The 2016 Chevy Volt Premier Hatchback seems to have gone through puberty to blossom into the big man on campus. While the previous model wasn’t a shrinking violet in the hybrid game, its sleeker design and segment enviable mileage put the Volt in a class of its own.
This all-new Chevy Volt style-wise has a futuristic vibe. Sharp lines and sexy contours both inside and out, give this hatchback an alluring personality. Without knowing what’s under the hood, the Volt doesn’t scream hybrid. Not that the term “hybrid” is rooted in shame, but “style” and “alluring” rarely share the same space.
A plug-in hybrid system with twin electric motors and a Range Extender, 1.5-liter gas engine, power the Chevy Volt. Plugged into a 240v outlet, full battery power can be restored in less than 5 hours and in about 13 hours when plugged into a standard 120v outlet. The very thought of triple digit mileage; assisted by electricity is fascinating and the Volt doesn’t disappoint. Listed as 106 MPGe (electricity) and 42 MPG (fuel-combined city/highway), those numbers are quite sexy.
Driving the Volt tome back to few years ago when I had the privilege to talk with Chevy executives, designers and engineers about then soon-to-be-launched Chevy Volt. The very thought of triple digit mileage; albeit pushed up by electricity was fascinating. To see it all come to fruition is a full circle moment.
After the mind-blowing mileage was absorbed, the performance and power of the Volt was equally as impressive. The ride is smoother and quick on the draw. A noticeable improvement is the quieter cabin and engine noise in different driving modes-especially the Mountain mode. Maneuvering around town with standard features like Stabilitrak-Stability Control and Anti-Lock Brake System.
Safety is also paramount in the design and DNA of the Chevy Volt Hatchback. Options like the Driver Confidence Packages 1 and 2 add additional safety to the Volt’s driving experience. Package 1 ($495) contains: Side Blind Zone Alert with Lane Departure and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Package 2 ($495) contains: Lane Keep Assist, Front Automatic Braking, Intellibeam Headlamps, and Forward Collision Alert.
The appeal of the Volt Premier Hatchback is not only highlighted on the exterior, but the interior shines as well. Futuristic, but easily manageable, the dashboard and controls are ergonomically sound. The vibrant 8-inch color touchscreen display, Chevy MyLink Radio, Apple Carplay, chrome and electric blue accents give the interior an edgy vibe. The cockpit is very driver-friendly and is easy to navigate.
MSRP $39,830 and for more info on the 2016 Chevy Premier Hatchback click here.