2016 Volt: Everything You Need to Know | Chevrolet Miami

The original concept for the Chevrolet was unveiled eight years ago, and the partially electric four-door has gained quite an enthusiastic following since then.

Now, for 2016, the second generation Volt is slated to arrive at your local Chevrolet in Miami , and it’s definitely giving people plenty to talk about.

From improved range and efficiency to more refined looks, the new Volt promises to become even more popular than its predecessor.

During Chevy’s recent reveal of the 2016 model at the Detroit Auto Show, there were at least 50 excited Volt owners calling out support from the audience.

Why were they so pumped? Chevrolet based many of the changes and upgrades in the second generation sedan on feedback from existing Volt owners. And those owners tend to be a particularly loyal crowd.

There are numerous online forums dedicated to Volt drivers who like to swap stories about the number of electric miles they have under their belts. And the consensus seems pretty clear: Once you go Volt, you can’t go back.

So here’s a look at what’s new with the 2016 model. If you’re not a believer yet, it might be time to take one of these babies for a test drive.

All-Around Better Performance

There are so many improved numbers when it comes to the 2016 Volt that it’s hard to know where to start. How about beginning with the number of electric miles it can offer.

Its electric range has increased from 40 to 50, giving driveways 10 extra miles off fuel-free freedom. But with its range-extending engine, the Volt can log a total of 400 miles.

With a combined fuel economy rating of 41 miles per gallon, the latest Volt averages about 1,000 miles between fills. That’s all thanks to Chevy’s brand new Voltec propulsion system which includes the car’s engine, drive unit, battery, and power electronics.

In terms of electric capabilities, the 2016 model is equipped with a 2-motor drive unit that’s more efficient and significantly lighter than the original setup.

One criticism that EV makers often receive is that their vehicles’ engines require rare earth metals, but Chevy has worked hard to limit the amount needed for the new Volt. They actually reduced it from 7 to 2.5 pounds of minerals, and one of the motors doesn’t contain any.

The Volt’s new battery has 96 fewer cells than the first gen version. However, it has an increased capacity of 18.4 kilowatt-hours. And that’s not even to mention that the battery has shed 20 pounds.

It’s also located lower in the car’s frame, enhancing the vehicle’s balance and making room for additional seating.

To go along, a new 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine offers more get-up-and-go and Chevy says that it’s also quieter.

The engine’s all-aluminum, lightweight build has certainly contributed to the Volt’s weight loss. Overall, the car shed a total of 250 pounds, lending to better fuel economy, responsiveness, and agility.

But that’s not all. With the engine’s increased horsepower, the gen 2 Volt is even peppier, zipping from 0-60 in just 8.4 seconds. And it can now take regular gasoline instead of the premium fuel that was previously required.

Costs to operate the Volt are lower than ever, and it has become more capable in almost every respect. When Volt owners talked, Chevy certainly listened because the 2016 model is the most practical and enticing one yet.

Striking New Appearance

Speaking of enticing, the Volt’s fresh exterior is much more polished, though it still maintains its athletic vibe. Chevy’s designers wanted to give the car more flow, and they definitely accomplished their mission.

Its appearance has a fluid feel that pairs nicely with the Volt’s solid stance. Altogether, the 2016 model has a much more cohesive looking design than the original.

Again, inspiration came from Chevy’s customers whose number one request was a bolder, sportier exterior. That’s why the new Volt has a remarkably smooth but edgy feel, along with an enhanced aerodynamic design.

User-Friendly Charging

Wrangling the Volt’s charging cord was also an area that owners requested improvements in. Not only was the cord itself difficult manage and inconvenient to store, but the port was also tricky to use at night.

All of those issues have been solved in the latest version. An illuminated charging port is now available, making it easy to attach to it, even after the sun’s gone down.

The 120-volt portable charging cord is also more compact, and it can now be stored in its own separate space on the side wall of the cargo area. So there’s no more having to shuffle luggage around to secure it.

Charging will also be cheaper and easier with new GPS location-based preference settings. Owners can program settings so the Volt knows when it’s charging at home.

And preferences can be as specific as the desired charging level (eight amps or 12) and when charging should take place. Owners can use it to make sure they’re powering up during off-peak times to save money.

Driver-Centered Interior

Inside the Volt, there are a lot of alterations that will make drivers happy. One of the biggest complaints about the previous generation Volt was its hyper-sensitive capacitive touch buttons.

Though touchscreens work really well for many applications, trying to manage the Volt’s extremely touchy one while driving was not something owners were thrilled about.

Luckily, Chevy has switched that system out for physical buttons and knobs for the climate control. The dash is much more intuitive, and it’s better lit. Drivers will probably feel pleased about how much more accessible and simple to use everything is.

And there was a very exciting addition to the rear cabin as well. The smaller, lower battery allowed for enough space to add the fifth seat that so many owners have been requesting.

Chevy incorporated what they call an “occasional seating position” for a fifth passenger. Though it’s not an incredibly large space, it could certainly do for a short jaunt and is absolutely fine for a child.

It has a seatbelt and is equipped with LATCH anchors, making it convenient for families who need to install a child seat. More space and better usability make this Volt a winner.

The Bolt?

Okay, so with so much buzz going around about the incredible improvements to the Volt, it’s a little hard to believe that Chevy could have yet another trick up their sleeve. But they do.

When Chevrolet first came out with the Volt, many thought it was an attempt to just keep up with the hybrid trend. But the company has obviously made it clear that they are invested in electric-powered vehicles.

So while they were at the Detroit show, Chevy also stole the show with the reveal of their fully-electric concept car, the Bolt .

It can be driven for 200 miles on one charge and would be sold with a starting price of only $30,000. And it has many people predicating that it will be a hit if/when it goes into production.

After the 2016 Bolt’s introduction in Detroit, WIRED even published an article entitled: “Chevy Could Beat Tesla to Building the First Mainstream Electric Car.” If that doesn’t say it all, right?

Previous Post Chevy May Beat Tesla at Their Own Game Next Post A Look at Chevy’s 2015 Truck Line