2016 Chevrolet Volt
New for 2016
For 2016, the Volt sports a new gas engine, new electric motors, a lighter battery, regenerative braking, a stiffer body structure, and a richer looking interior.
2nd-Generation Greased Lightning
The 1st-generation Chevy Volt was the first plug-in series hybrid ever. The other hybrids at the time, like the Toyota Prius and Honda Insight, used their electric motors to supplement their gas engines. But a plug-in hybrid is essentially an electric vehicle that uses its gas engine more like a generator, making the first-generation Volt an innovation in the industry. Flash-forward to the 2016 Volt, and the evolution of hybrid technology has only gotten more advanced.
Powertrains and Performance
The driving force of any vehicle, the 2016 Volt's gas engine is more powerful than ever, delivering 101 hp (17 more than its predecessor). The powertrain is also lighter overall, slimming down by 100 pounds compared to last year's model. That's thanks to its aluminum-block engine, one of the first in a GM model in North America. It's quicker, too, zipping from 0-60 in 7.8 seconds. But the Volt is a hybrid--what about its electric power?
Like the 2015 Volt, the 2016 model sports two electric motors. But this time around, those motors are closer in size and share the load more evenly. Combined, electric power nets you 149 horsepower and 294 pound-feet of torque. According to GM, you should see 41 mpg on gas and 102 MPGe on electricity.* On electricity alone, the 2016 Volt is capable of 53 miles,* which is pretty much perfect when you consider the fact that the average daily commute is just about 50 miles.
Features and Trims
The 2016 Chevrolet Volt is a four-door, five-seat hybrid hatchback, and it's available in two trims (LT and Premier), with prices starting at $33,170.**
Standard equipment on the base model LT includes regenerative braking, keyless access, remote vehicle start, SiriusXM® Satellite Radio, available 4G LTE WI-FI that can connect up to seven devices simultaneously, an 8-inch center stack touchscreen display with pinch and zoom capabilities, as well as a second 8-inch instrument display with four configurable themes.
Moving up to the Premium trim nets you leather upholstery, heated driver and front passenger seats, auto-dimming rear view mirror, a Bose stereo system, and heated side mirrors, all for $37,520.**
Design
In terms of exterior design, Chevrolet has tweaked the 2016 Volt's lines a touch, making it rounder in some areas and sharper in others. The 2nd-generation Volt is 3.3 inches longer than the last model, which adds some nice legroom for passengers, and weighs 200 pounds less overall, boosting its fuel economy. Its headlights form a nice sweeping curve toward the windshield, and the chiseled indentations in the side really add to the look of the vehicle.
Inside the Volt, you'll find a comfortably appointed interior that offers plenty for driver and passengers alike. It's the driver's seat that really takes the cake, however. The 2016 Volt's displays, both the dashboard and the one on the center stack, are well-lit and easy to read. The center stack display emerges smoothly from the dash, while the dashboard is both simple and informative, a tricky combo to pull off.
Like many eco-conscious vehicles, the 2016 Volt gamifies efficiency--in this case, with a green leaf that floats up and down as you accelerate. To reach peak driving efficiency, try to keep the leaf in the middle. You'll know you're in the sweet spot once it starts to glow green. (Who doesn't love a vehicle that makes saving energy fun?)
Safety
Safety-wise, the 2016 Volt has plenty to offer. Key sections of it have been constructed from high-strength steel, back-up cameras and ten airbags come standard, and that's not even taking into account the Volt's autonomous driving features. The 2016 Volt falls under level two of the NHTSA's four levels of autonomous driving, with lane keep assist, rear cross traffic alert, forward safety awareness, front automatic braking, and advanced park assist. (Because who really enjoys parallel parking, really?)
Bottom Line
The 2016 Chevrolet Volt is like a lightning-powered cat that's ready to strike. If you're looking for a plug-in hybrid that's great to look at, fun to drive, and has the range to get you anywhere you want to go, the latest generation of Volt is for you. For more information, or to schedule a test drive of this or any of our other Chevrolet models, be sure to contact us at Heritage Chevrolet Buick Owings Mills today.
*EPA estimates. Your mileage may vary depending on driving habits and conditions.
**The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price excludes tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment. Includes destination freight charge and gas guzzler tax.
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