2019 Chevy Volt Review, Pricing, and Specs

2019 Chevrolet Volt Overview

The 2019 Chevrolet Volt is a prime example of plug-in hybrid technology, which was one of the earliest of its kind. In a crop of plug-in hybrids with an electric-only range of around 20 miles, the Volt offers an extraordinary range – 53 miles of guilt-free driving on electricity, before the gasoline engine is required to take over. This range is sufficient for most daily commutes, which means that users may not need to use the engine at all.

However, what makes the Volt truly exceptional is not just its hybrid technology. It provides a driving experience that is both enjoyable and satisfying, with excellent acceleration and handling. Drive it through a corner, and the Chevrolet Volt proves to be the type of vehicle that the Toyota Prius aspires to become. Now combine that with the Volt’s range of safety features, creature comforts, and cutting-edge technology, and the 2019 Chevy Volt becomes a package that’s hard to ignore for hybrid vehicle shoppers.

While the Volt has some shortcomings, such as a cramped back seat and an unremarkable interior, the benefits it provides outweigh these drawbacks. In everyday driving, the Volt eliminates range anxiety that plagues other small EVs like the Nissan Leaf and still offers many of the incentives of a fully electric car. In short, the Volt is an impressive package that’s hard to overlook.

Chevy axed out the Volt after 2019.

What’s New for 2019?

Here are all the key changes for the 2019 model year:

• The Volt gets a new 7.2-kW charger that is capable of reducing the vehicle’s charging time by almost 50%. This charger is offered as standard on the Premier trim, while the base LT trim gets it as an optional extra.
• All models now also have a more advanced 8.0-inch touchscreen that replaces Chevrolet MyLink with the new Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system.
• Additionally, the Volt’s heating system has been re-engineered to engage the engine at lower temperatures automatically. This modification improves the vehicle’s all-electric range, making it more suitable for colder climates.
• The 2019 Volt also boasts improved driver-assistance features and a broader range of interior options.

Pricing and Trim levels

Exterior

Dimensions

Exterior Styling

The 2019 Chevrolet Volt is a standout among the sea of environmentally-friendly vehicles that are often too ahead of their time. In contrast to most plug-in hybrids, its design is more conventional, which could be a selling point for many prospective car buyers.

The Volt’s “dual grille” front end shares many design elements with the Chevy Cruze.  The Volt has quite eye-friendly proportions. Additionally, it boasts a wise stance and sleek headlamps that lend it a sporty appearance. Unlike the Cruze, which requires ample air to feed its engine, the Volt sports a sleek and modern matte silver panel.

Moving to the side, you will find many similarities to the Cruze, save for the charging port on the driver’s side front fender. The Volt’s tall tail cleverly circumvents wind resistance, thereby enhancing its aerodynamics.

All in all, the 2019 Chevy Volt hits the sweet spot in bringing the conventional automotive design with cutting-edge powertrain technology, rendering it a vehicle that can appeal to a broad range of consumers who prioritize both aesthetics and functionality.

2019 Chevy Volt Interior

Dimensions

Space and Comfort

The foremost occupants of the vehicle will find themselves in a state of complete satisfaction as they have the privilege of occupying the best seats in the automobile. The front seats of the Volt not only offer a pleasant seating experience but also provide great support for the lower back. Furthermore, l inclusions like a 6-way power driver’s seat and leather upholstery on the Premier, make the Volt even more desirable.

Even though the rear outboard seats are also comfortable for grown-ups, due to their shaped design and the padding on the armrests, the space in the back is somewhat confined. Although there is technically a center seat at the back, it’s not particularly roomy and is better suited for younger passengers.

Interior design and quality

The interior of the Volt is not ostentatious or distinctive in any way. Rather, its design is practical and visually appealing, featuring a simple control layout. The Premier trims, which are fully equipped, come with a variety of features, including an Eight-speaker Bose premium audio system, heated steering wheel,  and heated seats for even the rear passengers.

