic feet of passenger space compared to the Bolt EV. It can clearly be seen in the rear seat, where leg room is far more hospitable for adults. The driver sits up high with a commanding view of the road, good seat comfort and rear visibility.
Cargo capacity between the Bolt EV and EUV is nearly identical at 17 cubic feet, increasing to 56.9 cubic feet when the Bolt EUV’s back seats are folded. Not bad for a car that’s less than 170 inches long.
Overall, interior ambiance feels contemporary and nicely trimmed, with quality materials and good fit and finish, a result of more soft-touch surfaces being added for 2022.
A 10.2-inch color touchscreen with sharp visuals and blazingly quick responsiveness serves as the focal point of the instrument panel. A wireless charging pad is at the bottom of the center console. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, along with a USB-A and USB-C port in each row.
Performance comes from a single, frontmounted permanent magnetic drive motor that generates 200 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. It also comes with Super Cruise, GM’s advanced driver-assistance system that steers for the driver and automatically regulates the vehicle’s speed depending on traffic flow on pre-mapped roads.
Like every EV, the Bolt EUV’s instantaneous torque makes for fast work of takeoffs or overtaking other vehicles. In fact, there’s enough to make the front wheels to howl a little too easily, a result of their low rolling resistance. It is quite controlled and well behaved, with a comfortable ride, some body lean in corners, and a little body motion over uneven ground.
The Bolt delivers an accurate range readout when driven gently. In order to get the most range per charge, EVs actually encourage you to drive softly by gliding to a stop and gently accelerating. Think of it as a new kind of driving ability. If you drive aggressively, your range will vanish more quickly than a politician’s scruples.
And because a DC fast charger may be used, recharging is a breeze.
It’s quite a tidy little package, one that’s a perfect fit for most Americans. Yes, there are larger, fancier and pricier options, but few with the Bolt EUV’s unpretentious, utilitarian everyday attitude.