Overview 

The automotive market is in a transition period from traditional ICE vehicles to modern EVs. Yet, within budget constraints, finding an EV capable of alleviating range anxiety can be challenging. This is where a plug-in hybrid, like the Chevy Volt, steps into the spotlight.

Originally introduced in 2010, the Chevy Volt was one of the pioneering alternatives to the “pure” electric vehicle, and has consistently led the pack. Chevy further gave the Volt a comprehensive refresh for the 2016 model year, in line with General Motors’ vision of offering drivers the flexibility to navigate urban areas like an EV without the concern of depleting the electric charge.

And it was not a mere marketing gimmick; with an impressive 53 miles of electric-only range, the second generation Volt stands as a plug-in hybrid capable of meeting the daily commuting needs of most Americans without relying on a drop of gasoline. When gasoline is necessary, the Volt’s hushed 1.5-liter engine demands only regular-grade gasoline and achieves an EPA-estimated 42 mpg.

But before you bring the ‘boring’ word out of the hybrid vehicle dictionary, it’s worth noting that the second gen Volt is surprisingly spirited and ranks among the smoothest-driving plug-in hybrids. Navigate a corner, and you’ll find it outshining the aspirations of the Toyota Prius. Regenerative braking, a sensitive topic for hybrids, is executed masterfully in the Volt, setting a benchmark for others to follow. 

Add the Volt’s stellar safety rating, creature comforts, and cutting-edge technology, and it emerges as a compelling choice for hybrid enthusiasts.

Granted, the Volt has flaws like a cramped back seat and an unremarkable interior. However, the benefits it offers far outweigh these shortcomings.

What’s the Best Year to Buy a Used Second generation Volt? (2016-2019)

We simply recommend anyone to prioritize a second generation Chevy Volt (2016-2019) over previous models. Chevrolet completely redesigned the Volt for the 2016 model year,  marking the advent of its second generation.

A vast number of significant updates were carried on making the Volt not only look and feel better, but also drive better. 

What makes the Second Gen Volt better?

If you’re considering a Chevy Volt, we strongly recommend focusing on the second-generation models (2016-2019). Redesigned from the ground up in 2016, this version marked a significant step forward in performance, technology, and usability.

What Makes the Second-Generation Volt Stand Out?

The 2016 redesign introduced substantial upgrades, making the Volt a better-looking, more comfortable, and sharper-driving plug-in hybrid. Here’s what sets it apart:

• Improved Hybrid System: The second-gen Volt boasts a 25% boost in all-electric range, increasing from 35 miles in the first generation to an impressive 53 miles. Even when the gas engine kicks in, fuel efficiency sees a 13% improvement.
• Refined Interior and Controls: A larger 8-inch touchscreen and physical knobs replaced the awkward touch-sensitive buttons of earlier models, improving usability.
• Enhanced Suspension: Retuned suspension delivers a smoother, more composed driving experience.
• Expanded Seating: A third rear seat bumps passenger capacity to five, though overall interior space remains the same.

What years were the Second gen Volt Available?

Simply put, the updated became a superior car across the board. Now let’s see if there were any major differences between different model years of the second generation Volt.

2016 Volt: Launch of the redesigned Volt with major upgrades across the board.

2017 Volt: Introduced optional adaptive cruise control, improved emergency braking, and standardized Teen Driver safety features.

2018 Volt: The Driver Confidence package (blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors) became available on both LT and Premier trims.

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

• The Volt got a new 7.2-kW charger that is capable of reducing the vehicle’s charging time by almost 50%. This charger was offered as standard on the Premier trim, while the base LT trim got it as an optional extra.
• All models got the more advanced 8.0-inch touchscreen that replaced Chevrolet MyLink with the new Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system.
• Additionally, the Volt’s heating system was 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.

Trims and Pricing

Trim	Original Starting MSRP (Before Incentives) of 2017 Volt
LT	$34,095
Premier	$38,445

Both variants feature a plug-in hybrid system, with the primary distinction lying in the standard and optional equipment offered. Initially priced around $34,000, the 2017 Chevy Volt qualified for a substantial $7,500 federal income-tax credit, in addition to various state, local, and corporate incentives.