Climate Control

Standard on the vehicle is automatic climate control, though it is limited to a single zone. The cabin’s heating system is both speedy and efficient, ensuring a comfortable environment. Additionally, the Premier model is equipped with heated seats in both the front and rear, as well as a heated steering wheel, which are all notably effective.

Visibility

While the view from the front of the Volt is pleasant, the downward slope of the nose obstructs the view, making parking a challenge. However, the large glass on the rear door helps to minimize blind spots when looking over the shoulder.However, the rear decklid is quite high, limiting visibility to some extent. Fortunately, the new rearview camera is fantastic.

Cabin Insulation

One of the most reassuring aspects of the Volt is how quiet it is. Even with the petrol engine running, there’s no road noise and only a little shimmy in the ride, unlike many other cars of this class.

Ease of Getting In and Out

Front passengers can find it quite easy to get inside the 2019 Volt, thanks to the wide-opening doors. However, it’s not quite the same for the rear passengers. Firstly, the door aperture is a bit narrow, and then, the roofline is also a bit low, making access a bit difficult, especially for taller people.

Entertainment

All Volt modes come standard with an 8-inch touchscreen that boasts Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay connectivity. Additionally, a six-speaker sound system, two USB ports, satellite radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot, are also offered right from the base trim.

The 8-inch infotainment display has been substituted with the new Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system, which replaces Chevrolet MyLink.  It looks good, is responsive, and even supports user logins, which bring all of your saved favorites (music, navigation, etc.) to the front and center, even if it’s your first time logging into that exact vehicle.

Upgrading to the Premier gets you factory navigation and a superior 8-speaker Bose audio system. The audio system’s superior sound quality is particularly noteworthy and surpasses that of most entry-level systems, providing a more enjoyable listening experience.

Cargo Space

Surprisingly, the Volt doesn’t compromise much in terms of cargo capacity due to its electric powertrain. As a result, with 10.6 cubic feet of cargo space, it performs just as well as any other car of its size when it comes to road trips and airport runs.

The Chevrolet Volt’s wide hatch design is optimized for easy loading and unloading of cargo, while the 60/40-split rear seat configuration that comes standard provides added flexibility in accommodating larger items.

Key Features Trim wise

The 2019 Volt is offered in two trim options:

Chevrolet Volt LT

Standard feature highlights for the Volt LT include:

• LED headlights (low-beam) and taillights
• 17-inch wheels
• Cloth upholstery
• Leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel
• Automatic climate control
• Manually adjustable front seats
• 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks
• Rearview camera
• Teen Driver monitoring system
• Keyless entry and ignition
• Remote start
• 8-inch touch screen
• Two USB ports
• Bluetooth
• Six speaker audio system
• 4G LTE and Wi-Fi hotspot
• Satellite Radio
• Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• 6-kWh onboard charger

Option Comfort package is also available that includes:

• Heated mirrors
• Heated and leather-wrapped steering wheel
• Heated front seats

If desired, leather upholstery can also be added to the LT Comfort package. In addition, buyers have the option to purchase a standalone eight-speaker Bose audio system and a faster 7.2-kWh onboard charging system.

Chevrolet Volt Premier

When you upgrade to the Volt Premier, you get the LT’s equipment, the Comfort package’s contents, and the following features:

• Different 17-inch wheels
• Leather upholstery
• Heated steering wheel
• Power-adjustable driver’s seat
• Heated front and Rear outboard seats
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror
• Parking sensors
• Automatic parking assist
• Eight-speaker Bose music system
• Wireless phone charging
• 2-kWh onboard charger

Both the LT and Premier trims can be ordered with a Driver Confidence package, which includes:

• Automatic high-beam headlights
• Blind-spot monitoring system
• Forward collision warning
• Rear cross-traffic alert

If you choose the Premier trim, you can also opt for the Driver Confidence 2 package (necessitates Driver Confidence package) which adds:

• Forward collision warning
• Automatic low-speed emergency braking
• Adaptive headlights
• Lane departure warning
• Lane keep assist
• Adaptive cruise control (optional)

In addition, the Premier trim offers an optional navigation system and wireless charging pad for cell phones.

Which Volt trim should you choose?

In contrast to other models from the automaker, there isn’t a stripped-down, basic option for the Volt, which means that the car is equipped with a plethora of features right from the get-go, particularly in terms of infotainment.

Nevertheless, the Premier trim is an appealing upgrade. It offers a broader range of standard comfort features and includes driver assistance options not found on the LT model. Additionally, the Premier comes equipped with a faster 7.2-kWh onboard charger as standard (an option that is available on the LT).

2019 Chevrolet Volt Engine and performance

“Quick, Stable, and Efficient”

Engine Specifications

●      1.5-Liter Inline-4, Plug-in Hybrid

• Combined power: 149 hp
• Combined Torque: 294 lb-ft
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
• Transmission: CVT

Performance

The 2019 Volt is powered by two electric motors that work in tandem with a 101 hp, 1.5-liter Inline-4 engine. The entirety of the powertrain in the Chevrolet Volt is driven by electric motors which draw power from an 18.4-kWh battery. However, in instances where the battery is depleted, the gasoline engine takes over as a generator to produce electricity.

What that essentially means In the real world is that the exceptional hybrid powertrain of the Chevrolet Volt allows for not only an impressive all-electric range of 53 miles but also delivers rapid acceleration and remarkably quiet operation. The electric motors’ swift torque delivery makes passing and uphill driving effortless for the Volt. At highway speeds, it also doesn’t feel underpowered, and the ride is exceptionally smooth overall.  The engine and CVT operate in petrol mode.

2019 Volt Charging

When it comes to charging the Volt, there are various options:

• With a 120-volt household-style outlet, it takes almost 13 hours to charge.
• With a 240-volt outlet, the charging time reduces to almost 4.5 hours with the standard 3.6-kWh onboard charger and just 2 hours and 20 minutes with the available 2-kWh onboard charger.

2019 Chevy Volt Fuel Efficiency

Other PHEVs, including the Hyundai Ioniq and Ford C-Max Energi, which have all-electric driving ranges of only 29 and 25 miles, respectively, are outperformed by this vehicle’s 53-mile range. The Volt’s driving range grows to roughly 420 miles once the petrol engine starts.

The Volt earns an amazing EPA-estimated 106 MPGe combined when running exclusively on electricity, compared to the 42 mpg combined for hybrid mode.

Driving Modes and Regeneration System

In terms of urban transportation, an electric range of 53 miles seems to be a reasonably practical option. The brake regeneration elements function to recharge the battery during driving, leading to a gradual reduction in the electric range.

In addition, the Volts Regen on Demand feature allows for even more energy recuperation. By pressing the paddle on the steering wheel, more forceful regenerative braking is triggered, which means that you can recharge the hybrid battery pack more rapidly than by using the brake pedal. However, the feature intervenes sharply enough to jolt passengers’ heads forward when activated.

Of the various modes, the Volt’s Normal mode is the most well-balanced, offering a delightful combination of acceleration and power to overtake slower traffic, without significantly depleting battery charge.

Sport mode’s more aggressive acceleration may be a little too power-hungry for electrons. Thankfully, the Hold mode offers a solution for preserving the battery charge during extended periods of highway cruising. This feature enables the range-extender gas engine to handle the heavy workload while conserving electricity for stop-and-go traffic situations.

Ride Comfort and Refinement

Upon driving the Volt for the first time, you’ll likely be taken aback by how quiet the hatchback is. Yes, the refinement and tranquility are quite obviously expected in the electric mode, however, it’s when you are running on gasoline, that you are taken by surprise. The second-generation Volt is now considerably more subdued. Engine noise is no longer an annoyance, and wind and road noise are noticeable but not excessive.

In addition, the Volt delivers a plush ride quality, effectively jolting out the harshness and road imperfections, resulting in a peaceful and smooth driving experience. The suspension system effectively dampens the impact of occasional bumps. However, on rougher terrain with multiple potholes and uneven patches, the car’s composure may be disrupted.