Which Trim should you buy?

Choosing between the two trims is a win-win, with both delivering excellent value. The LT, far from a stripped down basic model, includes key features like keyless entry and start, an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, Wi-Fi hotspot, rearview camera, and cruise control.

Opting for the Premier elevates the experience with added luxury, including leather upholstery, heated front and rear seats, a Bose stereo, and more. Crucially, the Premier is the exclusive gateway to a suite of optional advanced driver safety aids.

For an in-depth exploration of each trim’s features, refer to the detailed breakdown in the 2017 Volt features section.

Engine and Performance

2017 Chevrolet Volt Specs

• Engine: 1.5-liter inline-4 (drives generator only)
• Battery Pack: 18.4-kWh lithium-ion
• Combined Horsepower: 149 hp
• Combined Torque: 294 lb-ft 
• Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive 
• Range (EPA-estimated): 53 miles (all-electric), 420 miles (combined)
• Fuel Economy (EPA-estimated): 43 city/42 highway mpg (on gasoline engine/generator); 106/102 MPGe (all-electric, mpg equivalent)

Efficiency is paramount for the Volt, yet it surprises with zippy acceleration, boasting a claimed 0-60 mph in about 8 seconds—a commendable feat.

All the heavy lifting on the 2017 Volt is done by twin electric motors, producing a total output of 111 kilowatts (149 horsepower) and an impressive 294 lb-ft of torque.

In terms of electric capabilities, it was ahead of its time. The 2017 Volt’s 18.4-kWh battery pack, featuring the latest lithium-ion cells from LG Chem, achieves a class-leading 53 miles of all-electric range. This translates to nearly 90% of daily commutes without a drop of fuel.

When gasoline is required, the 2017 Volt seamlessly switches to its refined 1.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine, acting as a range extender and achieving an EPA-rated 42 mpg combined. Notably, the engine functions solely as a generator to supply electricity to the motor when the battery is depleted.

With an 8.9-gallon fuel tank and a larger battery, the Volt boasts a combined range of 430 miles. The Miles Per Gallon Equivalent (mpge) efficiency of the 2017 Volt rivals that of some battery-electric vehicles, standing at an impressive 106 mpge.

A full recharge of the 18.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack of the 2017 Chevy Volt takes 4.5 hours using a 240-volt charger or approximately 13 hours with a standard 120-volt plug. Regenerative braking and excess power from the engine/generator also contribute to boosting the battery charge while the Volt is in motion.

2017 Chevrolet Volt Driving Experience – A Fun EV!

Fun and plug-in hybrids don’t typically go hand in hand, but the Chevy Volt injects a surprising dose of spunk into the driving experience.  The 2017 Volt feels not only willing but entirely capable in nearly every driving scenario. 

Running on electric power alone, the Volt maintains an uncanny level of quietness. The absence of wind or tire noise infiltrating the cockpit is particularly noteworthy for a car in this class. 

Even when transitioning to the gas engine after the battery power is depleted, the startup is so subtle that you might miss it unless you glance at the driver info screen. Emitting more of a purr than a growl, the 1.5 engine demonstrates remarkable quietness and refinement.

Adding to the Volt’s surprising qualities is its adeptness when navigating corners. While not a sports sedan, its flat stance, precise steering feedback, and controlled body roll contribute to a genuinely enjoyable driving experience. The ride quality strikes a decent balance, neither overly soft nor firm.

The braking system is notably satisfying, smoothly blending friction and regenerative braking without any perceptible transition – other hybrids, take notes!

You can also take advantage of the Regen on Demand with a steering wheel-mounted paddle. Holding it enhances the electric motor’s regenerative braking, dramatically slowing the car while preserving the battery’s life. Once accustomed, you may find yourself rarely needing to use the actual brake pedal.

Interior

Design, Space and Comfort

The 2017 Chevrolet Volt interior adopts a practical yet stylish design. Chevy’s twin-cockpit layout is elegantly executed in black with silver accents, and the optional two-tone interiors introduce a touch of sophistication. 