Handling and Braking

You’ll be pleased to learn that Chevrolet hasn’t resorted to blaming the drawbacks of hybrid technology for a subpar driving experience. In fact, the Volt drives confidently on the road, even in a class where some cars are notoriously uninspiring to drive. The balanced suspension tune and accurate steering allow the Volt to navigate corners with minimal fuss, maintaining a flat and fun attitude.

In addition, the regenerative braking system in the 2019 Volt functions seamlessly, without any of the quirks that are typical in many other vehicles. The blending of regenerative and conventional friction braking is so smooth that it is almost imperceptible to the driver.

Safety

The 2019 Chevrolet Volt receives a safety star for its excellent active safety features and overall high scores in crash tests.

NHTSA Safety Ratings

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration awarded the 2019 Volt with a five-star overall safety rating :

IIHS Safety Ratings

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety also gave solid scores to the 2019 Volt:

Safety Features

While the 2019 Chevy Volt offers a range of active safety features, only the rearview camera and Chevy’s Teen driver monitor is included as standard on the base trim. To obtain additional features such as automatic emergency braking or blind-spot monitoring, you’ll need to pay extra.

Standard advanced safety features:

• Teen Driver
• Rearview camera

Available advanced safety features:

• Rear parking sensors
• Forward collision warning
• Forward automatic braking
• Lane departure warning
• Automatic parking assist
• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane keep assist
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Blind-spot monitoring

Conclusion

Pros

• Solid updates for 2019
• Unbeatable electric driving range compared to other plug-in hybrids
• Host of standard tech and creature comforts
• Impressive acceleration
• Surprisingly good driving dynamics
• Long list of available advanced safety features

Cons

• Limited rear seat space
• Unimpressive interior quality
• Poor visibility at the rear
• Optional extras alleviate sticker price

The plug-in hybrid champ!

The Volt is an attractive option, boasting fast acceleration, stable handling, and outstanding fuel efficiency. Additionally, its smooth regenerative brakes and relatively comfortable ride make for an overall satisfying driving experience.

Moreover, the latest updates to the Volt enhance its appeal even further. For instance, the optional 7.2-kWh onboard charger reduces the charging time on 240-volt outlets by half, which is a significant improvement. Additionally, the vehicle now offers a new infotainment interface and an optional power-adjustable driver’s seat. Not to forget, the Volt comes loaded right from the base variant itself.

Yes, the Volt’s interior suffers from a lack of excitement or the ‘wow factor’, and its back seat space leaves much to be desired. Nevertheless, for individuals who appreciate the convenience of infrequent trips to the gas station without experiencing the range anxiety associated with a fully electric vehicle, these trade-offs may be well worth it.

FAQs

Should I Buy a used 2019 Chevrolet Volt?

Undoubtedly, the 2019 Volt is a great option in the used hybrid car category. Despite having average cabin quality and limited rear seat space, it boasts a better all-electric range than many other plug-in hybrids. Moreover, its engine provides sufficient power for most driving scenarios. Not to forget, the Volt’s easy-to-use infotainment features, solid list of standard features, and plush front seats, that enhance the driving experience.

What Are the Best things about the 2019 Chevrolet Volt?

The best things about the 2019 Chevrolet Volt include:

• Faster, 7.2-kWh onboard charger now available
• Impeccable 53-mile electric-only range (EPA-estimated )
• Total driving range in excess of 400 mile
• Not bland to drive unlike some other plug-in hybrids

2019 Chevrolet Volt vs 2019 Hyundai Ioniq: Which used plug-in hybrid should you consider?

When considering the 2019 Hyundai Ioniq and the Volt, it’s clear that both vehicles are highly comparable and the final decision ultimately comes down to individual preferences. Both cars possess powerful powertrains and boast an array of impressive features.

Nonetheless, the Volt has a notable advantage over the Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid thanks to its impressive all-electric range of 53 miles, which significantly surpasses the Ioniq’s 29-mile range. For many prospective purchasers, this discrepancy in the electric range may prove to be the determining factor when choosing between the two models.