Navigating the dashboard controls including functions for audio and climate, is a seamless experience—logical, straightforward, and intuitive. 

While it’s true that the Volt still incorporates a fair amount of hard plastics, there’s a generous use of high-quality soft-touch materials in most areas that come into contact with passengers.

The front seats of the Volt emerge as the prime real estate within the vehicle offering abundant legroom and headroom. Premier models further enhance the experience with luxurious touches like leather upholstery, a 6-way power driver’s seat, and heated steering wheel and seats (front and rear).

At the rear, individual bucket seats provide comfort for adults, although space is a bit more confined. Responding to user feedback, Chevy introduced a fifth seating option in this Volt generation, however, it’s more of a cushioned pad atop the battery pack.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Technology stands out as a strong suit for the 2017 Chevrolet Volt. Every Volt comes packed with the latest suite of in-car tech.

The standard 8-inch touchscreen not only looks sleek but also showcases sharp graphics. Navigating Chevy’s MyLink infotainment system is a breeze—it’s not only easy to decipher but also quick to respond to inputs. Adding to the user-friendly experience is a reasonably intuitive voice recognition system.

In terms of smartphone integration, the Volt sets a standard by including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard features. Chevy goes the extra mile by providing standard 4G LTE and Wi-Fi connectivity—features often optional or absent in competing models.

 Opting for the Premier trim elevates the tech experience with factory navigation and an exceptional 8-speaker Bose audio system. 

For an exhaustive breakdown of the infotainment and technology features, refer to the dedicated 2017 Volt features description.

Cargo Space

While the Chevrolet Volt may not boast the most expansive cargo room, its cleverly positioned battery pack ensures minimal sacrifice in capacity. 

There’s 10.6 cubic feet of space, and there’s also 60/40 split-folding rear seats if you need more. The hatchback design further enhances convenience, making loading and unloading items a breeze. 

2017 Chevrolet Volt Features 

Chevrolet Volt LT Features

The base-model 2017 Chevrolet Volt LT is impressively equipped right from the start. Standard features on the Volt LT include:

• LED headlights (low-beam) and taillights
• 17-inch wheels
• Remote start
• Keyless entry and Go
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel with tilt-and-telescoping adjustment
• Steering mounted audio and infotainment controls
• 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Chevrolet’s MyLink UI
• Android Auto and Apple Car Play
• Bluetooth
• OnStar (with 4G LTE and Wi-Fi connectivity)
• Satellite radio
• Six-speaker sound system
• Automatic climate control
• Cruise control
• 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks

Standard safety features on the 2017 Volt include:

• 10 airbags
• Anti Lock braking
• Traction and Stability Control
• Teen driver
• Rear view camera

Optional for the LT is an eight-speaker Bose audio system available as a stand-alone option.

There’s also an optional Comfort package, including:

• Heated front seats
• Heated steering wheel
• Heated mirrors
• Leather upholstery (optional). 

Chevrolet Trax Premier Features

The top-end Premier trim shares the LT’s standard and optional features and adds:

• Auto-dimming rearview mirror
• Different 17-inch wheels
• Wireless charging pad
• Heated rear outboard seats
• Navigation system
• Automated parking system (parallel and perpendicular)

The Premier trim offers the optional Driver Confidence package, featuring:

• Blind-spot monitoring
• Lane departure warning
• Rear cross-traffic alert

For enhanced safety, the Driver Confidence 2 package (requiring the basic Driver Confidence package) adds:

• Forward collision warning with automatic low-speed emergency braking
• Lane departure intervention
• Adaptive headlights

Opting for the Driver Confidence 2 package also allows you to include adaptive cruise control, bundled with an upgraded automatic emergency braking system.

Safety

The 2017 Chevrolet Volt earns top-notch safety credentials, securing a Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)—the institute’s highest honor. Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2017 Volt a perfect five-star overall crash test rating. 

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

Standard safety features on the 2017 Volt include:

• 10 airbags
• Anti Lock braking
• Traction and Stability Control
• Teen driver
• Rear view camera
• OnStar emergency communications system

Available driver-assistance features include:

• Front and rear parking sensors
• Adaptive headlights
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Lane departure warning
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Forward collision warning with automatic low-speed emergency braking
• Lane departure intervention
• Adaptive cruise control with upgraded automatic emergency braking system

To know the exact trim-wise breakup of available safety tech, check out the Volt features section.

Vs Competition

The second generation Chevy Volt (2016-2019) was astonishingly ahead of the curve.. Here’s how exactly a 2017 Chevrolet Volt stacks up against its key competitors: 

2017 Chevrolet Volt vs 2017 Toyota Prius Prime

The Prius Prime is the plug-in hybrid version of the regular prius hybrid. While the initial cost of the Chevy Volt is higher than the Prius Prime, the advantages it brings outweigh the price difference. The Volt feels more dynamic and handles with greater confidence than the Prius Prime. 

The Prius Prime’s electric-only range is 25 miles, nearly half of the Volt’s range. In hybrid mode, the Prius Prime’s gas engine can be growly and grainy,  whereas the Volt’s gas engine operates seamlessly. 

Yes, the Prime returns an impressive 54 mpg combined, however, the fact that Volt users really occasionally put it into gas mode means better savings overall. The Volt also offers a quieter cabin on road trips and a more conventional look.

2017 Chevrolet Volt vs 2017 Ford C-Max Energi

The Ford C-Max Energi is a competent plug-in hybrid. Like the Volt, it offers user-friendly features and gets up to speed briskly. However, it falls short of the Volt’s green credentials. 

With only 20 miles of electric-only range compared to the Volt’s 53 miles, and slightly lower fuel economy when the gas engine is active, the C-Max is outperformed. Additionally, the C-Max has fewer safety features, making the Volt the preferable choice.

2017 Chevrolet Volt vs 2017 Sonata Plug in Hybrid

Although the Sonata Plug-in Hybrid offers better overall comfort and premium features due to its mid-size nature, the Volt proves to be the superior green car. The Volt’s 53 miles of electric-only range surpass the Sonata’s 27 miles.  

Even in hybrid mode, the Volt achieves better fuel efficiency at 42 mpg combined compared to the Sonata’s 39 mpg. The Volt also boasts a more natural-feeling regeneration and braking system for a plug-in hybrid.

Reliability

JD Power rates the 2017 Chevy Volt at 74/100 in its quality and reliability rankings. Importantly, no safety recalls have been issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The hybrid drivetrain of the Volt is noted for its robust engineering, with several units enduring well past 200,000 miles and maintaining functionality. This suggests a favorable outlook for the longevity and reliability of the battery pack.

Conclusion   

Pros:

• Class-decimating electric range of 53 miles
• Super quiet and smooth power delivery 
• Low or negligible fuel costs along with negligible range anxiety
• High safety ratings with numerous available active safety features
• Solid handling and nimble performance
• Functional and straightforward interior layout
• Generous amount of standard features

Cons:

• The fifth seat is barely usable
• Slow 3.6-kW charger may result in longer charging times
• Available driver assistance features are limited to the Premier trim.
• Unimpressive interior material quality
• Visibility issues

Is a 2017 Chevy Volt worth it?

As a green car, the 2017 Chevrolet Volt hits it out of the park. With an electric-only range of 52 miles during the week, you can effortlessly commute without ever needing a drop of gas. For weekend getaways, there’s no need to fret about finding an outlet, as the gasoline engine is always ready to kick in, offering more than 400 miles between fill-ups.

Crucially, the second-generation Volt isn’t just a stellar plug-in hybrid; it’s an outstanding car overall. It looks sleek on the outside, sports a handsome interior, comes packed with user-friendly features, and rates highly for crash safety. Not to forget, how satisfyingly it drives for a plug in hybrid.

Considering the volatility of gas prices and the growing emphasis on reducing carbon footprints,, the 2017 Volt emerges as a steal if you are seeking genuine EV functionality without the typical range-based limitations.

Find a well-maintained used Volt for sale at SchumacherUsed.